- Great Views
The best great views camping near Steelville
97% (1.8K) • 63 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Steelville
Spring Lake Ranch
1. Spring Lake Ranch
93%
(1983)
24mi from Steelville · 43 sites · Tents, RVs
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
Hawks Bluff Farm Campground
2. Hawks Bluff Farm Campground
97%
(232)
39mi from Steelville · 57 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Escape the city! We have a very special property that nourishes the soul and provides space to roam and breathe fresh air.
We have 460 acres to explore. A beautiful creek running through our property. We have cows, mules, goats, dogs and cats. We are on a bluff so if you are rock hunters you have come to the right place. We offer rock hunting. and we have extra buckets. We have the best Drusy (lots of colors), Crazy Lace Agate, Calcite, Chalcedony, Quartz, Chert, Barite, Bladed Barite, Iron Ores and more. Check us out on Facebook Hawks Bluff Farm Rocks and Drusy. We have firewood, ice, eggs, ground beef, propane exchange and new propane tanks available.
Ask us about our kayaking options!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$20
/ night
Ozarks Piney Bend Riverfront
3. Ozarks Piney Bend Riverfront
100%
(104)
40mi from Steelville · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Experience the Missouri Ozarks from your own private stretch of the crystal-clear Big Piney River. Piney Bend spans 7 secluded acres on both sides of the river, set on a scenic bluff with sweeping views and direct access to the water below.
Ember Nook, our cozy riverfront cabin, offers the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. This thoughtfully designed retreat sleeps up to four and features a fully stocked kitchen, comfortable beds, a large covered front deck with full river views of passing kayakers and jet boats, and a spacious private firepit with Adirondack seating.
Just steps away, guests enjoy an outdoor cedar shower house, an outdoor restroom, and a dedicated prep sink for meal prep, washing dishes, or cleaning the day’s catch. A private two-person wood-fired hot tub and lounging area overlooking the river adds an unforgettable touch to evenings under the stars.
For larger groups, Ivy Ridge, our fully stocked modern camper sleeps up to six and includes a private shower and ice-cold A/C. It’s parked right along the river with its own private firepit and water access.
Looking ahead, three new modern two-bedroom cabins with private spa areas are planned higher on the bluff, offering incredible views and the same peaceful river access. We anticipate availability by Fall 2026.
Whether you’re floating the river, exploring Ozark backroads, or relaxing by the fire, Piney Bend is designed for those who want privacy, comfort, and an authentic Ozark river experience.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$36
/ night
Arcadia Valley Outdoors Land
4. Arcadia Valley Outdoors Land
98%
(841)
46mi from Steelville · 37 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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
Toilets
Campfires
from
$30
/ night
97% (1.8K) • 63 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Steelville
Spring Lake Ranch
1. Spring Lake Ranch
93%
(1983)
24mi from Steelville · 43 sites · Tents, RVs
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
Hawks Bluff Farm Campground
2. Hawks Bluff Farm Campground
97%
(232)
39mi from Steelville · 57 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Escape the city! We have a very special property that nourishes the soul and provides space to roam and breathe fresh air.
We have 460 acres to explore. A beautiful creek running through our property. We have cows, mules, goats, dogs and cats. We are on a bluff so if you are rock hunters you have come to the right place. We offer rock hunting. and we have extra buckets. We have the best Drusy (lots of colors), Crazy Lace Agate, Calcite, Chalcedony, Quartz, Chert, Barite, Bladed Barite, Iron Ores and more. Check us out on Facebook Hawks Bluff Farm Rocks and Drusy. We have firewood, ice, eggs, ground beef, propane exchange and new propane tanks available.
Ask us about our kayaking options!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$20
/ night
Ozarks Piney Bend Riverfront
3. Ozarks Piney Bend Riverfront
100%
(104)
40mi from Steelville · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Experience the Missouri Ozarks from your own private stretch of the crystal-clear Big Piney River. Piney Bend spans 7 secluded acres on both sides of the river, set on a scenic bluff with sweeping views and direct access to the water below.
Ember Nook, our cozy riverfront cabin, offers the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. This thoughtfully designed retreat sleeps up to four and features a fully stocked kitchen, comfortable beds, a large covered front deck with full river views of passing kayakers and jet boats, and a spacious private firepit with Adirondack seating.
Just steps away, guests enjoy an outdoor cedar shower house, an outdoor restroom, and a dedicated prep sink for meal prep, washing dishes, or cleaning the day’s catch. A private two-person wood-fired hot tub and lounging area overlooking the river adds an unforgettable touch to evenings under the stars.
For larger groups, Ivy Ridge, our fully stocked modern camper sleeps up to six and includes a private shower and ice-cold A/C. It’s parked right along the river with its own private firepit and water access.
Looking ahead, three new modern two-bedroom cabins with private spa areas are planned higher on the bluff, offering incredible views and the same peaceful river access. We anticipate availability by Fall 2026.
Whether you’re floating the river, exploring Ozark backroads, or relaxing by the fire, Piney Bend is designed for those who want privacy, comfort, and an authentic Ozark river experience.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$36
/ night
Arcadia Valley Outdoors Land
4. Arcadia Valley Outdoors Land
98%
(841)
46mi from Steelville · 37 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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
Toilets
Campfires
from
$30
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
K.A.
November 2025
Tent
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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B
Brett
November 2025
Tent
Group trip
Great spot. Close to the mountain, beautiful site.
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R
Ray
November 2025
Weekend Trip to Ozarks Piney Bend Riverfront
This place is awesome. Went with my girlfriend for our 2 year anniversary and we both loved it. Check it out
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Courtney
November 2025
Tent
Group trip
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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Courtney
November 2025
Tent
Group trip
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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J
Justin
November 2025
With kids
The farm and staff are absolutely fantastic! We had an issue with charges, which they resolved with some investment of time on their part. They all I’ve and beyond in service. Helping us find our site in the dark, making sure we had enough supplies and even throwing a pair of jeans in the dryer for our teenager 😁
Truly kind people!
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C
Chelsea
November 2025
Weekend Trip to Arcadia Valley Outdoors Land
We camped in the safari tent and had a cozy lovely time. Although it was in a loop with other campsites it felt plenty private, set back from the road and separated from the other sites by plenty of trees. Didn't end up trying the tub, but it looked nice. The wood stove kept us warm throughout the night, and the solar power bank and water pump were a nice touch.
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Zoe
November 2025
Tent
Always a great time at hawks bluff! This land is truly a blessing and I am grateful Elizabeth shares it with us ! Much comfortability in knowing I’m safe and if I need anything I can always ask :) also, awesome rocks!!
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A
Andros
November 2025
Tent
The owners are amazing, the property is very cool, and close enough to town to get supplies. Breathtaking views and a welcoming community at this location!
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B
Brian
November 2025
30 ft travel trailer
With kids
Great place! Tons of stuff to do. Owners are very sweet and hospitable. I plan to go back and would recommend everyone to stay. Camping or RV. I pulled a 35’er and had zero issues.
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N
Nathan
November 2025
25 ft Class C
Secluded location. Several options are available for sites depending on services. Rock hunting is fantastic.
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Alan
November 2025
Tent
Stayed here for a second time, so beautiful in the Fall. Highly recommend! Elizabeth is so helpful and accommodating, and answered all my questions very quickly.
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A
Alyson
November 2025
Tent
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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e
erica
October 2025
Tent
With pets
I had a fantastic stay! Amazing views, and a great place to explore
See moreJ
Javon
October 2025
Tent
I loved camping here . Love the amenities but I would have to say the roads and lighting here are a downside. The potholes are crazy and the "solar lights" are so dim it's so hard to see anything
See moreH
Hope
October 2025
Tent
With pets
Our host was so kind and generous. The land was well-kept and peaceful. Rock hunting as part of the stay was delightful. It was so fun to be around the farm animals and be greeted by the dogs and cats. Definitely a spot worth visiting!!
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M
Mike
October 2025
Tent
With kids
A great place for tent camping in a quiet setting within a short distance of town. Sites are clean and ours was layered with mulch. Will visit again.
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V
Victoria
October 2025
Tent
With pets
Arcadia Valley Outdoors was the best camping experience I’ve had! It was so easy to enter the campground and find our site, Old Country. Old Country was secluded from the other sites, which we LOVED! It was good to know we had neighbors nearby, but good we had our own space. Old Country was very clean and it was plenty of space for all our camping needs! It was so perfect :) We will be coming back!
See moreM
Mandy
October 2025
3 nights at Ozarks Piney Bend Riverfront
The view of the cabin was absolutely breath taking. The cabin overlooks the beautiful big piney river and outlooks large rocks and Missouri hills. We stayed here from 10/23-10/26 so the vibrant fall leaves painted the backdrop. Even just sitting on the patio drinking coffee was very tranquil. We could not kayak due to the weather since it was raining on and off during our stay. Lacy was so kind to give us a full refund and a discount code for next time! Outside the cabin there is a huge fire pit where we roasted marshmallows and stargazed. We recommend buying some fire wood from Lacey and utilizing the bonfire grill and regular grill. Lacey offers so many amenities that made home cooking meals super easy and enjoyable. We made some really amazing meals that we enjoyed by candlelight on the picnic table. The aesthetic of the cabin was 10/10 and super hippie/boho and cozy. Which we absolutely loved! Our dogs had a wonderful time playing fetch outside the cabin. One of the best parts was taking a hot shower while it was chilly outside. This was the perfect and most romantic trip for my boyfriend and I to celebrate his 30th birthday. It is our tradition to go Glamping for our birthdays. We’ve been to a few different airbnbs but we both agreed that this has been our fav.Lastly but most importantly, Lacey was an extremely hospitable host, really quick to answer any questions I had and went out of her way to accommodate us several times. Thank you so much Lacey we will be back:)
See moreT
Taylirre
October 2025
16 ft car
This was the most beautiful camp site I have stayed at. I've been an avid user of Hipcamp for a few years and frequented many camp sites but this one surpasses all others. First, the hospitality of the owners, they are super responsive and the kitchen area has everything needed to make it comfortable stay. Our tent site was private and quiet and very beautiful to observe the meteor shower. It's set on the side of a large hill where there is a scenic view and grounds full of crystals that can be collected. It felt safe and we did not observe any wild animals other than the farm animals they have onsite. The host was welcoming and knowledgeable of the land and we will be returning with our whole family next time.
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The best great views camping near Steelville guide
Where to go
Mark Twain National Forest
The Mark Twain National Forest covers 1.5 million acres of Missouri. For hikers and backpackers, the Courtois Creek Section of the Ozark Trail is a big draw, running 45 miles from its trailhead in Onondaga Cave State Park and connecting with over 200 miles of trail. Public camping can be found in the national forest within an hour’s drive of Steelville, including Red Bluff Campground, Brazil Creek Recreation Area, Council Bluff Recreation Area, and Lane Spring Recreation Area. Tent and RV sites offer dry camping and electric hookups.
Meramec State Park
Just under 30 minutes northwest of Steelville, Meramec State Park showcases landscapes along the waterway. In addition to offering scenery, the river provides recreational opportunities, including swimming, fishing, and paddling. Explore the onsite cave or hike one of the 13 trails. A campground offers tent and RV sites with amenities including electric-only, water/electric, and full hookups.
Onondaga Cave State Park
The dramatic Onondaga Cave is the focal point of this state park. Named a National Natural Landmark, the cave features massive stalactites and stalagmites with a river flowing through the fascinating structures. While cave tours are a popular activity, the park also features hiking and biking trails, as well as fishing, boating, and paddling in the Meramec River. Basic and water/electric campsites for both tents and RV are available.
When to go
Hiking and biking are most pleasant in the Steelville region in spring and fall, with fall being particularly beautiful as the leaves change. The weather is usually moderate in these shoulder seasons, with occasional rains. Summer is the most popular time for travelers hitting the waterways, as water temperatures warm to comfortable levels, providing cool relief on hot, humid days.