Explore Missouri Camping

Whether you're an experienced camper or a first-timer, Missouri has plenty of beautiful campsites to offer. From scenic lakeside locations to secluded spots in the woods, there's something for everyone.

Bell Mountain Wilderness Camping

Bell Mountain Wilderness Camping is another option for those who love backpacking and hiking in Missouri. Bell Mountain is the highest point in the St. Francois Mountains and offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. You can access the wilderness area by following the 12-mile Bell Mountain Loop Trail, which starts at the Highway A Trailhead. The trail is moderately difficult and has some steep sections and rocky terrain. There are several campsites along the trail, but they are not marked or maintained. You can also camp on top of Bell Mountain, but be aware that it can get very windy and cold at night. You do not need a permit to camp here, but you should follow the leave no trace principles and respect the natural environment.

Campsites

Several along the trail or on top of Bell Mountain

Price Range

Free

Amenities

None

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Devil’s Backbone Wilderness Campground

Devil’s Backbone Wilderness Campground is located in the heart of the Mark Twain National Forest and has over 6,000 acres of creeks, rivers, natural springs, and forests to explore. You can enjoy fishing, swimming, kayaking, or tubing on the North Fork of the White River or hike along the 13 miles of trails that run through the wilderness area. This campground is ideal for those who want to experience primitive camping in Missouri, as there are no electrical or sewage hookups. You can camp anywhere as long as it is at least 100 feet away from a trail or road. You do not need a reservation to camp here, but you should be prepared for any weather conditions and wildlife encounters.

Campsites

Anywhere as long as it is at least 100 feet from a trail or road.

Price Range

Free

Amenities

None

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Meramec Caverns Lajolla Natural Campgrounds

Meramec Caverns Lajolla Natural Campgrounds is a unique campground that allows you to explore the wonders of Meramec Caverns, which are the largest commercial caves in Missouri. You can take a guided tour of the caverns and see the amazing formations and colors that have been created by nature over millions of years. You can also enjoy other attractions such as zip-lining, canoeing, rafting, or panning for gold at the campground. The campground has 200 campsites with water and electric hookups for tents and RVs. There are also cabins and motel rooms available for rent. You can make your reservation online or by phone.

Campsites

200 with water and electric hookups

Price Range

$25-$35 per night

Amenities

Water, restrooms, showers, dump station, picnic tables, fire rings

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St. Francois State Park Campsites

St. Francois State Park Campsites is a campground that offers a peaceful and scenic setting for camping in Missouri. The park is located along the Big River and has three hiking trails that showcase the diverse natural features of the area, such as hardwood forests, sandstone bluffs, and glades. You can also fish, swim, or canoe on the river, or enjoy a picnic at one of the shelters. The campground has 100 campsites with electric hookups and 20 basic campsites for tents. There are also two group camps that can accommodate up to 50 people each. You can reserve your campsite online or by phone up to six months in advance.

Campsites

100 with electric hookups and 20 basics

Price Range

$12-$23 per night

Amenities

Water, restrooms, showers, dump station, picnic tables, fire rings

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Table Rock State Park Camping

Table Rock State Park Camping is one of the most popular campgrounds in Missouri, as it is located near the beautiful Table Rock Lake and offers a range of activities and facilities for visitors. You can enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, or water skiing on the lake, or hike or bike on the 15 miles of trails that wind through the park. The park also has a marina, a visitor center, a nature center, and an amphitheater. The campground has 152 campsites with electric hookups and 30 campsites with full hookups for RVs. There are also four camper cabins that can accommodate up to six people each. You can reserve your campsite online or by phone up to six months in advance.

Campsites

152 with electric hookups and 30 with full hookups

Price Range

$13-$35 per night

Amenities

Water, restrooms, showers, dump station, picnic tables, fire rings

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