Cadet, Missouri sits within the St. Francois Mountains at approximately 900 feet elevation. The area features rocky terrain with pine and oak forests throughout the Mark Twain National Forest region. Summer temperatures average 85°F with high humidity, while winter camping can see temperatures drop below freezing with occasional snow.
What to do
Hiking the Berryman Trail: The 24-mile Berryman Trail near Berryman Trail & Campgrounds offers varied terrain through towering pines. "The trails were one of a kind and the best looking trails I've seen and walked on after going on trips to almost half the country. The 100 foot tall pine trees really make Mark Twain National Forest amazing," reports Jake K.
Explore prehistoric petroglyphs: Washington State Park contains Native American rock carvings accessible via short trails. "The prehistoric Petroglyphs nearby are a must see," notes Phil W. who camped at Washington State Park Campground for a week in March.
Cave tours at Meramec: Fisher Cave at Meramec State Park offers guided underground exploration. "Pay the extra for the caves tour! Down the road there's an old iron foundry and a historic cemetery to explore," recommends Lynn G., highlighting educational opportunities beyond standard camping.
What campers like
Privacy in walk-in sites: For campers seeking seclusion, Hawn State Park's walk-in sites provide a more remote experience. "If you are car camping take the extra walk to the walk-in camping sites. It's like a micro backpacking trip," advises Megan M. who stayed at Hawn State Park Campground.
Fall foliage viewing: Autumn brings spectacular color to the region. "Hawn is a one of the best fall campgrounds close to the St. Louis area. There are a number of hiking options around the campground in the park and nearby nature reserve," notes Cody S. when describing seasonal advantages.
Swimming options: Summer visitors appreciate water access at Johnson's Shut-Ins. "Our kids loved climbing all over the shut-ins. We have already planned to return in the summer to swim!" shares Ashlee B. about her experience at Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. "The cell phone service is virtually non-existent. We had planned to work from here and had to cut our visit short," warns Mats about Meramec State Park, suggesting campers plan accordingly for limited communication options.
Campsite spacing concerns: St. Francois State Park tends to have more densely arranged sites. "The campground has oddly shaped campsites causing a crowded feel. The campground is also loud on the weekends especially if there are races at the nearby Bonne Terre drag strip," cautions Cody S. at St. Francois State Park Campground.
Off-road vehicle noise: Some parks permit ATV use which affects ambient noise levels. "This is a good free campground, no water or anything, just a toilet house. If you like atv/utv/dirt bike stuff, man, campground one is for you, and it looks like a blast," explains Grant M. about the sound environment at certain campgrounds.
Tips for camping with families
Platform tent sites: Johnson's Shut-Ins offers raised platforms for tents that stay dry in wet conditions. "There was a flat deck for us to camp on which was great on our rainy weekend," notes Shelby B., highlighting how this feature helps during inclement weather with children.
Recreational amenities: Twin Eagle Lake Estates provides varied activities for different ages. "Played in the waterhole, played on the lake w/paddleboats and kayaks. Nice campsites and showerhouse. The bar and store were beautiful. Arcade, pool, games for kids and adults," shares lori W. about Twin Eagle Lake Estates & Hideout.
Seasonal events: Halloween camping offers special family activities at select campgrounds. "They have day long family friendly activities and the campsites deck out for Halloween with a $500 prize for best. Then at dish trick or treat," explains Nancy A. about October camping opportunities.
Tips from RVers
Electrical connections: Pay attention to available hookup types before booking. "We had a spot with electric and no water, water is located close by the vault toilets," explains Olivia S. about campground #2 at St. Joe State Park Campground, noting the importance of verifying utility locations.
Site surfaces: Concrete pads provide stable setups for larger rigs. "Great concrete slab sights with River and hiking trails close by! Easy plug n play electric on a 30 amp box, no issues with blowing fuses like I have at other big state parks," shares Hannah S. about her experience at Meramec State Park.
Winter camping considerations: December camping requires site selection strategy. "Loved the campground! However, lesson learned to reserve a campsite further from the road," advises David T. about his winter experience at Washington State Park, noting the importance of location when camping during colder months.
