Glamping close to Salem, Missouri provides access to the spring-fed Current River ecosystem with temperatures ranging from 60°F lows to 90°F highs during summer months. The region sits at elevations between 600-1,500 feet with a humid continental climate that supports diverse Ozark flora and fauna. Campers can access multiple Missouri state parks and federal recreational areas within a 30-mile radius of Salem.
What to do
Trout fishing licenses: Montauk State Park Campground requires specific permits for fishing. "You can purchase a trout tag at the lodge for $3.00, and it will allow you to keep 4 trout per day with a possession limit of 8. The conservation will stock the Current on a nightly basis, based on number of tags sold the day before," explains Kyle H.
Cave exploration: Round Spring Campground offers guided cave tours. "Tours of the cave are given daily June through August and cost $5. The lantern tours show an amazing cave with many beautiful formations," notes Marty C. The trail to the cave entrance provides unique natural scenery even outside tour season.
River floating: Garrison Canoe Rental and Campground provides equipment for water recreation. "We rented the new tubes they carry. They were very comfortable with back support and pillow when you're leaning back. 20 bucks for a 4 hour float, ya can't beat it!" according to Richard C.
What campers like
Site privacy: Red Bluff Campground offers secluded camping options. "The sites are all separated enough from each other that you don't feel like you are camping with strangers. The sites are close to the Huzzah creek, some of them right on it," shares Mara F.
Wildlife viewing: Pulltite Campground provides opportunities to see native species. "You may get lucky and see otters on your way to the spring, or some of the wild horses in the area. Go in the early morning to the spring trail to watch the mist roll off the water and enjoy the wildlife - so otherworldly," says Annie C.
Modern facilities: Timbuktu Campground at Echo Bluff State Park features newer amenities. "This place literally has everything you can want from walk in tent sites to an entire lodge with all the amenities. Campsites are all well manicured and offer everything from basic sites to full RV hook ups," explains J K.
What you should know
Site selection: When planning glamping close to Salem, choose appropriate sites for your setup. "Sites 1-18 are fairly small and not very level. Sites 19-29 have larger, more level areas. 30-39 are kind of mixed. Many sites have steps up or down to the site from the road," cautions Lea B. about Round Spring Campground.
Reservation timing: Book sites well in advance, especially for premium glamping locations. "The campground can be a bit difficult to book, if visiting on a Friday or Saturday, but the park is worth it," advises Jesse C. about Montauk State Park.
Water safety: Monitor water conditions for safety when swimming. "The Current River provides some of the best canoeing anywhere in America as well as good fishing for Smallmouth Bass," states Marty C. However, parents should note that "The water can be very shallow in some spots and suddenly drop off to six or seven feet deep," according to Gwenn W.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Lane Spring Recreation Area offers accessible natural features. "The campground is in the middle of a forest with a large creek running around it. It was springtime and everything was so green, there were wildflowers popping up all over the place," describes Erin.
Educational experiences: Take advantage of ranger programs at various sites. "The host was great did a nice show at the amphitheater about the local area bathroom and showers are great, not to mention the nice clean river," says Jeff A. about Round Spring Campground.
Comfort considerations: For luxury glamping options near Salem, consider Big Rock Candy Mountain Campground. "Tent, RV hookups, cabins, yurt. Pool. Pleasant place for kids and adults. Good restaurant, live entertainment on occasion, views, trails," recommends J R.
Tips from RVers
Site utilities: Check the electrical hookups available at each location. "Full hookups (electric/water/sewer) for RVs, as well as primitive tent sites. Facilities are bit on the older side, but 2 shower houses are available," notes Jesse C. about Garrison Canoe Rental and Campground.
Seasonal considerations: Be aware of shade availability during summer months. "The only negative is that all of the campsites are out in the open with no shade," reports J K. about Echo Bluff State Park.
Access challenges: Some sites have limitations for larger vehicles. "The road that loops through the campground is paved, and for most (if not all) campsites you park right at your site. There are places where the creek runs over the road a little, so that might cause issues if there's heavy rain in the forecast," cautions Erin about Lane Spring Recreation Area.
