The best yurt rentals near Columbia, Missouri

While the University of Missouri–Columbia (commonly called Mizzou) is the heart of the city, Columbia is much more than a college town. Located halfway between Missouri’s two largest cities (St. Louis and Kansas City) and just north of the state capital in Jefferson City, Columbia is center stage in the Show Me State. It offers a hip downtown, outdoor recreation, and a diverse culture. Campers will find unique glamping getaways, private RV parks, state park campgrounds, and more.

100% (168)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Retreat to the Country

99%

(164)

22mi from Columbia · 4 sites · Lodging · Holts Summit, MO

This land has been asking to be shared. First it was swings and little things for the grandchildren and their friends. Then the Cabin by the pond began to welcome visitors. Soon the steep slope anchored a Yurt with a wrap-around deck that puts you up in the trees. Our gathering spot by the creek became a camp site. Recently the grandkids' Bunk House found its way in. Our Retreat is 10 acres, narrow, but 1/4 mile deep, stretching down a steep wooded slope to a creek - and up the other side to the top of a bluff. It is only ten miles to Jefferson City but has a quiet and distant feel.

2. The Pocket

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(31)

7.5mi from Columbia · 4 sites · RVs, Lodging · Columbia, MO

A literal 30 acre pocket of paradise tucked away just minutes North of Columbia, MO. Here you’ll find a private lake with fishing access, rolling hills with stunning sunrises and sunsets, plenty of space to reset with nature, perfect for a glamping getaway. We have 3 separate sites on the property. Our 24’ yurt that sleeps up to 6 with indoor toilet (no shower) propane fireplace for chilly fall and winter stays and AC for the Missouri heat; a cozy RV that sleeps 4 (queen bed and bunks in the back) offers all the amenities of home with a kitchen and bathroom (with hot water and shower); and last we have a level gravel site with 30amp electric and water hook ups (no dump capability) with picnic table, fire pit and grill available for those that want to bring their own RV. We are Pet friendly (with additional cost for the yurt) as we have our own over friendly farm dog. Come play yard games, swing, fish, bring your kayak or paddle board, kids can play or swim on our sandy beach, or just walk our 1 mile perimeter trail, a perfect place to rest, rejuvenate and recharge. Farm fresh eggs are available as well as any extra firewood. We look forward to meeting you and sharing our little pocket of paradise.

While the University of Missouri–Columbia (commonly called Mizzou) is the heart of the city, Columbia is much more than a college town. Located halfway between Missouri’s two largest cities (St. Louis and Kansas City) and just north of the state capital in Jefferson City, Columbia is center stage in the Show Me State. It offers a hip downtown, outdoor recreation, and a diverse culture. Campers will find unique glamping getaways, private RV parks, state park campgrounds, and more.

100% (168)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Retreat to the Country

99%

(164)

22mi from Columbia · 4 sites · Lodging · Holts Summit, MO

This land has been asking to be shared. First it was swings and little things for the grandchildren and their friends. Then the Cabin by the pond began to welcome visitors. Soon the steep slope anchored a Yurt with a wrap-around deck that puts you up in the trees. Our gathering spot by the creek became a camp site. Recently the grandkids' Bunk House found its way in. Our Retreat is 10 acres, narrow, but 1/4 mile deep, stretching down a steep wooded slope to a creek - and up the other side to the top of a bluff. It is only ten miles to Jefferson City but has a quiet and distant feel.

2. The Pocket

100%

(31)

7.5mi from Columbia · 4 sites · RVs, Lodging · Columbia, MO

A literal 30 acre pocket of paradise tucked away just minutes North of Columbia, MO. Here you’ll find a private lake with fishing access, rolling hills with stunning sunrises and sunsets, plenty of space to reset with nature, perfect for a glamping getaway. We have 3 separate sites on the property. Our 24’ yurt that sleeps up to 6 with indoor toilet (no shower) propane fireplace for chilly fall and winter stays and AC for the Missouri heat; a cozy RV that sleeps 4 (queen bed and bunks in the back) offers all the amenities of home with a kitchen and bathroom (with hot water and shower); and last we have a level gravel site with 30amp electric and water hook ups (no dump capability) with picnic table, fire pit and grill available for those that want to bring their own RV. We are Pet friendly (with additional cost for the yurt) as we have our own over friendly farm dog. Come play yard games, swing, fish, bring your kayak or paddle board, kids can play or swim on our sandy beach, or just walk our 1 mile perimeter trail, a perfect place to rest, rejuvenate and recharge. Farm fresh eggs are available as well as any extra firewood. We look forward to meeting you and sharing our little pocket of paradise.

Stories from the community

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Bobby

October 2025

2 nights at Retreat to the Country

The perfect get away from urban life. Our 25th wedding anniversary brought us to this Hipcamp yurt. Bill had all our needs taken care of. The woods was in fall transition. The view is amazing as is the mystical yurt. Thank you very much Bill!

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Addie

August 2025

1 night at Retreat to the Country

This yurt was absolutely spectacular - my jaw actually dropped as soon as I opened the door. This was our checkpoint on our way home to Ohio from Colorado, 16hrs in the car from CO to MO, and this little place was exactly what we needed. We were elated to find AC, full working kitchen and shower, the most comfortable bed of our entire trip, and gorgeously whimsical deco fitted with tea candles and fairy lights for the perfect ambience. Their kitchen was fitted with all of the utensils and equipment one would need, including a microwave, electric stovetop, and a pantry stocked with seasonings, among many other kitchen amenities. The food we picked up on our way into town had gotten cold by the time we got in, so we were so relieved that we could use the kitchen to heat it all back up! Even the outhouse was stellar, with running water for washing and compost toilet. All in all, the only thing I would have changed about our stay is that I wish we could have stayed longer! Excellent campsite guys, thank you so much

J

Jeff

August 2025

1 night at Retreat to the Country

Bill's Yurt was a wonderful place to stay! It is in a beautiful location on the property and the overall location was easy for us to find on our bicycles. The yurt was well supplied and we thought the composting toilet was great! Bill did a great job communicating with us and we would highly recommend staying at the yurt!

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Ren

July 2025

2 nights at Retreat to the Country

This yurt was truly magical! The setting was so private and quaint.. the trails that were right on the property were so fun to explore. Check-in was seamless and all instructions were clearly provided. Bill was an amazing host, and even shipped back some items I had left behind asap. Everything was so clean and all of the cooking supplies provided allowed us to make some scrumptious meals throughout all the outdoor activity. We had such a wonderful time lying in the hammock attached to the deck, and never felt swarmed by bugs! It was two nights of pure bliss in a beautiful area, we cannot wait to come back!

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Sophia

June 2025

With pets

2 nights at Retreat to the Country

A great yurt! We had a wonderful time and found it very relaxing. Couldn't ask for anything better!

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Kaleb

June 2025

Weekend Trip to Retreat to the Country

Was a great quiet escape, comfortable in the woods, with a trail to walk right outside the door. Space was clean, great communication, great directions. Would book again and again!

E

Erica

May 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Retreat to the Country

The yurt itself was very inviting, and the wood stove was easy enough to enjoy. The weather itself was less than perfect, but that is how camping goes, even hip, yurt camping. Bill himself was wonderfully communicative, so that there were no troubles finding and using the yurt.

Crystal

May 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Retreat to the Country

We absolutely loved staying at Bill’s yurt. It was super cozy and had everything we needed for the weekend. My son and I put together a puzzle one evening (provided by the host), my husband and I sat by a fire and played cards (cards and wood provided by the host), and then we took a walk down the trail to a nice little creek where we found a fire pit, chairs and a hammock! Each evening we were visited by the sweetest kitty. The host, Bill, was very nice and my husband enjoyed chatting with him every time he went to get more wood. We will definitely be planning another stay at this location!

Anne

March 2025

Weekend Trip to Retreat to the Country

The yurt was cozy and comfy! As a solo female traveler, I felt completely safe and secure, too! The view was beautiful, even before the trees filled in with leaves and the little trail down to the creek was very cute! My young kiddos would have absolutely adored playing in the creek! Lots of fun little touches that showed that it’s a place filled with care and love.

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Laura

March 2025

5 nights at Retreat to the Country

Every corner of this property is touched with Love. For me, it was a haven, a sanctuary to read, write, meditate, and really commune with Nature and the glorious stars. The yurt is perfectly located to experience the sunrise and sunset. The moon and stars seem to prefer hanging out over the deck. The trail is just enough, and the creek is a gurgling joy. Bill is a great host, willing to do whatever you want, or stay the heck away. He created this/these gloriously special spaces FOR US. When you go, be sure to read the guest book when you arrive so you can benefit from all the good energy and experiences that have made being there heart opening and, quite frankly, sacred. And, of course, if you are willing to allow it, you will have a best friend in Cleopatra the cat. One hint: park on the drive to the upside of the yurt/trail unless you have 4 wheel drive (wink).

S

Sumarlea

March 2025

Weekend Trip to Retreat to the Country

Amazing property! Really enjoyed the trail. It’s such a cool place. We had so much fun and had everything we could possibly need staying in the yurt! Truly a lovely experience!

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Megan

March 2025

Weekend Trip to Retreat to the Country

The yurt was lovely. So many special touches! A nicely stocked kitchen area, the futon was already made with sheets and a quilt under the cover. We had a girls weekend, and it was so much fun just to wander around and explore the little touches in the yurt. It was beautiful. Definitely felt more clamping, than camping, we just needed to add our own food! It was very cozy and warm on arrival (late winter time), there were 2 space heaters running and a central heater when we arrived. They were easy to adjust and keep it cozy. Things you might want to know: The land itself is a narrow strip in the woods, we took a little jaunt down the hill to the creek, but not much space to hike on the land. It might not be super pleasant to cross to the compost toilet in very cold weather, but it was fine for us, if a bit chilly! Overall, I have no complaints. It was a beautiful space, we really enjoyed it!

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zaza

December 2024

Weekend Trip to Retreat to the Country

The yurt is a magical place. Bill has created a haven for weary souls. I am exited to return so I can connect with the divine. Blessed be!

Danielle

November 2024

With pets

1 night at Retreat to the Country

This magical treehouse yurt was incredible. The pros: amazing scenery and feel. The bed was heavenly. Glad there was a shower! Even the outhouse was adorable. The host was incredibly gracious with us on a personal accommodation request and I am SO grateful for that! Our stay was wonderful. The "cons": I have a big van and it was kind of difficult to get out of the parking space, so keep that in mind when driving in. Also, small thing (but feels big in the moment) was that there was no creamer for the coffee. BUT the coffee ended up being so delicious that I did not need it lol. Over all would DEFINITELY RECOMMEND! Thank you so so much.

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Nick

November 2024

Weekend Trip to Retreat to the Country

Heaven. Was super amazing and super relaxing. Bill was an amazing host and took care of everything needed. We try and do something different every trip. This was new but was worth itm secluded, peaceful and quiet.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best yurts near Columbia guide

Where to go

Katy Trail

This 240-mile rail-to-trail conversion crosses almost the entire width of mid-Missouri, running approximately parallel to Interstate 70. Even if you don’t intend to bike the entire trail, Columbia is a great jumping-off point for a shorter spur. Hop on the MKT Trail in Columbia to catch the Katy Trail to Rocheport and beyond. Rocheport has antebellum homes, a 243-foot tunnel with a picturesque stone arch, and scenic rock bluffs. Many camping options near the trail cater to bicyclists, offering tent, RV, and glamping accommodations.

The District (Downtown Columbia)

The District covers 50 square blocks of downtown Columbia, with three college campuses at its border. This is where you go to eat, shop, and be entertained. Think local coffee shops, quirky dessert nooks, foodie-approved restaurants, live music, outdoor patios, cozy bookstores, and colorful cocktails. Whether you go for a night on the town or for a sleepy breakfast, you’ll find numerous temptations. Walk to the Mizzou campus to appreciate the historic buildings and award-winning landscaping. Private RV resorts can be located near downtown, as well as private campsites.

State Parks and National Forests Near Columbia

The mid-state region is home to a number of state parks and historic sights, and Rock Bridge Memorial is one of the most popular, thanks to the scenic trails and unique geological features. For camping, Finger Lakes State Park is the closest option, offering tent and RV camping onsite. Mark Twain National Forest has a handful of public campgrounds near Columbia, including Dry Fork and Pine Ridge Recreation Areas.

When to go

The population swells with the school year calendar, bringing over 30,000 students to campus. While campsites might be harder to find, the students also bring a buzz of energy to Columbia, which moves at a slower pace during summertime. The shoulder seasons of spring and fall are the best time for camping, with pleasant weather. Summer can bring high temperatures and sweltering humidity, while winter drops below freezing and brings snow and ice.