Camping in Rolla, MO, US: 12 Best Campgrounds 2023

United States
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Missouri
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Rolla

94% (5799 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Rolla

Within one hour of Rolla

Top camping destinations

Fort Leonard Wood

398 campgrounds

Mark Twain National Forest

454 campgrounds

Washington State Park

382 campgrounds

Buffalo National River

Available this weekend

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Mushroom House @Ridge Runner Acres

1 site · Lodging85 acres · Steelville, Crawford

The mushroom house is about 700 sq ft, fully accessible, and has everything you expect a house to, including wifi. It has a wonderful wrap around porch on 3 sides with plenty of seating and lounging areas. There is a primitive fire pit area with access to a hose. We ask that fires not happen on very dry, windy days as we are in the middle of the woods. You can hike the 80 acres or just lounge around and watch the wildlife from the porch. Property Rules: ✨Just be respectful and have a great time! ✨Dogs must remain on a leash while outside. This is for their safety. The forest is huge and we don't want anyone getting lost. ✨No smoking or vaping indoors ✨No trespassing on others property. ✨Leave animals be. ✨The garden hose must always accompany your bonfire. Please wet the area down before you start your fire. NO FIRES allowed when it's SUPER DRY. We are in the forest. ✨No cutting trees, destroying plants, etc. ✨5mph on driveway for the sake of your car (and the forest creatures). ✨No animal hunting. ✨No shooting. ✨No commercial photography or filming (contact us) ✨The pole barn is off limits. Other Considerations: ✨So we are in the middle of the woods with many creatures. Beyond that there are no locks on cabinets and there are tip hazards, non-baby proofed outlets, etc. There are also bodies of water with no barriers. ✨We have a security camera for the driveway, motion sensors (no video/audio) at entrances and another security camera on top of the refrigerator. The one of the fridge will be very obviously unplugged for your stay. Check-In: We can meet you up the road and guide you in OR we can give you an access code - your choice. Check-Out: In general just pick up after yourself. Nothing fancy. Just let us know when you're headed out, Thanks.

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Delightful 1 bedroom peaceful tiny house

1 site · Lodging20 acres · Salem, Dent

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 .

Saved 2 times

The Bailey Moor

3 sites · RVs, Tents27 acres · Rolla, Phelps

The Bailey Moor offers three campsites and one RV site next to our stocked one-acre pond. The sites offer flexibility and feature a large shared fire pit for enjoyment and cooking. Located in the heart of the Missouri Ozarks, we are ten minutes from Rolla and St. James. River access less than 15 miles away with Maramec Springs and Woodson K. Woods Conservation Area only 11 miles from your site. Also convenient to Fort Leonard Wood. Pets welcome but must be kept within your camp site.

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Hummingbird Hollow Outdoors

29 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents27 acres · Saint Clair, Franklin

Hummingbird Hollow Outdoors is a not for profit Farm Animal Sanctuary. You will be able to camp with the horses, goats, potbellied pigs and more. We open up our farm so that people can enjoy the outdoors, animals and nature, and the animals can enjoy people! We are a sanctuary for all creatures on earth, including humans. "Today, whatever is good for your soul, do that."

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Haven Hollow

1 site · RV50 acres · Rolla, Phelps

Learn more about this land: BIG SKY. FRESH AIR. QUIET COUNTRY Enjoy the country on 50 beautiful acres. Nearly 2 miles of walking trails on-site. Enjoy a stroll around the pond or down to the creak before sitting back for a campfire. Located less than ten minutes from Rolla. RV camping only. No tent camping. No car camping. We do not have public restrooms.

12 top campgrounds near Rolla

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Haven Hollow

1 site · RV50 acres · Rolla, Phelps

Learn more about this land: BIG SKY. FRESH AIR. QUIET COUNTRY Enjoy the country on 50 beautiful acres. Nearly 2 miles of walking trails on-site. Enjoy a stroll around the pond or down to the creak before sitting back for a campfire. Located less than ten minutes from Rolla. RV camping only. No tent camping. No car camping. We do not have public restrooms.

Hummingbird Hollow Outdoors

29 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents27 acres · Saint Clair, Franklin

Hummingbird Hollow Outdoors is a not for profit Farm Animal Sanctuary. You will be able to camp with the horses, goats, potbellied pigs and more. We open up our farm so that people can enjoy the outdoors, animals and nature, and the animals can enjoy people! We are a sanctuary for all creatures on earth, including humans. "Today, whatever is good for your soul, do that."

Spring Lake Ranch

38 sites · RVs, Tents101 acres · Potosi, Washington

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.

Mound Ridge

10 sites · Tents375 acres · Cook Station, Crawford

Located in the Missouri Ozark Forest between Steelville and St. James Missouri. Wineries, hiking trails, and rivers to fish, swim, and paddle in. Mound Ridge is along with the legendary but sad history of the Trail of Tear's autoroute. The property was once home to the Woodland Tribes of North America; remnants of the tribal ceremonial mounds are still visible. Once the farm to Hugo Wurdack is now a mystical, and inspiring place set apart for all to enjoy being out in nature.

The Bailey Moor

3 sites · RVs, Tents27 acres · Rolla, Phelps

The Bailey Moor offers three campsites and one RV site next to our stocked one-acre pond. The sites offer flexibility and feature a large shared fire pit for enjoyment and cooking. Located in the heart of the Missouri Ozarks, we are ten minutes from Rolla and St. James. River access less than 15 miles away with Maramec Springs and Woodson K. Woods Conservation Area only 11 miles from your site. Also convenient to Fort Leonard Wood. Pets welcome but must be kept within your camp site.

Ozark Creekside Camp @ Spring Creek

3 sites · RVs, Tents35 acres · Rolla, Phelps

Enjoy an entire creekside property to yourself!!! Just a few miles from the beautiful Midwest Ozark town of Rolla Missouri! Primitive, private, campsite options next to year round Spring Creek. You have a choice of creekside/woodland grass top campsite area or an open gravel/paved campsite area available to give you the flexible choice of ground option to best accommodate your camper/RV setup. Enjoy viewing the rock bluffs, gravel and sand bars along the creekside trails as well as open fields & woodland trails that showcase this beautiful, natural Ozark scenery. Creekside, woodland and field paths also allow you access to abundant wildlife viewing from the birds in trees, deer in the woods to fish in the creek. Private yet close to town for all your conveniences. Quick highway access to many nearby Ozark attraction’s make this a great place to stay! Whether boon docking or primitive camping, you will enjoy this conveniently located piece of heaven!

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Peaceful Tent Camping

2 sites · Tents20 acres · Dixon, Pulaski

Learn more about this land:We offer a peaceful setting with a wonderful lake view. You can fish for crappie, bass, catfish, blue gil, goggleye and perch. Take a hike around the farm and maybe see some cows and wildlife. Or sit around a camp fire telling stories and enjoying the stars.

Water Mountain

30 sites · RVs, Tents180 acres · Belle, Osage

Ive own this land since 2005 and have used it for camping, parties, and venue.Learn more about this land:This is a 180 acres of camping along the Gasconade River. Lots of great spots for camping, hiking, and UTV/ATV riding. 50% forest, 10% trails, 20% along river, 10% bluffs, and 10% flat with grass field.

Delightful 1 bedroom peaceful tiny house

1 site · Lodging20 acres · Salem, Dent

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 .

Flying W Store & Camping LLC

44 sites · RVs, Tents98 acres · Jadwin, Dent

Learn more about this land:Located between two Canoe Rentals on Upper Current River. Campground is 2 miles from River. We are also 4.5miles from Flat Nasty Off Road Park. Check out our fb or flyingwstoreandcamping.com

Mushroom House @Ridge Runner Acres

1 site · Lodging85 acres · Steelville, Crawford

The mushroom house is about 700 sq ft, fully accessible, and has everything you expect a house to, including wifi. It has a wonderful wrap around porch on 3 sides with plenty of seating and lounging areas. There is a primitive fire pit area with access to a hose. We ask that fires not happen on very dry, windy days as we are in the middle of the woods. You can hike the 80 acres or just lounge around and watch the wildlife from the porch. Property Rules: ✨Just be respectful and have a great time! ✨Dogs must remain on a leash while outside. This is for their safety. The forest is huge and we don't want anyone getting lost. ✨No smoking or vaping indoors ✨No trespassing on others property. ✨Leave animals be. ✨The garden hose must always accompany your bonfire. Please wet the area down before you start your fire. NO FIRES allowed when it's SUPER DRY. We are in the forest. ✨No cutting trees, destroying plants, etc. ✨5mph on driveway for the sake of your car (and the forest creatures). ✨No animal hunting. ✨No shooting. ✨No commercial photography or filming (contact us) ✨The pole barn is off limits. Other Considerations: ✨So we are in the middle of the woods with many creatures. Beyond that there are no locks on cabinets and there are tip hazards, non-baby proofed outlets, etc. There are also bodies of water with no barriers. ✨We have a security camera for the driveway, motion sensors (no video/audio) at entrances and another security camera on top of the refrigerator. The one of the fridge will be very obviously unplugged for your stay. Check-In: We can meet you up the road and guide you in OR we can give you an access code - your choice. Check-Out: In general just pick up after yourself. Nothing fancy. Just let us know when you're headed out, Thanks.

Crooked Creek Ranch

1 site · RV, Tent35 acres · Salem, Dent

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.

Dog-friendly getaways

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Haven Hollow

1 site · RV50 acres · Rolla, Phelps

Learn more about this land: BIG SKY. FRESH AIR. QUIET COUNTRY Enjoy the country on 50 beautiful acres. Nearly 2 miles of walking trails on-site. Enjoy a stroll around the pond or down to the creak before sitting back for a campfire. Located less than ten minutes from Rolla. RV camping only. No tent camping. No car camping. We do not have public restrooms.

Mound Ridge

10 sites · Tents375 acres · Cook Station, Crawford

Located in the Missouri Ozark Forest between Steelville and St. James Missouri. Wineries, hiking trails, and rivers to fish, swim, and paddle in. Mound Ridge is along with the legendary but sad history of the Trail of Tear's autoroute. The property was once home to the Woodland Tribes of North America; remnants of the tribal ceremonial mounds are still visible. Once the farm to Hugo Wurdack is now a mystical, and inspiring place set apart for all to enjoy being out in nature.

The Bailey Moor

3 sites · RVs, Tents27 acres · Rolla, Phelps

The Bailey Moor offers three campsites and one RV site next to our stocked one-acre pond. The sites offer flexibility and feature a large shared fire pit for enjoyment and cooking. Located in the heart of the Missouri Ozarks, we are ten minutes from Rolla and St. James. River access less than 15 miles away with Maramec Springs and Woodson K. Woods Conservation Area only 11 miles from your site. Also convenient to Fort Leonard Wood. Pets welcome but must be kept within your camp site.

Spring Lake Ranch

38 sites · RVs, Tents101 acres · Potosi, Washington

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.

Hummingbird Hollow Outdoors

29 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents27 acres · Saint Clair, Franklin

Hummingbird Hollow Outdoors is a not for profit Farm Animal Sanctuary. You will be able to camp with the horses, goats, potbellied pigs and more. We open up our farm so that people can enjoy the outdoors, animals and nature, and the animals can enjoy people! We are a sanctuary for all creatures on earth, including humans. "Today, whatever is good for your soul, do that."

Under $50

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Hummingbird Hollow Outdoors

29 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents27 acres · Saint Clair, Franklin

Hummingbird Hollow Outdoors is a not for profit Farm Animal Sanctuary. You will be able to camp with the horses, goats, potbellied pigs and more. We open up our farm so that people can enjoy the outdoors, animals and nature, and the animals can enjoy people! We are a sanctuary for all creatures on earth, including humans. "Today, whatever is good for your soul, do that."

Mound Ridge

10 sites · Tents375 acres · Cook Station, Crawford

Located in the Missouri Ozark Forest between Steelville and St. James Missouri. Wineries, hiking trails, and rivers to fish, swim, and paddle in. Mound Ridge is along with the legendary but sad history of the Trail of Tear's autoroute. The property was once home to the Woodland Tribes of North America; remnants of the tribal ceremonial mounds are still visible. Once the farm to Hugo Wurdack is now a mystical, and inspiring place set apart for all to enjoy being out in nature.

Haven Hollow

1 site · RV50 acres · Rolla, Phelps

Learn more about this land: BIG SKY. FRESH AIR. QUIET COUNTRY Enjoy the country on 50 beautiful acres. Nearly 2 miles of walking trails on-site. Enjoy a stroll around the pond or down to the creak before sitting back for a campfire. Located less than ten minutes from Rolla. RV camping only. No tent camping. No car camping. We do not have public restrooms.

Spring Lake Ranch

38 sites · RVs, Tents101 acres · Potosi, Washington

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 Bailey Moor

3 sites · RVs, Tents27 acres · Rolla, Phelps

The Bailey Moor offers three campsites and one RV site next to our stocked one-acre pond. The sites offer flexibility and feature a large shared fire pit for enjoyment and cooking. Located in the heart of the Missouri Ozarks, we are ten minutes from Rolla and St. James. River access less than 15 miles away with Maramec Springs and Woodson K. Woods Conservation Area only 11 miles from your site. Also convenient to Fort Leonard Wood. Pets welcome but must be kept within your camp site.

Star Hosts in Rolla

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Pine Valley at Dillard Mill

4 sites · Lodging43 acres · Davisville, Crawford

Pine Valley is located in the heart of the Mark Twain National Forest and sits just a short walk away from historic Dillard Mill. It is set on 43 acres of beautiful green pasture and woodland. Take a hike on one of the trails around the property or go fishing on the Huzzah Creek. Spend your evening roasting marshmallows around your private campfire. Guest access Guests will have access to the 40 acres of land surrounding them. There are two ponds on the premise. Enjoy the quarter-mile walk to the old Dillard Mill Store, displayed in museum fashion at the entrance of Dillard Mill State Historic Site. Tour the old grist mill in working form, fish for sunfish, smallmouth bass and largemouth bass at the Mill, and take memorable photos. Just across from our main entrance take the half-mile trail through Mark Twain National Forest and skip rocks on the Huzzah Creek! Interaction with guests We may or may not be on the premise. If there are any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to reach out. Other things to note While this space provides most utilities and amenities you'd find at your home, it is important to note is still a camping-style getaway. We do our best to treat the area, but you will encounter insects. AT&T has limited cell phone reception in the area, Sprint is very spotty, and Verizon is pretty much unavailable for service. We provide the best free wifi available to help with communication back to the real world, but it is rather slow. The best wifi reception is near the General Store/Courtyard. We try and keep the area well maintained. You may see ATVs/tractors on our property and on the gravel road. Pets are welcome for an extra $50 per stay. Max 2. Please note our dogs may be on the property. They are friendly and well-behaved, although sometimes curious. Other guests may have no-leash pets as well. Park right next to your glamper. Arrive anytime after 4pm, just give us an eta to know when to expect you. If your glamper is not ready upon your arrival, feel free to explore our farm, visit Dillard Mill or head down to the Huzzah while we make it ready for your stay. Self Check-In is always the norm for added privacy. We won't bother you except to wave or maybe say hello if you're out and about. Please feel free to approach us with questions, niceties, or needs.

Crooked Creek Ranch

1 site · RV, Tent35 acres · Salem, Dent

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.

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Primitive Camping Farm

7 sites · TentsHolts Summit, Callaway

Our Primitive Camping Farm is located just outside the city limits of Holts Summit, MO.Sitting on an old dirt road you'll find our large open field just waiting for you to pitch your tent and relax. You'll find peace and tranquility while enjoying the big open sky and fresh country air; all while just minutes from modern conveniences (gas stations, grocery store, restaurants).Learn more about this land:Pitch your tent in this wide-open country field located just outside the city limits of Holts Summit, MO which is just minutes from Jefferson City, MO. Ideal for tents but campers are also welcome, just please NOTE: This is a Primitive Camping Farm so electricity & running water are NOT available. image

Hummingbird Hollow Outdoors

29 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents27 acres · Saint Clair, Franklin

Hummingbird Hollow Outdoors is a not for profit Farm Animal Sanctuary. You will be able to camp with the horses, goats, potbellied pigs and more. We open up our farm so that people can enjoy the outdoors, animals and nature, and the animals can enjoy people! We are a sanctuary for all creatures on earth, including humans. "Today, whatever is good for your soul, do that."

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Hagood Farms and Trails

8 sites · Tents164 acres · Sullivan, Washington

We have 172 acres of trails with scenic waterfalls and trees. A pond for fishing and conveniently located with in 8 miles from sevetal state parks and 2 miles from 300 acers of off road trails. We have owned and lived on tje property since 1999 .Learn more about this land:We are a fully functioning farm with Longhorn cattle, horses, mini donkeys and goats that are very friendly. We have 164 acres that have trails for horseback riding and ATVs. We are located 8 miles from Mermac River and Washington State park where you can rent canoe's and go hiking. We are an hour from St. Louis and Elephant Rock State park as well as Johnston shut ins. We are also with in 8 miles of ROMP dirt bike trail and 1 mile from Moonlight trails and racing that is 400 plus acers of ATV and jeep trails. We have a few waterfalls on the property and lots of areas to hike as well. Several areas of camping to choose from, you can be in the woods or out in the open. Spring and Summer months we offer farm fresh eggs and there is always plenty of firewood. We recently added a pond area as well. We now have Electric and water as well.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

The rustic campsites are adjacent to the Meramec River - perfect for splashing around.

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Onondaga Cave State Park

Mark Twain National Forest

Miramiguoa Park, Missouri

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Lake of the Ozarks State Park

Osage Beach, Missouri

Camping near Rolla guide

This small college town is located approximately halfway between two of Missouri’s largest cities, St. Louis and Springfield. Venture off of Interstate 44 to explore the natural areas surrounding the town. The Meramec and Gasconade Rivers are nearby, with rambling waters offering prime places to paddle, fish, and float. Missouri’s version of MIT, Missouri S&T is home to a nuclear reactor, a replica of Stonehenge, and one of the state’s best St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. Several private RV parks offer a full suite of amenities, including full hookups and free wifi. Venture out to the nearby national forest and state parks for scenic public campgrounds.

Where to Go

Mark Twain National Forest

Mark Twain National Forest covers 1.5 million acres in Missouri, and Rolla provides a great jumping off point for exploring this wilderness. Lane Spring Recreation Area is just 13 miles south of town, yet feels worlds away, thanks to the bubbling waters of Lane Spring and Little Piney Creek, which is designated as a Blue Ribbon Wild Trout Stream (a rare find in Missouri). Fishing, swimming, tubing, and hiking can all be enjoyed in this scenic slice of the Missouri Ozarks. Campsites for tents and RVs are available, with some electric hookups.

Meramec State Park

This state park gem is 40 minutes northeast of Rolla. Hike or fish along the Meramec River. Float trips outside of the park are a popular way to spend a lazy afternoon in the summer—grab an inner tube and set sail. Rippling springs and towering limestone bluffs line the waterway. For a unique adventure, book a tour of Fisher Cave. The state park campground features basic, electric, and full hookup sites.

Montauk State Park

A Missouri favorite for those looking for a peaceful retreat, Montauk State Park is less than an hour south of Rolla. It is located on Pigeon Creek near the headwaters of the Current River. Seven springs in the park cool the waters to the chilly temperatures where trout thrive, making this a popular park for fly fishing. History buffs won’t want to miss the historic Montauk Mill, built in 1896. Hiking, biking, and camping can all be enjoyed in the park. Basic and electric sites are available—some are right on the waters.

When to Go

If the waterways are the heart of your adventures, summertime is THE time to visit, as waters warm enough to take a splash. Daily temps can top out over 90 degrees, with high humidity. In spring, the weather is generally pleasant, though leaves don’t fully bud out until May. The rolling Ozarks hills around Rolla are especially scenic in fall, as the trees erupt in an array of colors. Temperatures are mild—providing prime campfire weather.