Best Camping in and Near St. Francois State Park

33% (4 reviews)

Explore a surprising mountain getaway south of St. Louis.

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in St. Francois State Park

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St. Francois State Campground

110 sites · RVs, Tents In St. Francois State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near St. Francois State Park

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Big River Outdoors Campground

80 sites · RVs, Tents87 acres · Frankclay, MO

80+ acres with over a mile of river frontage. Also a unique custom off road park on the property. Swimming, fishing, kayaking, and live music on weekends. Tent camping or RV/camper . Campers who need electric are allowed to bring a generator. We have limited electric as of now. We are located just 2-3 miles from 3 different gas stations but are also very secluded.

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(1561)

Spring Lake Ranch

38 sites · RVs, Tents101 acres · Potosi, MO

Spring Lake Ranch boasts countless trails and lake activities. Formerly known as Sayersbrook Bison ranch, at one time it was one of the largest Bison ranches in the world. This property is filled with amazing things to see and explore. Nothing like it in Missouri. Lake is 60+ acres and is spring fed. Amazing fishing, swimming and kayaking. We are pet friendly. You will have amazing lake views and will be close to hiking trails, horseback riding, and wine tasting at Edge Cliff Wineries which is next door to us. The beautiful shower house is super clean, has restrooms and hot showers and it is within walking distance. Firewood and ice are available to purchase; kayaks and fishing poles are available for rent. If you forget something at home stop by our little country store, we might have it! :) The sites are about 20 ft from each other - if you are looking for more privacy please check out the secluded site or the peninsula.

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Hummingbird Hollow Outdoors

30 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents27 acres · Saint Clair, MO

Hummingbird Hollow Outdoors is a not for profit Farm Animal Sanctuary. You will be able to camp with the horses, goats, potbellied pigs and more. We open up our farm so that people can enjoy the outdoors, animals and nature, and the animals can enjoy people! We are a sanctuary for all creatures on earth, including humans. "Today, whatever is good for your soul, do that."

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Swim/BBQ/Camp Such and Such Farm

5 sites · RVs, Tents120 acres · De Soto, MO

***We are on winter break and will begin accepting bookings for 2024 on March 1st*** Learn more about this land: Camp at our beautiful private swimming hole in the middle of a creek. It's fed by a 300,000 gallon/day fresh water spring that runs along the length of the campsite with a community picnic table, two Webber grills, and a huge fire pit. Bring your fishing poles and water shoes! There are fire ring's at each site but be sure to bring your own camp chairs. Folding tables available per site at your request! Take a stroll around the pond and visit our goats, pigs and piglets, market garden, barn and working farm by adding a farm tour. Don't worry about packing food in the cooler! As a working farm, we have fresh eggs, pork products and produce available that are all grown and harvested here. Be sure to add those items on at checkout!

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Hawks Bluff Farm

54 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents460 acres · Tiff, MO

We are located in the town of Tiff comes up as Blackwell too. We have 460 acres to explore. A beautiful creek running through our property. We have cows, mules, goats, dogs and cats. We are on a bluff so if you are rock hunters you have come to the right place. We offer rock hunting. and we have extra buckets. We have the best Drusy (lots of colors), Crazy Lace Agate, Calcite, Chalcedony, Quartz, Chert, Barite, Bladed Barite, Iron Ores and more. Check us out on Facebook Hawks Bluff Farm Rocks and Drusy. We have firewood, ice, eggs, ground beef, propane exchange and new propane tanks available.

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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. Wood-burning sauna and hot tub available for guest use. 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. If our "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!

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Cinco de Mayo Campground

16 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · MO

Every morning that I wake up at Cinco I think how fortunate I am to have a place on this earth where I am excited to be. Whether it is sweaty-hot summertime or deep-freeze, snow-covered wintertime I treasure the moments sipping a cup of tea on the riverbank listening to the birds competing over food and mates...or to the ice breaking up with the morning heat. Starting the day this way can sure alleviate a lot of stress! The tenants and guests that have stayed here make my favorite place on earth truly precious. Sharing with others magnifies the experience. Please give yourself the gift of staying here for a weekend.Learn more about this land:Sleep right on the banks of the river or in the clean level yard just a few feet away. Kayak or fish all day then enjoy a nice warm shower in our bathhouse. You can freshen your gear in our new mini-laundromat. Bring quarters or download an Iphone app to start the laundry machines.

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Undara Studio

2 sites · Lodging16 acres · Park Hills, MO

We have both led lives that involved traipsing about the globe, bouncing continent to continent, but a few years ago we gave ourselves the opportunity to simplify and settle in (or, for Keith, to return to) the Ozarks. After enjoying non-commercial, owner-hosted properties in a few countries, we decided to open our doors to like/open-minded souls, to offer an escape, a place to ground and recharge. In just a few years, through our three offerings, we've hosted well over 1000 guests, sharing innumerable tales and countless bottles of wine. Hosting is just something we enjoy.

Cabin Springs

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents200 acres · De Soto, MO

Welcome to our 200+ acre property, ideal for pitching a tent amidst a variety of picturesque settings. Whether you prefer the serene ambiance near the pond, the rustic charm of the old barn, the tranquil atmosphere alongside the creek, the shade of the trees, or the openness of the pasture, you'll find the perfect spot to set up camp. Embark on adventures exploring the rolling hills and winding trails that traverse our property, or try your luck with pond fishing. For water enthusiasts, we're conveniently located less than a mile from Merrill Horse access to the Big River, offering opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and floating (refer to the Big River access points map in the photos for more information). Venture out to nearby attractions, including Washington State Park, just an 18-minute drive away, and LaChance Vineyard/Winery, a mere 14-minute drive from our property. Experience the beauty of nature and the tranquility of rural life at our farm, where adventure awaits just beyond your tent flap. Contact us for special consideration for your larger groups. Our property is perfect for youth groups, boy/girls Scouts campouts, etc.

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Kevin T.’s Land

1 site · Tent33 acres · Leadwood, MO

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Hagood Farms and Trails

8 sites · Tents164 acres · Sullivan, MO

We have 172 acres of trails with scenic waterfalls and trees. A pond for fishing and conveniently located with in 8 miles from sevetal state parks and 2 miles from 300 acers of off road trails. We have owned and lived on tje property since 1999 .Learn more about this land:We are a fully functioning farm with Longhorn cattle, horses, mini donkeys and goats that are very friendly. We have 164 acres that have trails for horseback riding and ATVs. We are located 8 miles from Mermac River and Washington State park where you can rent canoe's and go hiking. We are an hour from St. Louis and Elephant Rock State park as well as Johnston shut ins. We are also with in 8 miles of ROMP dirt bike trail and 1 mile from Moonlight trails and racing that is 400 plus acers of ATV and jeep trails. We have a few waterfalls on the property and lots of areas to hike as well. Several areas of camping to choose from, you can be in the woods or out in the open. Spring and Summer months we offer farm fresh eggs and there is always plenty of firewood. We recently added a pond area as well. We now have Electric and water as well.

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Matt's Place at Meramec n Labarque

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Eureka, MO

Located at the confluence of the Meramec River and Labarque Creek, my place (Matt's Place) is a ridge above a bottomland bowl of sorts. The ridge is an ancient road bed recorded on an old map as the "kings highway" under Spanish rule. Flakes of flint hint to the first people to walk this ridge perhaps 10,000 years ago. The old iron truss bridge here is likely built in 1910 and it has a survey marker from 1932. The overlook at the confluence is a magical vortex of energy. A few chairs are waiting there for folks to ponder what that means. Bald eagles nest upstream and their daily commute can be seen from here as they fly down toward the Mississippi in the morning, and in the evening, back upstream to their nest about a mile and a half further, at a bend in the river up high in a grove of sycamore trees. Great blue herons, kingfishers, hawks, vultures, beaver, turtles, fish, and deer are frequently seen from this vista. The bottomland is also special. It's darker down there under so many tall silver maples. And in summer, bring bug spray. The creek has a nice little swimming hole, and a beach that is sometimes sand, sometimes, gravel, and sometimes a mix of both with some silt or even mud after a storm. It's peaceful down there to explore in the creek, wade while looking outward to an opening into the Meramec River. It's also fun to stand just at the mouth of the creek in the Meramec River. It's an awesome view upstream or downstream of tree lined banks, rock bluffs, and every now and then, passing boats, canoes, paddle boards, or kayaks. The old iron truss bridge hovers above the meeting of two waters. The water is cool and clean. Some fifty species of fish have been recorded in this creek, the most in all of Jefferson County and St Louis County. The bottomland has two levels, the lower bottoms down by the creek and the upper bottoms about a hundred feet from the creek. The upper bottoms has a clearing like a meadow with mowed grass, picnic table, electric extension cord and fan (plugged in up at the house). My favorite things to do here include gazing up at a cottonwood tree that must be sixty feet tall. It's leaves in a breeze are like a thousand hands waving hello. The bottomland meadow offers just enough sky to see bats dance in the dusk air between the trees, then fireflies as it gets darker yet. Up top is where I live. Matt's Five Acre Farm Overview updated 2/2024 We have six goats, Ross, Monica, Rachel, Joey, and Chandler. Rachel recently gave birth to Phoebe in February. We have 14 chickens that are laying about 8 eggs a day more or less. More eggs per day as it warms up in the Spring. Guests may inquire about eggs for sale at $5 per dozen. We can collect them or you can take them straight out of the nest boxes, same price either way. We also have a rabbit, a dog, and a kitten. The 13 year old female dog, Bella, barks a little at first but is friendly. We can keep her inside if that is preferred by guests. If guest brings a dog, we may have to arrange to not let the chickens forage outside of the coop if guest's dog might harass the chickens. Let us know before arrival if it is a possibility your dog might harass or kill the chickens and we will keep them in the coop while your here. I can shuttle gear with my pick up to the bottomland meadow or close to the creek. If a visitor forgets some camping gear, I'm sure to have an extra to lend. What attracted me to this place is the sense of a vortex of energy that is always at a meeting of waters such as the Meramec River and Labarque Creek. We hope you like this place like we do. Learn more about this land: Just five miles off HWY 44 and HWY 109, at Eureka, MO, (30 minutes west of downtown St Louis, 18 minutes from Six Flags) this place sits on a ridge with great views above the Meramec River. A century-old iron trapezoidal truss bridge is abandoned and is a beautiful feature aging in place above the confluence of Labarque Creek. The bottomland meadow and sand and gravel beach with swimming holes, fishing, canoeing, or kayaking is just a short walk (300 feet or so) or drive if conditions are not muddy (4wd suggested). We have a half-mile loop trail around the small property and just across the road is the Young Conservation Area and down the road 2 miles is Glassberg Conservation Area. This is a great base camp or picnic stop for a group floating downstream from Pacific Palisades Meramec River Access Ramp. Most people take out a mile and a half downstream at Allenton River Access Ramp (near Six Flags). We also have bunnies, chickens, honey bees, and blackberries. Thousands of acres of adjacent parks, plus river access ramps for boats a few miles upstream or downstream. We can shuttle your kayaks or even lend you one of ours by request as an extra. You can camp up top on the ridge or driveway (close to bathroom or shower in the house) or you can camp down by the creek or bottomland meadow. The creek/swimming hole is about 500 feet walk from the driveway up top. I can shuttle your gear (coolers, tent, chairs) down there in my 4wd pickup truck upon request. One may hear the local road traffic from two-lane HWY FF which is just a few hundred feet from the campsite. It's not so bad. Hipcampers report they can tune it out and late at night it gets very quiet. We've seen bald eagles, osprey, beavers, otters, hawks, great blue herons, bats (at dusk), and lots of other wildlife. At night, you may hear frogs, owls and maybe even coyotes safely from far off on the other side of the river. We hope this place feels like your far away place, nearby. Risks Outdoor activities tend to have some inherent risks. The bridge abutment has a potential fall hazard, the river and creek, a potential drowning hazard, and the outdoors in in general may pose risks of mosquitos, ticks, and poison ivy. In high winds a branch or tree could fall, lightning could strike, or floodwaters may rise. Campfires have burn or smoke inhalation risks. With proper caution , care, and a bit of bug spray, these risks can be managed and mitigated. Bad Weather In case of bad weather, too hot, too cold, too many mosquitos, or upon request, you can find refuge up in the clubhouse, close but separate from my house. It's a small concrete block building with a single bed, two picture windows looking down on the river, chairs, space heater, air conditioner, fridge, microwave, butane stove, and toaster oven. Refunds You can cancel with full refund even after you've arrived if the place is not what you were hoping for. No worries. Be happy.

The best camping near St. Francois State Park guide

Overview

About

Less than an hour south of St. Louis is a natural playground of grand proportions, with a rippling river, granite bluffs, massive boulders, and endless views of the rollicking St. Francois Mountains. Unlike the rest of the Ozarks, these jagged hills were formed by volcanic activity. This is the epic backdrop for your adventures, whether you hike through the woodlands, make a cool splash in the river, or paddle below the bluffs. If you have a horse, you can even bring it, too, as several park trails allow riding. Venture through the Coonville Creek Designated Wild Area for more unspoiled beauty.

Notable Camping Spots

Best for a peaceful retreat: St. Francois Campground’s basic sites are roomier than the pull-thru sites.
Best big rigs: St. Francois Campground’s pull-thru electric sites provide easy parking, with electric hookups.
Best for camping with a group: St. Francois Campground’s family site offers a combo site with paired camping pads and some shared amenities.
Best for backpackers: St. Francois Campground offers a backpack camp along the Pike Run Trail.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Unlike most other Missouri state parks, this park is open and reservable throughout the year.
Walk-up reservations are accepted on a first-come-first-serve basis.
Advanced reservations are recommended for weekends and holidays.
Reservations can be made up to 12 months in advance on the Missouri State Park website or phone line.
Water and showers are available April 1 through October 31. Water is not available in the off season.

When to go

Due to the water activities, summer is a popular time to visit the park, as the river waters are warm enough for comfortable swimming. The weather is generally hot and humid this time of year. Spring and fall are special times to hit the trails, as wildflowers blossom in the spring and as the hills erupt in color on crisp fall days. Though campsites are available in the winter, campers must prepare for the potential for freezing temperatures and precipitation, as well as the lack of water in the campground during the off season.

Know before you go

Check the schedule for the Bonne Terre Drag Strip before camping. Since it’s fewer than two miles from the park, engine noise can be heard during racing season.
This park experiences occasional flash flooding. Campers must have a means to evacuate while staying.
Bring shoes that can get wet and muddy if you plan to wade in the waters or explore trails after a heavy rain.
Boat launches are available for paddlers to access the Big River. Motorized boats are not recommended.
Within a 45-minute drive, you’ll find two of Missouri’s most popular state parks: Elephant Rocks and Johnson’s Shut-Ins, which have fascinating geological features.