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The best camping near Lake Wappapello State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Lake Wappapello adventure.

100% (3 reviews)
100% (3 reviews)

Soak up the summertime vibe at Southeast Missouri’s largest lake.  

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Lake Wappapello State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Lake Wappapello State Park

Booked 5 times

Ozark Highlands Forest Ridge

8 sites ¡ RVs, Tents59 acres ¡ Glen Allen, MO
Learn more about this land:We have five camp sites in the 30+ acres of forest surrounding our working Sheep and Cattle farm.  The farm has Sheep, Scottish Highland Cattle, Chickens, Ducks and Great Pyrenees livestock guard dogs (only in the sheep pastures - and they are friendly).  If you want to meet our animals and see the farm we are happy to show you around!This is a unique site located in the Ozark Highlands. Only 45 minutes from Cape Girardeau (a small river town on the Mississippi), and 45 minutes from the Arcadia Valley including Taum Sauk mountain (the highest point in Missouri), Elephant Rocks, the Johnston Shutins, and other beautiful areas in the highlands. The farm is five minutes from Marble Hill, which is home to the Bollinger County Natural History museum which highlights the only dinosaur bones found in Missouri. The bones were found at a farm in Glennallen (a few minutes from our farm) as well as a great barbeque (Jay’s Restaurant) and a good catfish restaurant (Jers Restaurant). On the way to our farm, feel free to stop at the 1,700 foot deep artesian well to get a cool, refreshing jug of natural artesian well water – the water is free, but you have to bring your own containers! We are two and a half hours southwest of St. Louis, and two and half hours northwest of Memphis. 
from 
$30
 / night
98%
(299)

Four Creeks Campground

19 sites ¡ RVs, Tents90 acres ¡ Ellington, MO
Three crystal clear creeks to swim, wade, hunt rocks, or just relax. We have several tent sites right on the creeks and RV sites close for just a short walk for swimming fun. Right on miles of ATV, OHV, SxSs or horse trails. Close to the Black River and the Current for floating, Kayaking or fishing. Clearwater Lake for boat rentals or Jet skies. Sites to see, Blue Springs, Big Springs Johnson Shut Inns, Elephant Rock, Rocky Falls, and many state parks to explore. We are also only three miles from the town of Ellington, MO for your shopping needs, several restaurants and antiquing.
from 
$20
 / night
Booked 8 times

Crazy acres farms

11 sites ¡ RVs, Tents80 acres ¡ Poplar Bluff, MO
Special dry camp location approx 2km away from the line of totality for the 2024 total eclipse. Pasture space available for tent campers with good view of the sky. Fishing pond and creek access short walks away from the camping location. About a 20 minute drive from Poplar Bluff, you will be far out enough to enjoy the eclipse without distraction, but close enough to town for provisions when needed.
from 
$150
 / night
Saved 11 times

Riverside RV & Storage

17 sites ¡ RVs10 acres ¡ Piedmont, MO
Beautiful, private 10 acre campground with creek access at ALL sites. If you enjoy hunting, hiking, and ATVing, Riverside RV is neighboring 300+ acres of beautiful Missouri Conservation Land to explore. We are also located 2-3 miles from a gorgeous part of Black River (aka Riverside) which is perfect for fishing, boating, floating, and swimming. Our campground is at the center of all things outdoors. You can spend the day at Clearwater Lake, Sam A Baker, Johnson Shut-Ins, Elephant Rocks, Echo Bluff, etc! Email us today! riversiderental.cc@gmail.com
from 
$35
 / night
100%
(46)

The Holliday Landing on the Lake

44 sites ¡ RVs, Tents23 acres ¡ Greenville, MO
Learn more about this land: Holliday Landing Resort & Marina offers a variety of beautiful campsites to meet your camping needs. There are 11 sites with water, electric, and sewer hook-ups, 28 sites with water and electric, there is a secluded mini-loop where tent campers can enjoy the same access and amenities. All water and electric campsites have 30/120 amp electric service and frost-free water. Guests may use the modern restroom facility with showers. A dump station is available for your use. Each non-primitive site has a gravel pad for RV campers and parking, a grassy area for tent camping, visiting, or playing, a picnic table, and a fire ring with grill. Each primitive site has a grassy area, picnic table, and fire ring with no designated parking area. For your convenience, camping guests may use the boat ramp and may rent a boat slip for a $10 nightly fee.  Kids and adults alike can play together at our playground area. Camping guests also have access to an inground swimming pool at no extra charge.
from 
$45
 / night
Booked 1 time

Peaceful Michel Ranch

36 sites ¡ RVs, Tents3 acres ¡ Fairdealing, MO
Welcome to our tranquil retreat nestled next to a serene 50-acre lake! Our campsite offers a simple and secluded getaway, perfect for those seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Situated on approximately 3 acres of pristine countryside, our farm provides a peaceful setting for reconnecting with nature. Whether you're lounging by the lake, casting a line for fishing, or paddling in a kayak or canoe, you'll find plenty of opportunities to unwind and enjoy the great outdoors. Please note that motorized boats are not permitted on the lake, ensuring a tranquil atmosphere for all guests. As we are located in the path of totality for the solar eclipse, you'll have the rare opportunity to witness this spectacular celestial event. Be sure to bring your eclipse glasses for safe viewing! For your convenience, clean spring water is available on-site, ensuring you stay hydrated during your stay. Additionally, we're located just 30 minutes from Poplar Bluff and 15 minutes from Doniphan, offering easy access to amenities while still enjoying the seclusion of our farm. Escape the crowds and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature at our secluded campsite. Whether you're seeking peace and tranquility or an unforgettable eclipse viewing experience, we invite you to join us for a memorable retreat in the heart of Missouri's countryside.
from 
$100
 / night

Eagles Landing Resort

10 sites ¡ RVs7 acres ¡ Van Buren, MO
Welcome to our campground in Van Buren, Missouri, where you can experience the beauty of the Current River and enjoy a relaxing stay in your camper or RV. Our campground offers 5 well-maintained spots with gravel pads, water, and both 30 and 50-amp electric hookups, as well as sewer hookups for your convenience. Just a short walk away, you'll find access to a shared private gravel bar along the Current River, perfect for swimming, fishing, or simply relaxing by the water. If you're feeling adventurous, side-by-sides are welcome for exploring the area's scenic trails. During your stay, be sure to explore the charming town of Van Buren, where you can dine at local restaurants like The Landing, Las Margaritas, or Joly Cone for delicious meals. Nearby markets, gas stations, and a Dollar General Store make shopping convenient for all your needs. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure or simply looking to unwind by the river, our campground in Van Buren provides the perfect setting for your next getaway. We look forward to hosting you!
from 
$75
 / night
99%
(53)

Fredrock Waterfront Glampground

20 sites ¡ RVs33 acres ¡ Fredericktown, MO
Fredrock is a small privately owned glampground on crystal clear 12mile Creek. It is located about 15 minutes from the nearest town on 33 beautiful acres. Enjoy one of the 7 themed stays or bring your own RV and stay in one of only 5 RV spots. It is just a few minutes walk to 12 Mile Creek which runs through the property. Enjoy the beautiful bluffs, shut-ins, gravel river beds and crystal clear water. Swimming, hiking, stargazing, and horseshoes are all available at Fredrock!
from 
$50
 / night
Booked 2 times

The Lookout

3 sites ¡ RVs, Tents23 acres ¡ Piedmont, MO
This cleared off spot on 23 acres has quite a view. Bring your camper, rv, or tent and enjoy the peaceful setting. There is no electric, water, or sewer. Perfect location for boondocking. Sit by the fire pit to roast marshmallows or hotdogs-wood provided. This site is located just a few miles from Bluff View Marina on Clearwater Lake. Black River is also about 5 miles from the campsite. Utv/atv riders have a route that winds down along the river right up the road from the campsite.
from 
$25
 / night
100%
(5)

13 Oaks Farm

2 sites ¡ RVs10 acres ¡ Poplar Bluff, MO
Learn more about this land:We are a working farm and welcome you to dry camp in our pasture. Deer frequently graze passed. Fall asleep to the sounds of frogs and nature. The Black River public access is 1 mile away where you can put a boat in or fish from the banks. The gateway to the Ozark and the three rivers, our area provides a great spot to get to your next camp.
from 
$30
 / night
100%
(6)

Arcadia Valley BaseCamp

1 site ¡ Tent68 acres ¡ Arcadia, MO
BaseCamp is respite nestled into the Arcadia Valley just miles from Shepherd Mountain Bike Psrk. With nearly 70 acres surrounded by Mark Twain National Forest, there are many opportunities for hiking, botanical exploration, licensed fishing, mountain biking, equine accessible trails, and much more. There is a small pond on the property with a walking trail and a rock garden that doubles as a small creek when rains are heavy. With camping options ranging from backpacking and tent camping to van dwellers and Tiny House glamping, all are welcome. Adventure begins at Base Camp!
from 
$18.50
 / night
99%
(479)

Arcadia Valley Outdoors Land

23 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents150 acres ¡ Ironton, MO
A wooded, more private camping experience with unique site designs and natural elements. Primitive Camping Van/vehicle Camping Small Trailers Glamping Bike Trails, Hiking, creek sit-in' on site! Best of the midwest biking, hiking, Ozark Trail, rock climbing Elephant Rocks Park, Johnson Shut-ins and more swimming holes nearby! Wood for sale on site, $5 per bundle, Fire starters also available. Ask us about our "Really Good At Camping" merchandise. We have shirts, mugs & wine tumblers! *Cash Only* at this time. We Have free stickers! *For camp site locations please refer to our map in the campsite listing photos. We are located just west of the Ironton Water Works Plant and the Shepherd Mountain Lake dam. Turn right after the dam, drive through Shepherd Mountain Lake Park, open the "campground guests only" gate if it is closed, and please close gate behind you. Thank you! No Hook Ups No swimming in the lake and no outside boats, but we have boats for campers to use free of charge! General Store and restroom facilities/showers coming soon!
from 
$15
 / night

The best camping near Lake Wappapello State Park guide

Overview

About

Southeast Missouri’s largest lake is a summertime hotspot, with an endless menu of activities. From the time the sunrises over the Ozarks hills to the time it sets, revealing the stars above, Lake Wappapello State Park provides a basecamp for adventure. Of course, the lake is a focal point for boating, paddling, swimming, and fishing. Or, take to the hills or creek valley for hiking, mountain biking, backpacking, and horseback riding under a forest canopy. Lakeviews are a bonus. No tent or RV? No problem. This state park also has full-service cabins and camper cabins.

Notable campgrounds

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Asher Creek Campground is closed November 1 to March 31, but Ridge Campground is open year round.
  • Reservations for both campgrounds are available April 1 through October 31, and open 12 months in advance.
  • Ridge Campground does not have water and showers available in the off season.
  • Book your site on the Missouri State Parks website or by phone.
  • Advanced reservations are encouraged during summer weekends and holidays.

When to go

As you might guess, summer is the busy season, as the cool lake waters and daytime temperatures warm. Be prepared for temperatures topping the 80s and 90s. While water recreation tapers off in the fall, the forests are at their prime, with colorful hues filling the hillsides. Spring also is too cool to take a swim, but hikers appreciate the pleasant weather for tackling the trails. The campgrounds empty in the winter months, providing solitude for those who can brave the freezing temperatures and occasional snows.

Know before you go

  • Lake Wappapello State Park has basic and electric sites, with both 30-amp and 50-amp power.
  • Cell signal strength varies greatly within the park. 
  • Three free boat launches are found in the park along the lake shores.
  • The Allison Cove Day-Use Area is home to the swim beach, available seasonably.

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