Best Campgrounds near Sullivan, MO
Sullivan, Missouri serves as a gateway to several well-established campgrounds along the Meramec River, with options ranging from basic tent sites to full-service RV hookups and cabin rentals. Meramec State Park Campground provides year-round camping with both primitive and electric sites in a forested setting, while nearby private facilities like Meramec Caverns Natural Campground and Ozark Outdoors Riverfront Resort offer additional amenities including cabin rentals and glamping options. The campgrounds in this region typically feature riverside access, making them popular destinations for fishing, floating, and other water activities.
Most campgrounds in the Sullivan area maintain availability throughout the year, though services may be limited during winter months. "The host on site advised water to each individual site will be turned off end of October for winter. Potable water is available near dump stations," noted one camper describing Meramec State Park's seasonal adjustments. Access to most sites is straightforward via paved roads, with many campgrounds located close to Interstate 44 for convenient travel. RV Self-Park offers a unique self-service option with automated check-in for travelers needing a quick overnight stop, while the state park and river resorts cater to those seeking longer stays with more amenities.
The campgrounds near Sullivan receive consistently positive reviews for their proximity to natural attractions, particularly caves and riverside recreation. A reviewer highlighted the diversity of activities at Meramec State Park: "Miles upon miles of trails, spacious campground, caves to explore, old time blast furnace to explore, fresh Missouri spring with exceptional fishing." Several campgrounds provide access to cave tours, which remain popular year-round but especially during summer months when water activities are also at their peak. While highway noise can be noticeable at some locations closer to I-44, the riverside campgrounds generally offer a more secluded experience with abundant shade from mature trees. Most developed sites include standard amenities like fire rings, picnic tables, and access to shower facilities, creating comfortable base camps for exploring the region's Ozark foothills and waterways.
