The best camping near Leasburg with campfires

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Located in the Central Missouri Ozarks Mountains, Leasburg may be a small speck of a town, but the surrounding landscapes offer a grand taste of the outdoors. Meramec River, Courtois Creek, and Huzzah Creek are hot spots for fishing, paddling, and floating. Nearby state parks feature caves to explore. A number of private RV parks are found across the area, with full hookups, free wifi, and other amenities.

97% (3.3K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Arcadia Valley Outdoors Land

1. Arcadia Valley Outdoors Land

98%
(839)
49mi from Leasburg · 37 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Ironton, MO
A wooded, more private camping experience with unique site designs and natural elements. Wood-burning sauna and hot tub available for guest use. Primitive Camping Van/vehicle Camping Small Trailers Glamping Bike Trails, Hiking, creek sit-in' on site! Best of the midwest biking, hiking, Ozark Trail, rock climbing Elephant Rocks Park, Johnson Shut-ins and more swimming holes nearby! Wood for sale on site, $5 per bundle, Fire starters also available. Ask us about our "Really Good At Camping" merchandise. We have shirts, mugs & wine tumblers! *Cash Only* at this time. We Have free stickers! *For camp site locations please refer to our map in the campsite listing photos. We are located just west of the Ironton Water Works Plant and the Shepherd Mountain Lake dam. Turn right after the dam, drive through Shepherd Mountain Lake Park. If our "campground guests only" gate if it is closed, and please close gate behind you. Thank you! No Hook Ups No swimming in the lake and no outside boats, but we have boats for campers to use free of charge! General Store and restroom facilities/showers coming soon!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$32
 / night
Spring Lake Ranch

3. Spring Lake Ranch

93%
(1979)
22mi from Leasburg · 43 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$17
 / night
Matt's Place at Meramec n Labarque

5. Matt's Place at Meramec n Labarque

100%
(68)
43mi from Leasburg · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Eureka, MO
Located at the confluence of the Meramec River and Labarque Creek, my place (Matt's Place) is a ridge above a bottomland bowl of sorts. The old iron truss bridge here is likely built in 1910 and it has a survey marker from 1932. The creek has a nice little swimming hole, and a beach that is sometimes sand, sometimes, gravel, and sometimes a mix of both with some silt or even mud after a storm. It's peaceful down there to explore in the creek, wade while looking outward to an opening into the Meramec River. It's also fun to stand just at the mouth of the creek in the Meramec River. It's an awesome view upstream or downstream of tree lined banks, rock bluffs, and every now and then, passing boats, canoes, paddle boards, or kayaks. The old iron truss bridge hovers above the meeting of two waters. The water is cool and clean. Some fifty species of fish have been recorded in this creek, the most in all of Jefferson County and St Louis County. The bottomland has two levels, the lower bottoms down by the creek and the upper bottoms about a hundred feet from the creek. The upper bottoms has a clearing like a meadow with mowed grass. My favorite things to do here include gazing up at a cottonwood tree that must be sixty feet tall. It's leaves in a breeze are like a thousand hands waving hello. The bottomland meadow offers just enough sky to see bats dance in the dusk air between the trees, then fireflies as it gets darker yet. Up top is where I live. Just five miles off HWY 44 and HWY 109, at Eureka, MO, (30 minutes west of downtown St Louis, 18 minutes from Six Flags) this place sits on a ridge with great views above the Meramec River.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night
Grand Army Farm

8. Grand Army Farm

95%
(92)
40mi from Leasburg · 2 sites · Tents · Labadie , MO
Grand Army Farm is a family owned working farm. We raise beautiful angora goats for fiber and have chickens, ducks, geese, turkeys and meat goats. We serve local restaurants and participate in many local area farmers market. We pride ourselves in minimizing our carbon footprint, to the extent that we don't own any heavy piece of farm equipment, not even an ATV. The working portion of the game only accounts for 15 % of the land. What this means is that 85% of the wooded acres is available for you HipCampers to hike and explore. Of particular interest is the site of an old moonshine distillery hidden in the woods, a 20 min hike east of your campsite. Legends has it that the moonshine was illicitly produced during Prohibition and sold in the loft of our biggest barn where people would drink and dance the night away. The property boats of gorgeous mature oak trees, hickory trees and newer cedar stands where nature abounds. In the morning you may see the herons fly in or the Canadian geese come in.Learn more about this land:Pitch your own tent by our 5 acres lake. You will hear the frogs croak at night, see sights of blue herons or Canadian geese flying in, and hear our own geese and ducks greet you from across the lake. You will see my goat barn and see the majestic angora goats with shimmering coats come in for their feedings in the morning and leave to go to pasture afterwards. You will be a 10 min walk from our house and have complete privacy.  If you would like to make a fire, there is plenty of wood available to pick up on site.  A map on the patio fridge will show you where water is available and the hiking trail head.
Potable water
Trash
from 
$18
 / night
Ozark wildflowers

9. Crooked Creek Ranch

99%
(83)
23mi from Leasburg · 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
Trash
from 
$27
 / night
The Magic Land Homestead

10. The Magic Land Homestead

94%
(16)
28mi from Leasburg · 4 sites · Lodging · Grubville, MO
The Magic Land Homestead is our 70 acre wooded private retreat. We are about an hour from St. Louis, Missouri, on a beautiful country drive. We rent our Enchanted Treehouse that sleeps up to 9 guests for those who enjoy a more pampered getaway with a real bathroom and shower, and we also rent out a Rustic A-Frame that's a little more primitive with a composting toilet and a hose shower out back. Our four free range lovable dogs, colorful chickens, silly geese and goofy turkey Hammerstein, are usually part of the fun of your stay. We have a 3 acre lake with kayak and paddle boat and dock as well as a spring fed wet weather creek. Our mission is to grow our own organic food and to live as sustainably and mindfully as possible in connection with Mother Nature. So the guests we attract are looking for a sacred more quiet getaway. If you wish to throw a big party another place would be best. There are some trails and open areas to play, along with fun swings and an opportunity to reconnect with your soul. We look forward to seeing you soon!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$70
 / night
Delightful 1 bedroom peaceful tiny house

12. Delightful 1 bedroom peaceful tiny house

93%
(23)
38mi from Leasburg · 1 site · Lodging · Salem, MO
We bought this property to enjoy our horses and cattle as well as the small animals including our rabbits , chickens , ducks , and more . We turned one of our barns into a place to have music and line dancing, however over time it turned into a perfect place for weddings and gathering events. We enjoy meeting the people who visit our farm . The sunsets behind the barn are therapeutic and soothing to the soul! Our small animals are the heart of the farm. We enjoy them and our guests are welcome to enjoy them as well. Learn more about this land:You won’t forget the peaceful surroundings of this rustic destination. Your stay with us is sure to bring you back to simplicity of life while comfortably cozy and relaxed . While TV and WiFi are available , you will find yourself content with viewing the activities of the surroundings and serene atmosphere. Just minutes away you’ll find exciting selections of activities , excellent dining , and friendly small businesses with a wide selection of interest .Guests are welcome to our venue and we encourage meeting with us to enjoy farm animals and surroundings .This is a working farm. This includes small and large farm animals .
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$72
 / night
Sinking Creek Ranch RVs & Glamping

13. Sinking Creek Ranch RVs & Glamping

100%
(3)
42mi from Leasburg · 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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night

Located in the Central Missouri Ozarks Mountains, Leasburg may be a small speck of a town, but the surrounding landscapes offer a grand taste of the outdoors. Meramec River, Courtois Creek, and Huzzah Creek are hot spots for fishing, paddling, and floating. Nearby state parks feature caves to explore. A number of private RV parks are found across the area, with full hookups, free wifi, and other amenities.

97% (3.3K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Arcadia Valley Outdoors Land

1. Arcadia Valley Outdoors Land

98%
(839)
49mi from Leasburg · 37 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Ironton, MO
A wooded, more private camping experience with unique site designs and natural elements. Wood-burning sauna and hot tub available for guest use. Primitive Camping Van/vehicle Camping Small Trailers Glamping Bike Trails, Hiking, creek sit-in' on site! Best of the midwest biking, hiking, Ozark Trail, rock climbing Elephant Rocks Park, Johnson Shut-ins and more swimming holes nearby! Wood for sale on site, $5 per bundle, Fire starters also available. Ask us about our "Really Good At Camping" merchandise. We have shirts, mugs & wine tumblers! *Cash Only* at this time. We Have free stickers! *For camp site locations please refer to our map in the campsite listing photos. We are located just west of the Ironton Water Works Plant and the Shepherd Mountain Lake dam. Turn right after the dam, drive through Shepherd Mountain Lake Park. If our "campground guests only" gate if it is closed, and please close gate behind you. Thank you! No Hook Ups No swimming in the lake and no outside boats, but we have boats for campers to use free of charge! General Store and restroom facilities/showers coming soon!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$32
 / night
Spring Lake Ranch

3. Spring Lake Ranch

93%
(1979)
22mi from Leasburg · 43 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$17
 / night
Matt's Place at Meramec n Labarque

5. Matt's Place at Meramec n Labarque

100%
(68)
43mi from Leasburg · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Eureka, MO
Located at the confluence of the Meramec River and Labarque Creek, my place (Matt's Place) is a ridge above a bottomland bowl of sorts. The old iron truss bridge here is likely built in 1910 and it has a survey marker from 1932. The creek has a nice little swimming hole, and a beach that is sometimes sand, sometimes, gravel, and sometimes a mix of both with some silt or even mud after a storm. It's peaceful down there to explore in the creek, wade while looking outward to an opening into the Meramec River. It's also fun to stand just at the mouth of the creek in the Meramec River. It's an awesome view upstream or downstream of tree lined banks, rock bluffs, and every now and then, passing boats, canoes, paddle boards, or kayaks. The old iron truss bridge hovers above the meeting of two waters. The water is cool and clean. Some fifty species of fish have been recorded in this creek, the most in all of Jefferson County and St Louis County. The bottomland has two levels, the lower bottoms down by the creek and the upper bottoms about a hundred feet from the creek. The upper bottoms has a clearing like a meadow with mowed grass. My favorite things to do here include gazing up at a cottonwood tree that must be sixty feet tall. It's leaves in a breeze are like a thousand hands waving hello. The bottomland meadow offers just enough sky to see bats dance in the dusk air between the trees, then fireflies as it gets darker yet. Up top is where I live. Just five miles off HWY 44 and HWY 109, at Eureka, MO, (30 minutes west of downtown St Louis, 18 minutes from Six Flags) this place sits on a ridge with great views above the Meramec River.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night
Grand Army Farm

8. Grand Army Farm

95%
(92)
40mi from Leasburg · 2 sites · Tents · Labadie , MO
Grand Army Farm is a family owned working farm. We raise beautiful angora goats for fiber and have chickens, ducks, geese, turkeys and meat goats. We serve local restaurants and participate in many local area farmers market. We pride ourselves in minimizing our carbon footprint, to the extent that we don't own any heavy piece of farm equipment, not even an ATV. The working portion of the game only accounts for 15 % of the land. What this means is that 85% of the wooded acres is available for you HipCampers to hike and explore. Of particular interest is the site of an old moonshine distillery hidden in the woods, a 20 min hike east of your campsite. Legends has it that the moonshine was illicitly produced during Prohibition and sold in the loft of our biggest barn where people would drink and dance the night away. The property boats of gorgeous mature oak trees, hickory trees and newer cedar stands where nature abounds. In the morning you may see the herons fly in or the Canadian geese come in.Learn more about this land:Pitch your own tent by our 5 acres lake. You will hear the frogs croak at night, see sights of blue herons or Canadian geese flying in, and hear our own geese and ducks greet you from across the lake. You will see my goat barn and see the majestic angora goats with shimmering coats come in for their feedings in the morning and leave to go to pasture afterwards. You will be a 10 min walk from our house and have complete privacy.  If you would like to make a fire, there is plenty of wood available to pick up on site.  A map on the patio fridge will show you where water is available and the hiking trail head.
Potable water
Trash
from 
$18
 / night
Ozark wildflowers

9. Crooked Creek Ranch

99%
(83)
23mi from Leasburg · 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
Trash
from 
$27
 / night
The Magic Land Homestead

10. The Magic Land Homestead

94%
(16)
28mi from Leasburg · 4 sites · Lodging · Grubville, MO
The Magic Land Homestead is our 70 acre wooded private retreat. We are about an hour from St. Louis, Missouri, on a beautiful country drive. We rent our Enchanted Treehouse that sleeps up to 9 guests for those who enjoy a more pampered getaway with a real bathroom and shower, and we also rent out a Rustic A-Frame that's a little more primitive with a composting toilet and a hose shower out back. Our four free range lovable dogs, colorful chickens, silly geese and goofy turkey Hammerstein, are usually part of the fun of your stay. We have a 3 acre lake with kayak and paddle boat and dock as well as a spring fed wet weather creek. Our mission is to grow our own organic food and to live as sustainably and mindfully as possible in connection with Mother Nature. So the guests we attract are looking for a sacred more quiet getaway. If you wish to throw a big party another place would be best. There are some trails and open areas to play, along with fun swings and an opportunity to reconnect with your soul. We look forward to seeing you soon!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$70
 / night
Delightful 1 bedroom peaceful tiny house

12. Delightful 1 bedroom peaceful tiny house

93%
(23)
38mi from Leasburg · 1 site · Lodging · Salem, MO
We bought this property to enjoy our horses and cattle as well as the small animals including our rabbits , chickens , ducks , and more . We turned one of our barns into a place to have music and line dancing, however over time it turned into a perfect place for weddings and gathering events. We enjoy meeting the people who visit our farm . The sunsets behind the barn are therapeutic and soothing to the soul! Our small animals are the heart of the farm. We enjoy them and our guests are welcome to enjoy them as well. Learn more about this land:You won’t forget the peaceful surroundings of this rustic destination. Your stay with us is sure to bring you back to simplicity of life while comfortably cozy and relaxed . While TV and WiFi are available , you will find yourself content with viewing the activities of the surroundings and serene atmosphere. Just minutes away you’ll find exciting selections of activities , excellent dining , and friendly small businesses with a wide selection of interest .Guests are welcome to our venue and we encourage meeting with us to enjoy farm animals and surroundings .This is a working farm. This includes small and large farm animals .
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$72
 / night
Sinking Creek Ranch RVs & Glamping

13. Sinking Creek Ranch RVs & Glamping

100%
(3)
42mi from Leasburg · 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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night

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Public campgrounds near Leasburg

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

The best camping near Leasburg with campfires guide

Where to go

Onondaga Cave State Park

Start your spelunking adventures at Onondaga Cave State Park, located a few minutes outside of town. Lighted pathways and guided tours make it easy to experience the grandeur of this cavern, where a river flows through the dramatic structures. Above ground, the Meramec River extends the recreational opportunities, as do the trails through the surrounding woodlands. The park’s highly-rated campground features basic and water/electric sites for both tents and RVs.

Meramec State Park

Meramec State Park is a quick skip away from Leasburg, 15 miles northeast of town. The Meramec River makes a lazy stroll through the park, serving as a focal point for adventure, including fishing, swimming, and paddling. Trails crisscross the woodlands, and the exploration continues below the ground at Fisher Cave. Three public campgrounds offer a range of services, from basic tent camping to full-hookup RV sites. Cabins and a hotel are also available.

Mark Twain National Forest

Head south of Leasburg to find several units of the Mark Twain National Forest. Hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and more can be found across the 1.5 million acres of woodlands. The trailhead of the Courtois Creek Section of the Ozark Trail is nearby. The 45-mile section connects to a broader network with 200-miles of trails. Near Leasburg, public camping can be found at Brazil Creek Recreation Area, Red Bluff Campground, and Council Bluff Recreation Area. Dry camping and electric hookups are available, with sites for both tents and RVs.

When to go

Pick your season based on your choice of recreation. Summer is best for watersports on the creeks and rivers, but temperatures may be too hot and humid for hiking. Spring and fall are favorites for hitting the trails, especially with autumnal scenery peaking in October. While winter brings cold temperatures and occasional bouts of snow and ice, some campers enjoy the serenity.