Lake Camping Near Portage Des Sioux, Missouri, US: 12 Best Lake Campsites 2025

Lake camping in Portage Des Sioux delivers over 110 options for pitching your tent right by the water. Average prices hover around $30 a night, with some sites dipping as low as $15. You’ll find spots with toilets, pet access, and campfires allowed—essentials you want, nothing you don’t. Look out for campsites like McCully Heritage Project (208 reviews), Grove On Top Possum Hill (163 reviews), and PeaceTree Farms (134 reviews). Expect mornings with mist on the water, plenty of wildlife-watching, good fishing, and even horseback riding if you want to change things up. Local advice: check mosquito spray off your packing list and bring a rod—these lakes don’t disappoint.

97% (721)

Top-rated campgrounds

Lake camping in Portage Des Sioux delivers over 110 options for pitching your tent right by the water. Average prices hover around $30 a night, with some sites dipping as low as $15. You’ll find spots with toilets, pet access, and campfires allowed—essentials you want, nothing you don’t. Look out for campsites like McCully Heritage Project (208 reviews), Grove On Top Possum Hill (163 reviews), and PeaceTree Farms (134 reviews). Expect mornings with mist on the water, plenty of wildlife-watching, good fishing, and even horseback riding if you want to change things up. Local advice: check mosquito spray off your packing list and bring a rod—these lakes don’t disappoint.

97% (721)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. McCully Heritage Project

98%

(443)

29mi from Portage Des Sioux · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Kampsville, IL

The McCully Heritage Project is a 940- acre environmental center located one mile south of Kampsville, Illinois in beautiful and remote Calhoun County. We are a private non-profit left as the legacy of Howard and Eva McCully.

2. PeaceTree Farms

99%

(236)

45mi from Portage Des Sioux · 28 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Eolia, MO

PeaceTree Farms is a charming Event Venue, Organic Farm and Outdoor Resort. Hosting everything from weddings, fall and holiday festivals to off-grid camping. Our 153 acre farm has been in our family since the 1970's and has been generally preserved as a wildlife and conservation farm. Your hosts, Katie and Steve are excited to share PeaceTree Farms with fellow nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.

3. Earth, Wind & Solar Farm

98%

(89)

33mi from Portage Des Sioux · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Foristell, MO

Earth, Wind and Solar Farm is 5 acres. You can book multiple sites if you want to stay as a group. We do our best to allow 1 reservation to stay on site at a time. If only 1 site is requested the others are then blocked to allow guests privacy during their stay. If another person requests to stay and it is booked, we will check with the current reservation for approval. We also allow groups to book and camp together if needed (use both rv pads, or tent camp). We do offer 50amp and 30amp power options (2 different RV parking sites). Some people have commented that our driveway entrance seems narrow for larger rigs (Class A's and 5th wheels). We've had 53' long rigs (5th wheels)and 45' (Class A's) pull in and get parked with no issues. You will need to be able to back into a spot for either 50a or 30a service. We do have additional parking available for extra vehicles. If you have a tow vehicle/toad, you will need to detach prior to arrival. There are 2 trucks stops less than 5 miles away (TA and Pilot) or there is a park with a large parking area off of David Hoekel Parkway you can utilize. We do offer 20amp power and extension cord for tent campers (either in our tent or can be used in your own tent. Free cold showers available. A bundle of firewood is now included for use in provided fire pits in needed/requested. Outdoor Hot showers available at a charge of $5/person. This includes the use of propane and a portable hot water heater. Wi-Fi is available during your stay. Will provide network name and password in confirmation email. 3 firepits are available for use (firewood can be purchased). Easy access to our place via Hwy 70 (take the David Hoekel Parkway Exit). We are 5 miles from Wentzville which offers a Walmart, Target, Sams Club, Lowes, Home Depot, multiple grocery stores, Rural King, Charlies and multiple restaurants. We have a stocked pond with catfish, bluegill, sunfish, largemouth bass, black crappie, carp and turtles. There is a Windmill that aerates the pond (do not climb on it). You can fish the pond must practice CPR (catch photo release). Or you can feed the pond fish & feed out chickens. We will provide the fish food and chicken treats. There is plenty of wildlife (deer, fox, raccoons, armadillo's, birds, etc.). Deer will walk by the pond and driveway a couple of times a day. We also have a group of free-range chickens and French guineas (eggs may be available during your stay). There are bike trails in the area, paved roads you can ride on to explore, wineries nearby, a petting zoo and pumpkin patch. Things to do nearby: Horsehoe Hall of Fame, Big Joels Safari, Multiple wineries in Wright City/Augusta/Defiance, Wacky Warriors Paintball, Busch Wildlife, Katy Trail, Pumpkin Patches and so much more.

4. Beaver Dam State Park

100%

(1)

76 sites · Chesterfield, Illinois

With such different ecosystems (we’re talking farmland, open fields, woodlands, lake, and a marsh) wrapped up in one park, Beaver Dam is the place to go see a vast variety of plants and animals. Hike any of the trails and have fun trying to keep count of all the creatures you see! Bring your bow and arrows to the archery range, or spend your time hunting the area. Getting the winter blues? Beaver Dam is open and ready for ice skaters or cross country skiers. Don’t just take our word for it, get down here!

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

5. Brushcana

34mi from Portage Des Sioux · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Foristell, MO

Our property is 6 acres with a pond. Mailbox entrance is 34ft wide. 2nd entrance is 40ft wide. It is heavily wooded with some pathways (in progress). There is an incinerator toilet on site, electric and (well) water. There are 2 separate rv outlets onsite and both are 50a/30a/20a. The pond is stocked with fish. There are fire pits, benches and a picnic table. There are wildlife (deer, raccoons, hawks and foxes). Plenty of (gravel) parking is available.

6. Grand Army Farm

95%

(92)

38mi from Portage Des Sioux · 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.

7. Atkins' Acres Educational Farm

100%

(11)

35mi from Portage Des Sioux · 1 site · Tent · Millstadt, IL

We are a 501 (c)(3) non-profit educational farm. We teach gardening techniques, 4-H programs, Jr Master Naturalist programs, and how to be good stewards of the environment. We are taking row crops out of service and restoring the land to it's previous native condition. Tours are available at no cost by request. Note - the camping area is approximately 200 yards from where you will park. If we are available, we can support with moving your supplies. However, if we are not home at the time of your arrival, you will need to walk your supplies in.

8. Grove On Top Possum Hill

96%

(378)

24mi from Portage Des Sioux · 4 sites · Tents · Worden, IL

The Legend of Possum Hill is an old one. Most likely named thus even before the settlers arived in St. Louis. Before the great expansion west and before the Gateway Arch graced the sky. Wild was the west and animals roamed at will never having seen a man. The acient Indian tribe of Cahokia once had its own travelers who left their mounded cities of pyramids to explore and hunt for new adventure. It was on one of these travels a great storm arose from the spring sky bringing ice down from the heavens. The Indian party was hard pressed to find shelter from such turbulent winds, rain and it was even claimed they witnessed some snow blended in as well well! This particular spring the waters had risen quite high . With this latest storm the creeks and rivers were rushing over their banks. The Indians knew they had to find high ground. They knew they would only be safe in a shelter high enough the raging waters could not breach. Just when they were giving up hope for a suitable place they passed through a low lands grove treading through ankle deep waters when the land started to rise. And rise it did! Up they went up a steep climb and as they crested they found a large grove of hickories, Sycamore and Oak trees. The Indians prized such trees for their strong hard wood and towering hight. They found safety within them and upon chance several hollows in the ancient trees and quickly sheltered themselves in pairs. They weathered until the suns golden rays stretched accross the small pond. In one hollow a young Indian stirred and and he and his companion left their shelter. Reaching back into the tree they grabbed their packs and found hidden behind them, a family of possums who also hIad hid from the storm. Upon return to Cahokia the young Indian told of their travels and remembering the sheltering family of marsupials, he named the place in their honnor because they shared their shelter. And that is the Legend of Possum Hill.Learn more about this land:4 acres with scattered hickory and oak trees with a small fruit orchard in front of an acre size pond. Plenty of space to have a private camp site and enjoy the sounds of nature. Have a sit by the pond or relax in the shade. The evening could be spent grilling or sitting around the fire ring. Perfect for travelers just wishing for a place to stay while an event is in town or just a place to rest their head on the way through. 16 mies from SIUE and Edwardsvile 45 minutes from most of St. Louis. Far enough out in the country but close enough to the city to not miss out on the fun.

9. Hidden Waters At Buttercup Ranch

89%

(14)

37mi from Portage Des Sioux · 3 sites · Tents · Millstadt, IL

Camp on our farm! Canoeing, fishing, and farm tour are available while you relax in the great outdoors. Lush greenery, beautiful lakes, and friendly animals will surround you. Secluded primitive campsites also have firepits (wood included) for cooking. Shared flushable porta -potty for your convenience.

10. Hidden Ridge - at Otter Lake

100%

(22)

42mi from Portage Des Sioux · 1 site · Lodging · Palmyra, IL

At Hidden Ridge, you will have the essential comforts of home while enjoying the serenity of a natural, peaceful setting. You will sleep on comfortable queen-size bed within a 14x16 canvas wall tent which is secured to a stilted deck providing beautiful views of the lake. A private outhouse with flushing toilet, hot shower and an outdoor cooking area are also available. More than just two of you? There is plenty of space for cots, air mattresses and additional tents. We encourage our guests to relax and recharge their spirits by unplugging from their electronic devices. Play games which are available at the camp. Enjoy boating, skiing or fishing on Otter Lake - you can have your boat in the water within minutes from camp! Sit quietly and watch the fish jump - you may even see an eagle fly by. Snuggle by the fire, roast marshmallows or sip a glass of wine from the local winery. To ensure your experience is as authentic as possible, Hidden Ridge is off grid. There is no electricity; enough water is provided for quick showers and bathroom use. Enjoy firelight, lanterns and cooking on an open fire or grill! We do provide cooking essentials. Winter heating is provided by a small propane heater. Our water is not suitable for drinking. Please bring drinking water with you. Verizon and AT&T service coverage is good - just plan to recharge from your automobile. Learn more about this land: Experience authentic camping in a private wooded hideaway located at Otter Lake, Girard, Illinois, just 10 minutes from old Route 66. Experience authentic camping in a private wooded hideaway located at Otter Lake, Girard, Illinois, just 10 minutes

Camper favorites near Portage Des Sioux

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Brushcana

34mi from Portage Des Sioux · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Foristell, MO

Our property is 6 acres with a pond. Mailbox entrance is 34ft wide. 2nd entrance is 40ft wide. It is heavily wooded with some pathways (in progress). There is an incinerator toilet on site, electric and (well) water. There are 2 separate rv outlets onsite and both are 50a/30a/20a. The pond is stocked with fish. There are fire pits, benches and a picnic table. There are wildlife (deer, raccoons, hawks and foxes). Plenty of (gravel) parking is available.

Grand Army Farm

95%

(92)

38mi from Portage Des Sioux · 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.

Atkins' Acres Educational Farm

100%

(11)

35mi from Portage Des Sioux · 1 site · Tent · Millstadt, IL

We are a 501 (c)(3) non-profit educational farm. We teach gardening techniques, 4-H programs, Jr Master Naturalist programs, and how to be good stewards of the environment. We are taking row crops out of service and restoring the land to it's previous native condition. Tours are available at no cost by request. Note - the camping area is approximately 200 yards from where you will park. If we are available, we can support with moving your supplies. However, if we are not home at the time of your arrival, you will need to walk your supplies in.

Grove On Top Possum Hill

96%

(378)

24mi from Portage Des Sioux · 4 sites · Tents · Worden, IL

The Legend of Possum Hill is an old one. Most likely named thus even before the settlers arived in St. Louis. Before the great expansion west and before the Gateway Arch graced the sky. Wild was the west and animals roamed at will never having seen a man. The acient Indian tribe of Cahokia once had its own travelers who left their mounded cities of pyramids to explore and hunt for new adventure. It was on one of these travels a great storm arose from the spring sky bringing ice down from the heavens. The Indian party was hard pressed to find shelter from such turbulent winds, rain and it was even claimed they witnessed some snow blended in as well well! This particular spring the waters had risen quite high . With this latest storm the creeks and rivers were rushing over their banks. The Indians knew they had to find high ground. They knew they would only be safe in a shelter high enough the raging waters could not breach. Just when they were giving up hope for a suitable place they passed through a low lands grove treading through ankle deep waters when the land started to rise. And rise it did! Up they went up a steep climb and as they crested they found a large grove of hickories, Sycamore and Oak trees. The Indians prized such trees for their strong hard wood and towering hight. They found safety within them and upon chance several hollows in the ancient trees and quickly sheltered themselves in pairs. They weathered until the suns golden rays stretched accross the small pond. In one hollow a young Indian stirred and and he and his companion left their shelter. Reaching back into the tree they grabbed their packs and found hidden behind them, a family of possums who also hIad hid from the storm. Upon return to Cahokia the young Indian told of their travels and remembering the sheltering family of marsupials, he named the place in their honnor because they shared their shelter. And that is the Legend of Possum Hill.Learn more about this land:4 acres with scattered hickory and oak trees with a small fruit orchard in front of an acre size pond. Plenty of space to have a private camp site and enjoy the sounds of nature. Have a sit by the pond or relax in the shade. The evening could be spent grilling or sitting around the fire ring. Perfect for travelers just wishing for a place to stay while an event is in town or just a place to rest their head on the way through. 16 mies from SIUE and Edwardsvile 45 minutes from most of St. Louis. Far enough out in the country but close enough to the city to not miss out on the fun.

Hidden Waters At Buttercup Ranch

89%

(14)

37mi from Portage Des Sioux · 3 sites · Tents · Millstadt, IL

Camp on our farm! Canoeing, fishing, and farm tour are available while you relax in the great outdoors. Lush greenery, beautiful lakes, and friendly animals will surround you. Secluded primitive campsites also have firepits (wood included) for cooking. Shared flushable porta -potty for your convenience.

Hidden Ridge - at Otter Lake

100%

(22)

42mi from Portage Des Sioux · 1 site · Lodging · Palmyra, IL

At Hidden Ridge, you will have the essential comforts of home while enjoying the serenity of a natural, peaceful setting. You will sleep on comfortable queen-size bed within a 14x16 canvas wall tent which is secured to a stilted deck providing beautiful views of the lake. A private outhouse with flushing toilet, hot shower and an outdoor cooking area are also available. More than just two of you? There is plenty of space for cots, air mattresses and additional tents. We encourage our guests to relax and recharge their spirits by unplugging from their electronic devices. Play games which are available at the camp. Enjoy boating, skiing or fishing on Otter Lake - you can have your boat in the water within minutes from camp! Sit quietly and watch the fish jump - you may even see an eagle fly by. Snuggle by the fire, roast marshmallows or sip a glass of wine from the local winery. To ensure your experience is as authentic as possible, Hidden Ridge is off grid. There is no electricity; enough water is provided for quick showers and bathroom use. Enjoy firelight, lanterns and cooking on an open fire or grill! We do provide cooking essentials. Winter heating is provided by a small propane heater. Our water is not suitable for drinking. Please bring drinking water with you. Verizon and AT&T service coverage is good - just plan to recharge from your automobile. Learn more about this land: Experience authentic camping in a private wooded hideaway located at Otter Lake, Girard, Illinois, just 10 minutes from old Route 66. Experience authentic camping in a private wooded hideaway located at Otter Lake, Girard, Illinois, just 10 minutes

Public campgrounds near Portage Des Sioux

100%

(1)

Beaver Dam Campground

28mi from Portage Des Sioux · 76 sites · Tents, RVs · in Beaver Dam State Park

Stories from the community

Karin

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to McCully Heritage Project

We really love coming here annually to enjoy the fall colors. Beautiful drive up from St Louis too! Firewood available, picnic tables, and cooking grate over fire. Easy to find and quite private. Welcoming of all people too and much appreciated.

Patty

October 2025

Tent

5 nights at PeaceTree Farms

As always, Katie and her husband are amazing hosts! They had the haunted hayride, and although I didn’t get to go (due to having my 2 dogs while camping), it sounded like it was so much fun from those who did get to go! I left early from my trip due to rain, but love this place and have been many times. Will continue to camp @ PeaceTree. It is so serene and just beautiful!

M

Mason

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to PeaceTree Farms

Katie was a remarkable host with plenty to offer at Peacetree Farms!

J

Jennifer

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to PeaceTree Farms

This place is absolutely beautiful, and Katie went above and beyond to make me feel welcome. If seclusion and peace is what your looking for, this is definitely the place to stay!!! I highly recommend and can’t wait to go back!!!

M

Michael

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Grove On Top Possum Hill

It was very nice. The hosts were very friendly. Would definitely stay again

S

Scott

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Grove On Top Possum Hill

Nice and quiet! Had the place to myself. Would stay again

R

Ray

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Grand Army Farm

Rosalie’s site was beautiful. My girlfriend and I had a fantastic time. Would most certainly come back.

Peter

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Grove On Top Possum Hill

Karmen and Ron are great and I enjoyed staying at their campsite, highly recommend

A

Asher

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Grove On Top Possum Hill

Great spot! felt private and secure in the little grove of hickories despite the house being nearby

L

Lilly

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Grove On Top Possum Hill

Beautiful property! And just close enough to everything.

L

Lotta

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Grove On Top Possum Hill

Cool little spot in the country! Host was available to show us to our site righ away! He was also able to get us firewood for the evening! Hope to be back sometime!

d

denise

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to PeaceTree Farms

This was one of the most beautiful campsites we’ve experienced. It was quiet. We were secluded. The view of the lake and the hills was mesmerizing. We got up just a little early to watch the sun come up. Katie was friendly and accommodating. Free Fire Wood - YAY! We will be back.

A

Amy

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Grove On Top Possum Hill

Karmen was very communicative and flexible. The tree line around the pond almost completely obscured the house from our view, and with our backs to the neighbor's property, we could easily forget that we were in someone's yard. Occasional cars drove past but were not disruptive to us. We had several families camping as a large group. There was plenty of room to spread out, but it was easy to come together around the evening campfire.

J

John

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to PeaceTree Farms

Sarah was great, the campsite was very nice and our group agreed one of our favorite locations we’ve camped. We will be back!

D

Donna A

October 2025

Tent

With pets

7 nights at Grove On Top Possum Hill

Quiet + peaceful. Watch the squirrels antics and chickens interact with cats during the day. Listen to the crickets, tree frogs and owls at night. Hosts are wonderful and welcoming. Great place to relax or have first camping experience.

Kim

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to PeaceTree Farms

We enjoyed our stay in Cabin #2 @ Peacetree Farm. Katie was a wonderful host. Bathrooms were exceptionally clean and our room had nice cool A/C with a serene view into the woods. They were welcoming of our dog and had a goofy kitten that came to play with her frequently. Stargazing was amazing; being in such a remote location and far from any major city lights. We saw several shooting stars and could clearly see the Milky Way. We walked the 1-mile loop around the gorgeous 7 acre lake and saw some breathtaking views along the way. We relaxed by the water and did some fishing - we didn't catch any but we saw another group pulling out a few good sized fish. There weren't a lot of other campers there and everyone was spread out over the property so it felt like we mostly had the place to ourselves. We had our own fire pit (wood provided) with chairs provided and also had access to our own charcoal grill. We had access to a canoe and kayaks and had planned to paddle around the lake with our dog but ran out of time. We hope to go back again in the future. This was a wonderful getaway for us to relax in nature. I highly recommend this place if you're looking looking for a very peaceful getaway in a gorgeous remote location.

Patty

September 2025

Tent

With pets

3 nights at PeaceTree Farms

As always, PeaceTree is just wonderful! The heat was miserable, but the beauty and peacefulness by far outdoes the heat. Looking forward to a late October camp out to see all of the beautiful fall colors!

e

edgar

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Grove On Top Possum Hill

It was a peaceful time camping there and site 4 was amazing. In the woods next to the little pond was very cute. I appreciate the last minute approval on our trip back to Wisconsin. Would recommend anyone else who swings by to take site 4 worth it!!.

D

Donna A

September 2025

Tent

7 nights at Grove On Top Possum Hill

Everyone was friendly and welcoming. They opened there home to use bathroom and shower. Watching the chickens and squirrels antics during the day was fun, listening to owls at night was intriguing. So few skeeters I could leave tent open! Great place to introduce kids to camping. Coming back soon.

R

Robert

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Grove On Top Possum Hill

Stayed here for two nights with my son. Enjoyed the stay and the owners were friendly. Firewood was available for purchase on site. Sites were far enough away from each other that you couldn’t hear or see each other (obscured by trees). We stayed close to the road. I think the other sites were more favorable but that’s just my opinion dude. Each site had its own fire ring. If I had one complaint it would be the noise from the road. It is a rural road with very minimal traffic. For some reason there were side by sides driving down the road very late into the night. I don’t think it would matter if I were staying in a house, it would still wake me up. Obviously this is out of the control of the site, and I state this only to lead into a recommendation to bring some ear plugs. The second night was far more quiet with almost no one driving down the road. Overall I recommend this site and 100% would stay again. ✌️