Waterside camping near Sullivan
Caves, rivers, and kitsch abound in this small town outside of St.
- Sullivan
Popular camping styles for Sullivan
2 top waterside campgrounds near Sullivan
Spring Lake Ranch
Hawks Bluff Farm
Nearby parks
Explore the area’s public lands.
Louis.
Waterside camping near Sullivan guide
Overview
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.
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.
