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The best lakeside camping near St James

·
96% (996)

Top-rated campgrounds

Spring Lake Ranch

1. Spring Lake Ranch

93%
(1983)
38mi from St James · 43 sites · Tents, RVs · Potosi, MO
Spring Lake Ranch boasts countless trails and lake activities. Formerly known as Sayersbrook Bison ranch, at one time it was one of the largest Bison ranches in the world. This property is filled with amazing things to see and explore. Nothing like it in Missouri. Lake is 60+ acres and is spring fed. Amazing fishing, swimming and kayaking. We are pet friendly. You will have amazing lake views and will be close to hiking trails, horseback riding, and wine tasting at Edge Cliff Wineries which is next door to us. The beautiful shower house is super clean, has restrooms and hot showers and it is within walking distance. Firewood and ice are available to purchase; kayaks and fishing poles are available for rent. If you forget something at home stop by our little country store, we might have it! :) The sites are about 20 ft from each other - if you are looking for more privacy please check out the secluded site or the peninsula. **The pool on property is reserved for the lodge guests only, it is not open to the public.
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$17
 / night
The Magic Land Homestead

2. The Magic Land Homestead

94%
(16)
47mi from St James · 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
Toilets
Showers
from 
$70
 / night
A view of the sunset from the dam.

3. Cardin’s Lake

88%
(29)
26mi from St James · 2 sites · Tents · Dixon, MO
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.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night
Mark Twain National Forest

4. Mark Twain National Forest

88%
(21)
452 sites · Bunker, Missouri
Missouri’s only national forest has 1.5 million acres of wilderness to explore.
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
Lost Hill Lake Glamping Resort

5. Lost Hill Lake Glamping Resort

45mi from St James · 4 sites · Lodging · Saint Clair, MO
Lost Hill Lake is the perfect place for a glamping getaway. Surround yourself with the great outdoors but spend the night with all the comforts of home. We feature 6 unique glamping accommodations all around a private lake. We can't wait to see you out at the resort!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$125
 / night
This is campsite 2 located near the creek not on it like 1 is. It’s the smallest of them all but surrounded by woods an closest to the outhouse. It can hold 2 maybe 3 small size tents.

6. 1855 Campground

100%
(71)
48mi from St James · 7 sites · Tents · Black, MO
Hosts News: Hope everyone has a Very Merry Christmas. We will be opening the season mid April. TIRED OF NOISEY OVERCROWDED CAMP GROUNDS, give us a try! 1855 Campground is 45 acres of private property, dedicated to the natural Ozark experience. We border the Mark Twain National Forest, enjoy the outdoors at its best. Our space offers 7 large campsites to provide privacy & serenity. Site 1, Little Brushy Creek with parking. Site 2, Nancy’s Landing, smaller site close to the creek with parking. Site 3 Bills Hill, located high up in the woods. Sites 4 & 5 Walnut Grove, large flat grassy sites in a meadow with wildflowers. Site 6 Hidden Hollow, located in a private cove. Site 7 Roberts Mountain located high up in the woods. Sites 3-4-5-6-7 are remote wooded campsites. Accessible by foot only & upon request a free shuttle of your camping gear. MUST arrive before 8pm when booking these remote sites. Bordering the National Forest, so hiking is abundant & encouraged. Far from the city is ideal for star gazing & amazing photo ops. There is a year round freshwater spring flowing nearby.  Enjoy fishing, swimming in the pond or babbling brook that runs alongside the property. Close by attractions: Floating along the Black River Johnson Shut Ins State Park Bell Mountain Hiking Trails  Elephant Rocks State Park Counsel Bluffs Lake Tip Top Park Taum Sauk State Park Historic town of Caledonia  Clearwater Lake Shepard Mountain bike trail Campsites can accommodate multiple tents. All sites have fire pits, first bundle of wood provided, & BBQ grills and tables (except sites 3 & 7).  Bring charcoal. Outhouses & outside shower are available. Parking lot provided, after check in & assistance to campsite.  NO vehicles, guns or loud music allowed in campground   “ Leave No Trace Principles apply, take out what you bring  in. The office is open 9 to 9 daily through the season. It’s worth noting that the office/ house is “off grid”. Bill, the manager of the campground has been living full time off grid for over 8 yrs & loves to share his experiences & encourages others to ask questions on the subject during normal business hours.
Campfires
Toilets
Showers
from 
$24
 / night
Lakeside Tipi Retreat

7. Lakeside Tipi Retreat

100%
(7)
46mi from St James · 1 site · Lodging · Potosi, MO
Welcome to Your Lakeside Tipi Escape! From the moment you pass through the stone gate guarded by gargoyles, you’ll feel it — the energy shifts. You’ve entered a truly special place. Nestled within the Ozark National Forest, our 42-acre sanctuary is designed to help you relax, recharge, and reconnect with nature—and yourself. Whether you're fishing on our private lake, hiking nearly a mile of marked trails, kayaking, swimming, or simply lounging beside the soothing waterfall, there are countless ways to enjoy the peaceful beauty of this land. Nearby attractions like Elephant Rocks, Johnson Shut-Ins, and Council Bluff Lake offer even more adventures just a short drive away. You will also enjoy the beautiful countryside drive to the property. As you drive in past the lake, you will find the tipi lightly tucked into the pine trees. It is close enough to the lake, waterfall and creek that you can hear it at all hours, day and night. Inside, you'll find two cozy beds (one queen, one full), ambient lighting, electricity, and a propane firepit for a cozy atmosphere. Just steps away is our shared gathering cabin, which includes a shower, kitchenette, and restroom facilities. We live on-site and love to share the land with our guests. Cindy is a Master Gardener, and Jim is a spiritual life coach and energy worker—both are happy to offer sessions upon request. Feel free to wander through our garden and sample seasonal organic veggies, or check out the progress on our innovative underground greenhouse. Friendly visits from our two dogs and horse are common—they love people! But if you'd prefer no animal interaction, just let us know in advance. You’ll also find yourself close to charming wineries, antique shops, and unique boutiques like The Old Village Mercantile. We're always happy to provide recommendations to help you make the most of your stay. Bonus: A portion of every stay supports Old Man River Nature Retreat, our nonprofit offering nature-based healing retreats for veterans and first responders with PTSD. https://oldmanriver.org https://www.facebook.com/OMRNRetreat Come experience the peace. The magic is real here.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$100
 / night
96% (996)

Top-rated campgrounds

Spring Lake Ranch

1. Spring Lake Ranch

93%
(1983)
38mi from St James · 43 sites · Tents, RVs · Potosi, MO
Spring Lake Ranch boasts countless trails and lake activities. Formerly known as Sayersbrook Bison ranch, at one time it was one of the largest Bison ranches in the world. This property is filled with amazing things to see and explore. Nothing like it in Missouri. Lake is 60+ acres and is spring fed. Amazing fishing, swimming and kayaking. We are pet friendly. You will have amazing lake views and will be close to hiking trails, horseback riding, and wine tasting at Edge Cliff Wineries which is next door to us. The beautiful shower house is super clean, has restrooms and hot showers and it is within walking distance. Firewood and ice are available to purchase; kayaks and fishing poles are available for rent. If you forget something at home stop by our little country store, we might have it! :) The sites are about 20 ft from each other - if you are looking for more privacy please check out the secluded site or the peninsula. **The pool on property is reserved for the lodge guests only, it is not open to the public.
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$17
 / night
The Magic Land Homestead

2. The Magic Land Homestead

94%
(16)
47mi from St James · 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
Toilets
Showers
from 
$70
 / night
A view of the sunset from the dam.

3. Cardin’s Lake

88%
(29)
26mi from St James · 2 sites · Tents · Dixon, MO
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.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night
Mark Twain National Forest

4. Mark Twain National Forest

88%
(21)
452 sites · Bunker, Missouri
Missouri’s only national forest has 1.5 million acres of wilderness to explore.
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
Lost Hill Lake Glamping Resort

5. Lost Hill Lake Glamping Resort

45mi from St James · 4 sites · Lodging · Saint Clair, MO
Lost Hill Lake is the perfect place for a glamping getaway. Surround yourself with the great outdoors but spend the night with all the comforts of home. We feature 6 unique glamping accommodations all around a private lake. We can't wait to see you out at the resort!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$125
 / night
This is campsite 2 located near the creek not on it like 1 is. It’s the smallest of them all but surrounded by woods an closest to the outhouse. It can hold 2 maybe 3 small size tents.

6. 1855 Campground

100%
(71)
48mi from St James · 7 sites · Tents · Black, MO
Hosts News: Hope everyone has a Very Merry Christmas. We will be opening the season mid April. TIRED OF NOISEY OVERCROWDED CAMP GROUNDS, give us a try! 1855 Campground is 45 acres of private property, dedicated to the natural Ozark experience. We border the Mark Twain National Forest, enjoy the outdoors at its best. Our space offers 7 large campsites to provide privacy & serenity. Site 1, Little Brushy Creek with parking. Site 2, Nancy’s Landing, smaller site close to the creek with parking. Site 3 Bills Hill, located high up in the woods. Sites 4 & 5 Walnut Grove, large flat grassy sites in a meadow with wildflowers. Site 6 Hidden Hollow, located in a private cove. Site 7 Roberts Mountain located high up in the woods. Sites 3-4-5-6-7 are remote wooded campsites. Accessible by foot only & upon request a free shuttle of your camping gear. MUST arrive before 8pm when booking these remote sites. Bordering the National Forest, so hiking is abundant & encouraged. Far from the city is ideal for star gazing & amazing photo ops. There is a year round freshwater spring flowing nearby.  Enjoy fishing, swimming in the pond or babbling brook that runs alongside the property. Close by attractions: Floating along the Black River Johnson Shut Ins State Park Bell Mountain Hiking Trails  Elephant Rocks State Park Counsel Bluffs Lake Tip Top Park Taum Sauk State Park Historic town of Caledonia  Clearwater Lake Shepard Mountain bike trail Campsites can accommodate multiple tents. All sites have fire pits, first bundle of wood provided, & BBQ grills and tables (except sites 3 & 7).  Bring charcoal. Outhouses & outside shower are available. Parking lot provided, after check in & assistance to campsite.  NO vehicles, guns or loud music allowed in campground   “ Leave No Trace Principles apply, take out what you bring  in. The office is open 9 to 9 daily through the season. It’s worth noting that the office/ house is “off grid”. Bill, the manager of the campground has been living full time off grid for over 8 yrs & loves to share his experiences & encourages others to ask questions on the subject during normal business hours.
Campfires
Toilets
Showers
from 
$24
 / night
Lakeside Tipi Retreat

7. Lakeside Tipi Retreat

100%
(7)
46mi from St James · 1 site · Lodging · Potosi, MO
Welcome to Your Lakeside Tipi Escape! From the moment you pass through the stone gate guarded by gargoyles, you’ll feel it — the energy shifts. You’ve entered a truly special place. Nestled within the Ozark National Forest, our 42-acre sanctuary is designed to help you relax, recharge, and reconnect with nature—and yourself. Whether you're fishing on our private lake, hiking nearly a mile of marked trails, kayaking, swimming, or simply lounging beside the soothing waterfall, there are countless ways to enjoy the peaceful beauty of this land. Nearby attractions like Elephant Rocks, Johnson Shut-Ins, and Council Bluff Lake offer even more adventures just a short drive away. You will also enjoy the beautiful countryside drive to the property. As you drive in past the lake, you will find the tipi lightly tucked into the pine trees. It is close enough to the lake, waterfall and creek that you can hear it at all hours, day and night. Inside, you'll find two cozy beds (one queen, one full), ambient lighting, electricity, and a propane firepit for a cozy atmosphere. Just steps away is our shared gathering cabin, which includes a shower, kitchenette, and restroom facilities. We live on-site and love to share the land with our guests. Cindy is a Master Gardener, and Jim is a spiritual life coach and energy worker—both are happy to offer sessions upon request. Feel free to wander through our garden and sample seasonal organic veggies, or check out the progress on our innovative underground greenhouse. Friendly visits from our two dogs and horse are common—they love people! But if you'd prefer no animal interaction, just let us know in advance. You’ll also find yourself close to charming wineries, antique shops, and unique boutiques like The Old Village Mercantile. We're always happy to provide recommendations to help you make the most of your stay. Bonus: A portion of every stay supports Old Man River Nature Retreat, our nonprofit offering nature-based healing retreats for veterans and first responders with PTSD. https://oldmanriver.org https://www.facebook.com/OMRNRetreat Come experience the peace. The magic is real here.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$100
 / night

Public campgrounds near St James

Lane Spring Recreation Area and Campground
100%
(1)

Lane Spring Recreation Area and Campground

19mi from St James · 1 site · in Mark Twain National Forest
Kaintuck Hollow Trail

Kaintuck Hollow Trail

19mi from St James · 2 sites · in Mark Twain National Forest
Red Bluff Campground
100%
(1)

Red Bluff Campground

28mi from St James · 21 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mark Twain National Forest
Swan Creek Campground

Swan Creek Campground

29mi from St James · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Mark Twain National Forest
Berryman Campground
100%
(1)

Berryman Campground

31mi from St James · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mark Twain National Forest
Brazil Creek Recreation Area

Brazil Creek Recreation Area

32mi from St James · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mark Twain National Forest
Hazel Creek Campground

Hazel Creek Campground

34mi from St James · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mark Twain National Forest
Courtois Creek Section of the Ozark Trail
100%
(1)

Courtois Creek Section of the Ozark Trail

35mi from St James · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Mark Twain National Forest
Trace Creek Section of the Ozark Trail
100%
(1)

Trace Creek Section of the Ozark Trail

35mi from St James · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Mark Twain National Forest
Big Piney Trail Camp

Big Piney Trail Camp

38mi from St James · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mark Twain National Forest
Paddy Creek Recreation Area

Paddy Creek Recreation Area

39mi from St James · 23 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mark Twain National Forest
Big Piney Trail

Big Piney Trail

40mi from St James · 1 site · in Mark Twain National Forest

Stories from the community

Spring Lake Ranch
Avatar
KA
3 weeks ago
Tent
Weekend Trip to Spring Lake Ranch
My second time visiting this camp site. I’m a novice at camping. Each time that I visited, I was impressed: friendly staff, helpful fellow campers, and aesthetically pleasing environment, e.g, lakefront view, farm animals, swimming pool, hot tubs available in select rentals and renovated bath houses. Very safe setting for solo campers, couples and families.
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Tent Pitch Area
Avatar
Courtney
November 2025
Tent
Group trip
Weekend Trip to Spring Lake Ranch
Such a great spot for a getaway! The campground was peaceful, well-kept, and had everything we could’ve needed for a perfect tent camping weekend. The lake views were absolutely stunning—especially with all the fall colors reflecting on the water. The bathhouse felt luxurious for camping! We loved every minute of our stay and can’t wait to come back next time to stay in one of the cabins!
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Spring Lake Ranch
Avatar
Courtney
November 2025
Tent
Group trip
Weekend Trip to Spring Lake Ranch
We absolutely loved our stay here! The campground was beautiful—tucked right by a gorgeous lake surrounded by stunning fall colors. It felt like an adult summer camp in the best way possible! Everything we needed was right on site, from fire pits to picnic areas. The bath and shower house was impressively clean, warm, and one of the nicest we’ve seen at a campground. You can tell the owners put a lot of care into maintaining the place. We had such a peaceful, cozy stay and can’t wait to come back again next season!
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Spring Lake Ranch
A
Alyson
November 2025
Tent
Weekend Trip to Spring Lake Ranch
I’ve stayed at this site twice now and will continue to return. This is a great place to visit in the fall, the trees look beautiful. The cleanliness of the bathrooms is a great feature. The trails are also nice but the red trail needs to be marked better, it’s easy to get lost in that area. Overall a fun time. My one complaint - people need to STOP LITTERING!!! The amount of litter on the red trail is in my opinion unacceptable. If you are visiting/enjoying nature..why are you littering!?? Be better people and stop littering
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Cardin’s Lake
Avatar
Skip
October 2025
Tent
Weekend Trip to Cardin’s Lake
The hosts were wonderful! We arrived late, after dark, and a campfire was already made for us. They provided firewood which was a very nice surprise. The property was peaceful and perfect.
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Spring Lake Ranch
J
Jessica
October 2025
Tent
3 nights at Spring Lake Ranch
Tent camping is wonderful. Gorgeous views and great shower/bathrooms.
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RV#1, pull through site
D
Debbie
October 2025
19 ft travel trailer
Weekend Trip to Spring Lake Ranch
A beautiful campground with lots of animals and a beautiful lake.
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Spring Lake Ranch
Avatar
Lynne
October 2025
13 ft pop-up camper
With kids
Weekend Trip to Spring Lake Ranch
We have been here a couple times before. We love the land and the lakes. The updated bathroom is nice and clean. The only area they could improve on is to have someone that actually works in the office. This happens every time we stay there. You have to call to get someone to the office. This time it was 10 minutes for one wait and over an hour for another. This is unacceptable in my eyes. Their service is lacking. Lynne Duggan
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Spring Lake Ranch
K
Kenneth
October 2025
Tent
Weekend Trip to Spring Lake Ranch
What's not to love. First time there and it was a great experience. You'd have to check it out to appreciate it.
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RV#1, pull through site
V
Vanessa
October 2025
20 ft pop-up camper
Weekend Trip to Spring Lake Ranch
Beautiful lake, accessible bathhouse, and wooded RV sites. It was a great get-a-way and fun to be on a farm with gorgeous horses. The nearest town is about a 17 minutes drive away, so bring plenty of food or block out time to drive into town.
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Spring Lake Ranch
Avatar
Tatevik
October 2025
Tent
Weekend Trip to Spring Lake Ranch
Really lovely lans. Beautiful views, good hiking and peaceful lake. We enjoyed the farm animals and great birdwatching.
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RV#1, pull through site
P
Patrick
October 2025
20 ft travel trailer
With pets
Weekend Trip to Spring Lake Ranch
Second time at spring ranch with our travel trailer, so it’s kind of obvious that we like the location and the amenities. Staff at the main building are excellent and very helpful, bath house is clean and nice. Kayak rental is perfect and a nice way to spend a fall day, and a good 2 mile loop trail for hiking is enjoyable.
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Spring Lake Ranch
B
Bob
October 2025
Tent
4 nights at Spring Lake Ranch
Electric power available as needed. Tent site was flat and the tent stakes easily penetrated the surface as need. Surrounding trees sheltered from the winds. Good tent site camping if electricity availability is desired.
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Spring Lake Ranch
T
Theresa
October 2025
Tent
2 nights at Spring Lake Ranch
Beautiful and peaceful campsite with clean facilities! We go every year.
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Spring Lake Ranch
M
Michelle
October 2025
18 ft travel trailer
With pets
Weekend Trip to Spring Lake Ranch
The lake and views were beautiful. Quiet and clean. We will definitely go back to try out the tree houses.
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Tent Pitching Area
J
Jon
October 2025
Tent
With pets
Weekend Trip to Spring Lake Ranch
Great place! Heading back soon. Loved the beach, docks, and BBQ pit. Bathrooms were clean. Recommended!
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RV#1, pull through site
E
Ernest
October 2025
16 ft travel trailer
Weekend Trip to Spring Lake Ranch
Complete hook ups. Very pretty lake. Wooded. Dog friendly. Big thumbs up.
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Spring Lake Ranch
T
Taylor
September 2025
Tent
With kids
Weekend Trip to Spring Lake Ranch
Just visited last weekend for a birthday camp out with my wife and son. The view from the campsite was beautiful! The lake was like glass, and both morning and evening "golden hour" were so stunning, it was hard to do anything besides simply sitting and watching the changing colors. Only five campsites in Site A, so no way for it to get too crowded.
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RV#1, pull through site
G
Gregory
September 2025
17 ft travel trailer
Weekend Trip to Spring Lake Ranch
Nice environment and amenities. We caught some nice size bluegill on the lake.
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Lakeside Tipi Retreat
A
Anne
September 2025
Weekend Trip to Lakeside Tipi Retreat
I spent this past weekend at a very special place. I was looking for “unique places to stay,” within driving distance and found Old Man River Nature Retreat outside of Potosi, MO. Being in nature has always lifted my spirits and given me renewed energy. This property was absolutely magical and I am so thankful for the experience.
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Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

Mark Twain National Forest
88%
(21)
Mark Twain National Forest
Bunker, Missouri
Value Prop
Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Popular St James trips

All
Cabins
River, stream, or creek camping
Farm camping
Glamping with wifi provided
Romantic camping
Forest camping
Beach camping

Top parks near St James

Carlyle Lake
Pere Marquette State Park
Wilson's Creek National Battlefield
Cuivre River State Park
Pea Ridge National Military Park
Chickasaw State Park
Arkansas River - David D. Terry Lock and Dam
Fort Pillow State Park

Top cities near St James

St Louis
Carbondale
Springfield
Cape Girardeau
Olathe
Kansas City
Tulsa
Fayetteville

Best camping near me

Best tent camping near me
Best RV camping near me
Best glamping near me