Lake Camping Near Cape Girardeau, Missouri, US: 12 Best Lake Campsites 2025

Looking for a camping adventure near Cape Girardeau, Missouri with a beautiful lake to explore? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 500 options to choose from, you're bound to find the perfect spot for your outdoor getaway. Whether you prefer a rustic lakeside cabin or a secluded campsite right by the water, there's something for everyone. And with top campsites like Spring Lake Ranch (522 reviews), Wine Trail Wilderness (291 reviews), and Arcadia Valley Outdoors Land (251 reviews), you can trust that you'll be in good hands. And the best part? The average price per night is only $25, with options as low as $15. Plus, you'll have access to popular amenities like potable water, trash disposal, and toilets. So pack your bags, grab your paddle, and get ready for an unforgettable lakeside camping experience!

98% (698)

Top-rated campgrounds

Gathering around the fire at Hickory Ridge Winery.

Looking for a camping adventure near Cape Girardeau, Missouri with a beautiful lake to explore? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 500 options to choose from, you're bound to find the perfect spot for your outdoor getaway. Whether you prefer a rustic lakeside cabin or a secluded campsite right by the water, there's something for everyone. And with top campsites like Spring Lake Ranch (522 reviews), Wine Trail Wilderness (291 reviews), and Arcadia Valley Outdoors Land (251 reviews), you can trust that you'll be in good hands. And the best part? The average price per night is only $25, with options as low as $15. Plus, you'll have access to popular amenities like potable water, trash disposal, and toilets. So pack your bags, grab your paddle, and get ready for an unforgettable lakeside camping experience!

98% (698)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Wine Trail Wilderness

100%

(666)

25mi from Cape Girardeau · 16 sites · Tents, RVs · Pomona, IL

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.

2. Tall Tree Lake

98%

(48)

36mi from Cape Girardeau · 62 sites · Tents, RVs · Buncombe, IL

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.

3. 2 Broke Girls Glampground

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(8)

49mi from Cape Girardeau · 5 sites · RVs, Lodging · Puxico, MO

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.

4. Lake Life

46mi from Cape Girardeau · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Fredericktown, MO

Lakefront property with gravel road entrance. Trail down to dock at waterline. Fishing from dock or anywhere at lake. Community beach. 120v Electricity on site with extension chords. 3 Community shower houses around lake are full bathroom. (Shutdown in freezing temperature months)

5. Monarch Hill Vineyard

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(92)

46mi from Cape Girardeau · 19 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Ste. Genevieve, MO

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.

6. Scottish Highland Cattle Ranch

100%

(12)

27mi from Cape Girardeau · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · Glen Allen, MO

Learn more about this land: We have five campsites in 135 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! 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.

7. Robyn M.’s Land

89%

(9)

17mi from Cape Girardeau · 81 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Tamms, IL

8. TnT’s Lake Cabin #9

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(1)

34mi from Cape Girardeau · 1 site · Lodging · Harrison, IL

Our cabin is 1/2 mile from Kinkaid Lake, Marina and public boat ramp. Outside Murphysboro IL. 2 bedroom, 1 1/2 bath, sleeps 6, and has fully stocked kitchen with microwave and coffee pot. Small back deck with BBQ grill and utensils. Fire pit and wood is also provided. Ample boat parking. Wether your boating, fishing, hunting or just relaxing in the heart of Southern Illinois and the Shawnee Forest come stay with us.

9. Broken Paddle Lake

100%

(5)

36mi from Cape Girardeau · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · Zalma, MO

If you love fishing and being outdoors. This spot is for you. The Bass, Crappie and large Bluegill are awaiting your catch. You can keep your catch and cook fresh for your dinner. There is a dock to hang out on flat surface for camping and RV. Enjoy your time away from the everyday hustle and bustle.

10. Cozy Cabin Close To Kinkaid Lake

34mi from Cape Girardeau · 1 site · Lodging · Harrison, IL

Kat’s Getaway — Murphysboro, Illinois Kat’s Getaway, located in Murphysboro, Illinois, features a cozy two-bedroom, 1.5-bath cabin less than half a mile from Kinkaid Lake and Marina. Enjoy the quiet country setting while still having the chance to meet other travelers during your stay. Whether you’re coming to fish, go boating, or simply enjoy some peace and quiet, this is the perfect cabin for you. The Space This charming cabin offers newly updated furnishings throughout. The fully equipped kitchen includes a stove, refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, toaster, pots and pans, as well as both dining and cooking utensils. Guests are provided with complimentary coffee for their first morning and can enjoy it on the private back deck while taking in the tranquil sounds of nature. Each bedroom features a comfortable queen-sized bed, accommodating up to four guests. Linens are supplied for your convenience, but if you have a preferred pillow or blanket, feel free to bring it along. The cabin includes three smart TVs—one in the main living area and one in each bedroom—allowing guests to log in and stream their favorite shows. A portable fan is also available for use in any room as desired. Additional Amenities • Complimentary shampoo, conditioner, and body wash • Hair dryer • Coffee and condiments to get started • Two rolls of toilet paper per bathroom • One roll of paper towels • Starter set of trash bags • Linens, towels, and washcloths • Wi-Fi • Keyless entry • Gas grill • Outdoor fire pit • Patio table and chairs Guest Access Guests have exclusive access to the entire cabin during their stay. This privacy allows you to fully relax and enjoy your surroundings without sharing the space with others. Mornings can be spent savoring coffee in your pajamas while listening to the peaceful sounds of nature—a perfect, stress-free start to the day. If you plan to bring a boat, convenient boat parking is available (please inquire for details). Kids are welcome to bring bikes and outdoor games to enjoy during your stay.

Camper favorites near Cape Girardeau

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Lake Life

46mi from Cape Girardeau · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Fredericktown, MO

Lakefront property with gravel road entrance. Trail down to dock at waterline. Fishing from dock or anywhere at lake. Community beach. 120v Electricity on site with extension chords. 3 Community shower houses around lake are full bathroom. (Shutdown in freezing temperature months)

Monarch Hill Vineyard

99%

(92)

46mi from Cape Girardeau · 19 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Ste. Genevieve, MO

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.

Scottish Highland Cattle Ranch

100%

(12)

27mi from Cape Girardeau · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · Glen Allen, MO

Learn more about this land: We have five campsites in 135 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! 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.

Robyn M.’s Land

89%

(9)

17mi from Cape Girardeau · 81 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Tamms, IL

TnT’s Lake Cabin #9

100%

(1)

34mi from Cape Girardeau · 1 site · Lodging · Harrison, IL

Our cabin is 1/2 mile from Kinkaid Lake, Marina and public boat ramp. Outside Murphysboro IL. 2 bedroom, 1 1/2 bath, sleeps 6, and has fully stocked kitchen with microwave and coffee pot. Small back deck with BBQ grill and utensils. Fire pit and wood is also provided. Ample boat parking. Wether your boating, fishing, hunting or just relaxing in the heart of Southern Illinois and the Shawnee Forest come stay with us.

Broken Paddle Lake

100%

(5)

36mi from Cape Girardeau · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · Zalma, MO

If you love fishing and being outdoors. This spot is for you. The Bass, Crappie and large Bluegill are awaiting your catch. You can keep your catch and cook fresh for your dinner. There is a dock to hang out on flat surface for camping and RV. Enjoy your time away from the everyday hustle and bustle.

Cozy Cabin Close To Kinkaid Lake

34mi from Cape Girardeau · 1 site · Lodging · Harrison, IL

Kat’s Getaway — Murphysboro, Illinois Kat’s Getaway, located in Murphysboro, Illinois, features a cozy two-bedroom, 1.5-bath cabin less than half a mile from Kinkaid Lake and Marina. Enjoy the quiet country setting while still having the chance to meet other travelers during your stay. Whether you’re coming to fish, go boating, or simply enjoy some peace and quiet, this is the perfect cabin for you. The Space This charming cabin offers newly updated furnishings throughout. The fully equipped kitchen includes a stove, refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, toaster, pots and pans, as well as both dining and cooking utensils. Guests are provided with complimentary coffee for their first morning and can enjoy it on the private back deck while taking in the tranquil sounds of nature. Each bedroom features a comfortable queen-sized bed, accommodating up to four guests. Linens are supplied for your convenience, but if you have a preferred pillow or blanket, feel free to bring it along. The cabin includes three smart TVs—one in the main living area and one in each bedroom—allowing guests to log in and stream their favorite shows. A portable fan is also available for use in any room as desired. Additional Amenities • Complimentary shampoo, conditioner, and body wash • Hair dryer • Coffee and condiments to get started • Two rolls of toilet paper per bathroom • One roll of paper towels • Starter set of trash bags • Linens, towels, and washcloths • Wi-Fi • Keyless entry • Gas grill • Outdoor fire pit • Patio table and chairs Guest Access Guests have exclusive access to the entire cabin during their stay. This privacy allows you to fully relax and enjoy your surroundings without sharing the space with others. Mornings can be spent savoring coffee in your pajamas while listening to the peaceful sounds of nature—a perfect, stress-free start to the day. If you plan to bring a boat, convenient boat parking is available (please inquire for details). Kids are welcome to bring bikes and outdoor games to enjoy during your stay.

Public campgrounds near Cape Girardeau

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Trail of Tears Campground

11mi from Cape Girardeau · 52 sites · Tents, RVs · in Trail of Tears State Park

Giant City Campground

27mi from Cape Girardeau · 65 sites · Tents, RVs · in Giant City State Park

Lake Murphysboro Campground

34mi from Cape Girardeau · 61 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Murphysboro State Park

Backpack Campground

35mi from Cape Girardeau · 12 sites · in Ferne Clyffe State Park

Equestrian Campground

35mi from Cape Girardeau · 1 site · in Ferne Clyffe State Park

Turkey Ridge Campground

35mi from Cape Girardeau · 12 sites · in Ferne Clyffe State Park

Deer Ridge Campground

36mi from Cape Girardeau · 23 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ferne Clyffe State Park

John J. Audubon Trail

44mi from Cape Girardeau · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Mark Twain National Forest

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(1)

Ferne Clyffe Campground

48mi from Cape Girardeau · 36 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ferne Clyffe State Park

Rockpile Mountain Trail

48mi from Cape Girardeau · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Mark Twain National Forest

Rockpile Mountain Wilderness

48mi from Cape Girardeau · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Mark Twain National Forest

Randolph County Campground

48mi from Cape Girardeau · 38 sites · Tents, RVs · in Randolph County State Recreation Area

Stories from the community

Grainzebo II and Bocce Court with 30 Amp electric Hook-Up. Close to Outhouse.

J

James

2 weeks ago

20 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

Great sites and great hosts! John was super helpful and accommodating, taught us how to play bocce ball on the court there, and even helped us with a maintenance issue on my camper. The grainzebo was awesome!!! Can't wait to go back.

Wilson

3 weeks ago

17 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

Our experience at Wine Trail Wilderness was great despite plunging temperatures this past weekend. The roomy site allowed for our 2 young dogs to zoom around the field and the pavilion and outhouse were experiences of themselves. Jon was a great host and fun to talk to when he was walking his dog Norton. The location between 2 of our favorite wineries was a bonus. The scenery with the fall colors was beautiful to see. We can’t wait to come back. Becky and Wilson

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Frank

3 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Wine Trail Wilderness

It was fantastic camping on Jon’s land he was the perfect host, very attentive and was willing to work with our schedule. It made for a great weekend of climbing at holy boulders… it’s like 15min from the boulders!

Kyle

3 weeks ago

19 ft pop-up camper

With pets

3 nights at Wine Trail Wilderness

This is the third time I've stayed at WTW. It was the first time staying in the far away field and we loved it. Jon checked in and would deliver firewood (if needed). I'm sure we will be back!

B

Bryson

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

Beautiful campground with an awesome host! Will definitely stay again next time we are out this way!

M

Molly

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

John and Carla were amazing hosts. They lead us to our site on their 4-wheeler, and even gave us a wine opener to borrow after we forgot to bring one. The campsite had everything we needed and was super clean, level, and open yet wooded. They came by to check on us after the first night. We were able to order firewood and wine from them ahead of time so it was at the site when we got there. This was amazing because we are usually trying to find space in the truck for firewood. They also provide ice water in a 5 gallon jug which saved us some packing space. We came with two dogs so we asked for one of their more private sites and they delivered. Didn’t see any other campers the entire weekend. Location is awesome for a variety of activities. I would love to return with my coworkers and this would be a perfect spot for our yearly camping trip. We also noticed lots of materials staged around the property so it seems like they are planning some improvements to their already amazing place. This wasn’t a problem for us but I wanted to mention as I know it can be a deal breaker for some. There was not a bathroom with running water, just a private privy in one of those little portable tents. It was cleaned and stocked and very much appreciated.

Erin

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to TnT’s Lake Cabin #9

Loved our stay. Simple, clean, quiet. Exactly what we needed. We all slept so soundly.

S

Samuel

October 2025

21 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

The area was very accessible and was set up in a really nice convenient way. Jon met us at the driveway, greeted us with a warm smile and helped us get our water situated. After that he assisted me getting the trailer leveled and ready to go and made sure we had firewood. On Saturday, he came and checked on us and he's an incredible host and this was one of the best trips we had. Being within walking distance of a winery and a very short drive to another one is amazing and it was so quiet. And for the record I've never seen anybody have a better portable toilet outside than at Jon's property (Plus the bocce ball court was amazing and we had a great time playing with some people we met there as well this weekend). Suffice to say, we will definitely come back and visit Jon again and for anybody who may want a really great camping experience there is none better than what Jon provides.

Travis

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

We love WTW! We camp here multiple times a year and it's always well deserving of the best in Illinois title! Everything is taken care of and we just get to setup camp and relax.

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Mimi

October 2025

12 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

wine Trail wilderness was perfectly situated on Hickory Ridge Road close to two wineries! It was my first time to the wine trail in Shawnee national Forest and certainly there’s a lot to offer! Looking forward to going back!! Wine Trail wilderness was perfectly situated on Hickory Ridge Road close to two wineries! It was my first time to the wine trail in Shawnee national Forest and certainly there’s a lot to offer! Looking forward to going back JON was extremely accommodating and his land was ideal For hip camp travelers! Thank you WTW !

K

Kari

October 2025

16 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

I enjoyed the evening on Jon's land. He was very helpful amd the site was beautiful! He had a big jug of ice water ready at the site too! There was a ready fire pit, but I chose not to have a fire since I was exhausted and wanted to sleep and get an early start the next day.

p

patrick

October 2025

4 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

We had a great time camping here. Jon was a great host. Checked on us every day. The campground was private. the other guests were very friendly. The trails nearby were very scenic. Would recommend it to any of my friends. We will camp here again I hope.

Kate & Austin

October 2025

19 ft pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

Excellent communication from the hosts! Very nice and accommodating people!

S

Spence

October 2025

33 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

what you see online is what you get… Absolutely fantastic! John was awesome, the property is awesome. Secluded in a great back to nature. . I will be back with friends.

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Paul

October 2025

21 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Wine Trail Wilderness

Great spot, great location, wonderful host. What more can I say. We came for Snake Road, Little Grand Canyon, Wine Trail and Vulture Fest. Central location for all of the above!

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Jenny

October 2025

Tent

With kids

2 nights at Wine Trail Wilderness

Wonderful camping area with extras! The sites are well maintained with cold water waiting, firewood ready upon request, picnic tables and a table and chairs. It’s like an all inclusive resort of primitive camping! My family and I really enjoyed playing bocce ball and were very thankful for the owner of the property to come take the time to teach us how to play. It is also in a great location for visiting hiking trails and climbing areas. Thanks for having us!

Kate

October 2025

24 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

Enjoyed my RV stay and our host’s hospitality. Jon was a great host who is working hard to make his property a nice place for guests. Well located to explore the Wine trial or western Shawnee hiking/biking.

S

Stephanie

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

Jon was a fantastic host and made sure we had everything we needed. The site was spacious and beautiful. Highly recommend!

D

David

October 2025

26 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

Jon really went to great lengths to make Wild Trail Wilderness a great camping experience. It's a beautiful property, nestled between 2 wineries, and close to the Little Grand Canyon hiking trail. This was our first time using Hipcamp and Jon set the bar very high for those that will follow. He is now the yardstick by which all others will be measured. We plan on going back.

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Tiffany

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

Loved this camp site! Secluded, quiet, and Jon is a great host. It's located near so many hiking opportunities and wineries. We will definitely be back!!! 🦉