Camping near Cape Girardeau

·

As the Mississippi River makes a slow roll from St. Louis to the Missouri Bootheel, it crosses through the historic town of Cape Girardeau. Once a trading post on the frontier, Cape, as locals call it, offers a relaxed travel experience. Take a stroll through Old Town Cape to find restaurants and shops in historic buildings, some covered with colorful murals, or ponder the grandness of the Mississippi at Riverfront Park. Campers will find private RV parks in Cape and the nearby town of Jackson. Full hookups, free wifi, and other amenities are available. Public campgrounds offer sites for both tents and RVs, with scenic views and varied hookups.

96% (1.1K) 182 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Cape Girardeau

Wine Trail Wilderness

1. Wine Trail Wilderness

100%
(668)
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$24
 / night
The Art Farm

2. The Art Farm

98%
(202)
47mi from Cape Girardeau · 31 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. :)
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$24
 / night
Sycamore Springs Campground

3. Sycamore Springs Campground

95%
(98)
37mi from Cape Girardeau · 21 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
from 
$25
 / night
Trail of Tears State Park

4. Trail of Tears State Park

100%
(1)
52 sites · Missouri
River landscapes, recreation, and history abound at this park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Shawnee National Forest

5. Shawnee National Forest

94%
(27)
172 sites · Elizabethtown, Illinois
Welcome to the wilderness in Illinois’ only national forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Twin Creek Cabins

6. Twin Creek Cabins

16mi from Cape Girardeau · 1 site · Tent, RV
Twin Creek Cabins — Charming Camp & Cabin Escape in Illinois 🌲 Discover a peaceful and scenic getaway at Twin Creek Cabins, a relaxed outdoor space perfect for tents, campers, and RVs near the heart of southern Illinois. Set beside open meadow and natural surroundings, this site offers a simple and nature‑focused experience where you can unwind around the fire, listen to birdsong, and enjoy the fresh country air. The property welcomes a range of camping styles — from tent camping and self‑contained trailers to RVs — with hot water, campfires, and a porta‑potty on site for convenience. Communal fire pits and open space make it easy to connect with friends or family around a classic outdoor campfire. Pets are welcome, and there’s plenty of room to stretch out and relax. Located just minutes from Carrier Mills, Pinckneyville, and Sparta, you’re within reach of local shops, restaurants, and outdoor stops. Whether you’re here for a short overnight or a longer stay exploring the Shawnee National Forest and nearby trails, Twin Creek Cabins offers a quiet basecamp with the comforts you need for a laid‑back countryside escape. Highlights: • Quiet rural setting ideal for unwinding • Hot water available • Campfires permitted • Pets welcome • Convenient to local towns and outdoor attractions Come for the nature, stay for the peace — and make memories by the fire under the stars.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$6
 / night
Ridge Camping Private

7. Ridge Camping Private

100%
(8)
17mi from Cape Girardeau · 34 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
from 
$10
 / night
Fredrock Waterfront Glampground

8. Fredrock Waterfront Glampground

99%
(63)
44mi from Cape Girardeau · 20 sites · RVs
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
from 
$50
 / night
Big Muddy Brewing

9. Big Muddy Brewing

95%
(44)
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
from 
$20
 / night
Trail of Tears State Forest

10. Trail of Tears State Forest

14 sites · Alto Pass, Illinois
Hike, hunt, and horseback ride at this conservation area in southwestern Illinois.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Giant City State Park

11. Giant City State Park

65 sites · Makanda, Illinois
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

61 sites · Harrison, Illinois
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)
84 sites · Goreville, Illinois
There's secret treasure to be found here in the Land of Lincoln.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
2 Broke Girls Glampground

14. 2 Broke Girls Glampground

100%
(8)
49mi from Cape Girardeau · 5 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
from 
$45
 / night
Grand Chain Vineyards

15. Grand Chain Vineyards

91%
(16)
33mi from Cape Girardeau · 26 sites · Tents, RVs
The RV Resort at Grand Chain Vineyards features 25 full-hookup pull-thru campsites nestled in the center of Grand Chain Vineyards overlooking the Ohio River. Grand Chain Vineyards is a 60+ acre estate of rolling hills and vineyards overlooking the beautiful Ohio River with on-site Winery, RV Resort, Event Venue, Cabins & Rooms, and Restaurant "Due South" BBQ & Grill.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$40
 / night
Tall Tree Lake

16. Tall Tree Lake

98%
(48)
36mi from Cape Girardeau · 62 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
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night
The Hickory Chicken

17. The Hickory Chicken

100%
(5)
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
from 
$24
 / night
Lake Perry Campground

18. Lake Perry Campground

79%
(14)
37mi from Cape Girardeau · 30 sites · Tents, RVs
Lake Perry Campground was established in July, 2024. We are located just outside the main gates of Lake Perry. Lake Perry is a private, gated, lake community that is only accessible by lot owners and their guests. Lake Perry Campground offers 17 full hookup sites consisting of public water, 70 amp electric, and public sewer. 9 sites are pull through lots that are 25' wide x 35' long, and 8 back-in lots ranging from 25-60' wide and 30-100' long. Two buddy lots (camper & tent) are available as well. We also have 1 tent lot with 20 amp electric and water. Completed in August 2025, is a 30' x 50' pavilion with restrooms (2 toilets) and (1) floor to ceiling tile shower in each restroom. A tankless hot water heater was installed for endless hot water. A seasonal bar & grill operates on the weekends and sometimes more serving canned beer, mixed drinks, premium wines, and adult slushy drinks such as the nearly famous Perrywacker. There is Starlink wifi and an ice vending machine on-site 24/7. Also available late winter/early spring 2026 is a 400 square foot studio cabin featuring a 12x16 deck, bedroom, full kitchen, full bath, and a kitchenette/bar. (Sleeps 4) We are 5 miles from Mark Twain national Forest, as well as multiple conservation areas with creek access. Several wineries are nearby through scenic backroads. (Charleville, Twin Oaks, Sand Creek). Bring your SXS's for days of backroad riding that spans 4 counties (Perry, Ste Genevieve, Madison, and Bollinger). Check out the featured post on our Facebook page for an extensive list of nearby attractions.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$19
 / night
Saco Valley Farm, LLC

19. Saco Valley Farm, LLC

98%
(26)
49mi from Cape Girardeau · 4 sites · Tents
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
Potable water
from 
$25
 / night
Monarch Hill Vineyard

20. Monarch Hill Vineyard

99%
(93)
46mi from Cape Girardeau · 19 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Monarch Hill! Tucked away in the hills of Ste. Genevieve County, we enjoy watching the sun rise and set over our secluded pastures and vineyards.  Our hilltop sites offer an open area with fire rings and picnic tables, great for groups or social butterflies. These offer well water at the nearby barn for drinking and showering.  The Seclusion sites are private escapes for those who want to immerse themselves in the sounds of nature. Take in the chirps of frogs, birds and crickets at these isolated sites.  We offer a complimentary wood basket with every booking, and have additional fire-building supplies available. Be sure to check out our experiences to make the most of your stay, and don't forget to reserve a s'more kit! *** April 2024 Total Solar Eclipse *** We are excited to be located in the best viewing path for this year's total eclipse! We will be preparing additional sites as needed for this weekend, so if we are fully booked check back soon or message us to reserve a spot. More information to come as we approach the date.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night

As the Mississippi River makes a slow roll from St. Louis to the Missouri Bootheel, it crosses through the historic town of Cape Girardeau. Once a trading post on the frontier, Cape, as locals call it, offers a relaxed travel experience. Take a stroll through Old Town Cape to find restaurants and shops in historic buildings, some covered with colorful murals, or ponder the grandness of the Mississippi at Riverfront Park. Campers will find private RV parks in Cape and the nearby town of Jackson. Full hookups, free wifi, and other amenities are available. Public campgrounds offer sites for both tents and RVs, with scenic views and varied hookups.

96% (1.1K) 182 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Cape Girardeau

Wine Trail Wilderness

1. Wine Trail Wilderness

100%
(668)
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$24
 / night
The Art Farm

2. The Art Farm

98%
(202)
47mi from Cape Girardeau · 31 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. :)
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$24
 / night
Sycamore Springs Campground

3. Sycamore Springs Campground

95%
(98)
37mi from Cape Girardeau · 21 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
from 
$25
 / night
Trail of Tears State Park

4. Trail of Tears State Park

100%
(1)
52 sites · Missouri
River landscapes, recreation, and history abound at this park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Shawnee National Forest

5. Shawnee National Forest

94%
(27)
172 sites · Elizabethtown, Illinois
Welcome to the wilderness in Illinois’ only national forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Twin Creek Cabins

6. Twin Creek Cabins

16mi from Cape Girardeau · 1 site · Tent, RV
Twin Creek Cabins — Charming Camp & Cabin Escape in Illinois 🌲 Discover a peaceful and scenic getaway at Twin Creek Cabins, a relaxed outdoor space perfect for tents, campers, and RVs near the heart of southern Illinois. Set beside open meadow and natural surroundings, this site offers a simple and nature‑focused experience where you can unwind around the fire, listen to birdsong, and enjoy the fresh country air. The property welcomes a range of camping styles — from tent camping and self‑contained trailers to RVs — with hot water, campfires, and a porta‑potty on site for convenience. Communal fire pits and open space make it easy to connect with friends or family around a classic outdoor campfire. Pets are welcome, and there’s plenty of room to stretch out and relax. Located just minutes from Carrier Mills, Pinckneyville, and Sparta, you’re within reach of local shops, restaurants, and outdoor stops. Whether you’re here for a short overnight or a longer stay exploring the Shawnee National Forest and nearby trails, Twin Creek Cabins offers a quiet basecamp with the comforts you need for a laid‑back countryside escape. Highlights: • Quiet rural setting ideal for unwinding • Hot water available • Campfires permitted • Pets welcome • Convenient to local towns and outdoor attractions Come for the nature, stay for the peace — and make memories by the fire under the stars.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$6
 / night
Ridge Camping Private

7. Ridge Camping Private

100%
(8)
17mi from Cape Girardeau · 34 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
from 
$10
 / night
Fredrock Waterfront Glampground

8. Fredrock Waterfront Glampground

99%
(63)
44mi from Cape Girardeau · 20 sites · RVs
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
from 
$50
 / night
Big Muddy Brewing

9. Big Muddy Brewing

95%
(44)
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
from 
$20
 / night
Trail of Tears State Forest

10. Trail of Tears State Forest

14 sites · Alto Pass, Illinois
Hike, hunt, and horseback ride at this conservation area in southwestern Illinois.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Giant City State Park

11. Giant City State Park

65 sites · Makanda, Illinois
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

61 sites · Harrison, Illinois
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)
84 sites · Goreville, Illinois
There's secret treasure to be found here in the Land of Lincoln.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
2 Broke Girls Glampground

14. 2 Broke Girls Glampground

100%
(8)
49mi from Cape Girardeau · 5 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
from 
$45
 / night
Grand Chain Vineyards

15. Grand Chain Vineyards

91%
(16)
33mi from Cape Girardeau · 26 sites · Tents, RVs
The RV Resort at Grand Chain Vineyards features 25 full-hookup pull-thru campsites nestled in the center of Grand Chain Vineyards overlooking the Ohio River. Grand Chain Vineyards is a 60+ acre estate of rolling hills and vineyards overlooking the beautiful Ohio River with on-site Winery, RV Resort, Event Venue, Cabins & Rooms, and Restaurant "Due South" BBQ & Grill.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$40
 / night
Tall Tree Lake

16. Tall Tree Lake

98%
(48)
36mi from Cape Girardeau · 62 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
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night
The Hickory Chicken

17. The Hickory Chicken

100%
(5)
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
from 
$24
 / night
Lake Perry Campground

18. Lake Perry Campground

79%
(14)
37mi from Cape Girardeau · 30 sites · Tents, RVs
Lake Perry Campground was established in July, 2024. We are located just outside the main gates of Lake Perry. Lake Perry is a private, gated, lake community that is only accessible by lot owners and their guests. Lake Perry Campground offers 17 full hookup sites consisting of public water, 70 amp electric, and public sewer. 9 sites are pull through lots that are 25' wide x 35' long, and 8 back-in lots ranging from 25-60' wide and 30-100' long. Two buddy lots (camper & tent) are available as well. We also have 1 tent lot with 20 amp electric and water. Completed in August 2025, is a 30' x 50' pavilion with restrooms (2 toilets) and (1) floor to ceiling tile shower in each restroom. A tankless hot water heater was installed for endless hot water. A seasonal bar & grill operates on the weekends and sometimes more serving canned beer, mixed drinks, premium wines, and adult slushy drinks such as the nearly famous Perrywacker. There is Starlink wifi and an ice vending machine on-site 24/7. Also available late winter/early spring 2026 is a 400 square foot studio cabin featuring a 12x16 deck, bedroom, full kitchen, full bath, and a kitchenette/bar. (Sleeps 4) We are 5 miles from Mark Twain national Forest, as well as multiple conservation areas with creek access. Several wineries are nearby through scenic backroads. (Charleville, Twin Oaks, Sand Creek). Bring your SXS's for days of backroad riding that spans 4 counties (Perry, Ste Genevieve, Madison, and Bollinger). Check out the featured post on our Facebook page for an extensive list of nearby attractions.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$19
 / night
Saco Valley Farm, LLC

19. Saco Valley Farm, LLC

98%
(26)
49mi from Cape Girardeau · 4 sites · Tents
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
Potable water
from 
$25
 / night
Monarch Hill Vineyard

20. Monarch Hill Vineyard

99%
(93)
46mi from Cape Girardeau · 19 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Monarch Hill! Tucked away in the hills of Ste. Genevieve County, we enjoy watching the sun rise and set over our secluded pastures and vineyards.  Our hilltop sites offer an open area with fire rings and picnic tables, great for groups or social butterflies. These offer well water at the nearby barn for drinking and showering.  The Seclusion sites are private escapes for those who want to immerse themselves in the sounds of nature. Take in the chirps of frogs, birds and crickets at these isolated sites.  We offer a complimentary wood basket with every booking, and have additional fire-building supplies available. Be sure to check out our experiences to make the most of your stay, and don't forget to reserve a s'more kit! *** April 2024 Total Solar Eclipse *** We are excited to be located in the best viewing path for this year's total eclipse! We will be preparing additional sites as needed for this weekend, so if we are fully booked check back soon or message us to reserve a spot. More information to come as we approach the date.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night

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Camping near Cape Girardeau 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.