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The best camping in Missouri

Name: Missouri
Address: Missouri
Rating: 4.7085

Whether road-tripping along part of the historic Route 66, vacationing at the Lake of the Ozarks, or following in the footsteps of homegrown hero Mark Twain—Missouri is made for traveling. From Kansas City to St Louis, you’re never far from a state park—there are 38 to choose from—while the vast Mark Twain National Forest encompasses 1.5-million acres spread across seven different wilderness areas. Plan your camping trip from May through October to make the most of the forests, lakes, and wilderness areas, or cozy up in an RV through the snowy winter months.

94% (9.1K) • 8,263 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Missouri

Hawks Bluff Farm Campground

1. Hawks Bluff Farm Campground

97%

(320)

Tiff, MO · 56 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Escape the city! We have a very special property that nourishes the soul and provides space to roam and breathe fresh air. We have 420 acres to explore. A beautiful creek running through our property. We have cows, mules, goats, dogs and cats. We are on a bluff so if you are rock hunters you have come to the right place. We offer rock hunting. and we have extra buckets. We have the best Drusy (lots of colors), Crazy Lace Agate, Calcite, Chalcedony, Quartz, Chert, Barite, Bladed Barite, Iron Ores and more. Check us out on Facebook Hawks Bluff Farm Rocks and Drusy. We have firewood, ice, eggs, ground beef, propane exchange and new propane tanks available. Ask us about our kayaking options!

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Four Creeks Ranch Campground

2. Four Creeks Ranch Campground

96%

(482)

Ellington, MO · 19 sites · Tents, RVs

Three crystal clear creeks to swim, wade, hunt rocks, or just relax. We have several tent sites right on the creeks and RV sites close for just a short walk for swimming fun. Close to Mark Twain National Forest, for hiking Rocky Creek trail Head, Blue Springs trail to Rocky Falls, Black River and the Current for floating, Kayaking or fishing. Clearwater Lake for boat rentals or Jet skies. Sites to see, Blue Springs, Big Springs Johnson Shut Inns, Elephant Rock, Rocky Falls, and many state parks to explore. We are also only three miles from the town of Ellington, MO for your shopping needs, several restaurants and antiquing.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Milo Farm Sacred Land

3. Milo Farm Sacred Land

98%

(545)

Buckner, MO · 20 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Milo Farm was established organically a few years ago. The energy at Milo so amazing we wanted to share! There's a story behind the sacredness of this land, Loni can share that with you if you ask! There are 5 different ecosystems at Milo, all which hold their own magic!🪄 Milo has mant tent sites, car camping sites (for retroverted cars & sprinter vans), 6 cabins, a luxury guest space for you to stay! Sorry we DO NOT have any RV spots at this time. Our cabins are the Hippie Trailer, which is located near the west woods near the Fairy Forest. Then the Bunkhouse just past the big barn on the north end of the property. The lodge, where the Airbnb and pool are is centrally located on the land. We rent out the lower level guest quarters for non-campers. We have a Hobbit Hut near the Frog Pond, a Boho Bus near the entry way and several Vardos (gypsy wagons). For our tent campers there are tent sites in the Eastfield, including the Movie set location of the DM Cabin, and for diehard campers the beauty of primitive pack-in/pack-out camping of Freedom Field is a joy! Feel the energy of the sacred land. We also have SO may attractions! There are 2 stocked ponds, miles of trails, pool, Zen garden, farm animals, a library and more. Find all the portals here! Bless Mother Earth and spend some time in nature at this magical place. Great for the spiritually minded with several meditation spots. There are events happening some weekends you can participate in. We have a Call to Prayer 9:30am every day in the Art Studio/Spirit Shack, you may join us! Loni is a spiritual intuitive and can do a reading using the Milo Farm Oracle cards she created! Ask for availability of these things. Milo has a lot to offer! Located in Eastern Jackson County MO, just 30 minutes from downtown Kansas City.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Mark Twain National Forest

4. Mark Twain National Forest

86%

(22)

National forest in Missouri · 452 sites

Missouri’s only national forest has 1.5 million acres of wilderness to explore.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Cuivre River State Park

5. Cuivre River State Park

100%

(5)

State park in Missouri · 110 sites

Explore this natural paradise in northeastern Missouri.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

38 Special Luxury RV Resort

6. 38 Special Luxury RV Resort

100%

(24)

Sunrise Beach, MO · 28 sites

Live in Luxury at 38 Special Luxury RV Resort At 38 Special Luxury RV Resort, we are dedicated to the art of luxury RV living. With deep roots in the RVing world, we’ve made Lake of the Ozarks the backdrop for our passion for adventure. Our story is a tapestry of unforgettable experiences, and now we’re excited to share it with you. Join us on a journey celebrating the lake lifestyle, boating, and the unparalleled beauty of Lake of the Ozarks. Discover the joys of luxury RV life with us at 38 Special Luxury RV Resort.

Pets

Full hookups

Hummingbird Hollow Outdoors

7. Hummingbird Hollow Outdoors

99%

(650)

Parkway, MO · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging

Hummingbird Hollow Outdoors is a 501c3 not for profit Farm Animal Sanctuary. You will be able to camp with the horses, goats, potbellied pigs and more. We open up our farm so that people can enjoy the outdoors, animals and nature, and the animals can enjoy people! We are a sanctuary for all creatures on earth, including humans. You can even claim the cost of your stay on your taxes! All proceeds go to the care of the animals. "Today, whatever is good for your soul, do that."

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Spring Lake Ranch

8. Spring Lake Ranch

93%

(2070)

Potosi, MO · 39 sites · Tents, RVs

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

Toilets

Full hookups

Riverbend RV Park and Campground

9. Riverbend RV Park and Campground

92%

(332)

Macks Creek, MO · 7 sites · Tents, RVs

Our small owner operated campground sits high above the Niangua River. Situated below Tunnel Dam and the locally famous Whistle, we have 250’ of Big Niangua River frontage. We offer several full hook-up RV spots and ultra secluded primitive spots and anything in between. We have a bathroom/shower house for campers’ convenience.

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

Finger Lakes State Park

10. Finger Lakes State Park

100%

(9)

State park in Missouri · 35 sites

Select from a menu of activities at this scenic mid-Missouri park, popular for ATVing.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Hawn State Park

11. Hawn State Park

100%

(5)

State park in Missouri · 45 sites

Scenery abounds in this mid-Missouri park.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Meramec State Park

12. Meramec State Park

100%

(8)

State park in Missouri · 179 sites

Camping, caving, and canoeing along the Meramec River.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

St. Joe State Park

13. St. Joe State Park

100%

(5)

State park in Missouri · 105 sites

Hit the trails on bike, horseback, or ATV in this adventurous Missouri park.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Sycamore Springs Campground

14. Sycamore Springs Campground

97%

(162)

Fredericktown, MO · 10 sites · Tents, RVs

The campsite sits alongside the Castor River, offering electric hookups at 5 sites as well as 5 primitive tent sites. Enjoy outdoor adventures just minutes away, at the Amidon Memorial Conservation Area, a 1,630-acre area located on the upper reaches of the Castor River, located south of Route J, eight miles east of Fredericktown.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Sunset Mountain

15. Sunset Mountain

100%

(160)

Noel, MO · 27 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Sunset Mountain is an exclusive reservation only 18+ clothing optional/nudist campground located on my working cattle farm. We are not a place for partying or any sexual activity or PDA. We are a place to relax and enjoy nature. (Please do not drive up to our gate and try to get in. Please make a reservation in advance.) Although we cater to adults only we follow TNSF and AANR guidelines for social nude recreation. If you are not familiar with TNSF or AANR you can do a quick internet search and see some basic guidelines for social nude recreation. Sunset Mountain does typically operate as a blind service venue meaning we do business online and we and or our maintenance team may not be seen during your stay. We have a good team in place to help your stay be enjoyable please just understand we don’t operate like some of the nudist clubs you may be used to. Sunset Mountain is a nice quiet place to relax and work on your tan. We have RV sites, tent camping areas and overlanding sites. As lodging options we have a converted bus and shipping container. The campground has a bathroom facility with indoor shower and seasonal outdoor showers. We have a hot tub and propane grill guests can use year round along with hiking trails in the summer and a swimming pool. Sunset Mountain is near the Elk River in Noel Missouri and close to Northwest Arkansas where there are mountain biking trails, museums and many other activities. Sunset Mountain is listed on the Monarch Butterfly Waystation registry as well. We are located 1.2 miles away from the Noel city park that has free Elk River access, 4 miles to Mt. Shira free Elk River access near Shady Beach and 5.2 miles to the free Elk River access in Pineville, MO near Shady Beach Pineville. If you are not tech savvy enough to use this platform our facility may not be for you.

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

Johnsons Hobby Farm

16. Johnsons Hobby Farm

96%

(88)

Springfield, MO · 10 sites · Tents, RVs

We live on a small paradise covering 2 acres. We have plenty of space for 33' foot campers, tents, vans, etc. Our backyard has been designed to accommodate families and the single nomads. We are a small hobby farm with a dog, chickens, a small fruit orchard, vineyard, and garden!! On the north end of the property we created a playground with a jungle gym, swings, trampoline, playhouses, outside polyjohn/toilet, and a 16' pool. This property is pet friendly but be warned we do have a large dog (very friendly)! We have power to support smaller 20amp campers with water and a dump station. An outdoo shower will be available in July 2024.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

DnD Lakefront Campground Lake Ozark

17. DnD Lakefront Campground Lake Ozark

94%

(155)

Sunrise Beach, MO · 8 sites

Pitch your tent in our Lakefront campsites at DnD Lakeside Campground and have access to your own picnic table and fire ring on the shores of the beautiful Lake of The Ozarks, one of the Midwest's premier boating and lake fun destinations. Swim, fish and float in our quiet cove, take walks up our hiking trails and end your day enjoying the night sky sitting next to a fire. We are close to Ha Ha Tonka State Park, Bridal Cave, many lakefront bars and restaurants and The Ozark Amphitheater. Make sure to book early for summer holiday weekends. Discounted prices for weekday rentals available. Limited boat slip rentals available for a fee. All sites are located on a gravel road down a steep hill in Missouri. For those who aren't familiar, this means that when it rains, you'll likely need a 4x4 to get back up. Travel at your own risk!

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

Harmony Lake Farm Park & Playground

18. Harmony Lake Farm Park & Playground

99%

(1082)

Wellington, MO · 15 sites · Tents, RVs

Harmony Lake welcomes you to our farm. We are proud to be a registered member of Missouri Agritourism. Agritourism connects our guests with the great outdoors via a farm stay. We hope you enjoy your stay at Harmony Lake Farm. We are walking distance to Harmony Lake: a private 12-acre lake for fishing, swimming and paddle boats. Our lake is home to record large-mouth bass and Missouri's longest free-floating walkway leading to a private island. We are located just 15-minutes from the highway and one hour to sites and attractions of Kansas City. We are 15-minutes to Lexington historic district or Odessa. We have a variety of tent and RV sites for your party to choose from so just reach out if you would like clarification on anything. Campfires and pets are allowed and all sites have access to bathroom with shower, trash bins, and an outdoor grill house.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Sudden Valley Ranch

19. Sudden Valley Ranch

99%

(292)

Warrenton, MO · 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!  

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Sinking Creek Ranch RVs & Glamping

20. Sinking Creek Ranch RVs & Glamping

100%

(23)

Bunker, MO · 28 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Creekside camping with miles of trails — dirt bike, SxS, ATV, and Horse friendly. Simple, Transparent Pricing At Sinking Creek Ranch, what you see is what you pay — no hidden fees or surprise add-ons. Full-Hookup RV Sites: $40–$50 per night Dry RV Sites: $20–$25 per night RV All-inclusive pricing — covers up to 4 adults, 8 kids, multiple vehicles, and pets at no extra charge. Primitive (Dry) Camping: $15–$20 per night Luxury Glamping Tents: $100–$120 per night The Ranch Welcome to Sinking Creek Ranch, a one-of-a-kind RV campground and glamping destination in the Missouri Ozarks. Set on 277 private acres just minutes from the Current River and Mark Twain National Forest, it’s the perfect mix of peace, adventure, and convenience for riders and RV travelers. RV Camping That Delivers Full-hookup RV sites (30/50 amp, water, sewer) — ideal for trailers, motorhomes, and large rigs Level, private pads with creekside and forest views Pet-friendly **Plenty of space for extra vehicles **and trailer parking in the field. Enjoy the quiet beauty of creekside RV camping in the Ozarks — complete with the utilities and space RVers expect. Ride, Ride, Ride Bring your own dirt bike, side-by-side, or horse — the adventure starts at your campsite. Over 7 miles of single-track trails for dirt bikes, horses, small ATVs, hiking, or mountain biking (under 50in vehicles) A 4.5-mile side-by-side loop located entirely on the property (Over 50in vehicles) Direct access to miles of Ozark forest roads and backcountry trails with proper permits If you’ve been searching for Missouri trails with camping or SxS, ATV, dirt bike, and Horse friendly RV parks, this is it. Please note: We do not offer rentals — guests must bring their own machines or horses. If you plan on bringing a horse please just call us prior. (573-282-6203) Luxury Glamping No RV? No problem. Stay in a luxury canvas glamping tent surrounded by nature — complete with a real bed, cozy lighting, and private fire pit. It’s the perfect Ozark glamping getaway for couples, families, or small groups. Amenities & Highlights Clean bathhouse with hot showers Picnic areas, fire pits, and gathering spaces Pet- and horse-friendly (bring your horse, tack & trailer) Located along Sinking Creek and a short drive from the Current

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Brian

1 week ago

Tent

1 night at Sunset Mountain

This was a great place to make a rest stop on my recent road trip to Missouri. The pool was well maintained and the available facilities were clean.

Terri

1 week ago

30 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Harmony Lake Farm Park & Playground

Beautiful and peaceful property, loved the lake, animals and pickleball court! Owners are very friendly and helpful. We definitely plan on returning.

James

1 week ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sunset Mountain

Beautiful. I wasn’t able to stay until sunset but it was obvious that sunset is a marvelous experience based on the topography. The pool, jacuzzi and cooling pool were absolutely perfect. With the exception of the host I was the only one there the entire day. So it was a great time of solitude and relaxation.

Renée

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

1 night at Harmony Lake Farm Park & Playground

Joan and Kenny were friendly and helpful. Their property is well groomed. The peacocks/peahens are friendly, and the pig and emu were a fun surprise! The lake is gorgeous, with a peaceful little island in the middle (accessible by a floating walkway). I’d stay here again if I come this way! Also appreciated was an indoor toilet and shower!

The Pups love to camp, so if you have a dog friendly dog or dogs bring them along.

Hannah

2 weeks ago

20 ft campervan

With kids

Weekend Trip to Four Creeks Ranch Campground

The grounds are positively beautiful and I love that the sites are not super close together. Families have space to spread out a little bit, and the best part is the creeks which are within walking distance and perfect for summer camping trips especially with little ones. We love love loved it!!!

Shelli

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Hawks Bluff Farm Campground

This place is amazing! The setup is cool. Several sites around the pond as well as some set back in the trees. The compost toilets were clean and nice and the hand washing sinks were a welcome touch. Outdoor kitchen and shower house! Everything you could need. Elizabeth was so kind, helpful and knowledgeable. We loved swimming in the pond, hiking to the creek, and petting the animals. We found so many cool rocks and crystals to add to our collection. We had so much fun here!

Andy Ray

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sycamore Springs Campground

Wonderful people! The host is the greatest! My brother and I had an Amazing time once again. The water is clear, the sites are clean and there is a cave!!!!

Shannon

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Spring Lake Ranch

Because of the weather, we ultimately didn't overnight tent camp. But we did spend Saturday at the secluded peninsula and paddled on the lake with our dog. The goats were super cute and the lake was nice.

No better way to enjoy a morning coffee.

Andrea

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to D'Ranch at Clearwater

The cabin was so cozy and peaceful. It is in a beautiful spot and I loved taking an early morning kayak paddle. The farm is beautiful. I wish I could have stayed longer. Tracey is an amazing host, friendly and gracious. I made a mistake booking and she was so kind and patient helping me sort it out. She really goes above and beyond making sure everything is clean and her guests have everything they need.

Samantha

2 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sinking Creek Ranch RVs & Glamping

Place was great!! It was a little hot during our stay but the AC helped as long as the door stayed closed the night was beautiful

Samantha

2 weeks ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to Sinking Creek Ranch RVs & Glamping

Place was awesome, the kids really enjoyed it! The creek was a great place to take the family to swim, met some families, locals and animals lol. It was extremely hot during our stay (mid August 2026) but as soon as the sun went behind the trees it cooled off so quick. Sleeping was peaceful as can be, the shower/bathrooms/only place for signal(wifi, I actually loved the no phones or TV or tablets ect. )

Paul

2 weeks ago

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Sunset Mountain

We enjoyed our stay, beautiful property and well maintained. James was an excellent host, amd welcoming. Will definitely stay again.

Dave

2 weeks ago

12 ft rooftop tent

Weekend Trip to Sunset Mountain

The overland tent sites are great.But expect to bring leveling blocks to level your vechical. There close to the pool, have their own fire pit when fires are allowed,and just a short walk to the comunity fire pit and other comunity activities that may be going on ( check calander).

Rachel

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Four Creeks Ranch Campground

Right from the start Shelly made us feel right at home and even went out of her way to find us an adapter so we could have fans for both tents (real feel was about 115 that weekend YUCK!) nice property for a weekend camping trip :) will definitely be going back!

Cheryl

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Sunset Mountain

Sunset Mountain is a beautiful place. The Jesus Bus was an awesome place to stay. We left our own messages on the walls like others have when they stay there. Pool was very refreshing and the guest were all friendly. The host family was very inviting and we hope to be able to go there again sometime. Nice place to get away from the hussle and bussle of life.

Shonnell

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

7 nights at Johnsons Hobby Farm

Luke's farm is a sweet spot with. Back yard and small farm setting. It's safe clean and convenient with gas stations, fast food and grocery stores right up the street. We felt like was at home! Nice fire pit to cook on and a clean porter potty! Luke is very responsive and helpful! This s safe place for children a my and pets!!! We will most definitely be back!

Carole

2 weeks ago

With kids

3 nights at Hummingbird Hollow Outdoors

We really enjoyed our stay! The animals were friendly and sweet and fun to watch, and the site was charming and peaceful (outside of the occasional animal calls - though they just added the charm 😊). Susan was also very thoughtful in providing fans to help us beat the heat - as we happened to stay during a heat advisory - and was very helpful and quick to respond to any questions. Overall, it was a much-needed pleasant retreat for us after a difficult few months, for which we are grateful.

Micheal

2 weeks ago

Tent

7 nights at Hawks Bluff Farm Campground

This is the best campground to come to Elizabeth is best also she'll do anything to help you out plus the rocks here in the small pond or you can go swimming everyday it's very Spring fed

A Creek side Campsite, plenty of room for 3 or 4 tents.

Kipp

2 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at Four Creeks Ranch Campground

Beautiful land, gorgeous creek, and lovely hosts! We watched the meteor shower, and it was the perfect viewing spot! We will be returning!

Angela

2 weeks ago

2 nights at Sinking Creek Ranch RVs & Glamping

Had just bought a new AWD SUV... was happy to have it on the gravel roads going in as it had rained and got muddy.. also was good for crossing the creek to enter the glamping area, which was a bit intimidating at 1st but was just fine after the initial pass. As far as the camp itself.. as described entering.. foot bridge with no railing to enter which was a bit tricky to maneuver with my wagon but it was managble. The tent was well decorated and well appointed. Complimentary water for the keurig and fire starter were some nice touches. With several other tents in a valley but plenty of privacy between the tents. Went for the perseid meteor shower and the views from the open field were spectacular! Bath house super clean and well appointed also. Just wish there was perhaps a portable toilet closer to the tents. Cell service only at bath house. Wonderful stay and great place to unplug!

Missouri camping guide

Where to go

North Missouri

Kansas City, Missouri’s largest city, is best known for its jazz scene and BBQ restaurants, but there are also plenty of natural attractions to explore in the north. Head to nearby Weston Bend State Park to camp along the Missouri River, or go biking and horseback riding along the multi-use trails of Crowder State Park. Over on the eastern state border, Wakonda State Park has six lakes to choose from, while the Mark Twain State Park has family campgrounds in the Salt River Hills.

Central Missouri

State capital Jefferson City lies at the heart of Missouri, and just to the north, Rock Bridge Memorial State Park provides tranquil camping amid a backdrop of natural caves, streams, and woodlands. Summer campers flock to the Lake of the Ozarks region, where the huge reservoir is fringed with sandy beaches, golf courses, and restaurants. If you tire of the Ozarks camping resorts, Bennett Spring State Park makes a worthy alternative, renowned for its trout fishing.

St Louis and Southeast Missouri

At the meeting point of the Mississippi and the Missouri Rivers, St Louis is home to one of Missouri’s most visited attractions, the Gateway Arch National Park. Nearby, hikers can enjoy full-amenity camping at Meramec River State Park, while Castlewood State Park is renowned for its mountain biking trails, and Sam A Baker State Park is one of the region’s most visited. Alternatively, escape to the wilderness of the Mark Twain National Forest, where you can choose between tent/RV sites, cabins, or dispersed camping in the woods.

Southwest Missouri

Bordered by Kansas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas, the southwest is Missouri’s wild frontier. Venture into the Mark Twain National Forest to enjoy backcountry camping in the wilderness, rev up your OHV and tackle the off-road trails of St Joe State Park, or fish for rainbow trout in the stocked waters of Roaring River State Park. Finally, don’t miss the hike to Grand Falls. The 163-foot wide waterfall is Missouri’s largest, and lies just outside of Joplin.

Top camping destinations around Missouri

Finger Lakes State Park

Washington State Park

Mark Twain National Forest

90 campgrounds

Frequently Asked Questions

Is primitive camping allowed in Missouri?

Yes, primitive camping is allowed in Missouri, namely in the Mark Twain National Forest and on some private Hipcamp lands. The national forest allows dispersed, primitive camping as long as campers set up more than 100 feet away from any established administrative sites.

Where can you camp for free in Missouri?

In Missouri, you can find free camping in the Mark Twain National Forest, which allows dispersed camping. Amenities are generally not available, so be prepared for dry camping.

What is the best month to camp in Missouri?

The best months for camping in Missouri are in late spring and fall thanks to moderate temperatures. The summer months get progressively hotter and more humid between June and August, with September ushering in cooler temperatures. Fall brings a colorful explosion for leaf peeping, while winter season is less hospitable for camping, with freezing temperatures and occasional snow in December, January, and February.

Do state parks in Missouri offer camping?

Yes, nearly 40 Missouri state parks offer camping for both tent and RV campers. Dry camping, partial hookups, and full hookups are commonly available, with options varying at each location.

Is Missouri good for camping?

Yes, Missouri is an excellent destination for camping. The state offers a diverse range of landscapes, including forests, lakes, rivers, and rolling hills. With numerous state parks, the Mark Twain National Forest, and private campgrounds available, Missouri caters to various camping preferences, including tent camping, RV camping, and primitive camping. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching while camping in Missouri. Check out Missouri State Parks on Hipcamp to explore camping options.

Is boondocking legal in Missouri?

Boondocking, or dispersed camping, is legal in Missouri, particularly in the Mark Twain National Forest. However, it's essential to follow the rules and regulations of the specific area where you plan to camp. Make sure to camp at least 100 feet away from any established administrative sites and respect the environment by practicing Leave No Trace principles.

Is it legal to camp anywhere in Missouri?

No, it is not legal to camp anywhere in Missouri. Camping is allowed only in designated campgrounds, national forests, state parks, and on private lands with the owner's permission. When camping in public lands like the Mark Twain National Forest, you must follow the rules and regulations set by the managing agencies. Always check for specific regulations and restrictions before setting up camp.

What are Missouri's laws about camping?

Missouri laws on camping vary depending on the location and type of land. Here are some general guidelines to follow:

For state parks, follow the rules and regulations set by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources. These typically include restrictions on the number of people per campsite, quiet hours, and campfire regulations.
For national forests, like the Mark Twain National Forest, follow the guidelines set by the U.S. Forest Service. Dispersed camping is allowed in certain areas, but campers must follow Leave No Trace principles and are not allowed to camp near developed recreational areas or private property.
For private campgrounds, follow the rules set by the individual campground operator or Hipcamp Hosts.
Camping on private property without permission is considered trespassing and is against the law.

Always check local regulations and guidelines for the specific area where you plan to camp, and be aware that some areas may require permits or reservations.