- St. Joe State Park/
- Camping
The best camping in St. Joe State Park, MO
100% (4)
Hit the trails on bike, horseback, or ATV in this adventurous Missouri park.
Top-rated campgrounds in St. Joe State Park
St. Joe Campground
1. St. Joe Campground
100%
(4)
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Top-rated campsites near St. Joe State Park
Big River Outdoors Campground
1. Big River Outdoors Campground
96%
(106)
9.1mi from St. Joe State Park · 99 sites · Tents, RVs
80+ acres with over a mile of river frontage. Walking trails,Swimming, fishing, kayaking, and live music on some weekends. Tent camping or RV/camper . Campers who need electric are allowed to bring a generator. We have limited electric as of now. We are located just 2-3 miles from 3 different gas stations but are also very secluded.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$50
/ night
Such and Such Farm Swimming Hole
2. Such and Such Farm Swimming Hole
99%
(162)
16mi from St. Joe State Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Camp at our beautiful private swimming hole at the edge of Joachim Creek. Our campsite includes a community picnic table, hammocks along the tree line and a huge communal fire pit. We have four individual camp sites in total, each with their own fire ring. Bring your fishing poles, water shoes and camp chairs!
We are a working farm that grows produce, raises dairy goats, pasture raised pigs, peacocks, chickens and more! And while you may hear a rooster crow in the morning, you'll be tucked away from the hustle and bustle of farm life.
COMING IN SUMMER 2025: Access to our new farm store where you'll be able to purchase firewood, eggs, produce, pork and more to enhance your stay!
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$30
/ night
Hawks Bluff Farm Campground
3. Hawks Bluff Farm Campground
97%
(232)
17mi from St. Joe State Park · 55 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 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!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$20
/ night
Monarch Hill Vineyard
4. Monarch Hill Vineyard
99%
(93)
18mi from St. Joe State Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$50
/ night
Arcadia Valley Outdoors Land
5. Arcadia Valley Outdoors Land
98%
(841)
18mi from St. Joe State Park · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$30
/ night
Sycamore Springs Campground
6. Sycamore Springs Campground
96%
(100)
26mi from St. Joe State Park · 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
from
$25
/ night
Spring Lake Ranch
7. Spring Lake Ranch
93%
(1984)
26mi from St. Joe State Park · 38 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
from
$17
/ night
BEAUTIFUL SECLUDED CAMPSITE
8. BEAUTIFUL SECLUDED CAMPSITE
92%
(45)
26mi from St. Joe State Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Easy access to hundreds of miles of trails and gravel roads in Mark Twain National Forest for hiking, biking, ATV / SXS. Multiple fishing ponds less than a mile away. Come and explore Missouri's best kept secret!
The campground has 8 campsites, great for RV or tent campers, nestled under old-growth oak trees for shade & protection during the hot months.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$26
/ night
Big Creek RV Park/ Arcadia Meadow Campground LLC
9. Big Creek RV Park/ Arcadia Meadow Campground LLC
100%
(10)
29mi from St. Joe State Park · 42 sites
At Big Creek RV Park, we are committed to providing the best camping experience. Resting among the Southeastern Missouri woodlands with winding trails that follow the spring-fed Big Creek, our grounds are a wonderful place to get away and experience the outdoors. At night, our guests enjoy the beauty of the open sky, full of stars and free of city lights.
Big Creek RV Park/Arcadia Meadow Campground, LLC has 63 spacious, well-maintained sites (21 are pull-throughs), all with full hookups. Some of our amenities include swimming pool, walking trails, petting zoo, seasonal events, wood for your fire, propane, ice, and campground store. We are located near the most popular attractions in Missouri: Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park, Elephant Rocks State Park, Taum Sauk Mountain State Park, Fort Davidson State Historic Site, St. Joe State Park, and the Black River. Less than 2 hours south of St. Louis, MO, Arcadia Meadow Campground, LLC is not far from historical landmarks in Ironton, Caledonia, and Farmington.
What distinguishes Big Creek RV Park/Arcadia Meadow Campground, LLC from other campgrounds and RV parks is our emphasis on our guests. We believe you deserve the best experience when staying with us, and no attention to details should be spared. Clean, private restroom/shower suites; planned events for guests of all ages; a variety of recreational activities to make the most of the landscape; plenty of nearby attractions; and a welcoming staff willing to assist you in any way; all ensure that your stay is enjoyable and memorable. Next time you are looking for a retreat, come to Big Creek RV and experience the unfolding beauty of the Arcadia Meadow during all 4 seasons.
But don't just take our word for it; see what our satisfied guests have to say on Rover Pass, TripAdvisor, Google Reviews, and RV Park Reviews. Join the family and follow us on Facebook to keep an eye out for what is happening at Big Creek RV Park/Arcadia Meadow Campground, LLC, your family-friendly nature retreat.
Pets
Full hookups
from
$49
/ night
1855 Campground
10. 1855 Campground
100%
(71)
31mi from St. Joe State Park · 7 sites
Hosts News: Hope everyone has a Very Merry Christmas. We will be opening the season mid April.
TIRED OF NOISEY OVERCROWDED CAMP GROUNDS, give us a try!
1855 Campground is 45 acres of private property, dedicated to the natural Ozark experience. We border the Mark Twain National Forest, enjoy the outdoors at its best. Our space offers 7 large campsites to provide privacy & serenity.
Site 1, Little Brushy Creek with parking.
Site 2, Nancy’s Landing, smaller site close to the creek with parking.
Site 3 Bills Hill, located high up in the woods.
Sites 4 & 5 Walnut Grove, large flat grassy sites in a meadow with wildflowers.
Site 6 Hidden Hollow, located in a private cove.
Site 7 Roberts Mountain located high up in the woods.
Sites 3-4-5-6-7 are remote wooded campsites. Accessible by foot only & upon request a free shuttle of your camping gear. MUST arrive before 8pm when booking these remote sites.
Bordering the National Forest, so hiking is abundant & encouraged. Far from the city is ideal for star gazing & amazing photo ops. There is a year round freshwater spring flowing nearby. Enjoy fishing, swimming in the pond or babbling brook that runs alongside the property.
Close by attractions:
Floating along the Black River
Johnson Shut Ins State Park
Bell Mountain Hiking Trails
Elephant Rocks State Park
Counsel Bluffs Lake
Tip Top Park
Taum Sauk State Park
Historic town of Caledonia
Clearwater Lake
Shepard Mountain bike trail
Campsites can accommodate multiple tents.
All sites have fire pits, first bundle of wood provided, & BBQ grills and tables (except sites 3 & 7). Bring charcoal.
Outhouses & outside shower are available.
Parking lot provided, after check in & assistance to campsite.
NO vehicles, guns or loud music allowed in campground
“ Leave No Trace Principles apply, take out what you bring in.
The office is open 9 to 9 daily through the season. It’s worth noting that the office/ house is “off grid”. Bill, the manager of the campground has been living full time off grid for over 8 yrs & loves to share his experiences & encourages others to ask questions on the subject during normal business hours.
Campfires
Toilets
Showers
from
$24
/ night
Saco Valley Farm, LLC
11. Saco Valley Farm, LLC
98%
(26)
31mi from St. Joe State Park · 2 sites
Camp, Swim, BBQ, wade the creek, enjoy the campfire!
Primitive Camping. Very Private. Water is cool and clear.
Open to the stars. A great place to commune with nature, or enjoy some peace and quiet!
12 mile creek runs directly through our property.
Shallow and deep all throughout. Great for wading, swimming, floating, kayaking. Great small mouth fishing! We are approximately one mile by water from the St. Francois River. We have kayaked down the creek to the river for many years.
The farm is very rural. We are 16 miles to the closest gas station, and 25 miles to town. There is no internet. Cell phone service is spotty at best.
Currently a working farm, we have 2 high tunnels on the property behind the house, and our original market garden.
Across the creek we are finishing up our 5 acre agroforestry planting. 3 acres of elderberries and 2 acres of blackberries.
28 acres, 3 on one side, and 25 on the other.
The farm is located approximately 2 hours south of St. Louis.
Fredericktown is 30 mins away. Food, Drinks, Golf, and Lalo's Mexican Restaurant! There are a ton of local antique shops, and outdoor activities.
Local places of interest:
Amidon
Arcadia Valley
Black River
Bonne Terre Mine
Elephant Rocks
Johnson Shut Ins
Mill Stream Gardens
One Nation Paintball Park
Sam A. Baker State Park
Saco Valley Farmstand
Sherpher Mountain Bike Park
Silvermines
Taum Sauk Mountain
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$35
/ night
Fredrock Waterfront Glampground
12. Fredrock Waterfront Glampground
99%
(63)
32mi from St. Joe State Park · 1 site
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!
Pets
Full hookups
from
$50
/ night
The Magic Land Homestead
13. The Magic Land Homestead
94%
(16)
33mi from St. Joe State Park · 2 sites
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!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$137
/ night
Mountains, feilds, and wooded areas
14. Mountains, feilds, and wooded areas
95%
(10)
34mi from St. Joe State Park · 18 sites · Tents, RVs
We have owned the property since the early eighties. We have been a working farm for the last 6 years. We have hosted rrail rides and atv rides for several years and are planning on adding Historically correct Old log cabins as well as a wedding venue in the near furture.Learn more about this land:We are locted between two state parks Mermac and Washington state park. There is ATV and off road trails 2 miles down the road. We have trails throught thw property where you can hike, ride horses or take ATVs. There is lots of wildlife as well as farm animals. We have a waterfalls and streams you can walk in or just sit by and enjoy.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$27
/ night
Hagood Farms and Trails
15. Hagood Farms and Trails
98%
(92)
34mi from St. Joe State Park · 8 sites
We have 172 acres of trails with scenic waterfalls and trees. A pond for fishing and conveniently located with in 8 miles from sevetal state parks and 2 miles from 300 acers of off road trails. We have owned and lived on tje property since 1999 .Learn more about this land:We are a fully functioning farm with Longhorn cattle, horses, mini donkeys and goats that are very friendly. We have 164 acres that have trails for horseback riding and ATVs. We are located 8 miles from Mermac River and Washington State park where you can rent canoe's and go hiking. We are an hour from St. Louis and Elephant Rock State park as well as Johnston shut ins. We are also with in 8 miles of ROMP dirt bike trail and 1 mile from Moonlight trails and racing that is 400 plus acers of ATV and jeep trails. We have a few waterfalls on the property and lots of areas to hike as well. Several areas of camping to choose from, you can be in the woods or out in the open. Spring and Summer months we offer farm fresh eggs and there is always plenty of firewood. We recently added a pond area as well. We now have Electric and water as well.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from
$27
/ night
Pine Valley at Dillard Mill
16. Pine Valley at Dillard Mill
99%
(42)
39mi from St. Joe State Park · 4 sites
Pine Valley is located in the heart of the Mark Twain National Forest and sits just a short walk away from historic Dillard Mill. Book the entire Farm or stay in an Airstream or Cottage. Group rentals Welcome!
Pine Valley is on 43 acres of beautiful green pasture and woodland. Take a hike on one of the trails around the property or go fishing or wading on the Huzzah Creek. Spend your evening roasting marshmallows around your private campfire.
Guests will have access to the 40 acres of land surrounding them. There are two ponds on the premise. Enjoy the quarter-mile walk to the old Dillard Mill Store, displayed in museum fashion at the entrance of Dillard Mill State Historic Site. Tour the old grist mill in working form, fish for sunfish, smallmouth bass and largemouth bass at the Mill, and take memorable photos. Just across from our main entrance take the half-mile trail through Mark Twain National Forest and skip rocks on the Huzzah Creek! Ask us about access to our private gravel bar on the Huzzah. You will pass it, and the private parking, on Dillard Mill Rd on your drive into Pine Valley
We may or may not be on the premise during individual rentals. If there are any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to reach out.
Other things to note
While this space provides most utilities and amenities you'd find at your home, it is important to note it is still a camping-style getaway. We do our best to treat the area, but you will encounter insects.
AT&T has limited cell phone reception in the area, Sprint is very spotty, and Verizon is pretty much unavailable for service. We provide the best free wifi available to help with communication back to the real world, but it is rather slow. The best wifi reception is near the General Store/Courtyard.
We try and keep the area well maintained. You may see ATVs/tractors on our property and on the gravel road.
Pets are welcome for an extra $50 per stay. Please note our dogs may be on the property. They are friendly and well-behaved, although sometimes curious. Other guests may have no-leash pets as well.
Park right next to your glamper. Arrive anytime after 4pm, just give us an eta to know when to expect you. If your glamper is not ready upon your arrival, feel free to explore our farm, visit Dillard Mill or head down to the Huzzah while we make it ready for your stay. Self Check-In is always the norm for added privacy. We won't bother you except to wave or maybe say hello if you're out and about. Please feel free to approach us with questions, niceties, or needs.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$117
/ night
R & T Farms
17. R & T Farms
98%
(28)
39mi from St. Joe State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$30
/ night
Hummingbird Hollow Outdoors
18. Hummingbird Hollow Outdoors
99%
(601)
42mi from St. Joe State Park · 5 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
from
$26
/ night
Scottish Highland Cattle Ranch
19. Scottish Highland Cattle Ranch
100%
(12)
43mi from St. Joe State Park · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$24
/ night
Matt's Place at Meramec n Labarque
20. Matt's Place at Meramec n Labarque
100%
(69)
45mi from St. Joe State Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$20
/ night
100% (4)
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next St. Joe State Park adventure.
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
S
Shirley
2 weeks ago
24 ft Class C
camp with a beautiful lake view, welcome to nature and ranch life with horse nays and goats, farm animals. Everything was great except for us the gravel rv park was rocky. Hard to walk on and Get the camper level. Grandkids couldn’t walk well on it but other than that a very nice campground.
See more
N
Nick
3 weeks ago
Tent
This was a great place to camp. Great scenery, saw bald eagles and lots of wildlife. Camp sites are right by a rolling creek.
The campground host was a great guy and showed us around, super helpful.
Will definitely return, highly recommended
See more
S
Scott
January 2026
Tent
With kids
Second time to Humming Bird Hollow. I have loved my visit both times. Host is accommodating and the animals are great to visit. PRO TIP: there are a couple rooters that start crowing around 3am so bring ear plugs or white noise. I don't blame this spot for this...this is an animal rescue and comes with the territory, just be prepared.
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A
Amy
January 2026
With pets
Matthew was a welcoming and personable host. The setting was amazing, and the rustic cabin was comfortable. I enjoyed my stay thoroughly.
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E
Emily
January 2026
Tent
We loved our stay at R & T Farms. Not only were the hosts very gracious and hands off but we met some animal friends as well. Would highly recommend this stay for anyone passing through St. Louis or just looking for a relaxing getaway on a quaint family farm!
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Marie
January 2026
Tent
With pets
Very peaceful with the river right next to camp. The owner was very friendly. Nice level and grassy.
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S
Sarah
December 2025
30 ft travel trailer
We had a lovely 3 night stay on Ryan and Tanya’s beautiful property. The site was large, level and easy to maneuver around with a west facing view. Every sunset was stunning. It was very private with 30amp and sewer. We filled our fresh water tank when we arrived. There are hoses long enough to reach the site if you need to refill. The hosts were easy to communicate with and quick to respond to any questions. St Louis is an easy 30 minute drive if you want to explore. There are also a couple small towns that are closer with provisions, restaurants, coffee shops, etc.
Ryan and Tanya were wonderful, kind hosts.
We will definitely stay again next time we’re in the area.
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M
Michael
November 2025
18 ft campervan
Darrell and Jeanna were excellent hosts; they were friendly and helpful while also being mindful of the importance of the solitude needed to thoroughly enjoy their beautiful property. We will definitely go back for another visit (or more).
This visit was towards the end of November, so the shower and privy were welcome comforts in the brisk weather, though also invigorating. Fireside relaxation was the primary activity as we watched an impressive variety of birds by the pond. With the lack of light pollution, the stargazing opportunities were a treat. We hope to be back for the wine harvest next year!
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K.A.
November 2025
Tent
My second time visiting this camp site. I’m a novice at camping. Each time that I visited, I was impressed: friendly staff, helpful fellow campers, and aesthetically pleasing environment, e.g, lakefront view, farm animals, swimming pool, hot tubs available in select rentals and renovated bath houses. Very safe setting for solo campers, couples and families.
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B
Brett
November 2025
Tent
Group trip
Great spot. Close to the mountain, beautiful site.
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N
Nakia
November 2025
Tent
Private and right on River. No host hassling anyone. The river is great and beautiful. Large campsites, small campground non-state or DNR OR CORP OF ENGINNER. Late d back.
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V
Vicki
November 2025
26 ft travel trailer
With pets
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.
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R
Robert
November 2025
Tent
With kids
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.
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Ben
November 2025
Tent
With pets
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!
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D
Drew
November 2025
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?
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Courtney
November 2025
Tent
Group trip
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!
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Courtney
November 2025
Tent
Group trip
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!
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J
Justin
November 2025
With kids
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!
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C
Chelsea
November 2025
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.
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A
Andrew
November 2025
Tent
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
See moreSt. Joe State Park camping guide
Overview
About
While many state parks offer peaceful retreats, this one comes with the roar of engines. As one of only two Missouri state parks that allow off-road vehicles, St. Joe is a popular location for this energetic activity. ORVers, equestrians, mountain bikers, hikers, and paddlers will all find trails to meet their varied needs and desires, with a backdrop of waters and wooded hills. Four lakes extend the fun to the water, offering fishing, boating, and swimming. Venture to nearby Elephant Rocks and Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Parks to explore the fascinating geological features found in this region of southeastern Missouri.
Notable Camping Spots
- Best for equestrians: St. Joe Campground 2 allows horses at the campsites.
- Best for ORV fanatics: St. Joe Campground 1 is the ORV area and offers a rinse station and access to the ORV trail system.
- Best for off-grid camping: St. Joe Campground also has trailside campsites. Contact the park for more details.
Tips for snagging a campsite
- If you will be bringing horses or off-road vehicles, you must camp in the appropriate campground. If you have neither, you can pick from either.
- This is a popular park, so advanced reservations are recommended.
- Reservations may be made up to 12 months in advance. Use the Missouri State Parks website or phone number.
- Both campgrounds are open and reservable year round.
- Water and showers are available April 1 through October 31, with a couple of frost-free spigots available during the off season.
- The showerhouse is located in Campground 1.
- Basic and electric sites are available, with some pull-thrus and 50-amp hookups found in Campground 1. Campground 2 has basic and electric sites.
- Weekend reservations require a two-night stay.
When to go
This park has recreational options year round. The ORV area is even accessible to snowmobiles after heavier snows. Campers need to prepare for freezing temperatures in winter months. During the summer, the park is at its busiest, with full campgrounds and lots of traffic. The swim beaches are also popular. During the spring and fall, activities may settle down, though weekends are busier. The weather is pleasant, with the best scenery in October.
Know before you go
- You will hear the noise of ORV engines at this park.
- All vehicles must be parked on asphalt pads.
- Campground 1 gates close at 10 p.m. After-hours admission may be requested a day in advance by calling the park office.
- Canoe and kayak rentals are offered onsite, or you may bring your own.
- Electric trolling motors are allowed on watercraft, but gas-powered engines are not permitted on the lake.
- Two swimming beaches are provided, and scuba diving is allowed in two of the park’s lakes.
Reviews for St. Joe State Park Campgrounds
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