99% (967) • 41 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Sullivan
99% (967) • 41 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Sullivan
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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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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trenna
September 2025
Tent
Group trip
This was our third consecutive year camping at Bill’s campground, and each time is as wonderful as before (if not more). Bill cares for the land so well and thoughtfully that it’s difficult not to be stunned everywhere you look. Key highlights (besides the joy of wilderness camping) include a variety of terrains, a cold and refreshing creek, a pond, generous wood bundles/refills, and great conversations with Bill. There are plenty of attractions nearby such as Elephant Rocks and Johnson’s Shut Ins, which I highly recommend checking out if you’re in the area. Thank you as always, Bill!
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Holly
September 2025
24 ft Class C
Dennis was there to greet us and assist with backing in and plugging up. It was a great spot for a night or a few nights. We enjoyed the creek/brook right along the property. The wifi worked well. He cuts a path along the property that you can take a walk on and take your dogs. We would stay again when passing through.
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Tamme
September 2025
2 nights at Secluded Wooded Cabin - Lakeside
Clean, well stocked, and private. Exactly what we needed to get away from this realtor’s crazy work life. Location is spot on for spending the day in nearby cities and enjoying quiet evenings in. The perfect solution to those who would prefer an upscale feel in a perceived camping environment. The only thing we would change would be sturdier chairs around the camp fire. Although, we did have a good laugh.
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Derek
September 2025
30 ft toy hauler
Prefect quite getaway. Beautiful place and Dennis is a great individual and a wealth of knowledge for newbie campers like us. Five star experience and would highly recommend!!!
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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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Sarah
August 2025
30 ft travel trailer
Dennis was awesome!! He met us outside, made sure we were comfortable, and helped us figure our parking for our (large) vehicles. He was very kind and accommodating, and the site was clean, quiet and perfect for us and our two dogs. Would recommend for sure!
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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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Abbie
July 2025
Tent
Second time camping at Bill’s and it is always a lovely time!
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Jacinda
July 2025
Tent
We had such a great time camping here! The host was very nice, and the property was spacious and really peaceful. It wasn’t crowded at all, which made it feel like our own little escape. One of my favorite parts was falling asleep to the sound of the spring right next to our tent. It was so relaxing. My boyfriend and I also explored Elephant Rocks and Johnson’s Shut-Ins while we were in the area.
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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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Violet
June 2025
Tent
Group trip
We loved Bill’s camp site, it was magical. A spring fed creek, plentiful firewood, friendly host, <20 mins from Johnson Shut-ins…what more could we ask?
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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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Dawn
June 2025
3 nights at Secluded Wooded Cabin - Lakeside
This trip couldn’t have been any better. Wendy has thought of absolutely everything inside the cabin and the land outside is incredible. So many extras: hot tub, games, beautiful sitting areas inside and out, walking trail, and more. The picture window in the cabin defies description. We had a perfect week. I cannot recommend this place enough!! We’ll be back.
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Tristan
June 2025
Tent
We LOVED Bill’s 1855 Campground! The grounds are incredibly spaced out, a gorgeous lake on property, lovely creek as you come in, and frolicking room in between! Bill lives off grid so if you need anything he’s always there, and came in clutch when our air pump took too much wattage for our battery… Firewood comes with the site, which is incredible, and the whole experience is great.
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Katie
June 2025
Tent
This campground was exactly what I needed— after graduating from school I really just wanted to get away and recenter myself. 1855 Campground was the perfect spot to do that, I spent most of the time during my 4 days out there just admiring what was around me.
I stayed at site 6 which is nestled into the woods and right next to a lovely little meadow. It was fun exploring the campground and seeing the wildlife. I spent some time laying in the sun on the edge of the lake and floating out on an oversized tube. The campground is fairly close to other sights in the area; Johnson’s Shut-Ins, Taum Sauk Mountain, and I spent an afternoon up at Council Bluffs Lake (a nice 40 minute drive).
It’s definitely wilderness camping, but it’s a fantastic spot for those who enjoy it. The outhouse is well maintained and I was able to get water from the spring on site and Bill had already set me up with some firewood at my site when I arrived. It’s very quiet and incredibly scenic.
I loved my stay and hope to return someday :)
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Dylan
June 2025
Tent
Great camping experience. Clean beautiful land with plenty of space to have a more personal experience. Bill is super nice and is a great host. He gave us a bundle of wood for a nice fire and shuttled our things to the site. I would definitely spend another weekend camping on his land.
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Louis.
The best star host 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.