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96% (922) • 1,387 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Swansea
Hidden Waters At Buttercup Ranch
1. Hidden Waters At Buttercup Ranch
91%
(16)
9.6mi from Swansea · 3 sites
Camp on our farm! Canoeing, fishing, and farm tour are available while you relax in the great outdoors. Lush greenery, beautiful lakes, and friendly animals will surround you. Secluded primitive campsites also have firepits (wood included) for cooking. Shared flushable porta -potty for your convenience.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Atkins' Acres Educational Farm
2. Atkins' Acres Educational Farm
100%
(12)
11mi from Swansea · 1 site
We are a 501 (c)(3) non-profit educational farm. We teach gardening techniques, 4-H programs, Jr Master Naturalist programs, and how to be good stewards of the environment. We are taking row crops out of service and restoring the land to it's previous native condition. Tours are available at no cost by request.
Note - the camping area is approximately 200 yards from where you will park. If we are available, we can support with moving your supplies. However, if we are not home at the time of your arrival, you will need to walk your supplies in.
Campfires
Toilets
Picnic table
Sugarloaf Creek
3. Sugarloaf Creek
98%
(23)
13mi from Swansea · 1 site
A wooded, country oasis located 20 minutes away from downtown St. Louis. Plenty of city adventures to be had or relax on the peaceful deck overlooking a small creek. Some nearby local hiking spots near the Mississippi River flood plains. Fire pit available for use. Water and 30 AMP electric hookup.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Horseshoe Lake State Park
4. Horseshoe Lake State Park
100%
(2)
State park 11mi from Swansea · 49 sites
Spend a night next to the second-largest natural lake in Illinois.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Carlyle Lake
5. Carlyle Lake
100%
(2)
Park 35mi from Swansea · 310 sites
This vast lake with an abundance of wind is prime real estate for sailing, fishing and birding.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Urban Surprise
6. Urban Surprise
99%
(35)
14mi from Swansea · 1 site
Located just minutes from downtown St. Louis, Urban Surprise is in a secure parking area full hookups 20, 30 and 50 amp, water, and sewer. Close to many popular spots including Busch Stadium 3 miles, Gateway Arch 2.8 miles, Forest Park and Zoo 7.2 miles, St Louis City SC 2 miles, Convention Center 2 miles and Worldwide Technology Raceway 5.3 miles.
Whether you're staying for a long visit or just a quick stop, there is lots to see and do nearby. The large gravel lot (22'x60') where you'll be staying is in a fenced area (6' Chain link) with cameras and good lighting. Gate opens to 15'.
Must be self-contained as there are no bathrooms on site. Potable water is available via spigot. Wifi is included. No fires.
Due to multiple irresponsible pet owners in the past, we insist that you supervise your pet.
The location is urban. It's not in a tranquil country setting. Lots of hustle and bustle, city sights and sounds. Located in the neighborhood of Hyde Park. Lots of interesting architecture and history.
We offer discounts for stays over 7 days. Just message us your proposed dates.
There is also an Airbnb located at this property and can be booked separately.
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/815996783041353041?guests=1&adults=1&s=67&unique_share_id=5012e5e0-3425-4ca5-ac41-51d5afd9f2e8
We offer discounts for weekly and monthly stays, just message us.
Pets
Full hookups
Happy Trails Farm Resort
7. Happy Trails Farm Resort
95%
(198)
16mi from Swansea · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Happy Trails farm is a beautiful refreshing place that you can relax, and connect with the family farm life.
We were established Oct. 27th, 2007, and it's our "Acres of Diamonds" (Earl Nightengale).
There are 20.11 acres of farm life to share with you.
We do many things to help keep the farm going, and moving towards being self supporting. Such as pony rides, birthday parties, weddings, camp outs, and so much more.
We sell fresh laid farm eggs for $5 cash a dozen. To purchase eggs, call or text Nancy (618)601-4645
Pony rides are $30 cash, and by appointment only. They are hand led, and approximately 20-30 minute. The child will be hand led around the farm. If you would like to schedule a ride please message Maryann @ (618)610-9282.
We also house and run Happy Trails Horse Rescue (501c3) non for profit, and accept donations.
Some of the things you will experience and see are: volunteers helping out;
horses, mules, donkeys, chickens, ducks, geese, turkey, goats, llama, and many others.
We are a small and important resource to the overall well being of the community.
We look forward to seeing you on the farm!
Check-in is between 2pm-9pm.
No late night check-ins.
Cancellations must be made by 2pm the day before your reservation.
Happy Trails Farm Resort is a great place to get lost and find a connection. We are a small homestead family farm with many farm animals.
Come pitch a tent under the farm stars.
Happy Trails :)
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
R & T Farms
8. R & T Farms
98%
(32)
22mi from Swansea · 1 site
Your stay will be on our small 5 acres farm where we raise Cows, Pigs, Chickens and Guineas. We also have dogs and cats. You can experience life on a farm with all the sounds and smells but not all the work! Absolutely breath taking sun sets. The one and only RV spot we have is very secluded and private. You will have electric and SEWER HOOK UP and can fill your water tank at our house for full service facilities. We have one tent site available as well. We are only 25 minutes from downtown St. Louis. Come and stay with us, you will not be disappointed.
Electrical hookup
Sewer hookup
Pets
Mud Creek RV/Camper Parking
9. Mud Creek RV/Camper Parking
100%
(16)
25mi from Swansea · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to our rural farm oasis, where two shaded RV/Camper spots await for you to park and enjoy yourself in nature and the fresh country air! Each spot features concrete pads and is shaded by mature trees, providing a comfortable setting for your stay. Please note that spots are available for parking only; camper/RV is not included. Just a short 5-minute drive away, is the Prairie State Power Plant if you're in the area for work. Sparta, IL is about 12 minutes away for any supplies you would need or Marissa, IL is about a 7 minute drive.
Enjoy convenient access to electric hookups, including 50 amp, 30 amp, and 110v options. Additionally, a sewer drop is located within 15 feet of each spot, along with a water hookup for your convenience.
Both spots are situated in close proximity to our farm and two other Airbnb homes. When booked, you have access to the lake and a small pond down the lane. Please stay to the right of the Y and head across the dam. **No access permitted after dark.** These spots are great for fishing and/or having a picnic enjoying a private wooded area.
Just a short 5-minute drive away, is the Prairie State Power Plant if you're in the area for work. Sparta, IL is about 12 minutes away for any supplies you would need or Marissa, IL is about a 7 minute drive.
Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and rural charm at our shaded RV/Camper spots, where the beauty of nature meets modern comfort.
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area
10. Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area
100%
(2)
State park 37mi from Swansea · 366 sites
Visit now because Eldon Hazlet could easily become the next hotspot of Illinois environmental adventure. With its open fields, breezy lakeside views, and expansive collection of wildlife, the largest park in Illinois is no less than a treasure. Partake in your favorite pastimes or try something new! Set sail on the lake, have a romantic picnic, take a dip in the pool: the options are endless! There’s nothing quite so relaxing as breathing in the fresh air at Eldon Hazlet.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park
11. Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park
100%
(4)
State park 38mi from Swansea · 73 sites
Enjoy a natural respite outside of St. Louis.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Mississippi River - Kaskaskia River
12. Mississippi River - Kaskaskia River
Park 25mi from Swansea · 15 sites
Discover the scenic confluence of the Mississippi and Kaskaskia Rivers.
Toilets
Campfires
Picnic table
Washington County State Recreational Area
13. Washington County State Recreational Area
100%
(1)
State park 39mi from Swansea · 39 sites
Echoed by mourning dove calls that reverberate through the dew-licked pines and dotting the county's sun-kissed hillsides, Washington County State Recreational Area is teeming with fauna. This near-fifteen-hundred-acre ecological oasis is nestled just four miles from Nashville in southern Illinois―a far cry from it’s adjacent concrete jungles, aside from the skyscraper-like pines. And, criss crossed by the area’s two small creeks, Washington County State Recreational Area is inundated with well-populated, stable populations of largemouth bass and other like-sized game fish. Even if you’re not a fan of dancing bobbers, you’ll find situational ecstasy while dining under one of the park’s lake-hugging picnic pavilions, bathed in sunset yellows―and, let's face it, everyone’s a fan of solar acrobatics paired with well-made egg salad.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Grove On Top Possum Hill
14. Grove On Top Possum Hill
96%
(397)
26mi from Swansea · 4 sites
The Legend of Possum Hill is an old one. Most likely named thus even before the settlers arived in St. Louis. Before the great expansion west and before the Gateway Arch graced the sky. Wild was the west and animals roamed at will never having seen a man. The acient Indian tribe of Cahokia once had its own travelers who left their mounded cities of pyramids to explore and hunt for new adventure. It was on one of these travels a great storm arose from the spring sky bringing ice down from the heavens. The Indian party was hard pressed to find shelter from such turbulent winds, rain and it was even claimed they witnessed some snow blended in as well well! This particular spring the waters had risen quite high . With this latest storm the creeks and rivers were rushing over their banks. The Indians knew they had to find high ground. They knew they would only be safe in a shelter high enough the raging waters could not breach. Just when they were giving up hope for a suitable place they passed through a low lands grove treading through ankle deep waters when the land started to rise. And rise it did! Up they went up a steep climb and as they crested they found a large grove of hickories, Sycamore and Oak trees. The Indians prized such trees for their strong hard wood and towering hight. They found safety within them and upon chance several hollows in the ancient trees and quickly sheltered themselves in pairs. They weathered until the suns golden rays stretched accross the small pond. In one hollow a young Indian stirred and and he and his companion left their shelter. Reaching back into the tree they grabbed their packs and found hidden behind them, a family of possums who also hIad hid from the storm. Upon return to Cahokia the young Indian told of their travels and remembering the sheltering family of marsupials, he named the place in their honnor because they shared their shelter. And that is the Legend of Possum Hill.Learn more about this land:4 acres with scattered hickory and oak trees with a small fruit orchard in front of an acre size pond. Plenty of space to have a private camp site and enjoy the sounds of nature. Have a sit by the pond or relax in the shade. The evening could be spent grilling or sitting around the fire ring. Perfect for travelers just wishing for a place to stay while an event is in town or just a place to rest their head on the way through. 16 mies from SIUE and Edwardsvile 45 minutes from most of St. Louis. Far enough out in the country but close enough to the city to not miss out on the fun.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Emerald Acres Farm
15. Emerald Acres Farm
99%
(73)
26mi from Swansea · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Emerald Acres, our hobby farm with 2 llamas, Nigerian dwarf
goats, 1 pot bellied pig, and a few chickens, cats, and Stella, the livestock guardian dog! Our beautiful peaceful property is just 20 minutes from SIUE.
It is a wonderful countryside property with forest and pastureland.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
Matt's Place at Meramec n Labarque
16. Matt's Place at Meramec n Labarque
100%
(76)
37mi from Swansea · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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 old iron truss bridge here is likely built in 1910 and it has a survey marker from 1932.
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.
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.
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
St Louis Co private wildwood farm.
17. St Louis Co private wildwood farm.
100%
(27)
38mi from Swansea · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
8 mostly cleared acre property with great access. Gravel drive throughout. 1/2 acre pond with catfish. Private with great views. 1850 acres of state park on the property. Full water and electric hook up for RVs, campers, and vans. Gravel roads throughout. Property is 5 min from 3 conservation areas for hiking. 10 min to 6 Flags. 30 min to all the amenities of downtown St. Louis.
Retreat to the quaint town of wildwood, Missouri, and indulge yourself at this peaceful haven offers the perfect blend of comfort and relaxation. During the day, explore attractions like Six Flags St. Louis, Meramec Caverns, and the breathtaking beauty of Castlewood State Park. Whether you're looking for thrills or tranquility, this Wildwood oasis has it all!
Nice, Right off the old old route 66. Property has the old motel on it. Backs to Rockwood reservation state conservation with 1850 wooded acres to hike and explore. Watch deer and other wildlife from anywhere on the property. Close to everything but far enough to make it private. Close to six flags, hidden valley ski resort, babler state park, greensfielder state park, lone elk state park, Castlewood state park, Katy trail and purina event center. Fish in the private 1/2 acre pond. Horses welcome. Plenty of room for trailer.
-- THE PROPERTY --
Free WiFi throughout
-- THE LOCATION --
OUTDOOR EXPLORATION: Shaw Nature Reserve (5 miles), Rockwoods Reservation (0 miles), Robertsville State Park (11 miles), Babler State Park (12 miles), Castlewood State Park (17 miles), Lone Elk State Park (20 miles), Meramec Caverns (31 miles)
FUN FOR EVERYONE: Purina Farms (5 miles), Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park (7 miles), Six Flags St. Louis (8 miles), Hidden Valley Ski Resort (8 miles), The Magic House, St. Louis Children’s Museum (20miles), Missouri Botanical Garden (30miles)
EVENT & WEDDING VENUES: Silver Oaks Chateau (2 miles), Westwind Hills (3 miles), Haue Valley (3 miles)
AIRPORTS: St. Louis Lambert International Airport (35 miles), St. Louis Regional Airport (45miles)
St Albans (5 miles). REST EASY WITH US --
-- POLICIES --
- No events, parties, or large gatherings
- Must be at least 25 years old to book
- Photo ID may be required upon check-in
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
La Belle Vie - “The Beautiful Life”
18. La Belle Vie - “The Beautiful Life”
100%
(12)
42mi from Swansea · 8 sites
Live the life you don’t need a vacation from! Formerly known as the exclusive Timber Creek Resort, La Belle Vie is now open to the public for guests to enjoy.
Come stay a night, a week, or a while at La Belle Vie and enjoy all the amenities of resort-style living on 327 acres with a 40-acre private lake!
Rates: For Full Hookup
Nightly – $50
Weekly – $250
Monthly – $800
Full-hookup sites: choose from 20/30/50 amps + includes access to all on-site amenities!
Rates: For Electric Only
Nightly- $35
Weekly- $175
RV Sites Include:
Electric
Water
Sewer
Trash
Guests at La Belle Vie have access to 327 acres of resort-style amenities, including:
• 40-acre private lake
• Fishing access, boat dock and paddleboats
• Pool
• Sauna
• Golf course
• 18-hole mini golf
• Basketball court
• Sand volleyball
• Shuffleboard
• Playground
• Tennis courts
• Hiking trails and more
If your plan is to stay monthly, we will require a $200 refundable deposit.
All campers must be kept in clean, neat, and working order (no junkers, please). All pets must be kept inside or on a leash with a maximum length of 6 feet and under the control of their owner. If you have any Questions please call our office 573-415-3888
Pets
Full hookups
The Farm Girl and Friends
19. The Farm Girl and Friends
98%
(87)
44mi from Swansea · 1 site · Tent, RV
This land is a working animal farm. There are many farm animals to see here. You can pet goats, donkeys, rabbits, and many more.
Located off of the Litchfield exit on interstate 55 just 52 miles from STL... Bring your Camper or pitch a tent on site of a working animal farm. If you like panoramic views of gorgeous sunsets, petting farm animals, relaxing in a peaceful setting this place is for you. Just minutes from shopping and restaurants in Litchfield. It’s about a 5 minute drive to Gillespie lake where the fishing is excellent also they have a really nice beach roped off for swimming and it’s free of charge.
Experience taking a nice hot shower in an outdoor shower. Also there is a sink with running water available and a private porta-potty. There is one 50 amp electric outlet for a camper Available for an additional $10 a night fee. Which can be reduced to 30 amps if needed. Please let us know at the time of booking to reserve the electrical outlet otherwise we cannot guarantee availability.
This is a delightful place to be if your searching for that farm experience! Come visit for a night or stay a few days I’ve been told by many of my visitors that they want to live here! Warning if you are not fond of animals or if you are allergic to cats or dogs this probably isn’t a good choice for you. Update due to social distancing and Covid-19 we have widened our campsites to create more privacy. We are honored to be chosen for Illinois and featured in the October 1 edition of Outside magazine. Like us on Facebook on The Farm Girl and Friends Petting Zoo page
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Such and Such Farm Swimming Hole
20. Such and Such Farm Swimming Hole
99%
(167)
44mi from Swansea · 4 sites
Camp at our beautiful private swimming hole at the edge of Joachim Creek. Our campsite includes a community picnic table, hammocks along the tree line and a huge communal fire pit. We have four individual camp sites in total, each with their own fire ring. Bring your fishing poles, water shoes and camp chairs!
We are a working farm that grows produce, raises dairy goats, pasture raised pigs, peacocks, chickens and more! And while you may hear a rooster crow in the morning, you'll be tucked away from the hustle and bustle of farm life.
NEW THIS YEAR: We have a farm store that is stocked with seasonal produce, meat (frozen), eggs and other value added products as well as camping incidentals in case you forgot anything while you were packing! Farm store is not located at the swimming hole, but is located at the main farm.
Campfires
Toilets
Potable water
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
J
James A
1 week ago
25 ft Class C
With kids
This was our 2nd time to stay here. Safe and secure location near downtown. Site is level with full hooks and additional room to park our toad vehicle. Jeff is very communicative and responds to any questions very quickly. Highly recommend Urban Surprise if you are visiting St Louis.
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E
Emily
2 weeks ago
Tent
We only spent a short time but they were so available to contact and the site was so perfect. I’d definitely stay again if I was ever within a few hours! It really was wonderful.
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Renee
2 weeks ago
16 ft car
I was headed home from travel in the upper north east back to Texas when I had the opportunity to stay Ryan’s land for one night. I will definitely return if traveling through there again! Although technically close to his home, the site is located behind a silo/garden area and feels very private. Ryan provided firewood and ice water free of charge. I enjoyed my last campfire of an extended trip overlooking his farmland.
Free range chickens and cows just over the fence were fun neighbors for the night. In the morning, Ryan also gave me a half dozen eggs free of charge, which I used for breakfast the next couple mornings. Yum!
I was thankful there were ZERO biting insects. Tiny yellow flies were everywhere but did not bite. So all good 😂
Yep. Definitely will stay again if in the area and need a stopover spot.
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SEAN
2 weeks ago
21 ft campervan
With kids
Super easy access from interstate, secure, and hookups were all done well. Communicated well and I had no issues. I did just stay the one night, but I’d stop here again if ever in town.
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Maureen
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
We had a crew of 8 and fit very nice with plenty of room. Matt was very informative and friendly. We couldn't ask for a better host.
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F
Fabiola
2 weeks ago
22 ft travel trailer
We had a really nice time. The pool is big, the water was warm, and the 4th of July fireworks were beautiful. The lake was clean, and we had fun riding our scooters around.
There were plenty of things to do, the RV water pressure was good, and the price was great for a full hook-up site. We would come back.
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J
Jeremy
2 weeks ago
21 ft travel trailer
With pets
This has got to be one of my favorite places to stay so far. The lots are nicely spaced apart and the amenities are amazing! We enjoyed paddle boating the huge lake, put-put golf and shuffleboard! The pool looked. Everything was well kept and everyone was so inviting. I’ll definitely return.
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K.A.
3 weeks ago
Tent
Beautiful moonlight view for site 3; priceless! I thoroughly enjoyed this visit.
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M
Megan
3 weeks ago
K
Kelsey
June 2026
Tent
With pets
The site was secluded and private behind the trees.
Karmen and Ron were super helpful and communicative. If you rent site 4, I would definitely recommend arriving before 8pm to have them show you the site as we got a little confused locating it ourselves. Ron arrived home just in time to help us!
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M
Matt
June 2026
20 ft campervan
With kids
Very serene location. Drive to the spot was beautiful. Loved the stay as far as vibes go. Free to use kayaks were a great addition. The only downside is there are no public bathrooms/showers, which was only an issue as we were in a converted sprinter van with no bathroom.
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N
Nick
June 2026
Tent
The host Mary was great! Very friendly and accommodating even when I had to relocate my campsite when my hammock wouldn’t reach between trees. Great views and even had multiple fire pits!
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Jessica
June 2026
Tent
Group trip
Great swimming hole and camping spot. Plenty of shade from the trees. There are even shady spots in the swimming hole. Sites are further away from each other than we thought they would be - you have more space than you would at most state parks. Also, parking is very close to the campsites so the walk is extremely short. We never found the water spigot, but we didn't look for it either.
Loved being able to walk to the farm and walk around, watch the farm animals, and make purchases at their stereotypical farm store.
We will be back again this summer.
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s
stephanie
June 2026
26 ft travel trailer
A hidden gem in an area with lots of local parks & restaurants within 20-40 mins in every direction. The resort is a terrific place for the whole family to enjoy: basketball court, mini golf, a lake & pool!
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K
Kelly
June 2026
Tent
Very nice place to pitch a tent! Mandy was very helpful and the animals were charming.
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Trey
June 2026
32 ft pop-up camper
Cheri was a thoughtful and responsive host. I loved the Overlook and gentle shaded Hill where the property is located. Nicely shaded by trees right next to a small barn with goats and chickens. Very peaceful, relaxing spot where I would stay again.
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B
Bobby
June 2026
Tent
its a good place to stay for the night, a sign there indicates don't feed the animal with outside food.
Thank you...
See mores
stephanie
June 2026
26 ft travel trailer
Staff were gracious and accommodating. We requested 2 changes in the reservations that were made very kindly. Pet friendly, clean, spacious area with terrific amenities for families: mini golf, playground, etc. I'd definitely recommend a stay!
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Ashley
June 2026
Tent
Very peaceful location!!! Was a great spot for the one night I needed.
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K
Katelyn
June 2026
Tent
With kids
What a fun and relaxing weekend at Matt's! We all felt welcome and safe to explore and play. The kids are already asking when we can go back and stay longer.
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