The best camping near Trail of Tears State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Trail of Tears State Park adventure.

100% (1 reviews)
100% (1 reviews)

River landscapes, recreation, and history abound at this park.  

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Community favorites near Trail of Tears State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Trail of Tears State Park

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(527)

Wine Trail Wilderness

16 sites · RVs, Tents37 acres · Pomona, IL
The Shawnee National Forest surrounds us, accessible only by wandering roads, passing over creeks and alongside wineries. The trip is worth the beautiful drive, eventually arriving at "The Villa". Our home looks like an Italian villa, appropriately placed between two wineries in the middle of the Shawnee Forest. It is actually a straw-bale home with supplemental solar energy. Originally built as a Holistic Healing Center, we have converted it into a comfortable home with great vibes. We have converted an old grain bin into a "GrainZebo" just outside our home as a fun place to hang out with friends and family. We hope you enjoy the same relaxed feel we get while living out here in the woods, when you come visit. We will be happy to help you feel at home out here. We love sharing the Shawnee experience.
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$24
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95%
(38)

Sycamore Springs Campground

25 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Fredericktown, MO
The campsite sits alongside the Castor River, offering electric hookups at 5 sites for campers. There is day pass availability as well as 5 Tent camping 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.
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$10
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99%
(153)

The Art Farm Women's Retreat

43 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents34 acres · Paducah, KY
The farm is women owned and operated. This 34 acres of rolling farmland, woods and pasture is surrounded by farmland and woodlands on all sides. Enjoy nature. Watch wildlife. Listen to the birds singing. You will often see deer in the evenings. Walk or drive to the main residence to enjoy the pool, hot tub and hot outdoor shower. (5 minute walk or 1 minute drive) We have a few dedicated women's campouts each year, and some art-making workshops, retreats, and quilting weekends, too. Other times we are open and inclusive of all. Native land of Chickasaw, Quapaw and Osage nations. LGBTQ friendly. :)
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$35
 / night
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(30)

Tall Tree Lake

62 sites · RVs, Tents220 acres · Buncombe, IL
We are a 220 acre family owned and operated campground in the middle of the Shawnee National forest. We love providing a safe, beautiful, peaceful, and central location for people to enjoy our beautiful area. Fishing and hiking are welcomed for all of our guests! Located in the heart of the Shawnee National Forest. Close proximity to Ferne Clyffe State Park, Tunnel Hill Bike Trail, and only a 10 minute drive from I-24.
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$10
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(29)

Big Muddy Brewing

42 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Murphysboro, IL
Big Muddy Brewing is a production craft brewery and taproom offering over 25 beers on tap. Our taproom has beer tastings, pints and growlers as well as wine and craft spirits. We also have plenty of packaged beer to go. Our kitchen has Bavarian pretzels, Flatbread pizzas and more. Located in the heart of Southern Illinois, minutes from the Shawnee National Forest, Kinkaid Lake, Murphysboro State Park & Southern Illinois University. Check our Facebook page for schedule of music and events.
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$25
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(9)

Scottish Highland Cattle Ranch

9 sites · RVs, Tents235 acres · Glen Allen, MO
Learn more about this land: We have five campsites in 135 acres of acres of forest and ranch land in our working cattle and sheep ranch.  Located in a serene valley in the Ozark Highlands, the Ranch has Sheep, Scottish Highland Cattle, Chickens, Ducks and Great Pyrenees livestock guard dogs (only in the sheep pastures - and they are friendly).  If you want to meet our animals and see the farm we are happy to show you around! This is a unique site located in the Ozark Highlands. Only 45 minutes from Cape Girardeau (a small river town on the Mississippi), and 45 minutes from the Arcadia Valley including Taum Sauk mountain (the highest point in Missouri), Elephant Rocks, the Johnston Shutins, and other beautiful areas in the highlands.  The farm is five minutes from Marble Hill, which is home to the Bollinger County Natural History museum which highlights the only dinosaur bones found in Missouri. The bones were found at a farm in Glennallen (a few minutes from our farm) as well as a great barbeque (Jay’s Restaurant) and a good catfish restaurant (Jers Restaurant). On the way to our farm, feel free to stop at the 1,700 foot deep artesian well to get a cool, refreshing jug of natural artesian well water – the water is free, but you have to bring your own containers!  We are two and a half hours southwest of St. Louis, and two and half hours northwest of Memphis.
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$24
 / night
100%
(4)

Ridge Camping Private

34 sites · RVs, Tents42 acres · Mill Creek, IL
You will hike to your private primitive destination. We ask that you please have an above ground firepit! Explore the property and enjoy a private stay!!!!!!!!!!!
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$10
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99%
(87)

Monarch Hill Vineyard

18 sites · RVs, Tents80 acres · Ste. Genevieve, MO
Welcome to Monarch Hill! Tucked away in the hills of Ste. Genevieve County, we enjoy watching the sun rise and set over our secluded pastures and vineyards.  Our hilltop sites offer an open area with fire rings and picnic tables, great for groups or social butterflies. These offer well water at the nearby barn for drinking and showering.  The Seclusion sites are private escapes for those who want to immerse themselves in the sounds of nature. Take in the chirps of frogs, birds and crickets at these isolated sites.  We offer a complimentary wood basket with every booking, and have additional fire-building supplies available. Be sure to check out our experiences to make the most of your stay, and don't forget to reserve a s'more kit! *** April 2024 Total Solar Eclipse *** We are excited to be located in the best viewing path for this year's total eclipse! We will be preparing additional sites as needed for this weekend, so if we are fully booked check back soon or message us to reserve a spot. More information to come as we approach the date.
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$50
 / night
97%
(33)

Camp Ondessonk

9 sites · Tents983 acres · Ozark, IL
Operating since 1959, Camp Ondessonk is a non-profit youth camp on 983 acres of beautiful wooded property adjacent to the Shawnee National Forest. Guests have access to several miles of paved road for walking and cycling, 15 miles of on-site hiking and biking trails, and access to a huge network of public Shawnee National Forest trails including the River-to-River Trail. Our property is home to the tallest free-falling waterfall in Illinois, Cedar Falls, as well as rock bottom creeks, canyons, prairies, forests, and hills. Detailed trail maps of our property and the surrounding area are available. Guests are welcome to stroll the grounds, observe our horses grazing in the pastures, enjoy views of our lakes and forests, or relax by the campfire. Stop by the Camp Store at the Trading Post to purchase Ondessonk apparel, souvenirs, or essential items. To schedule a guided hike, boating, archery, or horseback riding program, or test yourself on our high challenge course or climbing wall, contact Ondessonk staff for program availability and more information. The Camp Kitchen can prepare certain meals for you; contact us for meal availability and more information. 
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$7
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(1)

Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents65 acres · Eddyville, IL
Experience unparalleled privacy, seclusion, and the soothing sounds of nature during your stay in this expansive and distinctive retreat. Unlike any other private property in the vicinity, our land boasts an array of natural features including ponds, waterfalls, cliffs, bluffs, fields, forests, trails, and creeks scattered throughout. With several trails branching out in all directions into the Shawnee National Forest, exploration opportunities abound. Each of our spacious campsites is thoughtfully designed to afford maximum privacy, ensuring a peaceful and undisturbed retreat into nature. Just a short 5-10 minute drive down the road, Burden Falls awaits, offering a scenic natural wonder to explore. The Garden of the Gods, another iconic attraction, is a mere 15-20 minute drive away, inviting you to marvel at its breathtaking rock formations and panoramic vistas. For added convenience and indulgence, homemade breakfast and lunch sandwiches are available upon request, allowing you to savor delicious meals without the hassle of preparation. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and indulge in the ultimate retreat experience at our unique property.
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$75
 / night
99%
(58)

Fredrock Waterfront Glampground

20 sites · RVs33 acres · Fredericktown, MO
Fredrock is a small privately owned glampground on crystal clear 12mile Creek. It is located about 15 minutes from the nearest town on 33 beautiful acres. Enjoy one of the 7 themed stays or bring your own RV and stay in one of only 5 RV spots. It is just a few minutes walk to 12 Mile Creek which runs through the property. Enjoy the beautiful bluffs, shut-ins, gravel river beds and crystal clear water. Swimming, hiking, stargazing, and horseshoes are all available at Fredrock!
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$50
 / night
86%
(7)

Robyn M.’s Land

81 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents42 acres · Tamms, IL
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$20
 / night

The best camping near Trail of Tears State Park guide

Overview

About

This park solemnly commemorates the Trail of Tears, the devastating, forced relocation of members of the Cherokee tribe in the mid-1830s. Today, a visitor center helps tell the story of the groups who crossed the waters of the mighty Mississippi River at this location in southeastern Missouri. Beyond the historical significance, this park now offers recreational opportunities in a scenic landscape, with the river and Lake Boutin serving as focal points. Hike a trail for panoramic views of the Mississippi, watch for migratory birds, or toss a line into the waters. A whole menu of activities can be enjoyed.

Notable Camping Spots

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. The Lake Boutin Campground is open and reservable May 1 through October 31 and offers basic sites.
  2. The Mississippi River Campground is open and reservable year round and has sites with electric only or full hookups.
  3. Water and showers are available at the Mississippi River Campground April 1 through October 31. During the off season, a frost-free potable water spigot is accessible at the dump station.
  4. Reservations may be made up to 12 months in advance over the phone or online.
  5. Walk-up reservations are offered for non-reserved sites.

When to go

Due to the recreational activities, summer is a busy time at this park, though the weather may be humid and reach temperatures above 90 degrees. Spring and fall are milder, with varying conditions. The scenery is especially scenic during autumn due to the woodlands and panoramic views. The winter season is a quiet one, but it offers the best chance to spot bald eagles nesting along the Mississippi River. Come prepared for freezing temperatures and occasional snow or ice.

Know before you go

  • A train line runs near the park, so you will likely hear engine noise and the horns as trains pass by. On the plus side, you can get great train photos.
  • Full hookup sites are narrow, but some have views of the Mississippi.
  • The visitor center provides an educational look at the history of the Trail of Tears, offering displays and interpretive programs.
  • This is one of the few Missouri state parks to offer onsite locations for metal detecting.
  • Horses are allowed on the 8-mile Peewah Trail.
  • A swimming beach is offered on Lake Boutin.
  • Watercraft are allowed on both Lake Boutin and the Mississippi (if river conditions allow).

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