Fishing and swimming opportunities along the St. Francis River draw campers to this US Forest Service campground in Mark Twain National Forest. The river runs directly through the area, creating access points for kayakers and anglers within a short walk from most sites.
Silver Mines operates three distinct camping loops with varying amenities and terrain. The lower loop sits closest to the river and provides 30-amp electric hookups for RVs up to 60 feet, while two upper loops offer more basic tent camping without electricity. Mara F. notes the "St. Francis river runs through the area, making it a popular spot to whitewater kayak." Sites include fire rings, picnic tables, and lantern hooks on level gravel pads, with vault toilets and drinking water spigots distributed throughout the campground.
The forested setting provides natural separation between sites, though trail information can be limited. Several reviewers mention difficulty locating specific hiking routes, as trailheads lack distance or terrain details. Swimming holes form among the boulders along the river's edge, particularly popular with families during warmer months. Leah H. warns to "keep an eye out for snakes though! I nearly stepped on a copper head in the outhouse!"
Reservations are available through the Forest Service website, though cash or check is required for on-site payments. The campground operates from early March through mid-October, with fees ranging from $15-100 per night depending on site type and hookups. Cell service is generally unavailable, but Fredericktown lies about 10 minutes away for supplies.
Campers seeking additional options in the region can explore campgrounds around Mark Twain National Forest for different amenities and settings.
Description
Overview
Silver Mines Campground is located on the St. Francis River in the Mark Twain National Forest. It offers a variety of recreational opportunities and abundant historic and geological wonders.
Recreation
Parts of the river are available for swimming, while other portions provide good fishing. Whitewater kayaking is a popular activity during the springtime when water runs high. Depending on water levels, the state holds an annual kayaking competition the third weekend of March. The 2-mile Silver Mines Trail follows both sides of the river, leading to various picnic areas. A 1.2-mile trail spurs to a popular conservation area, where visitors can view spectacular rock formations along the river.
Facilities
The campground offers dozens of single-family campsites, as well as large group sites, all available for tent and RV camping. Some sites have 30-amp electric hookups. The large group site can accommodate up to 74 people. Additional sites are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.Picnic tables and campfire rings with grills are provided, as are accessible vault toilets and drinking water. Parking spurs vary from asphalt, to grass, to gravel or dirt.
Natural Features
This beautiful area is located along the St. Francis River, the only river in Missouri classified as a whitewater river. It is widely used for kayaking during springtime. The campground is located at a historic mining operation and is known for its Precambrian granite and felsite rocks. A variety of wildlife makes its home in the area.
Nearby Attractions
The Millstream Gardens Conservation Area is located eight miles west of Fredericktown, or four miles west of the campground, on Highway 72. It is home to the scenic Tiemann Shut-ins and other spectacular sights along the riverbed.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundSilver Mines is located in Missouri
Directions
From St. Louis, Missouri, take I-55 south to Festus, then take Highway 67 south to Fredericktown, then take Highway 72 west for approximately 4 miles to Highway D. Turn left and travel approximately 2 miles on Highway D to the recreation area.
Address
MARK TWAIN
MO
Coordinates
37.5527778 N
90.4372222 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- 50 Amp Hookups
Drive Time
- 1 hr 8 min from Cape Girardeau, MO
- 1 hr 31 min from St. Louis, MO
- 2 hrs 27 min from Paducah, KY
- 2 hrs 57 min from Jefferson City, MO






























