Pershing State Park Campground provides glamping accommodations within a wetland prairie ecosystem near Trenton, Missouri. The park comprises 39 sites nestled within an oak-hickory forest. Sites are level, hard-surfaced, and spaced to provide privacy between camping neighbors. Located at 29277 Hwy 130 in Laclede, this state park campground remains open year-round with reduced services during winter months.
What to do
Hiking trails and boardwalks: The park features several trails that showcase the unique wetland ecosystem. "Take the boardwalk trail to experience what this park is all about," notes Chad K., who rated the hiking as "fantastic" and appreciated the diversity not typically found in Missouri.
Fishing opportunities: Small lakes throughout the property provide fishing spots accessible to campers. These areas offer quiet recreation options away from more populated attractions. "There is fishing and plenty of hiking," confirms Heather W., who appreciated these alongside the well-maintained facilities.
Historical exploration: The area offers local historical sites worth visiting. "We also visited nearby LaClede where John J. Pershing's boyhood home is. Very informative and interesting," reports one visitor who found this excursion complemented their camping experience.
What campers like
Privacy and spacing: The campground layout provides good separation between sites. "Plenty of spacing between sites too!" notes Heather W., who also mentioned the level sites and general quiet of the park.
Wildlife observation: The forest setting attracts diverse bird species for wildlife viewing. According to Dexter E., "The pileated and red headed woodpeckers are in abundance and the trails including a long boardwalk make for interesting walks."
Clean facilities: The campground maintains high standards for bathroom facilities. "Wonderful shower house and nice hiking trails," writes one reviewer who specifically appreciated the cleanliness of the facilities during their stay.
What you should know
Limited amenities: The campground offers basic services but lacks some conveniences. "No, there are not water or sewer hookups and only 30 amp electric service, but the showers are immaculate and the pads mostly level and hard surfaced," explains Dexter E..
Seasonal considerations: Off-season camping starts November 1 with reduced services. "Water is turned off. Showers, laundry, dump station, playground in park," advises Sue B. regarding fall camping conditions.
Privacy tip: For maximum seclusion within the campground, choose strategically. "Take the last spot on the loop for extra privacy and to be close to the restrooms," suggests Betsy T., who found the spots small but appreciated the shade coverage.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: The park includes play equipment for children. "There is a dated shower house, playground for the kids, a several little lakes that you can fish in," mentions one camper who found these amenities suitable for family activities.
Wildlife concerns: Secure food and trash to prevent wildlife encounters. "A raccoon ended up tearing through our trash but that was the only negative here!" warns one camper, indicating proper food storage is essential when glamping in Trenton, Missouri.
Size considerations: The campground's compact layout may influence family camping experiences. "This is a very small park and go for just an overnight stay," suggests Melissa A., who rated it 3 stars due to its limited size.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup alternative: For glamping experiences with complete RV services near Trenton, Pony Express RV offers year-round accessibility. "This is a 12-month open RV park. Most sites offer 30 and 50 Amp, Water and Sewer," states Rick K., who lives there full-time.
Host assistance: Campground hosts provide reliable support to glamping guests. "Camp host is wonderful and willing to help at any time," shares Arron M., who particularly enjoyed the solitude this destination offers.
Reservation timing: Plan arrival times carefully when glamping in Trenton, Missouri area campgrounds. "Don't arrive on Sundays... We arrived on Sunday at 3:30 pm & office closed," cautions one RVer who found staff unavailable during certain hours.
