The best waterside camping near Cape Girardeau

Set up camp along the Mississippi and soak in Cape Girardeau’s waterside scene—over 670 spots put you right by the river, lakes, or tucked near secret streams. Most sites let you bring pets, light a campfire, and enjoy a hot shower. Fishing rods come out early here; herons and eagles do their own scouting along the banks. Trails wind through bluffs and bottomlands, and you’ll hear frogs at dusk. Options start at $10 a night, with an average price that keeps your wallet happy. Locals rave about Wine Trail Wilderness (509 reviews), The Art Farm Women's Retreat (159 reviews), and Monarch Hill Vineyard (48 reviews) for scenery and easy access to the water. Bring boots you don’t mind getting muddy—this is real river country.