The best camping in Finger Lakes State Park, MO

·
100% (9)

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

The best camping in Finger Lakes State Park, MO

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
The Pocket

2. The Pocket

100%
(31)
4.3mi from Finger Lakes State Park · 4 sites · RVs, Lodging · Columbia, MO
A literal 30 acre pocket of paradise tucked away just minutes North of Columbia, MO. Here you’ll find a private lake with fishing access, rolling hills with stunning sunrises and sunsets, plenty of space to reset with nature, perfect for a glamping getaway. We have 3 separate sites on the property. Our 24’ yurt that sleeps up to 6 with indoor toilet (no shower) propane fireplace for chilly fall and winter stays and AC for the Missouri heat; a cozy RV that sleeps 4 (queen bed and bunks in the back) offers all the amenities of home with a kitchen and bathroom (with hot water and shower); and last we have a level gravel site with 30amp electric and water hook ups (no dump capability) with picnic table, fire pit and grill available for those that want to bring their own RV. We are Pet friendly (with additional cost for the yurt) as we have our own over friendly farm dog. Come play yard games, swing, fish, bring your kayak or paddle board, kids can play or swim on our sandy beach, or just walk our 1 mile perimeter trail, a perfect place to rest, rejuvenate and recharge. Farm fresh eggs are available as well as any extra firewood. We look forward to meeting you and sharing our little pocket of paradise.
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
The big oak

3. Selby Farm Horse Retirement

99%
(697)
18mi from Finger Lakes State Park · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Wooldridge, MO
Summary: Easy access from I-70 Great views. Usually very quiet except for wildlife sounds Portapottie at both camping areas Great star viewing. Excellent conditions for pets Hosts live nearby and are good communicators via text or phone. Hosts can direct you to several local attractions and shopping options. Hosts are happy to take questions before, during, or after your stay. Narrative about Selby Farm: Selbys have lived on this 75 acre farm since 1990. Doug and Brenda are retired from teaching at nearby public schools. Our Farm is now dedicated to boarding retired horses for their owners. Feel free to review the Selby Farm Horse Retirement webpage if you are a horse fan. We encourage you to visit our business website where you will see more farm pictures, videos, and where you will learn more about us. We practice rotational grazing for the health of the horses and the health of our pastures. The horses live in a herd as they would in the wild. Basically, they are hanging out with their friends! They also get regular care and feed and so are VERY happy. You will see and probably interact with the horses if you wish. They are guaranteed to come closer if you have treats like carrots and apples slices. Our quiet county road used to be the main road along the river. A hundred years ago it was called "Shanty Road". The shacks that were along it housed workers that harvested food from farms in the river bottom. The only evidence of those shacks now is perrenial flowers growing in unusual places. The area is inhabited by professionals working in nearby towns and cities. In fact there are only five homes along our 1.5 mile section of Copps Chapel Road. The native Americans who used this area did so because of the great diversity of wildlife and availability of water. Also the view is amazing in all directions. Was using this ridge top encampment for security, or just because the view is so satisfying? The Missouri River is on the far side of the bottoms now, but has been very close historically. There is also a large spring flowing from a cave nearby. Witness the flint chips when you walk through our barn lot. You are likely to see a broken stone tool that was once worked on by a native American. These river hills are composed of soils blown in from the end of the last ice age. Being near the river, erosion has cut down the surrounding area making the scenic topography associated with Missouri River valleys and river hills.
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$24
 / night
Sunny Ridge Stables

7. Sunny Ridge Stables

100%
(4)
16mi from Finger Lakes State Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Fulton, MO
Working horse facility, we host harvest host, and horse motel over night horse boarding also. We have facilities to plug in to water and electric, we have 30amp, and 110 amp, and allow dry camping. We have 7 - 12x14 box stalls with fans and bucket hooks, we have a 40x40 outdoor wooden paddock, we have a 120x100 outdoor arena, we offer free wifi to our guests. Reservations are required, we get busy spring through fall. We offer riding, trail riding, tours and hands on with horses, we have trails right off the property, there are state parks to hike in and ride in as well. There's a lake with a dock to swim in. We sell farm fresh eggs, we have t-shirts for sale, you can also order black and white photos on canvas. They're displayed in the office. We run a program for Service and Assistance dogs called Paws for Hearts COMO, we breed German Shepherds, raise and train for disabled vets, and children with disabilities, all completely donated from the dogs to the training. There are cats, dogs, chickens and horses here. Friendly people, we are laid back, warm and welcoming. We will do everything in our power to make your stay as pleasant and comfortable as possible.
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$29
 / night
Maya Creek

10. Maya Creek

77%
(11)
31mi from Finger Lakes State Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Fulton, MO
310 Acre Oak woodland forest sanctuary. This property is run as a conservancy and land trust with a board of directors. Trish & Cameron are land stewards and caretakers as well as managing the camping. We are Leftie Hippie Punk Burners. We are artists, postal carriers and permaculture farmers and natural builders. We believe in BLM, and are LGBTQIA ourselves as well as allies and support all people and critters and nature and are intolerant of hate and mysogeny. We love providing a safe beautiful place in the woods for anyone who needs it. The woods are beautiful, there's a few spots cleared for camping and there are trails to hike, a composting toilet, and not too far from the highway, but far enough you can't hear it. We have a fire pit, hammock and picnick tables for you to use if you like. We love meeting people and we also respect mutual privacy. We live off grid but have some power enough to charge your phone should you need it. We have WiFi but please bring your own drinking water. We have a small Berkey for drinking water here but its best you bring your own. We are in process of installing some outdoor showers and more tiny houses. We are a place in progress and we live here (so there may be projects in progress) and so does the wildlife and that includes ticks. We have a dog, cat, chickens, and abundant wildlife and please consider this PRIMITIVE CAMPING. We look forward to meeting you and thanks for visiting!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$22
 / night
Double Hearts Ranch

12. Double Hearts Ranch

100%
(9)
48mi from Finger Lakes State Park · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Monroe City, MO
Welcome to Double Hearts Ranch, in Monroe City, Missouri! B: 573.735.7258 Pitch your tent or park your RV at Double Hearts Ranch, where camping meets connection. Nestled in a quiet, remote location just one mile from Mark Twain Lake access and horse trails, our ranch offers guests the rare opportunity to engage with our friendly horses and donkeys during their stay, creating memories that go beyond a traditional camping trip. Relax under the stars with access to a covered pavilion featuring picnic tables and a 5-speaker surround sound movie theater area. Gather around your own campfire ring or enjoy the community fire ring at the pavilion for larger groups. Stay connected with free Wi-Fi, or unplug and enjoy the great outdoors with our kayak, bicycle, and fishing equipment rentals. Whether you’re seeking peaceful tranquility, outdoor adventure, or a one-of-a-kind equine experience, Double Hearts Ranch provides the perfect setting.
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$55
 / night
Pine Grove Village Community

15. Pine Grove Village Community

8.8mi from Finger Lakes State Park · 1 site · Columbia, MO
Pine Grove Village stands out as a unique residential community in Columbia, Missouri, thanks to its blend of modern living and a welcoming atmosphere. Nestled in the picturesque Boone County landscape, this charming enclave provides residents with a perfect backdrop for creating lasting memories and fostering a true sense of belonging. This community features a diverse range of living options, including contemporary manufactured homes and RV sites, all designed to meet various needs and preferences while remaining budget-friendly. Pine Grove Village offers 120 single and doublewide manufactured home sites, along with 82 RV sites that are available year-round, each equipped with full utility hook-ups for convenience. In addition to its appealing homes, Pine Grove Village is ideally situated near a variety of outdoor activities and natural attractions. Residents can explore nearby parks, enjoy swimming holes, and partake in various recreational pursuits. The community is also conveniently located close to local restaurants and shops, making it easy for residents to enjoy the best of Columbia while embracing the tranquility of their home environment.
Cedar Creek Resort & RV Park

16. Cedar Creek Resort & RV Park

14mi from Finger Lakes State Park · 116 sites · Columbia, MO
Discover the unique charm of Cedar Creek Resort & RV Park, a hidden gem in mid-Missouri that offers a peaceful escape just 10 miles from Columbia. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, our resort is conveniently located less than a mile off I-70, making it an easily accessible retreat for families seeking tranquility. Guests have consistently praised this serene “piece of heaven,” where you can unwind by tranquil waters surrounded by mature oak, cedar, and pine trees. Our stunning 167-acre property features a picturesque 25-acre lake, perfect for fishing enthusiasts eager to catch crappie, bass, and catfish. Enjoy leisurely strolls along the scenic trails or relax in our campground, which accommodates both RVs and tents. For those seeking more comfort, we offer six cozy cabins, including A-frame options and the charming Cedar Creek Cottage. In addition to being a perfect getaway, our scenic location serves as an ideal backdrop for professional gatherings. Whether you’re planning a workplace retreat, conference, or ministry event, Cedar Creek Resort & RV Park is ready to host you. We look forward to welcoming you to our beautiful resort, where nature and relaxation await!
Missouri River valley

18. Missouri River Valley

21mi from Finger Lakes State Park · 1 site · Boonville, MO
Experience the charm of our unique campground, where history comes alive through engaging demonstrations and activities that celebrate traditional skills and craftsmanship. Join us for an exciting array of events, including threshing and rock crushing powered by steam, blacksmithing displays, and captivating field demonstrations. Families will enjoy watching straw baling with a stationary baler, exploring our food concessions, and browsing through a vibrant flea market. Kids can ride on miniature trains and visit our petting zoo, while adults can appreciate the parade of power featuring vintage machinery. Don’t miss the guided tour of the historic Brady farmhouse, horse-powered sweeping and threshing, and quilting demonstrations that showcase time-honored techniques. Our campground also features historical life skills demonstrations, a charming general store, and thrilling tractor games. Be sure to check out the feature fun pull and the antique hit and miss engines that will delight enthusiasts of all ages. With so much to see and do, your visit promises to be both educational and entertaining!
Lakeview Park

19. Lakeview Park

23mi from Finger Lakes State Park · 1 site · Mexico, MO
Lakeview Park stands out as a unique destination, offering a blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities across its expansive 61.2 acres. Located at 2210 Fairgrounds, this park features a picturesque 24-acre fishing lake, perfect for anglers seeking a peaceful day by the water. For those who enjoy staying active, Lakeview Park boasts a scenic 1.5-mile trail ideal for jogging, walking, or biking around the lake. The park is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring ADA-compliant restroom facilities to ensure comfort for all visitors. In addition to its natural attractions, Lakeview Park includes a basketball court and horseshoe pits for friendly competition. Open space areas provide ample room for picnics and relaxation, while the recreational campground invites families and friends to immerse themselves in the great outdoors. Children will delight in the universally accessible playground, which features a play trail designed to enhance their outdoor experience. Whether you're looking to fish, hike, or simply unwind in a beautiful setting, Lakeview Park is the perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike.
Katy Roundhouse

20. Katy Roundhouse

24mi from Finger Lakes State Park · 31 sites · New Franklin, MO
The Katy Roundhouse offers a unique camping experience on its expansive 45-acre park, conveniently situated just 50 feet from the Katy Trail at trail marker #189 in New Franklin. This prime location is easily accessible, being only minutes north of I-70 and just 3 miles from the local casino, making it an ideal spot for travelers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Our campground features a variety of accommodations, including spacious RV spots and primitive campsites, ensuring that every visitor finds the perfect place to unwind. Guests can enjoy modern amenities such as hot water showers, flush toilets, and sinks, all designed to enhance your comfort during your stay. The facility is equipped with security lighting and locking steel doors, providing peace of mind while you relax in nature. Whether you're looking to explore the scenic Katy Trail, enjoy nearby swimming holes, or partake in outdoor activities, The Katy Roundhouse is the perfect base for your adventures. With local restaurants and shops just a short drive away, you'll have everything you need for a memorable getaway. Come experience the beauty and tranquility of our park, where nature and convenience meet.
100% (9)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Finger Lakes State Park adventure.

Camper favorites near Finger Lakes State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Calendar icon
Snag sold-out campsites.
Get notified the instant a national park campsite becomes available, for free.
Van icon
See the best spots in one place.
Explore 500K+ public lands, RV resorts, and private sites you won't find anywhere else.
Star icon
Book with confidence.
Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.

Stories from the community

Top-rated campgrounds

The Pocket

100%
(31)
4.3mi from Finger Lakes State Park · 4 sites · RVs, Lodging · Columbia, MO
A literal 30 acre pocket of paradise tucked away just minutes North of Columbia, MO. Here you’ll find a private lake with fishing access, rolling hills with stunning sunrises and sunsets, plenty of space to reset with nature, perfect for a glamping getaway. We have 3 separate sites on the property. Our 24’ yurt that sleeps up to 6 with indoor toilet (no shower) propane fireplace for chilly fall and winter stays and AC for the Missouri heat; a cozy RV that sleeps 4 (queen bed and bunks in the back) offers all the amenities of home with a kitchen and bathroom (with hot water and shower); and last we have a level gravel site with 30amp electric and water hook ups (no dump capability) with picnic table, fire pit and grill available for those that want to bring their own RV. We are Pet friendly (with additional cost for the yurt) as we have our own over friendly farm dog. Come play yard games, swing, fish, bring your kayak or paddle board, kids can play or swim on our sandy beach, or just walk our 1 mile perimeter trail, a perfect place to rest, rejuvenate and recharge. Farm fresh eggs are available as well as any extra firewood. We look forward to meeting you and sharing our little pocket of paradise.
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night

Selby Farm Horse Retirement

99%
(697)
18mi from Finger Lakes State Park · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Wooldridge, MO
Summary: Easy access from I-70 Great views. Usually very quiet except for wildlife sounds Portapottie at both camping areas Great star viewing. Excellent conditions for pets Hosts live nearby and are good communicators via text or phone. Hosts can direct you to several local attractions and shopping options. Hosts are happy to take questions before, during, or after your stay. Narrative about Selby Farm: Selbys have lived on this 75 acre farm since 1990. Doug and Brenda are retired from teaching at nearby public schools. Our Farm is now dedicated to boarding retired horses for their owners. Feel free to review the Selby Farm Horse Retirement webpage if you are a horse fan. We encourage you to visit our business website where you will see more farm pictures, videos, and where you will learn more about us. We practice rotational grazing for the health of the horses and the health of our pastures. The horses live in a herd as they would in the wild. Basically, they are hanging out with their friends! They also get regular care and feed and so are VERY happy. You will see and probably interact with the horses if you wish. They are guaranteed to come closer if you have treats like carrots and apples slices. Our quiet county road used to be the main road along the river. A hundred years ago it was called "Shanty Road". The shacks that were along it housed workers that harvested food from farms in the river bottom. The only evidence of those shacks now is perrenial flowers growing in unusual places. The area is inhabited by professionals working in nearby towns and cities. In fact there are only five homes along our 1.5 mile section of Copps Chapel Road. The native Americans who used this area did so because of the great diversity of wildlife and availability of water. Also the view is amazing in all directions. Was using this ridge top encampment for security, or just because the view is so satisfying? The Missouri River is on the far side of the bottoms now, but has been very close historically. There is also a large spring flowing from a cave nearby. Witness the flint chips when you walk through our barn lot. You are likely to see a broken stone tool that was once worked on by a native American. These river hills are composed of soils blown in from the end of the last ice age. Being near the river, erosion has cut down the surrounding area making the scenic topography associated with Missouri River valleys and river hills.
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$24
 / night

Sunny Ridge Stables

100%
(4)
16mi from Finger Lakes State Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Fulton, MO
Working horse facility, we host harvest host, and horse motel over night horse boarding also. We have facilities to plug in to water and electric, we have 30amp, and 110 amp, and allow dry camping. We have 7 - 12x14 box stalls with fans and bucket hooks, we have a 40x40 outdoor wooden paddock, we have a 120x100 outdoor arena, we offer free wifi to our guests. Reservations are required, we get busy spring through fall. We offer riding, trail riding, tours and hands on with horses, we have trails right off the property, there are state parks to hike in and ride in as well. There's a lake with a dock to swim in. We sell farm fresh eggs, we have t-shirts for sale, you can also order black and white photos on canvas. They're displayed in the office. We run a program for Service and Assistance dogs called Paws for Hearts COMO, we breed German Shepherds, raise and train for disabled vets, and children with disabilities, all completely donated from the dogs to the training. There are cats, dogs, chickens and horses here. Friendly people, we are laid back, warm and welcoming. We will do everything in our power to make your stay as pleasant and comfortable as possible.
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$29
 / night

Maya Creek

77%
(11)
31mi from Finger Lakes State Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Fulton, MO
310 Acre Oak woodland forest sanctuary. This property is run as a conservancy and land trust with a board of directors. Trish & Cameron are land stewards and caretakers as well as managing the camping. We are Leftie Hippie Punk Burners. We are artists, postal carriers and permaculture farmers and natural builders. We believe in BLM, and are LGBTQIA ourselves as well as allies and support all people and critters and nature and are intolerant of hate and mysogeny. We love providing a safe beautiful place in the woods for anyone who needs it. The woods are beautiful, there's a few spots cleared for camping and there are trails to hike, a composting toilet, and not too far from the highway, but far enough you can't hear it. We have a fire pit, hammock and picnick tables for you to use if you like. We love meeting people and we also respect mutual privacy. We live off grid but have some power enough to charge your phone should you need it. We have WiFi but please bring your own drinking water. We have a small Berkey for drinking water here but its best you bring your own. We are in process of installing some outdoor showers and more tiny houses. We are a place in progress and we live here (so there may be projects in progress) and so does the wildlife and that includes ticks. We have a dog, cat, chickens, and abundant wildlife and please consider this PRIMITIVE CAMPING. We look forward to meeting you and thanks for visiting!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$22
 / night

Double Hearts Ranch

100%
(9)
48mi from Finger Lakes State Park · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Monroe City, MO
Welcome to Double Hearts Ranch, in Monroe City, Missouri! B: 573.735.7258 Pitch your tent or park your RV at Double Hearts Ranch, where camping meets connection. Nestled in a quiet, remote location just one mile from Mark Twain Lake access and horse trails, our ranch offers guests the rare opportunity to engage with our friendly horses and donkeys during their stay, creating memories that go beyond a traditional camping trip. Relax under the stars with access to a covered pavilion featuring picnic tables and a 5-speaker surround sound movie theater area. Gather around your own campfire ring or enjoy the community fire ring at the pavilion for larger groups. Stay connected with free Wi-Fi, or unplug and enjoy the great outdoors with our kayak, bicycle, and fishing equipment rentals. Whether you’re seeking peaceful tranquility, outdoor adventure, or a one-of-a-kind equine experience, Double Hearts Ranch provides the perfect setting.
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$55
 / night

Other options near Finger Lakes State Park

The best camping in Finger Lakes State Park, MO guide

Overview

About

Where coal miners once worked, outdoor adventurists now play. Finger Lakes State Park features over 1,000 acres of reclaimed lands, with a variety of activities offered amid the rolling hills and lakes. While some state parks provide serenity, this one has the roar of engines, thanks to its popularity for off-roading. Colorful all-terrain vehicles zip around the park’s designated trails and open spaces. Non-riders won’t feel left out, as the park offers hiking trails, a sandy swim beach, watercraft rentals, mountain biking trails with pump tracks, a water trail for paddling, and more. Nearby, the college town of Columbia, Missouri, offers dining and shopping in spades.

Notable Camping Spots

  • Best for big rigs: Sites 11 through 17 at Finger Lakes Campground have 50-amp hookups.
  • Best for all-terrain vehicle riders: Two loops of basic sites at Finger Lakes Campground connect directly to the ORV Trail System.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. Reservations open at 7am CT 12 months in advance, but walk-up sites may also be available during non-peak periods.
  2. Book online on the Missouri State Parks website or call the phone line.
  3. Campgrounds are open year round.
  4. Water and showers are available April 1 through October 31. During the off-season, potable water is available at the park office.

When to go

Summer is the busy season at Finger Lakes State Park, with visitors partaking in the many activities. The lake waters are warm enough for swimming. During spring, the temperatures are likely to be pleasant, but spring rains can create muddy trail conditions. Fall is scenic, with cooler weather and colorful foliage. The park’s campground is open year round, but winter comes with limited services and sometimes freezing temperatures and precipitation.

Know before you go

  • Due to the popularity of the off-roading trails, campers are likely to hear the sounds of engines.
  • The ORV Trail System connects the campground to a motocross track. Open riding is also allowed in designated areas.
  • The Kelley Branch Mountain Bike Trail provides a scenic 2-mile biking trail through a wooded ridgeland along a creek. A nearby pump track may be used by cyclists, as well as skateboarders, roller skaters, and more.
  • The park’s gates lock at 10pm from April through October, and at 9pm during the offseason. Registered campers can request an entry code for after-hours access.
100%
9 ratings · 0 reviews