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Sugar Creek State Forest

The best camping in Sugar Creek State Forest, MO

Discover the natural splendor of Sugar Creek State Forest.

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Stories from the community

Eric

August 2025

16 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Escape to North River Glamping

Abslolutely loved the place, would highly recommene it to anybody. Just beautiful.

Top-rated campgrounds

Escape to North River Glamping

100%

(2)

44mi from Sugar Creek State Forest · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Shelbyville, MO

Settle into The Grove at North River Ranch, a lovely glampground on our 2200 acre working regenerative ranch. Look out on the pond, under the shade of oak, maple and honey locusts. Hike a trail through forested paths, around beautiful wide pastures. Look for protected birds on our Audubon Certified property, and observe deer, fox, beavers and other wildlife in their natural, balanced environment. Enjoy quiet, restful sleep in furnished platform tents with quality linens and handcrafted quilts under beautiful, unobstructed starry skies.

Chief’s Lookout

34mi from Sugar Creek State Forest · 4 sites · Lodging · Moulton, IA

Two cozy guest cabins (Amish made)that can sleep up to 4 a piece and a kitchen cabin (Chief Keokuk) that also sleeps four. Tucked in a serene wooded cove with a small pond, great for swimming and fishing. Located just two miles North of the Missouri border, and 7 miles south of Moulton, IA. The kitchen cabin has a full bathroom and full kitchen. There is a community fire pit on the patio with three picnic tables offered, horse shoe pit, and a deer hanging post and first come first serve dog kennel with dog house. It is located 2 miles away from 3,000 acres of public hunting land in Iowa, called Sedan Bottoms and a couple miles away from about 3,500 acres of public hunting in Missouri and it’s called Rebels Cove.

The best camping in Sugar Creek State Forest, MO guide

Overview

About

Embark on an adventure through the serene and wild landscapes of Sugar Creek State Forest. Traverse its lush trails, witness the vibrant local wildlife, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature. Whether you're an avid hiker, bird watcher, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, this forest offers a diverse array of activities to satisfy your outdoor cravings.

When to go

The best time to visit Sugar Creek State Forest is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the foliage is at its most picturesque. Summer brings warmth perfect for exploring, but be prepared for busier trails. Winter can be harsh, so check conditions if you plan a cold-weather visit.

Know before you go

Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately for the season to ensure a comfortable visit.
Be aware of local wildlife and follow guidelines to keep both you and the animals safe.
Some areas may have limited accessibility, so verify the paths and facilities before your trip.
Remember to pack out all your trash and leave the forest as pristine as you found it.
For any inquiries or assistance, contact the local MDC office before your visit.

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