The best mountainous campgrounds near Sullivan, Missouri

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.

98% (476)

Top-rated campgrounds near Sullivan

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.

98% (476)

Top-rated campgrounds near Sullivan

1. Crooked Creek Ranch

99%

(83)

32mi from Sullivan · 1 site · Tent, RV

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.

2. Sage Mountain Recreational Area MO

96%

(27)

29mi from Sullivan · 11 sites · Tents, RVs

Sage Mountain is a recreational area located in the heart of Missouri wine country. Located between Hermann and Washington on the south side of the Missouri river. Our 50 acres of virgin forest is home to an abundance of diverse wildlife, 3.6 miles of hiking trails, bolted climbing and bouldering routes established, and a large impressive cave. We are located near the Katy trail for more hiking and biking. Access to the Missouri river for boating and fishing. On site we have an abundance of areas for back country camping, or we allow car camping in our open parking lot.

3. Water Mountain

94%

(57)

33mi from Sullivan · 30 sites · Tents, RVs

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.

4. Lost Hill Lake Glamping Resort

17mi from Sullivan · 4 sites · Lodging

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!

5. Sudden Valley Ranch

99%

(266)

37mi from Sullivan · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Our home was built shortly after the couple married in 1904.  We were fortunate enough to begin our adventure here in 1999.  We appreciate all this place has to offer - from the hay fields to the woods and everything in between.  It is a peaceful paradise we enjoy sharing with others.  Please come and relax, read a book, draw a picture, or simply let the sounds of nature lull you to sleep.  We believe you will leave rejuvenated!  

6. Mountains, feilds, and wooded areas

95%

(10)

13mi from Sullivan · 18 sites · Tents, RVs

We have owned the property since the early eighties. We have been a working farm for the last 6 years. We have hosted rrail rides and atv rides for several years and are planning on adding Historically correct Old log cabins as well as a wedding venue in the near furture.Learn more about this land:We are locted between two state parks Mermac and Washington state park. There is ATV and off road trails 2 miles down the road. We have trails throught thw property where you can hike, ride horses or take ATVs. There is lots of wildlife as well as farm animals. We have a waterfalls and streams you can walk in or just sit by and enjoy.

7. 1855 Campground

100%

(71)

47mi from Sullivan · 7 sites · Tents

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.

8. Hagood Farms and Trails

98%

(92)

12mi from Sullivan · 8 sites · Tents

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.

Camper favorites near Sullivan

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Lost Hill Lake Glamping Resort

17mi from Sullivan · 4 sites · Lodging

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!

Sudden Valley Ranch

99%

(266)

37mi from Sullivan · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Our home was built shortly after the couple married in 1904.  We were fortunate enough to begin our adventure here in 1999.  We appreciate all this place has to offer - from the hay fields to the woods and everything in between.  It is a peaceful paradise we enjoy sharing with others.  Please come and relax, read a book, draw a picture, or simply let the sounds of nature lull you to sleep.  We believe you will leave rejuvenated!  

Mountains, feilds, and wooded areas

95%

(10)

13mi from Sullivan · 18 sites · Tents, RVs

We have owned the property since the early eighties. We have been a working farm for the last 6 years. We have hosted rrail rides and atv rides for several years and are planning on adding Historically correct Old log cabins as well as a wedding venue in the near furture.Learn more about this land:We are locted between two state parks Mermac and Washington state park. There is ATV and off road trails 2 miles down the road. We have trails throught thw property where you can hike, ride horses or take ATVs. There is lots of wildlife as well as farm animals. We have a waterfalls and streams you can walk in or just sit by and enjoy.

1855 Campground

100%

(71)

47mi from Sullivan · 7 sites · Tents

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.

Hagood Farms and Trails

98%

(92)

12mi from Sullivan · 8 sites · Tents

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.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

B

Brett

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Water Mountain

I went looking for remote, and remote is what I got. This places was absolutely fantastic! I stayed down by the river and had an amazing time. The road down can be a bit rocky but easily doable in just about any vehicle. Lance was a great host and shared a lot of knowledge about the property and surrounding area. I'll definitely be back!!!

Dylan

November 2025

20 ft campervan

3 nights at Crooked Creek Ranch

we love this place!! what crooked creek lacks in amenities it makes up for in peace, solitude and outdoor fun!! my pack of dogs love the freedom to be wild while their parents sit by the fire. the trail around the property is lovely too. thank you to ross for sharing this slice of heaven!!

D

Dave

November 2025

Tent

2 nights at Sudden Valley Ranch

I really enjoyed camping at Sudden Valley. I was looking to get away from everything and a public campground is usually too close to your neighbors. I wanted solitude. The Top of the Ridge site was perfect. The site is tucked back into the woods with was plenty of room to spread out with multiple tent sites in that area to choose from - tucked into the trees or out in the open. It would be great for a family with a couple of tents and still have room for games like corn hole or washers. I’ll probably bring my grandkids next summer. Randy got me set up with firewood and the scoop on the property, then I wasn’t bothered the rest of my trip, well, except for Molly, one of their dogs, that dropped by for a visit each morning for a quick pet.

C

Chris

November 2025

16 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Mountains, feilds, and wooded areas

We love camping @ Heidi's place. They are very friendly and the property is very well taken care of.

S

Sarah

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Sudden Valley Ranch

We had an amazing time, even though there was unexpected rain and a freeze warning…we will definitely be coming back when the weather is warmer!! The campgrounds were very spacious and private. The supplies were well stocked, they think of everything you could need! The horses were so cute, and my kids loved the turkeys. We can’t wait to come back!!

D

Dena

November 2025

24 ft Class B

3 nights at Crooked Creek Ranch

This was our second time back and it was just as wonderful as the first. Ross's place is so peaceful and secluded, you will not be disappointed. Ross is a wonderful host and great at communication. We will be coming back again and again.

This is the view from Hideaway Ridge! Come and enjoy.

Daniel

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Sudden Valley Ranch

Excellent signage and information for all the campsites. Location is quiet but easy to access. Campsite was clean and organized. Lots of additional items provided you wouldn't normally expect. Plenty of firewood. I would recommend to anyone

M

Megan

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Water Mountain

We loved tent camping out here on Lance's land, it was beautiful, the woods are lovely and secluded which is exactly what we were looking for. Lance is a wonderful host and very accommodating. We will definitely be back in the future for a longer stay, 5/5 stars!

J

Jeremy

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Sudden Valley Ranch

We enjoyed our stay at The Top of the Ridge campsite! It was very quiet and peaceful, and Randy made sure we had everything we needed. There was plenty of firewood at the campsite and we utilized the Weber charcoal grill as well.

C

Christy

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hagood Farms and Trails

2nd time camping! Always hospitable, and a great place to peacefully relax.

K

Kylie Jane

October 2025

16 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Water Mountain

Hosts were so wonderful! Such a great place to get away from the crowds. Beautiful property, perfect for us and our 3 dogs.

A

Amie

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Water Mountain

I live in a rural area and this is VERY RURAL, and that’s just fine. The hosts are very nice and accommodating. We could have stayed up top but wanted a view of the river so we braved the rustic trail to the secluded river spot. We both had AWD and were glad we did because it was a bumpy ride. However, totally worth it. The site faced west over the river and we got to see deer run across the low river and heard owls and coyotes. It was 100% primitive camping down there but we had brought water and a portable toilet so we were prepared. If you have a vehicle that can make the trek down and you don’t mind primitive and secluded, then this is a spot for you.

This spacious site is at the far edge of one of our hayfields/horse pastures. You can see the outhouse is a comfortable distance from the main area.

L

Lauren

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sudden Valley Ranch

Sudden Valley Ranch is a gorgeous retreat from the norm. Our stay was wonderful and the ranch is a beautiful place to unwind and recharge. I am so grateful to the hosts for sharing their little slice of heaven with us. I will definitely be back.

K

Kelli

October 2025

16 ft car

With pets

Weekend Trip to Crooked Creek Ranch

Loved the privacy and star gazing! Definitely going back!

L

Lee Ann

October 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Sudden Valley Ranch

I found the site On Top of the Ridge to be a wonderful place to tent camp. There was a table, plenty of firewood, a cabinet with camping supplies and an awesome private outhouse just for this campsite. It was a short walk to visit the horses. The whole farm with multiple barns, fields, trails and really beautiful horses was well maintained. The owner was so gracious and welcoming. It was an easy drive from the interstate on my way from Nashville to Denver.

L

Lawson

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Sage Mountain Recreational Area MO

Beautiful spot. Very private with tons of space. Arthur communicated well too.

B

Brianna

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hagood Farms and Trails

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.

Christina

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Sudden Valley Ranch

We loved camping on Hideaway Ridge at Sudden Valley! Randy greeted us and gave us a little history on their beautiful land. The horses were gorgeous, and their cutie dog Molly greeted us in the morning before we left. The outhouse was also super clean, and the supplies they had on hand were so helpful! Will be back!

Ryan

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Sudden Valley Ranch

Amazing place and very kind hosts! Would love to visit again

N

Nick

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hagood Farms and Trails

As always it was peaceful and relaxing time. Great hosts.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Louis.

The best mountainous camping 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.