The best forest camping in Central Missouri

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Central Missouri’s forests offer a mix of shady oak groves and winding creeks—prime territory for camping that keeps you close to nature. With over 430 forest campsites in the region, you’ll find everything from hammock-perfect woods to clearings large enough for group gatherings. Expect the essentials: toilets, showers, and campfire rings are common, so you won’t need to rough it too hard. Fishing and swimming holes dot the landscape, and horseback riding trails cut through the trees. Prices start at $10 a night, with an average around $39. For tried-and-tested spots, check out Selby Farm Horse Retirement (422 reviews), Riverbend RV Park and Campground (148 reviews), or Retreat to the Country (129 reviews). Bring your rod, pack your boots, and don’t forget the marshmallows.

91% (1.2K)

Top-rated campgrounds

B Berry Farms & Co.

1. B Berry Farms & Co.

99%
(216)
16 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Elkland, MO
Would you like to try something different than your everyday routine? Well, then come on out to a little place in the country to unplug, unwind, or just enjoy life that's all around you. Our little spot is called B Berry Farms and Co. We are a 40-acre family U-Pick Berry farm and 24-hour Campground with 5 RV spots with 20 amp, 30 amp or 50amp electricity your choice. And we are right in the heart of the Missouri Ozarks with over 4,000 you-pick Berry bushes (and fresh produce in 24' )covering 7 acres, we have something for almost everyone. If you want cleaner, healthier products in your life, we can also help you with that. We are also a natural skin care product manufacturer. Either Bonding by the wood-fired stove in our bunkhouse or cuddling up in the chairs outside, enjoying hot cocoa as it snows. Just looking off into the distance and seeing the sun setting with bursting colors over the rows and rows of berries. Experience a darker night sky than most are used to. Or walk the many acres of colored coated diverse trails, enjoy 2 horseshoe pitching areas, pick delicious berries, throw axes at our log targets, Glow in the dark frisbee, Play 4 holes of frisbee golf, swing on several adult swings, play an intense game of pool on our table, climb a 12-foot high wall, enjoy our 10' bouncing net hanging from the ceiling, play in the many sandboxes, sweat out a game with a 35' professional Volleyball net (ball provided)and badminton(we have rackets and birdies), Play in the new Waterhole WATERPARK play area day or night which sprays water in all directions with water slide, ( Trampoline, 95' kids Zipline, 9'x9' colored swing net, 2 swings, 14' fireman's pole, monkey bars, rock climbing walls, swing bridges amd forts) and so many more things to do. Cold showers, 2 solar-heated shower houses (seasonal frost to frost), 2 restrooms, and several hand-washing stations, or handwash laundry tub. We sell farm fresh eggs, and baked goods(homemade breads, cinnamon rolls, cookies, muffins, and many fresh seasonal vegetables as well as picked to order, and handmade natural products.
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$6
 / night
Spring Lake Ranch

8. Spring Lake Ranch

93%
(1983)
43 sites · Tents, RVs · Potosi, MO
Spring Lake Ranch boasts countless trails and lake activities. Formerly known as Sayersbrook Bison ranch, at one time it was one of the largest Bison ranches in the world. This property is filled with amazing things to see and explore. Nothing like it in Missouri. Lake is 60+ acres and is spring fed. Amazing fishing, swimming and kayaking. We are pet friendly. You will have amazing lake views and will be close to hiking trails, horseback riding, and wine tasting at Edge Cliff Wineries which is next door to us. The beautiful shower house is super clean, has restrooms and hot showers and it is within walking distance. Firewood and ice are available to purchase; kayaks and fishing poles are available for rent. If you forget something at home stop by our little country store, we might have it! :) The sites are about 20 ft from each other - if you are looking for more privacy please check out the secluded site or the peninsula. **The pool on property is reserved for the lodge guests only, it is not open to the public.
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$17
 / night
Ozark wildflowers

9. Crooked Creek Ranch

99%
(83)
1 site · Tent, RV · Salem, MO
Once a portion of a hunting preserve, Crooked Creek Ranch is located deep in the Missouri Ozarks, within walking distance of Mark Twain National Forest. We've owned and managed Crooked Creek Ranch for many years now, building and maintaining trails, planting trees and working to make the place as beautiful as it can be for all who visit. We hope that you will be as refreshed and revitalized as we are when you set foot into this wonderful forest. It is a lot of very hard work, and totally worth it. If you enjoy it, it will make it that much more worth it! Thanks for reading! Learn more about this land: 100% PRIVACY. 35 private wooded acres all to yourself with a totally private one-mile intermediate level mountain biking-hiking loop trail! Hike peaceful trails, exploring the wooded hills until you find the perfect spot for your tent. If you select a spot near the clearing, you will have access to the picnic table and fire circle. Spend your days mountain biking, hiking, fishing and watching wildlife on a private ranch in the Ozark Mountains, less than a quarter mile from the Mark Twain National Forest. Less than five miles from Indian Trail State Forest (Indian Trail Conservation Area) with beautiful Blackwell Lake. Canoeing and kayaking are less than an hour away (Meramec River, Current River and Jacks Fork River), as well as trout fishing at scenic Meramec Spring Park or Montauk State Park. Peaceful wilderness will inspire artists, writers, musicians. Quiet, secluded, beautiful, and rugged. If you do not want to see anyone, you don't have to. You will have 35 private acres. You will be 100% secluded. If you want amenities, this is not the place. If you want complete privacy, this is the place! Bear and mountain lion have been seen in the area, so please keep this in mind.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$27
 / night
Sinking Creek Ranch RVs & Glamping

16. Sinking Creek Ranch RVs & Glamping

100%
(3)
30 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Bunker, MO
Creekside camping with miles of trails — dirt bike, SxS, ATV, and Horse friendly. Simple, Transparent Pricing At Sinking Creek Ranch, what you see is what you pay — no hidden fees or surprise add-ons. Full-Hookup RV Sites: $40–$50 per night Dry RV Sites: $20–$25 per night RV All-inclusive pricing — covers up to 4 adults, 8 kids, multiple vehicles, and pets at no extra charge. Primitive (Dry) Camping: $15–$20 per night Luxury Glamping Tents: $100–$120 per night The Ranch Welcome to Sinking Creek Ranch, a one-of-a-kind RV campground and glamping destination in the Missouri Ozarks. Set on 277 private acres just minutes from the Current River and Mark Twain National Forest, it’s the perfect mix of peace, adventure, and convenience for riders and RV travelers. RV Camping That Delivers Full-hookup RV sites (30/50 amp, water, sewer) — ideal for trailers, motorhomes, and large rigs Level, private pads with creekside and forest views Pet-friendly **Plenty of space for extra vehicles **and trailer parking in the field. Enjoy the quiet beauty of creekside RV camping in the Ozarks — complete with the utilities and space RVers expect. Ride, Ride, Ride Bring your own dirt bike, side-by-side, or horse — the adventure starts at your campsite. Over 7 miles of single-track trails for dirt bikes, horses, small ATVs, hiking, or mountain biking (under 50in vehicles) A 4.5-mile side-by-side loop located entirely on the property (Over 50in vehicles) Direct access to miles of Ozark forest roads and backcountry trails with proper permits If you’ve been searching for Missouri trails with camping or SxS, ATV, dirt bike, and Horse friendly RV parks, this is it. Please note: We do not offer rentals — guests must bring their own machines or horses. If you plan on bringing a horse please just call us prior. (573-282-6203) Luxury Glamping No RV? No problem. Stay in a luxury canvas glamping tent surrounded by nature — complete with a real bed, cozy lighting, and private fire pit. It’s the perfect Ozark glamping getaway for couples, families, or small groups. Amenities & Highlights Clean bathhouse with hot showers Picnic areas, fire pits, and gathering spaces Pet- and horse-friendly (bring your horse, tack & trailer) Located along Sinking Creek and a short drive from the Current
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$20
 / night
The big oak

19. Selby Farm Horse Retirement

99%
(697)
10 sites · Tents, RVs · Wooldridge, MO
Summary: Easy access from I-70 Great views. Usually very quiet except for wildlife sounds Portapottie at both camping areas Great star viewing. Excellent conditions for pets Hosts live nearby and are good communicators via text or phone. Hosts can direct you to several local attractions and shopping options. Hosts are happy to take questions before, during, or after your stay. Narrative about Selby Farm: Selbys have lived on this 75 acre farm since 1990. Doug and Brenda are retired from teaching at nearby public schools. Our Farm is now dedicated to boarding retired horses for their owners. Feel free to review the Selby Farm Horse Retirement webpage if you are a horse fan. We encourage you to visit our business website where you will see more farm pictures, videos, and where you will learn more about us. We practice rotational grazing for the health of the horses and the health of our pastures. The horses live in a herd as they would in the wild. Basically, they are hanging out with their friends! They also get regular care and feed and so are VERY happy. You will see and probably interact with the horses if you wish. They are guaranteed to come closer if you have treats like carrots and apples slices. Our quiet county road used to be the main road along the river. A hundred years ago it was called "Shanty Road". The shacks that were along it housed workers that harvested food from farms in the river bottom. The only evidence of those shacks now is perrenial flowers growing in unusual places. The area is inhabited by professionals working in nearby towns and cities. In fact there are only five homes along our 1.5 mile section of Copps Chapel Road. The native Americans who used this area did so because of the great diversity of wildlife and availability of water. Also the view is amazing in all directions. Was using this ridge top encampment for security, or just because the view is so satisfying? The Missouri River is on the far side of the bottoms now, but has been very close historically. There is also a large spring flowing from a cave nearby. Witness the flint chips when you walk through our barn lot. You are likely to see a broken stone tool that was once worked on by a native American. These river hills are composed of soils blown in from the end of the last ice age. Being near the river, erosion has cut down the surrounding area making the scenic topography associated with Missouri River valleys and river hills.
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$24
 / night

Central Missouri’s forests offer a mix of shady oak groves and winding creeks—prime territory for camping that keeps you close to nature. With over 430 forest campsites in the region, you’ll find everything from hammock-perfect woods to clearings large enough for group gatherings. Expect the essentials: toilets, showers, and campfire rings are common, so you won’t need to rough it too hard. Fishing and swimming holes dot the landscape, and horseback riding trails cut through the trees. Prices start at $10 a night, with an average around $39. For tried-and-tested spots, check out Selby Farm Horse Retirement (422 reviews), Riverbend RV Park and Campground (148 reviews), or Retreat to the Country (129 reviews). Bring your rod, pack your boots, and don’t forget the marshmallows.

91% (1.2K)

Top-rated campgrounds

B Berry Farms & Co.

1. B Berry Farms & Co.

99%
(216)
16 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Elkland, MO
Would you like to try something different than your everyday routine? Well, then come on out to a little place in the country to unplug, unwind, or just enjoy life that's all around you. Our little spot is called B Berry Farms and Co. We are a 40-acre family U-Pick Berry farm and 24-hour Campground with 5 RV spots with 20 amp, 30 amp or 50amp electricity your choice. And we are right in the heart of the Missouri Ozarks with over 4,000 you-pick Berry bushes (and fresh produce in 24' )covering 7 acres, we have something for almost everyone. If you want cleaner, healthier products in your life, we can also help you with that. We are also a natural skin care product manufacturer. Either Bonding by the wood-fired stove in our bunkhouse or cuddling up in the chairs outside, enjoying hot cocoa as it snows. Just looking off into the distance and seeing the sun setting with bursting colors over the rows and rows of berries. Experience a darker night sky than most are used to. Or walk the many acres of colored coated diverse trails, enjoy 2 horseshoe pitching areas, pick delicious berries, throw axes at our log targets, Glow in the dark frisbee, Play 4 holes of frisbee golf, swing on several adult swings, play an intense game of pool on our table, climb a 12-foot high wall, enjoy our 10' bouncing net hanging from the ceiling, play in the many sandboxes, sweat out a game with a 35' professional Volleyball net (ball provided)and badminton(we have rackets and birdies), Play in the new Waterhole WATERPARK play area day or night which sprays water in all directions with water slide, ( Trampoline, 95' kids Zipline, 9'x9' colored swing net, 2 swings, 14' fireman's pole, monkey bars, rock climbing walls, swing bridges amd forts) and so many more things to do. Cold showers, 2 solar-heated shower houses (seasonal frost to frost), 2 restrooms, and several hand-washing stations, or handwash laundry tub. We sell farm fresh eggs, and baked goods(homemade breads, cinnamon rolls, cookies, muffins, and many fresh seasonal vegetables as well as picked to order, and handmade natural products.
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$6
 / night
Spring Lake Ranch

8. Spring Lake Ranch

93%
(1983)
43 sites · Tents, RVs · Potosi, MO
Spring Lake Ranch boasts countless trails and lake activities. Formerly known as Sayersbrook Bison ranch, at one time it was one of the largest Bison ranches in the world. This property is filled with amazing things to see and explore. Nothing like it in Missouri. Lake is 60+ acres and is spring fed. Amazing fishing, swimming and kayaking. We are pet friendly. You will have amazing lake views and will be close to hiking trails, horseback riding, and wine tasting at Edge Cliff Wineries which is next door to us. The beautiful shower house is super clean, has restrooms and hot showers and it is within walking distance. Firewood and ice are available to purchase; kayaks and fishing poles are available for rent. If you forget something at home stop by our little country store, we might have it! :) The sites are about 20 ft from each other - if you are looking for more privacy please check out the secluded site or the peninsula. **The pool on property is reserved for the lodge guests only, it is not open to the public.
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$17
 / night
Ozark wildflowers

9. Crooked Creek Ranch

99%
(83)
1 site · Tent, RV · Salem, MO
Once a portion of a hunting preserve, Crooked Creek Ranch is located deep in the Missouri Ozarks, within walking distance of Mark Twain National Forest. We've owned and managed Crooked Creek Ranch for many years now, building and maintaining trails, planting trees and working to make the place as beautiful as it can be for all who visit. We hope that you will be as refreshed and revitalized as we are when you set foot into this wonderful forest. It is a lot of very hard work, and totally worth it. If you enjoy it, it will make it that much more worth it! Thanks for reading! Learn more about this land: 100% PRIVACY. 35 private wooded acres all to yourself with a totally private one-mile intermediate level mountain biking-hiking loop trail! Hike peaceful trails, exploring the wooded hills until you find the perfect spot for your tent. If you select a spot near the clearing, you will have access to the picnic table and fire circle. Spend your days mountain biking, hiking, fishing and watching wildlife on a private ranch in the Ozark Mountains, less than a quarter mile from the Mark Twain National Forest. Less than five miles from Indian Trail State Forest (Indian Trail Conservation Area) with beautiful Blackwell Lake. Canoeing and kayaking are less than an hour away (Meramec River, Current River and Jacks Fork River), as well as trout fishing at scenic Meramec Spring Park or Montauk State Park. Peaceful wilderness will inspire artists, writers, musicians. Quiet, secluded, beautiful, and rugged. If you do not want to see anyone, you don't have to. You will have 35 private acres. You will be 100% secluded. If you want amenities, this is not the place. If you want complete privacy, this is the place! Bear and mountain lion have been seen in the area, so please keep this in mind.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$27
 / night
Sinking Creek Ranch RVs & Glamping

16. Sinking Creek Ranch RVs & Glamping

100%
(3)
30 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Bunker, MO
Creekside camping with miles of trails — dirt bike, SxS, ATV, and Horse friendly. Simple, Transparent Pricing At Sinking Creek Ranch, what you see is what you pay — no hidden fees or surprise add-ons. Full-Hookup RV Sites: $40–$50 per night Dry RV Sites: $20–$25 per night RV All-inclusive pricing — covers up to 4 adults, 8 kids, multiple vehicles, and pets at no extra charge. Primitive (Dry) Camping: $15–$20 per night Luxury Glamping Tents: $100–$120 per night The Ranch Welcome to Sinking Creek Ranch, a one-of-a-kind RV campground and glamping destination in the Missouri Ozarks. Set on 277 private acres just minutes from the Current River and Mark Twain National Forest, it’s the perfect mix of peace, adventure, and convenience for riders and RV travelers. RV Camping That Delivers Full-hookup RV sites (30/50 amp, water, sewer) — ideal for trailers, motorhomes, and large rigs Level, private pads with creekside and forest views Pet-friendly **Plenty of space for extra vehicles **and trailer parking in the field. Enjoy the quiet beauty of creekside RV camping in the Ozarks — complete with the utilities and space RVers expect. Ride, Ride, Ride Bring your own dirt bike, side-by-side, or horse — the adventure starts at your campsite. Over 7 miles of single-track trails for dirt bikes, horses, small ATVs, hiking, or mountain biking (under 50in vehicles) A 4.5-mile side-by-side loop located entirely on the property (Over 50in vehicles) Direct access to miles of Ozark forest roads and backcountry trails with proper permits If you’ve been searching for Missouri trails with camping or SxS, ATV, dirt bike, and Horse friendly RV parks, this is it. Please note: We do not offer rentals — guests must bring their own machines or horses. If you plan on bringing a horse please just call us prior. (573-282-6203) Luxury Glamping No RV? No problem. Stay in a luxury canvas glamping tent surrounded by nature — complete with a real bed, cozy lighting, and private fire pit. It’s the perfect Ozark glamping getaway for couples, families, or small groups. Amenities & Highlights Clean bathhouse with hot showers Picnic areas, fire pits, and gathering spaces Pet- and horse-friendly (bring your horse, tack & trailer) Located along Sinking Creek and a short drive from the Current
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$20
 / night
The big oak

19. Selby Farm Horse Retirement

99%
(697)
10 sites · Tents, RVs · Wooldridge, MO
Summary: Easy access from I-70 Great views. Usually very quiet except for wildlife sounds Portapottie at both camping areas Great star viewing. Excellent conditions for pets Hosts live nearby and are good communicators via text or phone. Hosts can direct you to several local attractions and shopping options. Hosts are happy to take questions before, during, or after your stay. Narrative about Selby Farm: Selbys have lived on this 75 acre farm since 1990. Doug and Brenda are retired from teaching at nearby public schools. Our Farm is now dedicated to boarding retired horses for their owners. Feel free to review the Selby Farm Horse Retirement webpage if you are a horse fan. We encourage you to visit our business website where you will see more farm pictures, videos, and where you will learn more about us. We practice rotational grazing for the health of the horses and the health of our pastures. The horses live in a herd as they would in the wild. Basically, they are hanging out with their friends! They also get regular care and feed and so are VERY happy. You will see and probably interact with the horses if you wish. They are guaranteed to come closer if you have treats like carrots and apples slices. Our quiet county road used to be the main road along the river. A hundred years ago it was called "Shanty Road". The shacks that were along it housed workers that harvested food from farms in the river bottom. The only evidence of those shacks now is perrenial flowers growing in unusual places. The area is inhabited by professionals working in nearby towns and cities. In fact there are only five homes along our 1.5 mile section of Copps Chapel Road. The native Americans who used this area did so because of the great diversity of wildlife and availability of water. Also the view is amazing in all directions. Was using this ridge top encampment for security, or just because the view is so satisfying? The Missouri River is on the far side of the bottoms now, but has been very close historically. There is also a large spring flowing from a cave nearby. Witness the flint chips when you walk through our barn lot. You are likely to see a broken stone tool that was once worked on by a native American. These river hills are composed of soils blown in from the end of the last ice age. Being near the river, erosion has cut down the surrounding area making the scenic topography associated with Missouri River valleys and river hills.
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$24
 / night

Camper favorites in and near Central Missouri

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Public campgrounds in and near Central Missouri

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Value Prop
Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field