- Cape Girardeau
The best river, stream, or creek RV parks near Cape Girardeau
99% (895) • 28 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Cape Girardeau
Wine Trail Wilderness
1. Wine Trail Wilderness
100%
(669)
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
Fredrock Waterfront Glampground
2. 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
The Hickory Chicken
3. 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
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
Rocky Creek Camp
6. Rocky Creek Camp
100%
(1)
39mi from Cape Girardeau · 1 site · Tent, RV
This site has beautiful views of the forest as well as Rocky Creek Spring. Secluded area. Beautiful clear view of the sky. Sit next to the creek and listen to nature. You can tent camp or a small camper. You will need an suv or 4x4 to reach the destination. Come stay, play and relax. You will be able to watch the stars at nigh
Pets
Campfires
from
$48
/ night
Curt’s Cabin
7. Curt’s Cabin
100%
(1)
39mi from Cape Girardeau · 1 site · Tent, RV
Camp or plug the RV in at the site of a remote, historical home with a peaceful view of the valley. Amenities include a fire-ring, hot tub, mountain bikes and lawn games. Renting and occupying the 3 bedroom, 2 bath circa 1800 early American log home is optional. Additionally, guests have access to a private creek for added relaxation. For a fee, tours of the 1800 American log cabin and a 1790 French log cabin may be arranged through the host. If available, host can take up to 6 guests (must be physically fit) on a trail ride touring beautiful forests and meadows which includes some thrilling assents and descents in/on a historic International Scout. Liability waiver required.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from
$30
/ night
Scottish Highland Cattle Ranch
8. Scottish Highland Cattle Ranch
100%
(12)
27mi from Cape Girardeau · 9 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$24
/ night
Indian Camp Campground, LLC
9. Indian Camp Campground, LLC
100%
(2)
44mi from Cape Girardeau · 25 sites · Tents, RVs
We are located in the Kentucky Great River Road Region. Less than 1/2 mile from Area 252 riding park and approximately 5 miles from Columbus Belmont State Park. Access to the Mississippi River Trails of Kentucky connecting with Carlisle County trail system.
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
Lake Murphysboro State Park
11. 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
Mark Twain National Forest
12. Mark Twain National Forest
88%
(21)
452 sites · Bunker, Missouri
Missouri’s only national forest has 1.5 million acres of wilderness to explore.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Columbus-Belmont State Park
13. Columbus-Belmont State Park
100%
(1)
34 sites · Columbus, Kentucky
Discover Columbus-Belmont State Park's rich history and scenic trails.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Fort Massac State Park
14. Fort Massac State Park
100%
(1)
52 sites · Metropolis, Illinois
Discover the origins of American life in Illinois' first state park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
99% (895) • 28 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Cape Girardeau
Wine Trail Wilderness
1. Wine Trail Wilderness
100%
(669)
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
Fredrock Waterfront Glampground
2. 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
The Hickory Chicken
3. 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
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
Rocky Creek Camp
6. Rocky Creek Camp
100%
(1)
39mi from Cape Girardeau · 1 site · Tent, RV
This site has beautiful views of the forest as well as Rocky Creek Spring. Secluded area. Beautiful clear view of the sky. Sit next to the creek and listen to nature. You can tent camp or a small camper. You will need an suv or 4x4 to reach the destination. Come stay, play and relax. You will be able to watch the stars at nigh
Pets
Campfires
from
$48
/ night
Curt’s Cabin
7. Curt’s Cabin
100%
(1)
39mi from Cape Girardeau · 1 site · Tent, RV
Camp or plug the RV in at the site of a remote, historical home with a peaceful view of the valley. Amenities include a fire-ring, hot tub, mountain bikes and lawn games. Renting and occupying the 3 bedroom, 2 bath circa 1800 early American log home is optional. Additionally, guests have access to a private creek for added relaxation. For a fee, tours of the 1800 American log cabin and a 1790 French log cabin may be arranged through the host. If available, host can take up to 6 guests (must be physically fit) on a trail ride touring beautiful forests and meadows which includes some thrilling assents and descents in/on a historic International Scout. Liability waiver required.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from
$30
/ night
Scottish Highland Cattle Ranch
8. Scottish Highland Cattle Ranch
100%
(12)
27mi from Cape Girardeau · 9 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$24
/ night
Indian Camp Campground, LLC
9. Indian Camp Campground, LLC
100%
(2)
44mi from Cape Girardeau · 25 sites · Tents, RVs
We are located in the Kentucky Great River Road Region. Less than 1/2 mile from Area 252 riding park and approximately 5 miles from Columbus Belmont State Park. Access to the Mississippi River Trails of Kentucky connecting with Carlisle County trail system.
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
Lake Murphysboro State Park
11. 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
Mark Twain National Forest
12. Mark Twain National Forest
88%
(21)
452 sites · Bunker, Missouri
Missouri’s only national forest has 1.5 million acres of wilderness to explore.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Columbus-Belmont State Park
13. Columbus-Belmont State Park
100%
(1)
34 sites · Columbus, Kentucky
Discover Columbus-Belmont State Park's rich history and scenic trails.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Fort Massac State Park
14. Fort Massac State Park
100%
(1)
52 sites · Metropolis, Illinois
Discover the origins of American life in Illinois' first state park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
r
rhea
4 days ago
16 ft car
With pets
my pup and i were stopping through on a road trip and it was a lovely place to rest! jon was wonderful and responded right away, offering to stay up late to welcome us. and the trees and woods all around were gorgeous. definitely recommend !
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Jackie
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
We've stayed here several times. Continues getting better. Although the star of the show this time was star-gazing during 65 degree weather the day after Christmas! Thx again Jon for wonderful place to stay.
See more
A
Adam
3 weeks ago
13 ft travel trailer
With pets
Jon and Carla were wonderful hosts. Jon had everything we could want and more! We had a lovely stay. Would definitely book again.
See more
J
James
November 2025
20 ft travel trailer
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.
See more
Wilson
November 2025
17 ft travel trailer
With pets
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
See moreF
Frank
November 2025
Tent
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!
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Kyle
November 2025
19 ft pop-up camper
With pets
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!
See moreB
Bryson
November 2025
Tent
With pets
Beautiful campground with an awesome host! Will definitely stay again next time we are out this way!
See moreM
Molly
October 2025
Tent
With pets
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.
See more
S
Samuel
October 2025
21 ft travel trailer
With pets
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.
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Travis
October 2025
Tent
With pets
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.
See more
M
Mimi
October 2025
12 ft campervan
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 !
See more
K
Kari
October 2025
16 ft travel trailer
With pets
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.
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V
Valerie
October 2025
28 ft travel trailer
With pets
Very well taken care of campground and Misty and her staff were a delight!
There are so many little hidden spots they have setup to just relax in the woods by the creek. The road noise is noticeable, but the area makes up for it for sure!!!
See morep
patrick
October 2025
4 ft pop-up camper
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.
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Kate & Austin
October 2025
19 ft pop-up camper
With pets
Excellent communication from the hosts! Very nice and accommodating people!
See moreS
Spence
October 2025
33 ft Class C
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.
See moreP
Paul
October 2025
21 ft travel trailer
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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J
Jenny
October 2025
Tent
With kids
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!
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Kate
October 2025
24 ft Class B
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.
See more
