98% (201)
Top-rated campgrounds near Steelville
98% (201)
Top-rated campgrounds near Steelville
Public campgrounds near Steelville
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
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Chris
November 2025
16 ft travel trailer
With pets
We love camping @ Heidi's place. They are very friendly and the property is very well taken care of.
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Christy
October 2025
Tent
2nd time camping! Always hospitable, and a great place to peacefully relax.
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Brianna
September 2025
Tent
With pets
Aaron and Heidi were incredibly accommodating and kind. We felt safe, and had a wonderful time. There is tons to do on the property, and in the area, as well. They have adorable farm animals, and a beautiful piece of land.
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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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Heather
September 2025
With kids
The waterfall and crystal creek were definitely the highlights of our overnight adventure. Our kids couldn't have had a better time splashing around. We took an early morning hike after staying in their on site teepee. The gas fire pit in the middle kept up warm through the night and the 2 fans circulating the air perfectly. We even went through a therapeutic sounding thunderstorm overnight...staying comfortable and dry. Hearing the birds and crickets and coyotes were also pleasent noises to relax in nauture with. Jim also provided dry firewood to make sure we could enjoy a campire. For added comfort and perfection there is a bathhouse/kitchenette with more than one would need for Camping...shower, toilet, running water, kitchen table air conditioner. Also fully stocked with fishing poles and lake toys, which we plan to utilize on another trip. Jim provided knowledge for his own trails on site and is only a short text away. Jim and Cindy are amazing for sharing their own slice of heaven with us.
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Nick
September 2025
Tent
With pets
As always it was peaceful and relaxing time. Great hosts.
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Chris cecelia
August 2025
With kids
⭐⭐⭐⭐ A Magical Birthday Celebration!
We celebrated our daughters’ birthday at Lakeside Tipi Escape, and it was perfect from start to finish. Passing through the gargoyle-guarded gates felt like entering another world — peaceful, beautiful, and full of wonder. The tipi, tucked in the pines near the lake and waterfall, felt like a cozy fairytale hideaway. The kids fished, explored trails, played by the water, and loved visiting with the friendly dogs. Cindy and Jim are amazing hosts — warm, thoughtful, and even surprised our girls with birthday cupcakes! Their care and love for this sanctuary shines in every detail. Our daughters called it the best birthday ever, and we couldn’t agree more. We left with full hearts, happy kids, and memories we’ll treasure forever.
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Metehan
August 2025
Tent
With pets
We had such a wonderful experience at this campsite! The location is peaceful and tucked away, making it feel private and cozy. At night we were able to enjoy a campfire, and the hosts went above and beyond by providing us with fresh eggs (including duck eggs) and firewood. They were incredibly kind, welcoming, and full of helpful suggestions about the area.
We also enjoyed fishing in the small pond on the property and taking walks around the grounds. Our dog had the best time running free and exploring the nature around us. Everything about this place made us feel relaxed and connected to the outdoors.
We absolutely loved our stay and will definitely be coming back!
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Jennifer
July 2025
1 night at Lakeside Tipi Retreat
This was an absolutely gorgeous retreat! The Tepe was so neat and perfectly done up so perfectly! Finding the box, of instruments too?! Love that you packed in a tambourine!
Everything about this place was 10/10
Canoeing on the gorgeous lake and immersing ourselves into the nearby waterfall was majestic . Jim and Cindy , thank you for opening your space for others to take in . It was an unforgettable experience.
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Justin
July 2025
1 night at Lakeside Tipi Retreat
The property was amazing! From the lake to the waterfall it was all so well taken care of and thought out. Jim and Cindy were so hospitable, even gave us some firewood for the evening. We would definitely revisit!
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Pamela
July 2025
2 nights at Lakeside Tipi Retreat
Fabulous grounds with so much to do! Rock hunters, great bird watching with numerous Whip-poor-wills, Chucks Poor Widows and so much more. The tipi is great, very cozy & cool in the evening. It's roughing it, cooking/shower wise but has a bathroom! Jim & Cindy are very accommodating and cool folks. The hammocks, kayaks, canoe and float mat on the lake and the tranquil waterfalls are a great place to mellow out at. Dogs are super friendly and good dogs! Definitely recommend! ❤️
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Lauren
June 2025
With kids
This place is magical!! My sister and I needed to disconnect with the kids and be present and Jim and Cindy’s home is pure serenity! Our kids were in the water all day and had such a wonderful adventure! The pond, the waterfall, trails and hammocks spread all the peace vibes throughout our crew. The stars at night were unlike anything you can see in St. Louis. Jim and Cindy could not have been nicer and had so many great items on hand that we accidentally forgot to bring. The tipi was beautiful and unique and the lights added such a magical touch at night. The dogs were so friendly and helped us feel protected as they watched over us. If you need a place that is clean, serene and full of fun to disconnect this place is it! We cant wait to go back!
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Kylee
June 2025
Tent
With kids
Awesome experience! The sites are kept up with and spaced out around the pond (that we caught a whole bunch of fishy’s out of ;)). The owners were also so so nice and told us about different things around the area and offered to show us their animals. 10/10 time
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Emily
June 2025
Tent
With pets
We had a wonderful time camping here! The hosts were so friendly and welcoming to us! We loved fishing at the pond and hearing the bull frogs at night. Our two dogs came with us and they enjoyed the spot too!
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Cynthia
May 2025
10 ft campervan
With pets
The seanery was beautiful. And the croaking toads was really cool.
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Christy
November 2024
Tent
Communication was great. Hospitality was wonderful! Location was convenient for our needs. We will definitely be back again!
See moreNearby public parks
Browse national and state parks near Steelville
The best waterfall 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.