The best camping near Ashland with hiking

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In Ashland, hikers have over 300 tent camping options that put you close to wooded trails, open fields, and creekside paths. Sites like Selby Farm Horse Retirement (422 reviews), Retreat to the Country (129 reviews), and Savanna Springs (65 reviews) are favorites for their access to winding footpaths and quiet woods. Expect practical comforts—campfires allowed, toilets, and showers make nights straightforward. You’ll often spot deer at dusk, and fishing or horseback-riding are just a short walk from your tent. Most camps run around $37 a night, with some starting at $20 if you’re flexible. If you want a site that puts the best hiking right outside your flap, this corner of Missouri delivers.

96% (788) 80 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Ashland

Retreat to the Country

1. Retreat to the Country

99%
(169)
9.9mi from Ashland · 4 sites · Lodging
This land has been asking to be shared. First it was swings and little things for the grandchildren and their friends. Then the Cabin by the pond began to welcome visitors. Soon the steep slope anchored a Yurt with a wrap-around deck that puts you up in the trees. Our gathering spot by the creek became a camp site. Recently the grandkids' Bunk House found its way in. Our Retreat is 10 acres, narrow, but 1/4 mile deep, stretching down a steep wooded slope to a creek - and up the other side to the top of a bluff.  It is only ten miles to Jefferson City but has a quiet and distant feel.  
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$20
 / night
Selby Farm Horse Retirement

2. Selby Farm Horse Retirement

99%
(697)
15mi from Ashland · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
Summary: Easy access from I-70 Great views. Usually very quiet except for wildlife sounds Portapottie at both camping areas Great star viewing. Excellent conditions for pets Hosts live nearby and are good communicators via text or phone. Hosts can direct you to several local attractions and shopping options. Hosts are happy to take questions before, during, or after your stay. Narrative about Selby Farm: Selbys have lived on this 75 acre farm since 1990. Doug and Brenda are retired from teaching at nearby public schools. Our Farm is now dedicated to boarding retired horses for their owners. Feel free to review the Selby Farm Horse Retirement webpage if you are a horse fan. We encourage you to visit our business website where you will see more farm pictures, videos, and where you will learn more about us. We practice rotational grazing for the health of the horses and the health of our pastures. The horses live in a herd as they would in the wild. Basically, they are hanging out with their friends! They also get regular care and feed and so are VERY happy. You will see and probably interact with the horses if you wish. They are guaranteed to come closer if you have treats like carrots and apples slices. Our quiet county road used to be the main road along the river. A hundred years ago it was called "Shanty Road". The shacks that were along it housed workers that harvested food from farms in the river bottom. The only evidence of those shacks now is perrenial flowers growing in unusual places. The area is inhabited by professionals working in nearby towns and cities. In fact there are only five homes along our 1.5 mile section of Copps Chapel Road. The native Americans who used this area did so because of the great diversity of wildlife and availability of water. Also the view is amazing in all directions. Was using this ridge top encampment for security, or just because the view is so satisfying? The Missouri River is on the far side of the bottoms now, but has been very close historically. There is also a large spring flowing from a cave nearby. Witness the flint chips when you walk through our barn lot. You are likely to see a broken stone tool that was once worked on by a native American. These river hills are composed of soils blown in from the end of the last ice age. Being near the river, erosion has cut down the surrounding area making the scenic topography associated with Missouri River valleys and river hills.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$24
 / night
Wildflower Camp, Hike + Swim

3. Wildflower Camp, Hike + Swim

99%
(69)
38mi from Ashland · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
This beautiful 60 acre property has plenty of space to explore. Wander the trails, splash in the creek, take a dip in the pond or paddle around in our canoe. If you're feeling adventurous, hike through the creek to a beautiful waterfall. You'll need sturdy shoes! Please note: There is no bathroom on site, so don't forget your camping potty!
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
$50
 / night
Mark Twain National Forest

4. Mark Twain National Forest

88%
(21)
452 sites · Bunker, Missouri
Missouri’s only national forest has 1.5 million acres of wilderness to explore.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Finger Lakes State Park

5. Finger Lakes State Park

100%
(9)
35 sites · Hallsville, Missouri
Select from a menu of activities at this scenic mid-Missouri park, popular for ATVing.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Ozark Hills Honey Farm

6. Ozark Hills Honey Farm

100%
(18)
39mi from Ashland · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
We are on a country gravel road, 20 Minutes from Osage Beach, 5 Minutes from North Shore Drive (hwy W). It is quiet on our 40 acre place, small self contained RV or tents, Sites are fairly level and easily accessed by cars, If you would like to peek in a hive? We'll suit you up! Landowners are on site along with over friendly family dogs Rudy, Pebbles and three friendly cats, Warrior, Tiger and Spot. There are 8 or more Beehives on our place, 1 within 30 yards of campsite 1 and 2
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$22
 / night
Water Mountain

7. Water Mountain

94%
(57)
39mi from Ashland · 30 sites · Tents, RVs
Ive own this land since 2005 and have used it for camping, parties, and venue.Learn more about this land:This is a 180 acres of camping along the Gasconade River. Lots of great spots for camping, hiking, and UTV/ATV riding. 50% forest, 10% trails, 20% along river, 10% bluffs, and 10% flat with grass field.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$27
 / night
LOTO Off Road Park

8. LOTO Off Road Park

100%
(1)
41mi from Ashland · 99 sites · Tents, RVs
LOTO (Lake of The Ozarks) Off Road is an awesome place to experience outdoor adventures. Varied terrain of bottom valleys, tree covered hills, hilltop pastures, year round springs and creeks is the perfect setting. ATV and UTV enthusiasts are discovering the miles of new trails. Pick your camping spot anywhere on the property.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
Pierpont Garage

9. Pierpont Garage

100%
(8)
6.3mi from Ashland · 1 site · Tent, RV
Property is on 5 acres that used to be part of the neighboring farm. It is located south of Columbia, just a mile from the old Pierpont General Store and less than 2 miles from Rockbridge Memorial State Park. The property has a large garage which now houses an office and storage, and has a convenient circle drive for entry/exit. There is a large concrete pad for parking. The surrounding land is about half cleared yard space lined by large trees, and the other half has been left as natural meadow space. It is quiet, private, and serene!
Pets
from 
$30
 / night
Graham Cave State Park

10. Graham Cave State Park

100%
(3)
52 sites · Danville, Missouri
Prehistoric history comes to life at this state park in mid-Missouri.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Arrow Rock State Historic Site

11. Arrow Rock State Historic Site

100%
(3)
47 sites · Arrow Rock, Missouri
Explore a unique park that encompasses part of an 18th-century river town.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Maya Creek

12. Maya Creek

77%
(11)
25mi from Ashland · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
310 Acre Oak woodland forest sanctuary. This property is run as a conservancy and land trust with a board of directors. Trish & Cameron are land stewards and caretakers as well as managing the camping. We are Leftie Hippie Punk Burners. We are artists, postal carriers and permaculture farmers and natural builders. We believe in BLM, and are LGBTQIA ourselves as well as allies and support all people and critters and nature and are intolerant of hate and mysogeny. We love providing a safe beautiful place in the woods for anyone who needs it. The woods are beautiful, there's a few spots cleared for camping and there are trails to hike, a composting toilet, and not too far from the highway, but far enough you can't hear it. We have a fire pit, hammock and picnick tables for you to use if you like. We love meeting people and we also respect mutual privacy. We live off grid but have some power enough to charge your phone should you need it. We have WiFi but please bring your own drinking water. We have a small Berkey for drinking water here but its best you bring your own. We are in process of installing some outdoor showers and more tiny houses. We are a place in progress and we live here (so there may be projects in progress) and so does the wildlife and that includes ticks. We have a dog, cat, chickens, and abundant wildlife and please consider this PRIMITIVE CAMPING. We look forward to meeting you and thanks for visiting!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$22
 / night
Von Holten Ranch Century Ranch

13. Von Holten Ranch Century Ranch

100%
(98)
49mi from Ashland · 40 sites
Von Holten Ranch was originally in 1906 by David Von Holten's great grandfather.  David is the 4th generation to own the family farm.  David and Brandy married in 2005.  Brandy Von Holten is an avid horsewoman.  They quit their jobs, bought the family farm, and opened an equine trail riding facility and fully functioning camping facility.Learn more about this land:Winery nearby, horses and mules visible, heated and air conditioned guest shower house, creek that runs year round, mostly wooded, private firepits.Von Holten Ranch is on a century farm, meaning that the land has been in the same family for over 100 years. It is also home to a rustic wedding barn and an equine trail riding facility. We are considered the gateway to the Ozarks. The deer are plentiful and easily viewable, especially in the open fields.
Cross Creek RV Park & Campground- Lake of the Ozarks Missouri

14. Cross Creek RV Park & Campground- Lake of the Ozarks Missouri

42mi from Ashland · 90 sites
Cross Creek RV Park and Campground stands out as a truly unique destination for nature enthusiasts at the Lake of the Ozarks. Spanning 70 acres, our campground is enveloped by majestic Dogwood and Oak trees, offering stunning views of our serene 10-acre private lake. Located just one mile off the main highway along a peaceful country road, you can enjoy a tranquil escape free from traffic noise. Plus, we are conveniently situated only three miles from the historic Bagnell Dam, making it easy to explore local attractions. If you're looking to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Cross Creek is the perfect retreat. Our campground provides everything you need to reconnect with nature, from scenic walking trails to cozy gathering spots. Come relax on our porch and discover why our guests often find it hard to leave this idyllic setting. Experience the personal service that earned us the title of Best of Missouri in both 2020 and 2021, and make unforgettable memories in this beautiful natural haven.
Red Maples Homes & RV Community

15. Red Maples Homes & RV Community

16mi from Ashland · 11 sites
Red Maples Community stands out as a unique haven for those seeking a blend of spacious manufactured and mobile homes alongside RV sites, all equipped with full utility hookups. Nestled in a serene country environment, residents enjoy the perfect balance of tranquility and accessibility to city conveniences. Our community caters to a diverse range of individuals, from young families to singles and seniors. With amenities such as a playground, picnic area, and reliable snow removal services, we ensure a comfortable and enjoyable living experience for everyone. Plus, we welcome pets, making it a great choice for animal lovers! Conveniently situated in Fulton, MO, Red Maples offers easy access to major highways, local colleges, and beautiful parks. Residents can explore nearby attractions, including natural features and outdoor activities, all within a short drive. Columbia and Jefferson City are both just 20 minutes away, providing a wealth of dining, shopping, and recreational options. Experience the charm of Red Maples Community, where comfort meets convenience in a picturesque setting.
Cottonwoods RV Park

16. Cottonwoods RV Park

16mi from Ashland · 11 sites
Cottonwoods RV Park stands out as a unique family and pet-friendly destination, offering a welcoming atmosphere for travelers seeking adventure and relaxation in the heart of Missouri. Conveniently located off US Highway 63 in Columbia, this charming RV park is just 4 miles north of I-70, making it easily accessible for those exploring the region. Guests will find themselves mere minutes away from the University of Missouri and a variety of local attractions, including the renowned Warm Springs Ranch, home to the Budweiser Clydesdales Breeding Ranch. The park's prime location allows visitors to enjoy nearby natural features, swimming holes, and a plethora of outdoor activities, ensuring a memorable stay. With spacious sites and a commitment to privacy, Cottonwoods RV Park provides a perfect retreat for families and their furry companions. Whether you're looking to unwind or embark on exciting adventures, this campground offers the ideal base for your Missouri getaway.

In Ashland, hikers have over 300 tent camping options that put you close to wooded trails, open fields, and creekside paths. Sites like Selby Farm Horse Retirement (422 reviews), Retreat to the Country (129 reviews), and Savanna Springs (65 reviews) are favorites for their access to winding footpaths and quiet woods. Expect practical comforts—campfires allowed, toilets, and showers make nights straightforward. You’ll often spot deer at dusk, and fishing or horseback-riding are just a short walk from your tent. Most camps run around $37 a night, with some starting at $20 if you’re flexible. If you want a site that puts the best hiking right outside your flap, this corner of Missouri delivers.

96% (788) 80 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Ashland

Retreat to the Country

1. Retreat to the Country

99%
(169)
9.9mi from Ashland · 4 sites · Lodging
This land has been asking to be shared. First it was swings and little things for the grandchildren and their friends. Then the Cabin by the pond began to welcome visitors. Soon the steep slope anchored a Yurt with a wrap-around deck that puts you up in the trees. Our gathering spot by the creek became a camp site. Recently the grandkids' Bunk House found its way in. Our Retreat is 10 acres, narrow, but 1/4 mile deep, stretching down a steep wooded slope to a creek - and up the other side to the top of a bluff.  It is only ten miles to Jefferson City but has a quiet and distant feel.  
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$20
 / night
Selby Farm Horse Retirement

2. Selby Farm Horse Retirement

99%
(697)
15mi from Ashland · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
Summary: Easy access from I-70 Great views. Usually very quiet except for wildlife sounds Portapottie at both camping areas Great star viewing. Excellent conditions for pets Hosts live nearby and are good communicators via text or phone. Hosts can direct you to several local attractions and shopping options. Hosts are happy to take questions before, during, or after your stay. Narrative about Selby Farm: Selbys have lived on this 75 acre farm since 1990. Doug and Brenda are retired from teaching at nearby public schools. Our Farm is now dedicated to boarding retired horses for their owners. Feel free to review the Selby Farm Horse Retirement webpage if you are a horse fan. We encourage you to visit our business website where you will see more farm pictures, videos, and where you will learn more about us. We practice rotational grazing for the health of the horses and the health of our pastures. The horses live in a herd as they would in the wild. Basically, they are hanging out with their friends! They also get regular care and feed and so are VERY happy. You will see and probably interact with the horses if you wish. They are guaranteed to come closer if you have treats like carrots and apples slices. Our quiet county road used to be the main road along the river. A hundred years ago it was called "Shanty Road". The shacks that were along it housed workers that harvested food from farms in the river bottom. The only evidence of those shacks now is perrenial flowers growing in unusual places. The area is inhabited by professionals working in nearby towns and cities. In fact there are only five homes along our 1.5 mile section of Copps Chapel Road. The native Americans who used this area did so because of the great diversity of wildlife and availability of water. Also the view is amazing in all directions. Was using this ridge top encampment for security, or just because the view is so satisfying? The Missouri River is on the far side of the bottoms now, but has been very close historically. There is also a large spring flowing from a cave nearby. Witness the flint chips when you walk through our barn lot. You are likely to see a broken stone tool that was once worked on by a native American. These river hills are composed of soils blown in from the end of the last ice age. Being near the river, erosion has cut down the surrounding area making the scenic topography associated with Missouri River valleys and river hills.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$24
 / night
Wildflower Camp, Hike + Swim

3. Wildflower Camp, Hike + Swim

99%
(69)
38mi from Ashland · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
This beautiful 60 acre property has plenty of space to explore. Wander the trails, splash in the creek, take a dip in the pond or paddle around in our canoe. If you're feeling adventurous, hike through the creek to a beautiful waterfall. You'll need sturdy shoes! Please note: There is no bathroom on site, so don't forget your camping potty!
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
$50
 / night
Mark Twain National Forest

4. Mark Twain National Forest

88%
(21)
452 sites · Bunker, Missouri
Missouri’s only national forest has 1.5 million acres of wilderness to explore.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Finger Lakes State Park

5. Finger Lakes State Park

100%
(9)
35 sites · Hallsville, Missouri
Select from a menu of activities at this scenic mid-Missouri park, popular for ATVing.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Ozark Hills Honey Farm

6. Ozark Hills Honey Farm

100%
(18)
39mi from Ashland · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
We are on a country gravel road, 20 Minutes from Osage Beach, 5 Minutes from North Shore Drive (hwy W). It is quiet on our 40 acre place, small self contained RV or tents, Sites are fairly level and easily accessed by cars, If you would like to peek in a hive? We'll suit you up! Landowners are on site along with over friendly family dogs Rudy, Pebbles and three friendly cats, Warrior, Tiger and Spot. There are 8 or more Beehives on our place, 1 within 30 yards of campsite 1 and 2
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$22
 / night
Water Mountain

7. Water Mountain

94%
(57)
39mi from Ashland · 30 sites · Tents, RVs
Ive own this land since 2005 and have used it for camping, parties, and venue.Learn more about this land:This is a 180 acres of camping along the Gasconade River. Lots of great spots for camping, hiking, and UTV/ATV riding. 50% forest, 10% trails, 20% along river, 10% bluffs, and 10% flat with grass field.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$27
 / night
LOTO Off Road Park

8. LOTO Off Road Park

100%
(1)
41mi from Ashland · 99 sites · Tents, RVs
LOTO (Lake of The Ozarks) Off Road is an awesome place to experience outdoor adventures. Varied terrain of bottom valleys, tree covered hills, hilltop pastures, year round springs and creeks is the perfect setting. ATV and UTV enthusiasts are discovering the miles of new trails. Pick your camping spot anywhere on the property.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
Pierpont Garage

9. Pierpont Garage

100%
(8)
6.3mi from Ashland · 1 site · Tent, RV
Property is on 5 acres that used to be part of the neighboring farm. It is located south of Columbia, just a mile from the old Pierpont General Store and less than 2 miles from Rockbridge Memorial State Park. The property has a large garage which now houses an office and storage, and has a convenient circle drive for entry/exit. There is a large concrete pad for parking. The surrounding land is about half cleared yard space lined by large trees, and the other half has been left as natural meadow space. It is quiet, private, and serene!
Pets
from 
$30
 / night
Graham Cave State Park

10. Graham Cave State Park

100%
(3)
52 sites · Danville, Missouri
Prehistoric history comes to life at this state park in mid-Missouri.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Arrow Rock State Historic Site

11. Arrow Rock State Historic Site

100%
(3)
47 sites · Arrow Rock, Missouri
Explore a unique park that encompasses part of an 18th-century river town.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Maya Creek

12. Maya Creek

77%
(11)
25mi from Ashland · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
310 Acre Oak woodland forest sanctuary. This property is run as a conservancy and land trust with a board of directors. Trish & Cameron are land stewards and caretakers as well as managing the camping. We are Leftie Hippie Punk Burners. We are artists, postal carriers and permaculture farmers and natural builders. We believe in BLM, and are LGBTQIA ourselves as well as allies and support all people and critters and nature and are intolerant of hate and mysogeny. We love providing a safe beautiful place in the woods for anyone who needs it. The woods are beautiful, there's a few spots cleared for camping and there are trails to hike, a composting toilet, and not too far from the highway, but far enough you can't hear it. We have a fire pit, hammock and picnick tables for you to use if you like. We love meeting people and we also respect mutual privacy. We live off grid but have some power enough to charge your phone should you need it. We have WiFi but please bring your own drinking water. We have a small Berkey for drinking water here but its best you bring your own. We are in process of installing some outdoor showers and more tiny houses. We are a place in progress and we live here (so there may be projects in progress) and so does the wildlife and that includes ticks. We have a dog, cat, chickens, and abundant wildlife and please consider this PRIMITIVE CAMPING. We look forward to meeting you and thanks for visiting!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$22
 / night
Von Holten Ranch Century Ranch

13. Von Holten Ranch Century Ranch

100%
(98)
49mi from Ashland · 40 sites
Von Holten Ranch was originally in 1906 by David Von Holten's great grandfather.  David is the 4th generation to own the family farm.  David and Brandy married in 2005.  Brandy Von Holten is an avid horsewoman.  They quit their jobs, bought the family farm, and opened an equine trail riding facility and fully functioning camping facility.Learn more about this land:Winery nearby, horses and mules visible, heated and air conditioned guest shower house, creek that runs year round, mostly wooded, private firepits.Von Holten Ranch is on a century farm, meaning that the land has been in the same family for over 100 years. It is also home to a rustic wedding barn and an equine trail riding facility. We are considered the gateway to the Ozarks. The deer are plentiful and easily viewable, especially in the open fields.
Cross Creek RV Park & Campground- Lake of the Ozarks Missouri

14. Cross Creek RV Park & Campground- Lake of the Ozarks Missouri

42mi from Ashland · 90 sites
Cross Creek RV Park and Campground stands out as a truly unique destination for nature enthusiasts at the Lake of the Ozarks. Spanning 70 acres, our campground is enveloped by majestic Dogwood and Oak trees, offering stunning views of our serene 10-acre private lake. Located just one mile off the main highway along a peaceful country road, you can enjoy a tranquil escape free from traffic noise. Plus, we are conveniently situated only three miles from the historic Bagnell Dam, making it easy to explore local attractions. If you're looking to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Cross Creek is the perfect retreat. Our campground provides everything you need to reconnect with nature, from scenic walking trails to cozy gathering spots. Come relax on our porch and discover why our guests often find it hard to leave this idyllic setting. Experience the personal service that earned us the title of Best of Missouri in both 2020 and 2021, and make unforgettable memories in this beautiful natural haven.
Red Maples Homes & RV Community

15. Red Maples Homes & RV Community

16mi from Ashland · 11 sites
Red Maples Community stands out as a unique haven for those seeking a blend of spacious manufactured and mobile homes alongside RV sites, all equipped with full utility hookups. Nestled in a serene country environment, residents enjoy the perfect balance of tranquility and accessibility to city conveniences. Our community caters to a diverse range of individuals, from young families to singles and seniors. With amenities such as a playground, picnic area, and reliable snow removal services, we ensure a comfortable and enjoyable living experience for everyone. Plus, we welcome pets, making it a great choice for animal lovers! Conveniently situated in Fulton, MO, Red Maples offers easy access to major highways, local colleges, and beautiful parks. Residents can explore nearby attractions, including natural features and outdoor activities, all within a short drive. Columbia and Jefferson City are both just 20 minutes away, providing a wealth of dining, shopping, and recreational options. Experience the charm of Red Maples Community, where comfort meets convenience in a picturesque setting.
Cottonwoods RV Park

16. Cottonwoods RV Park

16mi from Ashland · 11 sites
Cottonwoods RV Park stands out as a unique family and pet-friendly destination, offering a welcoming atmosphere for travelers seeking adventure and relaxation in the heart of Missouri. Conveniently located off US Highway 63 in Columbia, this charming RV park is just 4 miles north of I-70, making it easily accessible for those exploring the region. Guests will find themselves mere minutes away from the University of Missouri and a variety of local attractions, including the renowned Warm Springs Ranch, home to the Budweiser Clydesdales Breeding Ranch. The park's prime location allows visitors to enjoy nearby natural features, swimming holes, and a plethora of outdoor activities, ensuring a memorable stay. With spacious sites and a commitment to privacy, Cottonwoods RV Park provides a perfect retreat for families and their furry companions. Whether you're looking to unwind or embark on exciting adventures, this campground offers the ideal base for your Missouri getaway.

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field