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94% (1.3K) • 1,040 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Cape Girardeau
Ridge Camping Private
1. Ridge Camping Private
95%
(11)
17mi from Cape Girardeau · 33 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
You will hike to your private primitive destination. We ask that you please have an above ground firepit! Explore the property and enjoy a private stay!!!!!!!!!!!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Robyn M.’s Land
2. Robyn M.’s Land
90%
(10)
17mi from Cape Girardeau · 80 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Wine Trail Wilderness
3. Wine Trail Wilderness
100%
(716)
25mi from Cape Girardeau · 16 sites · Tents, RVs
The Shawnee National Forest surrounds us, accessible only by wandering roads, passing over creeks and alongside wineries. The trip is worth the beautiful drive, eventually arriving at "The Villa".
Our home looks like an Italian villa, appropriately placed between two wineries in the middle of the Shawnee Forest.
It is actually a straw-bale home with supplemental solar energy.
Originally built as a Holistic Healing Center, we have converted it into a comfortable home with great vibes.
We have converted an old grain bin into a "GrainZebo" just outside our home as a fun place to hang out with friends and family. We hope you enjoy the same relaxed feel we get while living out here in the woods, when you come visit.
We will be happy to help you feel at home out here. We love sharing the Shawnee experience and believe all should enjoy this beautiful part of the country. LGBTQ are all welcome and accepted. We welcome all types of campers.
Wine Trail Wilderness HipCamp was just honored with the "Top 50 Favorite Places to Camp in America" this year! We're honored to receive that distinguished title, and look forward to seeing y'all come out and camp in the beautiful Shawnee National Forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Trail of Tears State Park
4. Trail of Tears State Park
100%
(1)
State park 11mi from Cape Girardeau · 52 sites
River landscapes, recreation, and history abound at this park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Shawnee National Forest
5. Shawnee National Forest
95%
(30)
National forest 65mi from Cape Girardeau · 172 sites
Welcome to the wilderness in Illinois’ only national forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Ozark Highlands Ranch Retreat
6. Ozark Highlands Ranch Retreat
93%
(15)
27mi from Cape Girardeau · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:
We have five campsites in 235 acres of acres of forest and ranch land in our working cattle and sheep ranch. Located in a serene valley in the Ozark Highlands, the Ranch has Sheep, Scottish Highland Cattle, Chickens, Ducks and Great Pyrenees livestock guard dogs (only in the sheep pastures - and they are friendly). If you want to meet our animals and see the farm we are happy to show you around! We have a petting zoo, stovked fishing pond, creeks and springs.
This is a unique site located in the Ozark Highlands. Only 45 minutes from Cape Girardeau (a small river town on the Mississippi), and 45 minutes from the Arcadia Valley including Taum Sauk mountain (the highest point in Missouri), Elephant Rocks, the Johnston Shutins, and other beautiful areas in the highlands.
The farm is five minutes from Marble Hill, which is home to the Bollinger County Natural History museum which highlights the only dinosaur bones found in Missouri. The bones were found at a farm in Glennallen (a few minutes from our farm) as well as a great barbeque (Jay’s Restaurant) and a good catfish restaurant (Jers Restaurant). On the way to our farm, feel free to stop at the 1,700 foot deep artesian well to get a cool, refreshing jug of natural artesian well water – the water is free, but you have to bring your own containers!
We are two and a half hours southwest of St. Louis, and two and half hours northwest of Memphis.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Pond Ridge Adventure
7. Pond Ridge Adventure
98%
(33)
30mi from Cape Girardeau · 35 sites
We have 50 acres located in Southern Illinois 4 miles south of Murphysboro connected to 100 acres of Shawnee National forest.We set up a small family primitive campground for our family to enjoy every evening we ride our utv over from our house and watch the wildlife there are deer turkeys bobcats and many other small animals.There are several lakes just 15 minutes away kinkade spillway is a popular place to hike and swim and little Grand Canyon is an awesome spot
Learn more about this land:
Mostly suitable for Rv with generators and self contained units
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Big Muddy Brewing
8. Big Muddy Brewing
95%
(53)
35mi from Cape Girardeau · 42 sites · Tents, RVs
Big Muddy Brewing is a production craft brewery and taproom offering over 25 beers on tap. Our taproom has beer tastings, pints and growlers as well as wine and craft spirits. We also have plenty of packaged beer to go.
Our kitchen has Bavarian pretzels, Flatbread pizzas and more.
Located in the heart of Southern Illinois, minutes from the Shawnee National Forest, Kinkaid Lake, Murphysboro State Park & Southern Illinois University.
Check our Facebook page for schedule of music and events.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Tall Tree Lake
9. Tall Tree Lake
98%
(48)
36mi from Cape Girardeau · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
We are a 220 acre family owned and operated campground in the middle of the Shawnee National forest. We love providing a safe, beautiful, peaceful, and central location for people to enjoy our beautiful area. Fishing and hiking are welcomed for all of our guests! Located in the heart of the Shawnee National Forest. Close proximity to Ferne Clyffe State Park, Tunnel Hill Bike Trail, and only a 10 minute drive from I-24.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Trail of Tears State Forest
10. Trail of Tears State Forest
State forest 19mi from Cape Girardeau · 14 sites
Hike, hunt, and horseback ride at this conservation area in southwestern Illinois.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Giant City State Park
11. Giant City State Park
83%
(3)
State park 29mi from Cape Girardeau · 65 sites
Sandstone and forest converge for fantastic camping, climbing, and hiking in southern Illinois.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Lake Murphysboro State Park
12. Lake Murphysboro State Park
State park 34mi from Cape Girardeau · 61 sites
Camp like a star at this lake and forested wilderness area in southern Illinois.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Ferne Clyffe State Park
13. Ferne Clyffe State Park
100%
(1)
State park 35mi from Cape Girardeau · 84 sites
There's secret treasure to be found here in the Land of Lincoln.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Sycamore Springs Campground
14. Sycamore Springs Campground
97%
(162)
37mi from Cape Girardeau · 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
The Hickory Chicken
15. The Hickory Chicken
100%
(10)
43mi from Cape Girardeau · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to The Hickory Chicken — Hard to find, worth the search!
Tucked away in the peaceful countryside, The Hickory Chicken is your ideal escape for outdoor fun, family bonding, and Southern charm. Named after the beloved "hickory chicken" — a local nickname for the elusive and tasty wild morel mushroom — our campsite captures that same spirit of hidden treasure and down-home discovery.
At The Hickory Chicken, you'll find full access RV sites perfect for weekend warriors or long-haul adventurers, plus cozy cabin rentals if you're looking to rough it just a little less. Spend your days casting a line at our well-stocked fishing spots, cooling off with a stroll through the creek, or cooking up something special in our outdoor kitchen space. Whether you're into s'mores or smoked brisket, we’ve got you covered.
Outdoor lovers will find plenty to enjoy — and hunters especially will appreciate the area's abundant wildlife and public hunting grounds. We're also just minutes from both the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers, offering scenic views and endless recreational opportunities. History buffs and trail enthusiasts will love being a stone’s throw from Columbus-Belmont State Park and Wright’s Area 252 Ride Park.
Working nearby? The Hickory Chicken is a short, easy drive from the Four Rivers Nuclear Plant, Phoenix Paper Mill and James Marine Wickliffe division — making it the perfect home base whether you’re here for business or pleasure.
So pack your boots, your bike, or just a cooler full of snacks. However you like to camp, The Hickory Chicken is ready to welcome you with open arms.
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
Fredrock Waterfront Glampground
16. Fredrock Waterfront Glampground
99%
(68)
44mi from Cape Girardeau · 1 site
Fredrock is a small privately owned glampground on crystal clear 12mile Creek.
It is located about 15 minutes from the nearest town on 33 beautiful acres.
Enjoy one of the 7 themed stays or bring your own RV and stay in one of only 5 RV spots.
It is just a few minutes walk to 12 Mile Creek which runs through the property.
Enjoy the beautiful bluffs, shut-ins, gravel river beds and crystal clear water. Swimming, hiking, stargazing, and horseshoes are all available at Fredrock!
Pets
Full hookups
The Art Farm
17. The Art Farm
97%
(228)
47mi from Cape Girardeau · 23 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The farm is women owned and operated. This 34 acres of rolling farmland, woods and pasture is surrounded by farmland and woodlands on all sides.
Enjoy nature. Watch wildlife. Listen to the birds singing. You will often see deer in the evenings.
Walk or drive to the main residence to enjoy the pool, hot tub and hot outdoor shower. (5 minute walk or 1 minute drive)
We have a few dedicated women's campouts each year, and some art-making workshops, retreats, and quilting weekends, too. Other times we are open and inclusive of all.
Native land of Chickasaw, Quapaw and Osage nations.
LGBTQ friendly. :)
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
Saco Valley Farm, LLC
18. Saco Valley Farm, LLC
99%
(36)
49mi from Cape Girardeau · 2 sites
Camp, Swim, BBQ, wade the creek, enjoy the campfire!
Primitive Camping. Very Private. Water is cool and clear.
Open to the stars. A great place to commune with nature, or enjoy some peace and quiet!
12 mile creek runs directly through our property.
Shallow and deep all throughout. Great for wading, swimming, floating, kayaking. Great small mouth fishing! We are approximately one mile by water from the St. Francois River. We have kayaked down the creek to the river for many years.
The farm is very rural. We are 16 miles to the closest gas station, and 25 miles to town. There is no internet. Cell phone service is spotty at best.
Currently a working farm, we have 2 high tunnels on the property behind the house, and our original market garden.
Across the creek we are finishing up our 5 acre agroforestry planting. 3 acres of elderberries and 2 acres of blackberries.
28 acres, 3 on one side, and 25 on the other.
The farm is located approximately 2 hours south of St. Louis.
Fredericktown is 30 mins away. Food, Drinks, Golf, and Lalo's Mexican Restaurant! There are a ton of local antique shops, and outdoor activities.
Local places of interest:
Amidon
Arcadia Valley
Black River
Bonne Terre Mine
Elephant Rocks
Johnson Shut Ins
Mill Stream Gardens
One Nation Paintball Park
Sam A. Baker State Park
Saco Valley Farmstand
Sherpher Mountain Bike Park
Silvermines
Taum Sauk Mountain
Pets
Campfires
2 Broke Girls Glampground
19. 2 Broke Girls Glampground
93%
(14)
49mi from Cape Girardeau · 4 sites · RVs, Lodging
Welcome to 2 Broke Girls Glampground at Wappapello Lake. We are a small, privately owned campground, surrounded by nature and wildlife. We offer unique vacation rentals, annual, monthly and nightly campsites. Each of our vacation rentals and campsites are uniquely designed and conveniently located just seconds away from Rockwood Beach and Boat Ramp.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Commerce, MO
20. Commerce, MO
100%
(6)
12mi from Cape Girardeau · 4 sites
The Village of Commerce is located halfway between St.Louis and Memphis. Commerce has an unobstructed view of the Mississippi without a levee.
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
A
Andy Ray
2 weeks ago
Tent
Wonderful people! The host is the greatest! My brother and I had an Amazing time once again. The water is clear, the sites are clean and there is a cave!!!!
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T
Trina
2 weeks ago
Tent
I loved Laura's dispersed camping. The location was perfect and the view of the stars was memorable! Extremely secluded and easy to find.
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M
Misti
2 weeks ago
30 ft Class C
With pets
Beautiful property! Definitely off the beaten path in a section of country rarely seen. Unique site with decorative sitting/picnic area to gather around a fire; covered by a canopy made from recycled silo topper. A compost outhouse to use if you wish and surrounded by wineries!
Jon offers the best tasting well water to quench your thirst from an on property well. If you like secluded and beautiful, you’ll love this property’s charm!
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A
Adam
2 weeks ago
65 ft fifth wheel
We enjoyed our stay.
It was nice and quiet and the neighbors were friendly as well.
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L
Lisa
2 weeks ago
Tent
This place is as peaceful and serene as every review said. We spent 2 nights sitting and watching the Castor river meander by. At 90+ degrees we didn't lite a camp fire. Lol. The location is a stone's throw from Amidon Conservation Area where you will find the Castor River Shut-ins which is the big reason we chose it. Harless came by our first night to check on us, he was kind and concerned about the heat, but we didn't see anyone the remaining trip. This is my first trip with my new rigs, Bronco Betty and her sidekick Boop. We've been off n on tent campers for years, so I'm not experienced with RV sites, but I feel the 5 electric site's are roomy. Only one rv site had a picnic table. So bring your own. We checked on the primitive sites and they are awesome. Lots of room. In my pix the river looks brown, but look closer, the water is so clear that is the rocky bottom! As this is only about an hour from home, I hope to visit more than once.
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J
James
2 weeks ago
21 ft travel trailer
With pets
Really loved your place. We definitely will be back in the fall.. Misty is a Fabulous host.
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C
Calvin
3 weeks ago
29 ft Class C
With kids
Best place to camp for Castor shut ins, sites are right on the water.
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C
Curt
3 weeks ago
22 ft campervan
We visited in August in a Van, Our 3 day visit was vary peaceful and relaxing.
Spent our days visiting the many small
towns in the area letting our three dogs run off leash in the evenings on this wonderful
property.
See moreJ
Jan
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
The cave is fun to explore and the river is beautiful.
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B
Bryan
3 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
Great site! private and peaceful. Great swimming hole deeper than what I thought it would be which is a plus! Would recommend! Will be back
See moreK
Kati
August 2026
Tent
With pets
We loved camping here and are already planning to go back! We had so much fun swimming in the creek, and we enjoyed listening to all the animals while we sat around the fire each night. It was so private and beautiful, and we had amazing views of the stars both nights we were there. This was the perfect getaway that we needed before the busy school year begins next week.
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e
elizabeth
August 2026
Tent
With pets
What a great spot! Easy access to water! Great for all to enjoy! Harlen was there to check on us and make us feel at home. Already planning a trip back.
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David
August 2026
24 ft travel trailer
With pets
Excellent campsites right by the water! Harless was an amazing host. He had water available for our RV’s at all times and removed trash for us. We were at the 5 electric sites. Very clean and well kept area. Only 10 minute drive to the shut-ins. Definitely go here!
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M
Mary Jane
August 2026
50 ft Class C
Great little place. Pretty sight with a nice pond and friendly people and dogs.
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A
Alonso
August 2026
Weekend Trip to The Art Farm
The property is a beautiful and the host is very kind and helpful. 10/10 would recommend.
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S
Shelley
July 2026
21 ft travel trailer
Harless is a excellent host, the campground is clean, well maintained and a wonderful place
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R
River
July 2026
10 ft travel trailer
Absolutely incredible! The vineyard was gorgeous and the river was amazing! We ate at the restaurant and loved it! Great Southern comfort food and super cozy too!
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K
Katy
July 2026
20 ft Class B
With pets
Very friendly staff. Said under new management and doing some renovations.
Would stay again. I used 30 amp. 2 small dogs.
See moreA
Andy Ray
July 2026
Tent
Beautiful place! Host was great. Go check it out for yourselves. The Shut-ins are right down the road. BE PREPARED!!!
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Randy
July 2026
35 ft fifth wheel
Harness was awesome and kept us informed about the weather
See moreCape Girardeau camping guide
Where to go
Trail of Tears State Park
Trail of Tears State Park commemorates the solemn history of the forced relocation of the Cherokee tribe in the mid-1800s. The visitor center shares details of this piece of the park’s story, as well as the unique geology and geography. Prominent lookouts offer prime views of the Mississippi River. Hike trails through the woodlands and along the waters. Fish, boat, or paddle in “The Big Muddy” or the clearer waters of Lake Boutin. Or, camp alongside the lake or river. Basic, electric, and full hookup sites are available, some with water views.
Shawnee National Forest
West of Cape Girardeau, Shawnee National Forest offers outdoor recreation and camping in Illinois’s only national forest, which offers a 250,000-acre natural playground with woodlands, prairies, waterways, and waterfalls to explore. Nine campgrounds are found across Southern Illinois. Pine Hills Campground is the closest to Cape and has primitive sites for both tents and RVs.
Giant City State Park
Deep in Shawnee National Forest, Giant City State Park is just under an hour northeast of Cape Girardeau. Named for the massive sandstone bluffs that rise like skyscrapers over the woodlands, this state park is a recreational haven, offering hiking trails, horseback riding, archery, rock climbing, and more. The Giant City Campground has tent and RV sites nestled in the trees, offering partial hookups. Other accommodations include an onsite lodge and cabins, including rustic, historic cabins built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s.
When to go
As the spring weather warms, the great outdoors begin to beckon, with peeping leaves and wildflowers, making this a pleasant time for camping in Cape Girardeau. The temperatures reach their peaks, sometimes in the 90s or above, in summer, as humidity seeps into the region. Fall is a scenic time to visit, with colorful leaves and pleasant temperatures. Missouri winters are generally cold, with bursts of freezing temps and snow and ice, meaning campers should be weather aware.
