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The best camping near Mark Twain State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Mark Twain State Park adventure.

Once home to a famous author, this park helps you write your own adventure tales.  

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Mark Twain State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Mark Twain State Park

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(2)

Double Hearts Ranch

6 sites ¡ RVs, Tents8 acres ¡ Monroe City, MO
Welcome to Double Hearts Ranch, in Monroe City, Missouri! Are you looking for a more private camping experience or small event location a mile from Mark Twain Lake? The ranch's 8 acre is a unique place to do just that along with the ability to interact and learn about rare breeds of horses. Full-hooks for RV and tent campers. Close to horse trails and Spalding Beach, it is a quiet and charming spot to refresh and relax, or host an event.
from 
$45
 / night
Booked 1 time

Salty Cedar

4 sites ¡ RVs, Tents6 acres ¡ Center, MO
Salty Cedar is located next to Mark Twain Lake. There are many thing to do around and on M. T. Lake (boating, fishing, beach, water park, hick, marina and much more). We are just off highway J for easy access campground and only a couple minutes from all main Lake attractions. With out 4 camp sites on property it will be a quite and welcoming.
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$50
 / night
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(102)

PeaceTree Farms

17 sites ¡ Lodging, Tents153 acres ¡ Eolia, MO
PeaceTree Farms is a charming Event Venue, Organic Farm and Outdoor Resort. Hosting everything from weddings, fall and holiday festivals to off-grid camping. Our 153 acre farm has been in our family since the 1970's and has been generally preserved as a wildlife and conservation farm. Your hosts, Katie and Steve are excited to share PeaceTree Farms with fellow nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.
from 
$12
 / night

Badass Holler Camping

1 site ¡ RV, Tent140 acres ¡ Palmyra, MO
Welcome to our charming farm retreat at Donkey Holler! Immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance of our working farm, where you can reconnect with nature and enjoy the simple pleasures of rural life. Our hook-up site, conveniently located near the main barn, offers you the opportunity to experience firsthand the charm of our miniature livestock. As you explore the farm, you'll have the chance to interact with our friendly goats, donkeys, and cattle, who love to greet visitors and make new friends. Feel free to wander along the creek, take strolls through the fields, or simply relax outdoors and marvel at the beauty of the starry night sky. At Donkey Holler, we value your privacy and comfort, so whether you prefer solitude or engaging with the farm's activities, we're here to accommodate your needs. Please note that for safety reasons, one of the owners must be present for guided hikes or interactions with animals inside fenced areas. As a working farm, you'll be treated to the delightful sounds of farm life, including the gentle mooing of cattle, the cheerful clucking of chickens, and the occasional serenade of coyotes. These entertaining noises add to the authentic farm experience and create a unique ambiance that you won't find anywhere else. While we don't have a website yet, you can stay updated on farm news and events by following us on Facebook at Donkey Holler. We look forward to welcoming you to our farm and sharing the joys of country living with you during your stay.
from 
$35
 / night

Turtle Hill

1 site ¡ RV14 acres ¡ Mexico, MO
We are a small hobby Farm with some goats and sheep. Several chickens. Dogs and cats. We have 14 acres half wooded half pasture. We live right there on the property as well. Quiet area. Great place to stop along your journey. Pets are welcome, there is a play structure and sand box for the littles.
from 
$30
 / night
Booked 2 times

The Pocket

2 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents30 acres ¡ Columbia, MO
A literal 30 acre pocket of paradise tucked away just minutes North of Columbia, MO. Here you’ll find a private lake with fishing access, rolling hills with stunning sunrises and sunsets and complete privacy (other than the hosts that live on the property) perfect for a glamping getaway. Level spot with electric and water for an rv, or stay in our 28’ bunkhouse (sleeps 6) RV. Our rentable 24’ yurt will be available soon. Picnic tables, fire pit and grill available. Pet friendly, fiber Wi-Fi coming soon. Come play yard games, swing, fish, bring your kayak or paddle board, kids can play or swim on our sandy beach, or just walk our 1 mile perimeter trail, a perfect place to rest, rejuvenate and recharge. Farm fresh eggs are available as is any extra firewood. We look forward to meeting you and sharing our little pocket of paradise.
from 
$50
 / night
100%
(1)

Peno Creek Campground

10 sites ¡ RVs, Tents1 acre ¡ Frankford, MO
Peno Creek Campground offers an acre and a half of peaceful, serene countryside overlooking the Peno Creek. We offer primitive camping and RV camping. There are no hookups. Firewood available upon request. There are fire pits available with stairwell access to sit down next to the creek while you enjoy
from 
$18
 / night
Booked 1 time

The Grove at North River Ranch

7 sites ¡ Lodging2200 acres ¡ Shelbyville, MO
Settle into The Grove at North River Ranch, a lovely glampground on our 2200 acre working regenerative ranch. Look out on the pond, under the shade of oak, maple and honey locusts. Hike a trail through forested paths, around beautiful wide pastures. Look for protected birds on our Audubon Certified property, and observe deer, fox, beavers and other wildlife in their natural, balanced environment. Enjoy quiet, restful sleep in furnished platform tents with quality linens and handcrafted quilts under beautiful, unobstructed starry skies.
from 
$150
 / night
Booked 1 time

Shadow Wood RV and tiny house

1 site ¡ Tent3 acres ¡ Auxvasse, MO
The property is 2.5 acres the top 150 to 200 feet is flat and can set up circle tent sites on then it slows down just a little and there are four available RV sites three with electric and water and the other one could have a hose and extension cord run to it. There is a tiny house that has electric and hydrant just outside for water. It is in the process of being completed with a bed and bath and kitchen area also have a hide a bed couch, microwave and toaster oven when finished
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$25
 / night

The best camping near Mark Twain State Park guide

Overview

About

Named for Missouri’s iconic author, Mark Twain State Park has two focal points: the gorgeous waters of Mark Twain Lake and the Mark Twain Birthplace State Historic Site. One provides recreational activities, while the other tells the story of this notable author. Tour the small museum to see the cabin where Mark Twain was born, among other artifacts, before setting out for adventures on, in, or around the lake. Turn the page for more adventure amid the rugged woodlands and lakeside hills. Three campground loops and a set of cabins provide onsite accommodations.

Notable campgrounds

Notable Camping Spots

  • Best for water access: The Puma Campground is located closest to the lake.
  • Best for privacy: The Coyote Campground has a mix of large basic and electric sites, with vegetation providing separation between many sites.
  • Best for classic park camping: The Badger Campground has 25 back-in, electric sites, perfect for RVs or tents.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. The campgrounds are open year round, with reservations available March 1 through November 30, offering a longer season than most of the other state parks in Missouri.
  2. Water spigots and showerhouses are only open April 15 through October 31, with one frost-free spigot provided during the off-season.
  3. Family campsites are available in the Puma Campground, with two camping pads and shared yards and amenities.
  4. Reservations may be made up to 12 months in advance on the Missouri State Parks website or by phone.
  5. Basic campsites do not have hookups. Electric sites offer 30-amp, with a handful of 50-amp sites available in the Puma Campground.

When to go

Thanks to the generous lake access, Mark Twain State Park is busiest through the summer months. Summers are hot and humid in Missouri, making a swim in the lake a refreshing activity. Spring offers pleasant temperatures for lake activities, other than swimming. Fall is a scenic time, as the colors reach their peak in October. Winter is the slow season, with occasional freezing temperatures and precip. Ice fishing is not allowed on the park lakes. In November and December, the park may partially close for managed deer hunts.

Know before you go

  • The 18,000-acre Mark Twain Lake abounds with bluegill, crappie, largemouth bass, and more for fishing.
  • A smaller four-acre lake is good for small children or for those who prefer to fish from the shore.
  • A swim beach is available, with onsite changing facilities.
  • The park also offers six camper cabins, with electricity and heat and air. They do not have restrooms or water.
  • Five hiking trails take visitors through varied woodlands and along the lake.
  • Take a day trip to the town of Hannibal, which inspired many of Twain’s most famous works. A number of historic sites and tourist attractions celebrate the author.

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