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St. Francois State Park

The best camping in St. Francois State Park, MO

57% (7)

Explore a surprising mountain getaway south of St. Louis.

The best camping in St. Francois State Park, MO

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.

1. St. Francois State Campground

57%

(7)

0.2mi from St. Francois State Park · 110 sites · Tents, RVs · In St. Francois State Park

Only an hour away from St

57% (7)

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

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Stories from the community

This is a closer view of the actual spot where you will park your camper.

Vicki

2 weeks ago

26 ft travel trailer

With pets

5 nights at R & T Farms

Ryan was an excellent host! He was flexible with our arrival, kind and helpful during the entire stay. It is unusual to find electric and sewer hookups. It was quiet and peaceful, just what we were needing.

Robert

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Sycamore Springs Campground

Me & my son spent 2 days tent camping here. It sits right along the creek & very well kept. Harley is a good guy & friendly host.

Ben

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hummingbird Hollow Outdoors

Exactly as described. Nice flat spots for tent camping..we really enjoyed the animals and watching the goats and pigs. Host was helpful and very responsive.. Thanks for a great experience!

Drew

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Monarch Hill Vineyard

A beautiful glamping setup that walks the line between luxurious and peaceful. Kind folks running the place, friendly dogs running around, and beautiful open skies. What more could you ask for?

Courtney

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Spring Lake Ranch

Such a great spot for a getaway! The campground was peaceful, well-kept, and had everything we could’ve needed for a perfect tent camping weekend. The lake views were absolutely stunning—especially with all the fall colors reflecting on the water. The bathhouse felt luxurious for camping! We loved every minute of our stay and can’t wait to come back next time to stay in one of the cabins!

Courtney

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Spring Lake Ranch

We absolutely loved our stay here! The campground was beautiful—tucked right by a gorgeous lake surrounded by stunning fall colors. It felt like an adult summer camp in the best way possible! Everything we needed was right on site, from fire pits to picnic areas. The bath and shower house was impressively clean, warm, and one of the nicest we’ve seen at a campground. You can tell the owners put a lot of care into maintaining the place. We had such a peaceful, cozy stay and can’t wait to come back again next season!

Justin

3 weeks ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to Hawks Bluff Farm Campground

The farm and staff are absolutely fantastic! We had an issue with charges, which they resolved with some investment of time on their part. They all I’ve and beyond in service. Helping us find our site in the dark, making sure we had enough supplies and even throwing a pair of jeans in the dryer for our teenager 😁 Truly kind people!

Dylan

3 weeks ago

20 ft campervan

3 nights at Crooked Creek Ranch

we love this place!! what crooked creek lacks in amenities it makes up for in peace, solitude and outdoor fun!! my pack of dogs love the freedom to be wild while their parents sit by the fire. the trail around the property is lovely too. thank you to ross for sharing this slice of heaven!!

Matthew

3 weeks ago

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Arcadia Valley BaseCamp

The site was very quiet and we were the only campers in the area. It was secluded and a great spot for a getaway. The firewood on-site was a big plus for us. We were also grateful for the extremely clean porta potty on site. Hosts were not on site that we could tell, but it was not needed anyway for our stay.

Chelsea

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Arcadia Valley Outdoors Land

We camped in the safari tent and had a cozy lovely time. Although it was in a loop with other campsites it felt plenty private, set back from the road and separated from the other sites by plenty of trees. Didn't end up trying the tub, but it looked nice. The wood stove kept us warm throughout the night, and the solar power bank and water pump were a nice touch.

Near Site 2. Labarque Creek is one of the cleanest creeks in Missouri, with 50 species of fish. Great place to put in or take out canoes, swim, picnic, and camp. Great picnic site or take-out ramp for a day trip of floaters. Up near the bridge is Site 1.

Andrew

3 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Matt's Place at Meramec n Labarque

Great spot for rooftop tents and ground tents. Matt showed me the lay of the land before driving to the site. Great host! Would camp here again

Zoe

3 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at Hawks Bluff Farm Campground

Always a great time at hawks bluff! This land is truly a blessing and I am grateful Elizabeth shares it with us ! Much comfortability in knowing I’m safe and if I need anything I can always ask :) also, awesome rocks!!

Alberta

November 2025

18 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Cinco de Mayo Campground

Easy access, great hospitality! The peaceful abundance in a natural environment makes it a refreshing spot to take a break.

Andros

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hawks Bluff Farm Campground

The owners are amazing, the property is very cool, and close enough to town to get supplies. Breathtaking views and a welcoming community at this location!

Brian

November 2025

30 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Hawks Bluff Farm Campground

Great place! Tons of stuff to do. Owners are very sweet and hospitable. I plan to go back and would recommend everyone to stay. Camping or RV. I pulled a 35’er and had zero issues.

Garrett

November 2025

15 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Sycamore Springs Campground

it is probably a great site to camp on. i never got the chance, i called left message that i had broken down along the way and needed to cancel. i think i tried to email them as well, but my cell service was intermittent from where i was at. i requested a refund as i couldn’t make the stay. left my info, and number/site. never heard back from them. so i ended up wasting $175 (three nights-weekend). i still haven’t heard much from them.

Nathan

November 2025

25 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to Hawks Bluff Farm Campground

Secluded location. Several options are available for sites depending on services. Rock hunting is fantastic.

Alan

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hawks Bluff Farm Campground

Stayed here for a second time, so beautiful in the Fall. Highly recommend! Elizabeth is so helpful and accommodating, and answered all my questions very quickly.

Alyson

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Spring Lake Ranch

I’ve stayed at this site twice now and will continue to return. This is a great place to visit in the fall, the trees look beautiful. The cleanliness of the bathrooms is a great feature. The trails are also nice but the red trail needs to be marked better, it’s easy to get lost in that area. Overall a fun time. My one complaint - people need to STOP LITTERING!!! The amount of litter on the red trail is in my opinion unacceptable. If you are visiting/enjoying nature..why are you littering!?? Be better people and stop littering

Andrea

November 2025

15 ft pop-up camper

3 nights at Arcadia Valley BaseCamp

The high and dry site was easy to find, felt private, had enough room to spread out and was surrounded by woods. It was conveniently located close to town and to parks and hiking in the area. We didn't see anyone (except two friendly dogs that stopped by one day). There is a nice fire pit at the site and a clean porta potty a quick walk across the bridge. There was a some road noise, but overall a nice little spot and good base camp with so much to explore in this beautiful area.

Top-rated campgrounds

Arcadia Valley Outdoors Land

98%

(839)

27mi from St. Francois State Park · 37 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Ironton, MO

A wooded, more private camping experience with unique site designs and natural elements. Wood-burning sauna and hot tub available for guest use. Primitive Camping Van/vehicle Camping Small Trailers Glamping Bike Trails, Hiking, creek sit-in' on site! Best of the midwest biking, hiking, Ozark Trail, rock climbing Elephant Rocks Park, Johnson Shut-ins and more swimming holes nearby! Wood for sale on site, $5 per bundle, Fire starters also available. Ask us about our "Really Good At Camping" merchandise. We have shirts, mugs & wine tumblers! *Cash Only* at this time. We Have free stickers! *For camp site locations please refer to our map in the campsite listing photos. We are located just west of the Ironton Water Works Plant and the Shepherd Mountain Lake dam. Turn right after the dam, drive through Shepherd Mountain Lake Park. If our "campground guests only" gate if it is closed, and please close gate behind you. Thank you! No Hook Ups No swimming in the lake and no outside boats, but we have boats for campers to use free of charge! General Store and restroom facilities/showers coming soon!

Spring Lake Ranch

93%

(1979)

22mi from St. Francois State Park · 43 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Potosi, MO

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.

Matt's Place at Meramec n Labarque

100%

(68)

34mi from St. Francois State Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Eureka, MO

Located at the confluence of the Meramec River and Labarque Creek, my place (Matt's Place) is a ridge above a bottomland bowl of sorts. The old iron truss bridge here is likely built in 1910 and it has a survey marker from 1932. The creek has a nice little swimming hole, and a beach that is sometimes sand, sometimes, gravel, and sometimes a mix of both with some silt or even mud after a storm. It's peaceful down there to explore in the creek, wade while looking outward to an opening into the Meramec River. It's also fun to stand just at the mouth of the creek in the Meramec River. It's an awesome view upstream or downstream of tree lined banks, rock bluffs, and every now and then, passing boats, canoes, paddle boards, or kayaks. The old iron truss bridge hovers above the meeting of two waters. The water is cool and clean. Some fifty species of fish have been recorded in this creek, the most in all of Jefferson County and St Louis County. The bottomland has two levels, the lower bottoms down by the creek and the upper bottoms about a hundred feet from the creek. The upper bottoms has a clearing like a meadow with mowed grass. My favorite things to do here include gazing up at a cottonwood tree that must be sixty feet tall. It's leaves in a breeze are like a thousand hands waving hello. The bottomland meadow offers just enough sky to see bats dance in the dusk air between the trees, then fireflies as it gets darker yet. Up top is where I live. Just five miles off HWY 44 and HWY 109, at Eureka, MO, (30 minutes west of downtown St Louis, 18 minutes from Six Flags) this place sits on a ridge with great views above the Meramec River.

Phes

42mi from St. Francois State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · East Carondelet, IL

Quiet place with beautiful sunsets, relax areas and an apple tree ♡ area for reading around nature, a firepit area, close to a river

Hawks Bluff Farm Campground

97%

(232)

7.9mi from St. Francois State Park · 57 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Tiff, MO

Escape the city! We have a very special property that nourishes the soul and provides space to roam and breathe fresh air. We have 460 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!

Hummingbird Hollow Outdoors

99%

(600)

34mi from St. Francois State Park · 32 sites · Tents, Lodging · Saint Clair, MO

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."

Sycamore Springs Campground

95%

(97)

34mi from St. Francois State Park · 21 sites · Tents, RVs · Fredericktown, MO

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.

Arcadia Valley BaseCamp

97%

(45)

28mi from St. Francois State Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Arcadia, MO

BaseCamp is s respite nestled into the Arcadia Valley, just miles from Elephant Rocks and Johnsons Shut-Ins State Parks and several conservation areas. With nearly 70 acres surrounded by Mark Twain National Forest, there are many opportunities for hiking, botanical exploration, licensed fishing, mountain biking, equine accessible trails, and much more without ever leaving BaseCamp. There is a small pond on the property with a walking trail and a rock garden that doubles as a small creek when rains are heavy. With camping options ranging from backpacking and tent camping to van dwellers and Tiny House glamping, all are welcome. Adventure begins at Base Camp!

R & T Farms

98%

(26)

30mi from St. Francois State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · IL

Your stay will be on our small 5 acres farm where we raise Cows, Pigs, Chickens and Guineas. We also have dogs and cats. You can experience life on a farm with all the sounds and smells but not all the work! Absolutely breath taking sun sets. The one and only RV spot we have is very secluded and private. You will have electric and SEWER HOOK UP and can fill your water tank at our house for full service facilities. We have one tent site available as well. We are only 25 minutes from downtown St. Louis. Come and stay with us, you will not be disappointed.

The Magic Land Homestead

94%

(16)

24mi from St. Francois State Park · 4 sites · Lodging · Grubville, MO

The Magic Land Homestead is our 70 acre wooded private retreat. We are about an hour from St. Louis, Missouri, on a beautiful country drive. We rent our Enchanted Treehouse that sleeps up to 9 guests for those who enjoy a more pampered getaway with a real bathroom and shower, and we also rent out a Rustic A-Frame that's a little more primitive with a composting toilet and a hose shower out back. Our four free range lovable dogs, colorful chickens, silly geese and goofy turkey Hammerstein, are usually part of the fun of your stay. We have a 3 acre lake with kayak and paddle boat and dock as well as a spring fed wet weather creek. Our mission is to grow our own organic food and to live as sustainably and mindfully as possible in connection with Mother Nature. So the guests we attract are looking for a sacred more quiet getaway. If you wish to throw a big party another place would be best. There are some trails and open areas to play, along with fun swings and an opportunity to reconnect with your soul. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Monarch Hill Vineyard

99%

(92)

23mi from St. Francois State Park · 19 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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.

Crooked Creek Ranch

99%

(83)

46mi from St. Francois State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Salem, MO

Once a portion of a hunting preserve, Crooked Creek Ranch is located deep in the Missouri Ozarks, within walking distance of Mark Twain National Forest. We've owned and managed Crooked Creek Ranch for many years now, building and maintaining trails, planting trees and working to make the place as beautiful as it can be for all who visit. We hope that you will be as refreshed and revitalized as we are when you set foot into this wonderful forest. It is a lot of very hard work, and totally worth it. If you enjoy it, it will make it that much more worth it! Thanks for reading! Learn more about this land: 100% PRIVACY. 35 private wooded acres all to yourself with a totally private one-mile intermediate level mountain biking-hiking loop trail! Hike peaceful trails, exploring the wooded hills until you find the perfect spot for your tent. If you select a spot near the clearing, you will have access to the picnic table and fire circle. Spend your days mountain biking, hiking, fishing and watching wildlife on a private ranch in the Ozark Mountains, less than a quarter mile from the Mark Twain National Forest. Less than five miles from Indian Trail State Forest (Indian Trail Conservation Area) with beautiful Blackwell Lake. Canoeing and kayaking are less than an hour away (Meramec River, Current River and Jacks Fork River), as well as trout fishing at scenic Meramec Spring Park or Montauk State Park. Peaceful wilderness will inspire artists, writers, musicians. Quiet, secluded, beautiful, and rugged. If you do not want to see anyone, you don't have to. You will have 35 private acres. You will be 100% secluded. If you want amenities, this is not the place. If you want complete privacy, this is the place! Bear and mountain lion have been seen in the area, so please keep this in mind.

Other options near St. Francois State Park

Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Camp-Resort: Eureka

38mi from St. Francois State Park · 7 sites · Eureka, MO

Discover a unique family getaway at Jellystone Park, where the charm of nature meets the excitement of a theme park! We recognize the importance of family time and aim to create unforgettable memories through wholesome and affordable entertainment for everyone. Situated just half a mile from Six Flags St. Louis and spread across 35 wooded acres, our award-winning family resort combines the thrill of outdoor adventures with top-notch amenities. Enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, a refreshing pool, mini-golf, a video arcade, train rides, arts and crafts, and a variety of outdoor games. Plus, kids will love the daily character visits from Yogi Bear! Our welcoming, kid-friendly atmosphere is complemented by a full-time Recreation Director, ensuring that there’s always something fun happening. With exciting themed events and planned activities that change weekly, your family will never experience a dull moment at Jellystone Park. Come and experience the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure!

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Casino Queen RV Park

49mi from St. Francois State Park · 1 site · East St. Louis, IL

Experience a one-of-a-kind getaway at the DraftKings at Casino Queen RV Park, where the thrill of a casino meets the freedom of RV travel. Nestled just minutes from downtown St. Louis, this full-service RV park offers a unique blend of leisure and excitement, making it the perfect destination for adventure seekers and relaxation enthusiasts alike. At our RV park, you can connect with fellow travelers, explore a variety of gaming options, and savor delicious dining experiences. Whether you're placing a sports wager or trying your luck at the tables, there's never a dull moment. Plus, our newly renovated bathhouse and common area provide a comfortable space to unwind after a day of fun. Your stay at the DraftKings at Casino Queen RV Park also grants you access to a range of hotel amenities. Enjoy a refreshing dip in our indoor heated swimming pool, stay active in our fitness center, or indulge in a meal at one of our multiple on-site restaurants. With so much to offer, your visit promises to be an unforgettable adventure on the road.

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Pin Oak RV Resort

40mi from St. Francois State Park · 95 sites · Villa Ridge, MO

Pin Oak RV Resort stands out as a premier destination for camping enthusiasts in the Midwest, thanks to its award-winning status and a wealth of amenities that cater to visitors of all ages. Recognized with the President’s Award for the Largest Park of the Year by the Missouri Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds, our resort offers an unforgettable experience that keeps guests coming back year after year. Conveniently located along Historic U.S. 66, just a short drive from Bourbeuse Valley Pottery and approximately 45 minutes from St. Louis, accessing your perfect getaway is a breeze via Interstate 44 and US Highway 50. Our resort features a serene private lake ideal for catch-and-release fishing, along with 30 and 50 amp electrical hookups for RVs. With ample courts for outdoor activities, you’ll find endless opportunities for fun and relaxation in our Midwestern paradise. At Pin Oak RV Resort, we pride ourselves on providing fully-equipped RV campsites that include water, sewer, and electricity hookups. For those seeking a more spacious experience, our premium RV sites offer stunning lake views and larger areas for pitching tents, perfect for gathering around a cozy fire pit. While our name highlights RV camping, we also cater to those who prefer a glamping experience. Our rental options

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K-River Motel & Campground

38mi from St. Francois State Park · 1 site · Baldwin, IL

Discover the charm of The K-River Motel & Campground, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of southern Illinois. This unique destination offers a perfect blend of comfort and nature, making it an ideal spot for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. Conveniently situated near the towns of Sparta, Red Bud, Tilden, New Athens, and Marissa, our campground is less than an hour's drive from downtown St. Louis. This prime location allows guests to explore the vibrant city while enjoying the tranquility of the countryside. At The K-River, you can immerse yourself in a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking scenic trails to fishing in nearby swimming holes. After a day of adventure, unwind at our cozy accommodations, which provide a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature. Join us at The K-River Motel & Campground for an unforgettable experience that combines the best of both worlds—easy access to urban attractions and the serenity of the great outdoors. We look forward to welcoming you soon!

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Blue Springs Ranch

37mi from St. Francois State Park · 1 site · Bourbon, MO

Escape the chaos of urban life and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Blue Springs Ranch, Inc., a unique 150-acre resort nestled along the picturesque Meramec River in Bourbon, Missouri. This hidden gem offers an ideal getaway for families and friends seeking adventure and relaxation in nature. Since its establishment by JR and Vicki Isom in 1988, Blue Springs Ranch has transformed from a single cabin on undeveloped land into a thriving resort featuring 33 cozy cabins and over 200 campsites. Guests can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including float trips on the river, scenic trail rides, and seasonal events that bring the community together. Just an hour's drive from St. Louis, this resort provides easy access to nearby attractions, such as natural swimming holes and charming local shops and restaurants. Whether you're looking to unwind by the river or embark on an exciting outdoor adventure, Blue Springs Ranch offers the perfect blend of privacy and recreation for an unforgettable camping experience. Come and discover the beauty of Bourbon, Missouri, at Blue Springs Ranch, where nature and comfort meet.

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Meramec Caverns Natural Campground

36mi from St. Francois State Park · 1 site · Sullivan, MO

Meramec Caverns' LaJolla Natural Park/Campground stands out for its stunning natural beauty and a wealth of amenities designed for a comfortable outdoor experience. Nestled among a variety of trees, the picnic area and riverfront campgrounds provide a serene setting for relaxation and recreation. Visitors can enjoy convenient trailer hookups, barbecue pits, and sheltered pavilions, making it easy to host gatherings or simply unwind in nature. Families will appreciate the playground area, which offers a safe space for children to play and explore. For added convenience, the campground features accessible showers, restrooms, and a concession stand, ensuring that all guests have what they need for a pleasant stay. Whether you're looking to hike, swim, or simply enjoy the great outdoors, LaJolla Natural Park/Campground is the perfect destination for your next adventure.

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Riversedge

41mi from St. Francois State Park · 1 site · Lesterville, MO

Riversedge Campground stands out as a family-oriented retreat, offering a quintessential camping experience that allows you to reconnect with nature and your loved ones. Nestled along the pristine banks of the Black River in Lesterville, MO, this campground provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Here, you can enjoy refreshing dips in the river, gather around the campfire for s’mores and storytelling, and create lasting memories with family and friends. To ensure a peaceful environment for all campers, quiet hours are observed from 11 PM to 6 AM. Our campground features over 100 campsites, with more than half equipped with electric and water hookups for your convenience. Each site is just a short stroll from the gently flowing river, and many are located right on the water, which we proudly refer to as Beach Front sites. We prioritize your comfort with clean bathroom facilities that include hot showers, as well as a general store stocked with essential supplies and firewood. While you’re here, take advantage of the opportunity to embark on a float trip down the beautiful Black River or explore nearby attractions such as Johnson’s Shut-ins, Elephant Rocks, and Taum Sauk Mountain. With many of Missouri’s natural wonders just minutes away, Riversedge Campground is

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Beyond the Trail RV Park

48mi from St. Francois State Park · 1 site · Defiance, MO

Discover the unique charm of Defiance, MO, where the campground offers a diverse range of accommodations to suit every traveler's taste. Whether you prefer the opulence of a motorhome, the comfort of a fully-equipped cabin, the rustic appeal of tent camping, or a blend of styles, you’ll find the perfect home base to explore this stunning region. Nestled in a picturesque setting, the campground boasts ample acreage and ensures privacy for all guests. Enjoy a variety of amenities that enhance your stay, including access to nearby natural features, swimming holes, and outdoor activities. After a day of adventure, you can unwind at local restaurants and shops that showcase the area's vibrant culture. No matter your camping preference, Defiance, MO, provides an unforgettable experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the comforts of home. Plan your visit today and create lasting memories in this beautiful destination.

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Perryville RV Resort by Rjourney

37mi from St. Francois State Park · 1 site · Perryville, MO

Discover the charm of Perryville RV Resort, a hidden gem in the heart of Perryville, MO, where history meets adventure in a small Midwestern town. This unique campground offers a perfect blend of family-friendly activities and serene natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a memorable getaway. Conveniently located off Lake Drive on KOA Lane, our resort is easily accessible via Interstate 55 to the south and Highway T to the north. At Perryville RV Resort, we pride ourselves on providing a variety of lodging options to suit every traveler’s needs. Choose from spacious back-in or pull-through RV sites, each equipped with full electric and water hookups for your convenience. If you prefer a more modern camping experience but don’t have an RV, our cozy cabins come fully stocked with pots, pans, dishes, utensils, and full-sized appliances. Just remember to bring your own bedding and towels to ensure a comfortable stay. While you’re here, take advantage of the numerous outdoor activities and nearby attractions. Explore the stunning natural features of the area, enjoy refreshing swimming holes, or indulge in local dining at nearby restaurants and shops. At Perryville RV Resort, you’ll create lasting memories with family and friends while enjoying the beauty and excitement of the Midwest. Plan your perfect escape

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Meramec Valley Campground & RV Park

46mi from St. Francois State Park · 1 site · Cuba, MO

Discover the unique charm of Meramec Valley Campground, where a dedicated community of owners actively manages the grounds to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for families and friends. Our mission is to create a welcoming environment where you can unwind, engage in exciting activities, and forge unforgettable memories. We hope that your time spent here will make Meramec Valley Campground your preferred getaway from the daily grind. Spanning 102 acres, Meramec Valley Campground features over 400 campsites, offering a variety of options including full hook-up, partial hook-up, and primitive camping. Many of our sites are beautifully situated around a serene fishing lake, while others are conveniently located near the playground and swimming pools, ensuring fun for all ages. At Meramec Valley Campground, the possibilities for adventure are endless. With our friendly staff and active community members, you’ll have access to a wide range of events and activities. Enjoy countless amenities in a picturesque family-friendly atmosphere, making your stay with us a decision you will cherish for years to come.

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The best camping in St. Francois State Park, MO guide

Overview

About

Less than an hour south of St. Louis is a natural playground of grand proportions, with a rippling river, granite bluffs, massive boulders, and endless views of the rollicking St. Francois Mountains. Unlike the rest of the Ozarks, these jagged hills were formed by volcanic activity. This is the epic backdrop for your adventures, whether you hike through the woodlands, make a cool splash in the river, or paddle below the bluffs. If you have a horse, you can even bring it, too, as several park trails allow riding. Venture through the Coonville Creek Designated Wild Area for more unspoiled beauty.

Notable Camping Spots

Best for a peaceful retreat: St. Francois Campground’s basic sites are roomier than the pull-thru sites.
Best big rigs: St. Francois Campground’s pull-thru electric sites provide easy parking, with electric hookups.
Best for camping with a group: St. Francois Campground’s family site offers a combo site with paired camping pads and some shared amenities.
Best for backpackers: St. Francois Campground offers a backpack camp along the Pike Run Trail.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Unlike most other Missouri state parks, this park is open and reservable throughout the year.
Walk-up reservations are accepted on a first-come-first-serve basis.
Advanced reservations are recommended for weekends and holidays.
Reservations can be made up to 12 months in advance on the Missouri State Park website or phone line.
Water and showers are available April 1 through October 31. Water is not available in the off season.

When to go

Due to the water activities, summer is a popular time to visit the park, as the river waters are warm enough for comfortable swimming. The weather is generally hot and humid this time of year. Spring and fall are special times to hit the trails, as wildflowers blossom in the spring and as the hills erupt in color on crisp fall days. Though campsites are available in the winter, campers must prepare for the potential for freezing temperatures and precipitation, as well as the lack of water in the campground during the off season.

Know before you go

Check the schedule for the Bonne Terre Drag Strip before camping. Since it’s fewer than two miles from the park, engine noise can be heard during racing season.
This park experiences occasional flash flooding. Campers must have a means to evacuate while staying.
Bring shoes that can get wet and muddy if you plan to wade in the waters or explore trails after a heavy rain.
Boat launches are available for paddlers to access the Big River. Motorized boats are not recommended.
Within a 45-minute drive, you’ll find two of Missouri’s most popular state parks: Elephant Rocks and Johnson’s Shut-Ins, which have fascinating geological features.

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