Campgrounds near Salem, Missouri provide a range of accommodations throughout the Ozark highlands, where elevations average 1,200 feet above sea level. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer highs reaching the 90s and winter temperatures dipping below freezing. Campers often contend with occasional thunderstorms during summer months, particularly along the Meramec River basin that winds through this region.
What to do
Explore hiking trails: Haven Hollow RV Park features well-maintained walking trails across more than 200 acres. "They cut walking trails over 200+ acres with a little pond," notes one camper, while another mentioned, "Great trails around pond, meadow/field & creek." Bring bug spray as ticks can be prevalent in warmer months.
Fish at nearby lakes: Pheasant Acres RV Park provides maps for nearby trout fishing spots. "Sheri/Sharon the owner is right up there with one of the coolest women I've ever met. She gave us Maps for the trails and where there was nearby trout fishing," one reviewer shared. The park is located just 5 miles from Interstate 44.
Enjoy water activities: Indian Springs Resort and Campground offers float trips on the Meramec River. A camper explained, "Float trips are a big deal here, and Indian Springs offers both boat rentals and shuttle services. We used their shuttling one day, then the second day, I drove my husband up to the put-in (less than 10 mins) and he floated back and took out here." The campground operates from April to October.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Doolittle Acres RV Park maintains well-kept grounds with amenities for families. "The camp area looks new, cute playground, small fenced dog park type area, showers, laundry, fire pits and picnic tables," according to one reviewer. The park is located just one mile off the highway.
Quiet atmosphere: Many rv parks near Salem, Missouri offer peaceful settings away from urban noise. "This place is a gem. Family operated and located in the Ozark Mountains with beautiful scenery nearby to explore," notes a camper at Little Sinkin Creek RV Resort & Campground. The resort maintains 31 campsites.
Convenient overnight options: RV Self-Park provides easy access for travelers needing a quick stop. "Very well lit, very clean and very easy to get in and very secure with a ton of cameras. Also has a really nice dog area," one camper shared. Another noted, "You can reserve a site online or just do it when you get there as I did."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds require careful navigation. At Haven Hollow RV Park, "The last 1.5 miles is gravel and it was a little dusty coming in... Once we got to this small CG with 8 back-in sites, we were delighted on how nice Haven Hollow was set up."
Highway noise: Some camping areas near Interstate 44 experience traffic sounds. A reviewer at RV Self-Park mentioned, "If you love the sound of freeways this is the place for you," while another noted there's "Lots of interstate noise as it's very close."
Limited amenities: Lamplight Lane RV Resort at Glen Oaks has basic facilities with ongoing improvements. "The campground could use some work, but the owners told us they just bought it and are gradually fixing it up... The location is perfect, just minutes away from Fort Leonard Wood or St. Robert, MO, off exit 153 on I44," according to a visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Look for recreational options: Meramec Valley Campground offers activities beyond standard camping. "Great sites, pools, store and a 4 acre lake for fishing and kayaking," noted one camper, making it suitable for families with varied interests.
Consider organized activities: Indian Springs Resort provides structured entertainment. "It's VERY family-oriented, with tons of games like volleyball and horseshoes, plus onsite programs and activities including scavenger hunts, movie nights, pancake breakfasts, etc.," explained a reviewer.
Check for playground facilities: Several camping spots near Salem Missouri feature dedicated children's areas. At Pheasant Acres RV Park, "Our family absolutely loves camping at PARV! We go down every year for kids fishing day and couldn't ask for a better experience. Sherry always makes everyone feel at home and we never have to worry about anything."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Haven Hollow RV Park accommodates specific RV sizes. "The sites support about a 40' rig with some able to support up to 42' max. When you make your reservation they will confirm the length of your rig and put you in the appropriate site," noted one RVer.
Hookup specifics: RV parks Salem, Missouri offer various connection options. At Doolittle Acres, visitors find "Water, sewer, and electric hook ups. Fire pit and picnic table at site." Premium spots cost $57 per night while non-premium sites are $42.
Navigation challenges: Some parks require careful maneuvering. At Indian Springs, a camper observed, "We typically prefer more dispersed-style camping, but this has actually become one of our favorite established sites in the Ozarks... We tent camped in sites 61-64 (now one huge site), which directly overlooks the river and sits on a very private corner."
