Best Camping near Whitewater, MO

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Whitewater, MO is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Missouri camping has to offer. Find the best campgrounds near Whitewater, MO. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Best Camping Sites Near Whitewater, Missouri (90)

    Camper-submitted photo at Trail of Tears State Park Campground near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Trail of Tears State Park Campground near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Trail of Tears State Park Campground near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Trail of Tears State Park Campground near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Trail of Tears State Park Campground near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Trail of Tears State Park Campground near Whitewater, MO

    1. Trail of Tears State Park Campground

    20 Reviews
    59 Photos
    96 Saves
    McClure, Illinois
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo at Sam A. Baker State Park Campground near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Sam A. Baker State Park Campground near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Sam A. Baker State Park Campground near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Sam A. Baker State Park Campground near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Sam A. Baker State Park Campground near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Sam A. Baker State Park Campground near Whitewater, MO

    2. Sam A. Baker State Park Campground

    48 Reviews
    106 Photos
    148 Saves
    Patterson, Missouri
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo at General Watkins Conservation Area near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at General Watkins Conservation Area near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at General Watkins Conservation Area near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at General Watkins Conservation Area near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at General Watkins Conservation Area near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at General Watkins Conservation Area near Whitewater, MO

    3. General Watkins Conservation Area

    6 Reviews
    5 Photos
    20 Saves
    Oran, Missouri
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo at Hawn State Park Campground near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Hawn State Park Campground near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Hawn State Park Campground near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Hawn State Park Campground near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Hawn State Park Campground near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Hawn State Park Campground near Whitewater, MO

    4. Hawn State Park Campground

    36 Reviews
    129 Photos
    170 Saves
    Farmington, Missouri
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $12 - $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Giant City State Park Campground near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Giant City State Park Campground near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Giant City State Park Campground near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Giant City State Park Campground near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Giant City State Park Campground near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Giant City State Park Campground near Whitewater, MO

    5. Giant City State Park Campground

    24 Reviews
    165 Photos
    140 Saves
    Makanda, Illinois
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo at Hinton RV Park near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Hinton RV Park near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Hinton RV Park near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Hinton RV Park near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Hinton RV Park near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Hinton RV Park near Whitewater, MO

    6. Hinton RV Park

    8 Reviews
    5 Photos
    19 Saves
    Benton, Missouri
    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    7. The Landing Point RV Park

    4 Reviews
    13 Saves
    Cape Girardeau, Missouri

    Our park features paved roads, large concrete pads and patios, picnic tables, large shade trees. We have ice, soda, snacks, firewood with a few selected camping supplies and much more.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo at Perryville RV Resort By Rjourney near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Perryville RV Resort By Rjourney near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Perryville RV Resort By Rjourney near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Perryville RV Resort By Rjourney near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Perryville RV Resort By Rjourney near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Perryville RV Resort By Rjourney near Whitewater, MO

    8. Perryville RV Resort By Rjourney

    12 Reviews
    9 Photos
    55 Saves
    Perryville, Missouri

    Who says you can’t have fun in a small midwestern town? In Perryville, MO, there’s plenty of history to experience and fun to be had. You can expect no less at Perryville RV Resort by R Journey. Located off Lake Drive on KOA Lane, our resort park is accessible via Interstate 55 to the south and Highway T to the north. Get ready to make memories and reconnect with family and friends with our selection of family-friendly activities and events. If you’ve been pining for a midwestern getaway, look no further than Perryville RV Resort.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo at Peoples Creek - Lake Wappapello near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Peoples Creek - Lake Wappapello near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Peoples Creek - Lake Wappapello near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Peoples Creek - Lake Wappapello near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Peoples Creek - Lake Wappapello near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Peoples Creek - Lake Wappapello near Whitewater, MO

    9. Peoples Creek - Lake Wappapello

    10 Reviews
    26 Photos
    24 Saves
    Wappapello, Missouri

    Overview

    People's Creek Recreation Area, located in the southeastern Ozark foothills of Missouri, is a great launchpad for boating, fishing, swimming, hiking or simply exploring the Wappapello Lake area.Completed in 1941, Wappapello Lake provides an estimated $3.9 million in annual flood protection to agricultural lands and developed areas along the St. Francis River. A peaceful cove offers endless recreation opportunities with 57 campsites, a picnic shelter, beach, accessible fishing pier, and Lake View Trail. Click here to take a virtual tour of the facilities at Wappapello Lake.

    Recreation

    People's Creek is ideally suited for swimming and boating activities. The lake is home to some of Missouri's most sought after game fish, including largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, white bass and channel catfish. Hunting, fishing and kayaking are popular activities year-round. Hiking and biking on one of the Lake's 9 trail systems provides opportunities for all ages and abilities. The new accessible Shell Lake Archery Trail is a unique destination for achery enthusiasts.

    Natural Features

    Wappapello Lake stretches 8,400 acres on 45,000 acres of public land. Lightly wooded shorelines add shade to the scenic landscape.

    Contact Info

    Between 09/23/2022 and 09/27/2022 this location is staffed. Please call (573) 222-8234 to speak with local staff. From 09/28/2022 to 04/06/2023 this location is unstaffed. Please call (573) 778-5404 for general information.

    Nearby Attractions

    Explore the nearby Pine Ridge Nature trail, Shell Lake Archery Trail and Wappapllo Wildflower Trail and Greenhouse areas or St. Francis River. The Mingo Wildlife Refuge is approximately 11.5 miles from Peoples Creek Recreation Area. The Lake Wappapello State Park is approximately 18.2 miles away, and the Sam A. Baker State park is 33.4 miles away from Peoples Creek Recreation Area.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $16 - $50 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Redman Creek Recreation Area near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Redman Creek Recreation Area near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Redman Creek Recreation Area near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Redman Creek Recreation Area near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Redman Creek Recreation Area near Whitewater, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Redman Creek Recreation Area near Whitewater, MO

    10. Redman Creek Recreation Area

    11 Reviews
    14 Photos
    34 Saves
    Wappapello, Missouri

    Overview

    Redman Creek offers a varirty of recreational opportunities for every visitor! This large park is an ideal place for just a day visit or an extended stay. Redman Creek Campground features 109 full service campsites in the Redman East and West Campground. Each campground loop has a playground and shower house, with some restroom facilites replaced in 2021. Enjoy the scenic view along the new paved Lake View Trail, this multi-use trail is a hiker, biker or walkers dream. Beginning at Redman East Campground, the trail connects the entire Wappapello Dam area featuring multiple trailheads with unique landscapes. A tennis court, basketball court, sand volleyball court and playground are available for use year-round. A family picnic or a day of grilling are easy at one of 17 picnic sites or 4 reservable group shelters. An accessible fishing pier, 4-lane boat ramp with courtesy dock and a seasonal swimming beach provide a multitude of water recreation opportunities. Click here to take a virtual tour of the facilities at Wappapello Lake!

    Recreation

    Wappapello Lake can be a boater's paradise with a string of secluded coves, islands and wooded shorelines. Hunting, fishing and kayaking are popular activities year-round. Hiking and biking on one of the Lake's 9 trail systems provides opportunities for all ages and abilities. The new accessible Shell Lake Archery Trail is a unique destination for achery enthusiasts.

    Natural Features

    Wappapello Lake is fed by the St. Francis River and boasts 8,400 acres on a whopping 45,000-acre expanse of public land in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains.

    Contact Info

    Between 03/16/2022 and 11/01/2022 this location is staffed. Please call (573) 222-8233 to speak with local staff. From 01/07/2022 to 03/15/2022 this location is unstaffed. Please call (573) 222-8562 for general information.

    Nearby Attractions

    Explore the nearby Pine Ridge Nature trail, Shell Lake Archery Trail and Wappapllo Wildflower Trail and Greenhouse areas or St. Francis River. The Mingo Wildlife Refuge is approximately 11.6 miles from Redman Creek Recreation Area. The Lake Wappapello State Park is approximately 17 miles away, and the Sam A. Baker State park is 34 miles away from Redman Creek Recreation Area.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $10 - $50 / night

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 90 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Whitewater, MO

405 Reviews of 90 Whitewater Campgrounds


  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo at Trail of Tears State Park Campground near Whitewater, MO
    Feb. 20, 2025

    Trail of Tears State Park Campground

    Smaller but nice

    Not a large state park, but the campgrounds, small lake with swimming area, and the views of the Mississippi River valley are good. There are a few larger towns within about 10 miles where you can get all the supplies you need for camping.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo at Wine Trail Wilderness near Whitewater, MO
    Feb. 17, 2025

    Wine Trail Wilderness

    Great sites, daily visits including supplies needed etc.

    This is peaceful! Surrounded by wineries, hiking places, historic sites, close to town for dining out, visiting for special events. Whatever you may schedule. Owner is personable, fun and very knowledgeable of the area hiking and places to see.

  • Jon W.
    Camper-submitted photo at Wine Trail Wilderness near Whitewater, MO
    Feb. 17, 2025

    Wine Trail Wilderness

    Wine Trail Wilderness is awesome!🏕️🔥🦉🍷

    WTW hosts really care about their guests, and offer campsites that are well spaced, natural settings with firewood, ice water and a very clean outhouse.

  • Cody S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo at Hawn State Park Campground near Whitewater, MO
    Jan. 5, 2025

    Hawn State Park Campground

    Fall Favorite

    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.  

    It is a smaller campground with a good mix of electric and non-electric sites.  The restrooms were clean and they also have some vault toilets in the park for convenience.

  • Gonzo A.
    Camper-submitted photo at Hawn State Park Campground near Whitewater, MO
    Jan. 3, 2025

    Hawn State Park Campground

    One of MIssouri's Many Gems

    Hawn is a lovely park just south of the city a few clicks.  It's tucked away into the trees with ample shade and options for backpacking, backcountry hiking.  The park is nice and sites are spaced out enough.  Not sure about cell service but had a site in the 2nd campground in the middle where there's a break in the trees.  I was able to use Starlink.  People were friendly and overall lovely park and experience.

  • GB N.
    Oct. 22, 2024

    DD Hwy Campground

    October tent camping

    Tent camping back away from the RVs & we were the only people. Gorgeous river to view just a few steps away & the night sky view was fantastic. LOVED the bathroom & shower facilities!

  • Tabitha R.
    Camper-submitted photo at Johnson Creek near Whitewater, MO
    Oct. 12, 2024

    Johnson Creek

    Nice!

    This campground provides large spots, drinking water, vault toliets, dumpsters, picnic table, lantern hook, fire ring, and contactless check in. I also appreciate the value of these sites. It really is a reasonable rate for forest camping.

  • Greg D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo at Hilltop Campground near Whitewater, MO
    Oct. 4, 2024

    Hilltop Campground

    Decent overnight stop

    Hosts were friendly, but didn’t brief us on information such as where is the trash bin, what is the WiFi password. Restroom was old but relatively clean. There’s only one valve in the showers so all you get is lukewarm water. Not good on a cool or cold day. Some of the long term people have too many dogs, one had 6 little yippers, kind of annoying. And I’m not against dogs

  • PThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo at General Watkins Conservation Area near Whitewater, MO
    Sep. 11, 2024

    General Watkins Conservation Area

    Maybe not a travel destination, but certainly a good waypoint.

    We opted for this site on our way west as a stopover because it was free and not a parking lot. There are a couple of loop trails and we walked one of them. We arrived on a Sunday afternoon. The locals use the area for fishing and walking and it was somewhat busy in the afternoon. A couple of guys fished at night until about nine. There was only one other couple camping. Very quiet and peaceful. There was a portable toilet but we didn't investigate.

    The cool thing was that the loop trail was forested by hundreds of paw paw trees. It must have been just past the season and we saw only a couple of decaying ones, but the entire trail smelled of apple cider vinegar and was quite pleasant.

    If you consider this waypoint, two things:

    1. The last mile is good, but very dusty, gravel road.

    2. No cell coverage in the parking lot for T-Mobile, some coverage on loop trail.

  • Cecilia
    Aug. 15, 2024

    Pine Hills

    Very nice

    Very quiet and secluded. Campsites are roomy and some firewood is supplied.

  • Joseph A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo at Sam A. Baker State Park Campground near Whitewater, MO
    Aug. 7, 2024

    Sam A. Baker State Park Campground

    Where the rivers meet

    Sam a Baker is a beautiful destination for any family. There is plenty to do from hiking to horseback riding. There are multi camp sites that can be easily reserved online. The Saint Francis River and the Big Creek meet in the park. The big creek is spring feed and ice cold. The Saint Francis is wild and is considered white water during the rainy season. There are plenty of amenities in the park for the novice camper. From the camp store to the shower house. SAM A BAKER has you covered

  • Scott B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo at Hilltop Campground near Whitewater, MO
    Jul. 22, 2024

    Hilltop Campground

    Nice stop

    Stopped here for the night driving through the area. Nice campground, clean, safe, and right off the interstate.

  • Kevin C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo at Bean Ridge Pond Campground near Whitewater, MO
    Jul. 14, 2024

    Bean Ridge Pond Campground

    Nice private locationl

    There are only two camp site at this location and they are very close to each other. The camp sites are also very narrow. We camped in the lower site and had a difficult time getting everything out of the road.

    On the positive side, the site was clean, there was nobody there over the weekend and there was a humming bird. The pond had lots of frogs and and a few fish.

  • Dave M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo at Holliday Landing Campground & Marina near Whitewater, MO
    May. 4, 2024

    Holliday Landing Campground & Marina

    Wide Open Spaces!

    My parents (from Mississippi) and I (from St. Charles, MO) found this place sort of between us and we sure do love it. The owner Kelly and his whole team were nothing but gracious and hospitable to us the entire weekend. You can tell there's some work to be done on this new venture for Kelly but his heart in it and I can't wait to see how he continues to grow the property. Thanks for having us and we can't wait to come back. 

    The bath house was clean. The site was huge. There was plenty of firewood when we needed it. The nature was nature'in and the wild was wild'in. Good times.

  • Bonnie M.
    Camper-submitted photo at Wanderers End Sanctuary Forest Farm near Whitewater, MO
    Apr. 15, 2024

    Wanderers End Sanctuary Forest Farm

    So happy we found them such a fun place

    We had so much fun playing in the creek learning about as Aztec and their gardening methods. Very adorable , baby goats and baby chicks that were just all over and loving living. ❤️ My family and friends found out that I was going there and she was more than happy to help us be accommodated for so many people. I kept adding and she was like no problem. Thank you so much for making it easy and affordable. We will definitely be back to visit. I feel that we have actually found some true lifelong friends. Thank you Ivy

  • FThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo at Sulphur Springs Dispersed near Whitewater, MO
    Apr. 8, 2024

    Sulphur Springs Dispersed

    Beautiful River site for parking or dispersed

    We stopped here chasing the 2024 eclipse. Easy to find. No cost. About 20 parking spaces, a vault toilet, and a boat launch. Open for solar panels, but tree cover around the lot. Only about 5 parking spaces are not on a slant. Places in the trees for tents. Absolutely beautiful views up and down the river. A single fire pit on the river’s edge. No road noise to speak of because it is way in the distance and rare at night. Fireflies and owls into the night. Mist on the water in the morning: just beautiful. T mobile service has 3 of 4 bars. There is no apparent Verizon service.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo at Trail of Tears State Forest near Whitewater, MO
    Apr. 6, 2024

    Trail of Tears State Forest

    Not free but worth the $8/night

    Surprised to find nice porta potty at our site that was remote from others. Potable water and camper registration (but had a boil water warning but that was not normal). 30 min into Cape Girardeau and 15 min to Anna. Nice picnic table and raised fire ring/ grill.

  • V
    Camper-submitted photo at Saline Creek RV Park and Campground near Whitewater, MO
    Apr. 6, 2024

    Saline Creek RV Park and Campground

    Sweet RV campground! Very clean, quiet, and beautiful.

    We found this Rv campground while cruising through MO on to FL. We enjoyed this place! Beautiful, and quiet. New sites, tables, and a beautiful creek. A couple of pony’s too. We will definitely be stopping in again!

  • Michelle K.
    Camper-submitted photo at Sharp Rock Falls Recreation near Whitewater, MO
    Apr. 4, 2024

    Sharp Rock Falls Recreation

    Longbranch Shooting House And Saloon

    You're welcome to at longbranch! Please make your reservations.
    Only 16 spots left!

    Ava Illinois +1 618-318-6734 Text your name and number of people on your campsite to reserve your spot.

    The Solar Eclipse Event "PARK @ THE MOON"

    Extended or early arrivals welcome. Just simply request more information in the text. We will get ahold of asap with a more information and a confirmation number.

    #ShareThisPost #solareclipse2024


Guide to Whitewater

Camping near Whitewater, Missouri, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are several campgrounds that cater to different needs and preferences.

What to do:

  • Explore the Mississippi River: Many campgrounds, like Trail of Tears State Park Campground, provide stunning views of the river. One camper mentioned, "Unobstructed view of the Mississippi River" which makes for great sunset watching.
  • Hiking and Trails: Check out the trails at Huzzah Valley. A visitor shared, "We had a good time camping on the back loop... Plenty of room on the gravel bar to have fun."
  • Fishing and Swimming: At Peoples Creek - Lake Wappapello, you can enjoy fishing and swimming. One reviewer noted, "The hosts were very friendly. Walk to the swimming beach and boat ramp."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Redman Creek Recreation Area said, "The sites are well maintained with asphalted pads, fire pit, grill, camp light pole and picnic table."
  • Friendly Staff: Many campgrounds have helpful hosts. A camper at Hinton RV Park mentioned, "The owner is very friendly and helpful."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Asher Creek Campground are known for their peaceful settings. One reviewer said, "Quiet and the restrooms and showers were very clean."

What you should know:

  • Train Noise: If you stay at Trail of Tears State Park Campground, be prepared for train sounds. A camper warned, "Lots of trains, day and night with train horn blaring."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like General Watkins Conservation Area, have fewer facilities. A visitor noted, "There are about 5 primitive sites. No water sewer or electric."
  • Site Size: At Ridge Campground, some sites can be small. One camper expressed frustration, saying, "This site is TINY! Not even enough room for our tent."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Perryville RV Resort that have amenities for kids. A reviewer mentioned, "The park is clean and well maintained... The staff is friendly and helpful."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have activities lined up. A camper at Huzzah Valley said, "Floating options are plentiful, with multiple routes and raft/canoe/tube options available."
  • Check for Play Areas: Some campgrounds have playgrounds. A visitor at Perryville RV Resort noted, "Nice park for kids, hiking trail and jump pad (trampoline)."

Tips from RVers:

  • Level Sites: Look for campgrounds with level sites like Peoples Creek - Lake Wappapello. A camper mentioned, "Mostly level sites with electric & water for $10."
  • Be Cautious of Turns: If you're towing a large RV, be careful on the roads leading to campgrounds. One reviewer at Peoples Creek - Lake Wappapello warned, "If towing anything over 35' be careful when navigation."
  • Check Hookups: Make sure the campground has the hookups you need. A visitor at Hinton RV Park said, "Clean campground with full hookups."

Camping near Whitewater, Missouri, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking a peaceful retreat.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Whitewater, MO?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Whitewater, MO offers a wide range of camping options, with 90 campgrounds and RV parks near Whitewater, MO and 7 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Whitewater, MO?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Whitewater, MO is Trail of Tears State Park Campground with a 4.2-star rating from 20 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Whitewater, MO?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 7 free dispersed camping spots near Whitewater, MO.

  • What parks are near Whitewater, MO?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 10 parks near Whitewater, MO that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.