The best family-friendly glamping near Sullivan

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Some 70 miles southwest of St. Louis, Sullivan is a jumping-off point for big city adventures or for exploring the great outdoors of mid Missouri. The legend of notorious outlaw Jesse James lives on in kitschy tourist attractions in the area, with claims that James hid in nearby Meramec Caverns. Natural landscapes and public camping can be found near Sullivan at Meramec State Park and Onondaga Cave State Park. Private RV parks and glamping rentals offer a range of amenities nearby, with some providing waterfront camping along the banks of the Meramec River.

97% (1.6K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Spring Lake Ranch

1. Spring Lake Ranch

93%
(1979)
20mi from Sullivan · 43 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$17
 / night
Lakeside Tipi Retreat

4. Lakeside Tipi Retreat

100%
(7)
33mi from Sullivan · 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.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$100
 / night

Some 70 miles southwest of St. Louis, Sullivan is a jumping-off point for big city adventures or for exploring the great outdoors of mid Missouri. The legend of notorious outlaw Jesse James lives on in kitschy tourist attractions in the area, with claims that James hid in nearby Meramec Caverns. Natural landscapes and public camping can be found near Sullivan at Meramec State Park and Onondaga Cave State Park. Private RV parks and glamping rentals offer a range of amenities nearby, with some providing waterfront camping along the banks of the Meramec River.

97% (1.6K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Spring Lake Ranch

1. Spring Lake Ranch

93%
(1979)
20mi from Sullivan · 43 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$17
 / night
Lakeside Tipi Retreat

4. Lakeside Tipi Retreat

100%
(7)
33mi from Sullivan · 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.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$100
 / night

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The best family-friendly glamping near Sullivan guide

Where to go

Meramec State Park

Floating, fishing, hiking, and camping provide the core of a wide menu of activities to enjoy in Meramec State Park. The stream-fed Meramec River is at the center of it all, surrounded by dense woodlands and limestone bluffs. The recreation continues underground, with many caves to explore. A mix of tent and RV sites can be found at the onsite campground, with amenities ranging from basic to full hookup services.

Onondaga Cave State Park

Onondaga Cave State Park is like a twin to Meramec State Park, offering more riverside landscapes and an underground marvel to explore. Onondaga Cave is a National Natural Landmark, offering guided tours of the massive stalagmites and stalactites. Above ground, head up to the bluffs for panoramic river views. The year-round campground offers a mix of shaded basic and water/electric sites, with some close to the waters.

Hermann, Missouri

Just 50 miles north of Sullivan, Hermann feels worlds away, thanks to the rolling hills and German roots of this historic town. Located in wine country, Hermann is home to a number of vineyards, providing food and drinks in scenic settings. The German heritage lives on in the town’s restaurants and festivals. Private RV parks and glamping rentals dot the region, with a highly rated public campground found in the town park.

St. Louis, Missouri

Head northeast to find St. Louis. The grand Gateway Arch serves as an iconic backdrop to this vibrant river city. Below the Arch, visitors can stroll the cobblestone streets of Laclede’s Landing, along the Mississippi River. Stay busy roaming scenic Forest Park, home to many free museums, or catch a Cardinals baseball game before grabbing dinner on The Hill, a historic Italian neighborhood. A few RV parks offer camping near the heart of the city or head out to the suburbs to find a variety of public and private campgrounds.

When to go

Sullivan is primarily a three-season camping destination. Those exploring the scenery of the outdoors or strolling the town and city streets may enjoy spring and fall the most. Rolling hills near Sullivan pop with color in the fall. Summer is generally hot and humid, which sends many visitors to the stream-fed rivers. Winter is temperamental, with freezing temps and frozen precipitation always a possibility.

Popular Sullivan glamping styles