The best camping in Missouri with campfires

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Whether road-tripping along part of the historic Route 66, vacationing at the Lake of the Ozarks, or following in the footsteps of homegrown hero Mark Twain—Missouri is made for traveling. From Kansas City to St Louis, you’re never far from a state park—there are 38 to choose from—while the vast Mark Twain National Forest encompasses 1.5-million acres spread across seven different wilderness areas. Plan your camping trip from May through October to make the most of the forests, lakes, and wilderness areas, or cozy up in an RV through the snowy winter months.

94% (8.7K) 6,711 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Missouri

Hawks Bluff Farm Campground

1. Hawks Bluff Farm Campground

97%
(266)
Tiff, MO · 56 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Escape the city! We have a very special property that nourishes the soul and provides space to roam and breathe fresh air. 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. Ask us about our kayaking options!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Spring Lake Ranch

2. Spring Lake Ranch

93%
(2011)
Potosi, MO · 39 sites · Tents, RVs
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. **The pool on property is reserved for the lodge guests only, it is not open to the public.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Sycamore Springs Campground

3. Sycamore Springs Campground

96%
(112)
Fredericktown, MO · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
The campsite sits alongside the Castor River, offering electric hookups at 5 sites as well as 5 primitive tent sites. Enjoy outdoor adventures just minutes away, at the Amidon Memorial Conservation Area, a 1,630-acre area located on the upper reaches of the Castor River, located south of Route J, eight miles east of Fredericktown.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Mark Twain National Forest

4. Mark Twain National Forest

88%
(21)
National forest in Missouri · 452 sites
Missouri’s only national forest has 1.5 million acres of wilderness to explore.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Cuivre River State Park

5. Cuivre River State Park

100%
(5)
State park in Missouri · 110 sites
Explore this natural paradise in northeastern Missouri.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
The Two Creeks Farm

6. The Two Creeks Farm

Trimble, MO · 1 site
Nestled on 100 private acres just minutes from Smithville Lake and only 30–35 minutes from downtown Kansas City, our family property offers a quiet escape into rolling timber, native prairie, cropland, winding creeks, and abundant wildlife. Our family has cared for and enjoyed this land for more than 50 years, and we’re excited to share a small piece of it with guests seeking a peaceful outdoor retreat. The property features mature woods, open fields, two creeks, frequent deer and turkey sightings, and the kind of quiet that’s increasingly hard to find. Guest stays are hosted within thoughtfully designed private getaway spaces situated on secluded portions of the property, offering a peaceful and immersive nature experience while preserving the privacy and character of the surrounding land. Whether you’re looking to unplug for a night, enjoy nearby Smithville Lake, or simply slow down beneath the trees, this is a place designed for rest, simplicity, and connection to the outdoors.
Toilets
Potable water
Cooking equipment
Four Creeks Ranch Campground

7. Four Creeks Ranch Campground

97%
(450)
Ellington, MO · 19 sites · Tents, RVs
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. Close to Mark Twain National Forest, for hiking Rocky Creek trail Head, Blue Springs trail to Rocky Falls, 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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Milo Farm Sacred Land

8. Milo Farm Sacred Land

98%
(498)
Buckner, MO · 20 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Milo Farm was established organically a few years ago. The energy at Milo so amazing we wanted to share! There's a story behind the sacredness of this land, Loni can share that with you if you ask! There are 5 different ecosystems at Milo, all which hold their own magic!🪄 Milo has mant tent sites, car camping sites (for retroverted cars & sprinter vans), 6 cabins, a luxury guest space for you to stay! Sorry we DO NOT have any RV spots at this time. Our cabins are the Hippie Trailer, which is located near the west woods near the Fairy Forest. Then the Bunkhouse just past the big barn on the north end of the property. The lodge, where the Airbnb and pool are is centrally located on the land. We rent out the lower level guest quarters for non-campers. We have a Hobbit Hut near the Frog Pond, a Boho Bus near the entry way and several Vardos (gypsy wagons). For our tent campers there are tent sites in the Eastfield, including the Movie set location of the DM Cabin, and for diehard campers the beauty of primitive pack-in/pack-out camping of Freedom Field is a joy! Feel the energy of the sacred land. We also have SO may attractions! There are 2 stocked ponds, miles of trails, pool, Zen garden, farm animals, a library and more. Find all the portals here! Bless Mother Earth and spend some time in nature at this magical place. Great for the spiritually minded with several meditation spots. There are events happening some weekends you can participate in. We have a Call to Prayer 9:30am every day in the Art Studio/Spirit Shack, you may join us! Loni is a spiritual intuitive and can do a reading using the Milo Farm Oracle cards she created! Ask for availability of these things. Milo has a lot to offer! Located in Eastern Jackson County MO, just 30 minutes from downtown Kansas City.
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Showers
Hummingbird Hollow Outdoors

9. Hummingbird Hollow Outdoors

99%
(618)
Parkway, MO · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging
Hummingbird Hollow Outdoors is a 501c3 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. You can even claim the cost of your stay on your taxes! All proceeds go to the care of the animals. "Today, whatever is good for your soul, do that."
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Finger Lakes State Park

10. Finger Lakes State Park

100%
(9)
State park in Missouri · 35 sites
Select from a menu of activities at this scenic mid-Missouri park, popular for ATVing.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Hawn State Park

11. Hawn State Park

100%
(5)
State park in Missouri · 45 sites
Scenery abounds in this mid-Missouri park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Meramec State Park

12. Meramec State Park

100%
(8)
State park in Missouri · 179 sites
Camping, caving, and canoeing along the Meramec River.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
St. Joe State Park

13. St. Joe State Park

100%
(5)
State park in Missouri · 105 sites
Hit the trails on bike, horseback, or ATV in this adventurous Missouri park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Harmony Lake Farm Park & Playground

14. Harmony Lake Farm Park & Playground

99%
(1045)
Wellington, MO · 16 sites · Tents, RVs
Harmony Lake welcomes you to our Farm. We are proud to be a registered member of Missouri Agritourism. Agritourism connects our guests with the great outdoors via Farm Stay. We hope you enjoy your stay at Harmony Lake Farm. We are walking distance to Harmony Lake: a private 12-acre lake for fishing, swimming and paddle boats. Our lake is home to record large-mouth bass and Missouri's longest free-floating walkway leading to a private island. We are located just 15-minutes from the highway and one hour to sites and attractions of Kansas City. We are 15-minutes to Lexington historic district or Odessa. We have a variety of tent and RV sites for your party to choose from so just reach out if you would like clarification on anything. Campfires and pets are allowed and all sites have access to bathroom with shower, trash bins, and an outdoor grill house.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Riverbend RV Park and Campground

15. Riverbend RV Park and Campground

94%
(302)
Macks Creek, MO · 11 sites · Tents, RVs
Our small owner operated campground sits high above the Niangua River. Situated below Tunnel Dam and the locally famous Whistle, we have 250’ of Big Niangua River frontage. We offer several full hook-up RV spots and ultra secluded primitive spots and anything in between. We have a bathroom/shower house for campers’ convenience.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Selby Farm Camping

16. Selby Farm Camping

99%
(719)
Wooldridge, MO · 5 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 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. 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. 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
Eminence Cottages and Camp

17. Eminence Cottages and Camp

98%
(92)
Eminence, MO · 39 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Eminence Cottages & Camp Our Resort is perfectly located to enjoy the natural wonders that abound in this area. Eminence Cottages and Camp is in the center of Missouri's largest national park; The Ozark National Scenic Riverways. We invite you to enjoy river fishing and canoeing, hiking and biking the famous Ozark Trail, abundant wildlife viewing, spring hopping and auto tours. Relax in our well-appointed cottages or get close to nature in the campground. Once settled you'll be ready to float the Current or Jacks Fork River. Call to make your reservation!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Riverside at Hollyhaven

18. Riverside at Hollyhaven

87%
(72)
Joplin, MO · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:Utilize the 7 acre lake or Shoal Creek for fishing, tubing, swimming, canoeing/kayaking, sunbathing, cave camping.   Frisbee golf course within walking distance and fabulous trails for hiking.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Sunset Mountain

19. Sunset Mountain

100%
(131)
Noel, MO · 26 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Sunset Mountain is an exclusive reservation only 18+ clothing optional/nudist campground located on my working cattle farm. We are not a place for partying or any sexual activity or PDA. We are a place to relax and enjoy nature. (Please do not drive up to our gate and try to get in. Please make a reservation in advance.) Although we cater to adults only we follow TNSF and AANR guidelines for social nude recreation. If you are not familiar with TNSF or AANR you can do a quick internet search and see some basic guidelines for social nude recreation. Sunset Mountain does typically operate as a blind service venue meaning we do business online and we and or our maintenance team may not be seen during your stay. We have a good team in place to help your stay be enjoyable please just understand we don’t operate like some of the nudist clubs you may be used to. Sunset Mountain is a nice quiet place to relax and work on your tan. We have RV sites, tent camping areas and overlanding sites. As lodging options we have a converted bus and shipping container. The campground has a bathroom facility with indoor shower and seasonal outdoor showers. We have a hot tub and propane grill guests can use year round along with hiking trails in the summer and a swimming pool. Sunset Mountain is near the Elk River in Noel Missouri and close to Northwest Arkansas where there are mountain biking trails, museums and many other activities. Sunset Mountain is listed on the Monarch Butterfly Waystation registry as well. We are located 1.2 miles away from the Noel city park that has free Elk River access, 4 miles to Mt. Shira free Elk River access near Shady Beach and 5.2 miles to the free Elk River access in Pineville, MO near Shady Beach Pineville. If you are not tech savvy enough to use this platform our facility may not be for you.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Matt's Place at Meramec n Labarque

20. Matt's Place at Meramec n Labarque

100%
(71)
Eureka, MO · 4 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.
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Potable water

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Missouri camping guide

Where to go

North Missouri

Kansas City, Missouri’s largest city, is best known for its jazz scene and BBQ restaurants, but there are also plenty of natural attractions to explore in the north. Head to nearby Weston Bend State Park to camp along the Missouri River, or go biking and horseback riding along the multi-use trails of Crowder State Park. Over on the eastern state border, Wakonda State Park has six lakes to choose from, while the Mark Twain State Park has family campgrounds in the Salt River Hills.

Central Missouri

State capital Jefferson City lies at the heart of Missouri, and just to the north, Rock Bridge Memorial State Park provides tranquil camping amid a backdrop of natural caves, streams, and woodlands. Summer campers flock to the Lake of the Ozarks region, where the huge reservoir is fringed with sandy beaches, golf courses, and restaurants. If you tire of the Ozarks camping resorts, Bennett Spring State Park makes a worthy alternative, renowned for its trout fishing.

St Louis and Southeast Missouri

At the meeting point of the Mississippi and the Missouri Rivers, St Louis is home to one of Missouri’s most visited attractions, the Gateway Arch National Park. Nearby, hikers can enjoy full-amenity camping at Meramec River State Park, while Castlewood State Park is renowned for its mountain biking trails, and Sam A Baker State Park is one of the region’s most visited. Alternatively, escape to the wilderness of the Mark Twain National Forest, where you can choose between tent/RV sites, cabins, or dispersed camping in the woods. 

Southwest Missouri

Bordered by Kansas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas, the southwest is Missouri’s wild frontier. Venture into the Mark Twain National Forest to enjoy backcountry camping in the wilderness, rev up your OHV and tackle the off-road trails of St Joe State Park, or fish for rainbow trout in the stocked waters of Roaring River State Park. Finally, don’t miss the hike to Grand Falls. The 163-foot wide waterfall is Missouri’s largest, and lies just outside of Joplin. 

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