Camping in Washington State Park

100% (17 reviews)

Explore rugged landscapes along the Big River in eastern Missouri.

Top camping in Washington State Park

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.

1. Washington Campground

100%

(17)

50 sites · RVs, Tents · In Washington State Park

100% (17 reviews)

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

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Community favorites near Washington State Park

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Stories from the community

Pamela

4 days ago

2 nights at Lakeside Tipi Retreat

Fabulous grounds with so much to do! Rock hunters, great bird watching with numerous Whip-poor-wills, Chucks Poor Widows and so much more. The tipi is great, very cozy & cool in the evening. It's roughing it, cooking/shower wise but has a bathroom! Jim & Cindy are very accommodating and cool folks. The hammocks, kayaks, canoe and float mat on the lake and the tranquil waterfalls are a great place to mellow out at. Dogs are super friendly and good dogs! Definitely recommend! ❤️

1 night at Sugarloaf Creek

What a wonderful evening at Meghan’s place..spot was was very private and peaceful.. she made sure that I had everything I needed and I can’t recommend her highly enough..I’ll definitely be reaching out next time though the area 👍🏻😎

1 night at Sugarloaf Creek

Great directions and a perfect spot for a quick overnight on our drive from TN to CO. Bonus is its proximity to the Gateway Arch! We were able to mark another page in our US National Parks passport.

Weekend Trip to Hawks Bluff Farm Campground

We needed to make some last minute changes and Elizabeth was very helpful and accommodating. It's a beautiful area and the fellowship was delightful! I found some amazing druzy quartz! We'll be back!!

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Spring Lake Ranch

It was a pretty good campsite, the facilities & such were iffy far as the opening time but overall I still had a very good time. The bathhouse was walking distance from the site , and located near a pavilion and a few treehouse cabins which made the setting nice. Water also felt good and was pretty easy to access, throughout the weekend jus be aware of the wild life.

Weekend Trip to Sycamore Springs Campground

The primitive sites are not marked with numbers yet, but it is in the plan. Harless met us when we arrived. He shared with us our #10 space and offered to cut limbs if need be for our roof top tent. Then he suggested we could set up across the Upper Castor on the rock bank. I was SO excited! I have been wanting to do this with our new Lone Peak camper. It was a perfect location for us. We listened to the babbling water next to us as we fell asleep. We love to river wallow, putting our beach chairs in the water and relaxing. The water is crystal clear and beautiful. The other campers were no problems, and quiet hours were quiet. It a mile from amazing Pink Rock aka Castor River Shutins but we have been there many times. The actual campsite was well mown and cared for, and included a metal picnic table and fire pit and lots of shade. The only drawback was it being so close to the road and the many drivers going to the shut-ins kicking up gravel dust going by. Because we were across the river, that did not bother us at all. The other primitive sites do have a little more distance from the road if you are reading to choose a site number. Someone came up around 9:30 p.m. & started setting up camp in our spot, but Harless was right there within a short time and the folks left. There were some fireworks which frightened our dogs, but they stopped around 10 p.m. It might have been neighbors.

Weekend Trip to Hawks Bluff Farm Campground

Absolutely fantastic place!!! Super nice and helpful people ! Mark,thank you again for helping me back in the camper. It was my first time needless to say I needed some help. Unfortunately are 1 year old got a little sick so we didnt get to experience the rocks. Needless to say we will be back very soon to do so. Thank you again for your hospitality!

Weekend Trip to Crooked Creek Ranch

Ross land was well maintained and very little road traffic/noise . The dogs had a great time running around while we relaxed. Definitional will be booking this site again.

Weekend Trip to Spring Lake Ranch

My girlfriend and I took a getaway camping trip and it was amazing. Very beautiful property, kayaking was fun, swimming was fun. Everybody we ran into was super friendly. Super clean and well kept place. 100% recommend and we will for sure be back!

Weekend Trip to Arcadia Valley Outdoors Land

We stayed only one out of two nights due to the heat, but would consider coming back again due to the quiet and the camp sites not right on top of each other. If you want something quiet and more primitive this is a nice place to camp.

Weekend Trip to St Louis Co private wildwood farm.

Great spot! We enjoyed a quiet weekend and were so grateful for the shade. Nice neighborhood for walking, and other than some distant road noise, very quiet. We would definitely return or recommend to friends!

sami

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Hummingbird Hollow Outdoors

My friend and I had a great time here. The site was lovely and fairly secured from the rest of the others on property so it felt very private. The animals were so fun to brush and see. Everything we might need was thought through well and the host was very responsive!

Daniel

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Hummingbird Hollow Outdoors

Hummingbird Hollow was amazing! It was HOT when we stayed but the creek is a short walk from the campsites and is big enough that you’re not on top of other people camping too. We stayed in St Quincy. Sarah had a nice sized fan setup in that kept air flowing and really helped with the heat. There were two beds and both were comfortable. We really loved seeing, petting, and taking pictures with all of the animals. The vast majority were extremely friendly and the other few were shy but still “checked us out.” We will definitely be booking another stay here this summer!

2 nights at Spring Lake Ranch

Lovely stay! Nice views, good amenities. Easy to find as well.

Lisa

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Hawks Bluff Farm Campground

The creek is awesome.They have a nice campground and it's close to plenty of stuff to do and explore.

Lisa

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Hawks Bluff Farm Campground

The creek is amazing! And Liz is so helpful with anything you need. It's a great campground with a lot of nearby things to do if you want to get out and explore.

2 nights at Hawks Bluff Farm Campground

Rock hunting and swimming in the creek was a blast!

Weekend Trip to Lakeside Tipi Retreat

This place is magical!! My sister and I needed to disconnect with the kids and be present and Jim and Cindy’s home is pure serenity! Our kids were in the water all day and had such a wonderful adventure! The pond, the waterfall, trails and hammocks spread all the peace vibes throughout our crew. The stars at night were unlike anything you can see in St. Louis. Jim and Cindy could not have been nicer and had so many great items on hand that we accidentally forgot to bring. The tipi was beautiful and unique and the lights added such a magical touch at night. The dogs were so friendly and helped us feel protected as they watched over us. If you need a place that is clean, serene and full of fun to disconnect this place is it! We cant wait to go back!

2 nights at Arcadia Valley BaseCamp

Love the place, very quiet, perfect for families.

2 nights at Spring Lake Ranch

For a first time camping trip with our two year old, it was fantastic! We loved being able to set our tent up right on the water and loved getting to fish and swim. The water was so clean and clear and the campgrounds were so nice. I loved that there was also a playground and the bathrooms/showers were upgraded. I think some extra signage for where we were supposed to go would be helpful. When we arrived there weren’t any other campers and we overshot the actual campsite by going past it and off-roading for 8 minutes lol. But we are 100% going back in the future and recommend it to everyone!

Top-rated campgrounds near Washington State Park

93%

(1873)

Spring Lake Ranch

43 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents101 acres · 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.

96%

(140)

Hawks Bluff Farm Campground

57 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents460 acres · 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!

98%

(773)

Arcadia Valley Outdoors Land

37 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents150 acres · 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!

100%

(1)

Curt’s Cabin

1 site · RV, Tent2 acres · Brewer, MO

Camp or plug the RV in at the site of a remote, historical home with a peaceful view of the valley. Amenities include a fire-ring, hot tub, mountain bikes and lawn games. Renting and occupying the 3 bedroom, 2 bath circa 1800 early American log home is optional. Additionally, guests have access to a private creek for added relaxation. For a fee, tours of the 1800 American log cabin and a 1790 French log cabin may be arranged through the host. If available, host can take up to 6 guests (must be physically fit) on a trail ride touring beautiful forests and meadows which includes some thrilling assents and descents in/on a historic International Scout. Liability waiver required.

99%

(543)

Hummingbird Hollow Outdoors

31 sites · Lodging, Tents27 acres · 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."

93%

(56)

Sycamore Springs Campground

21 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · 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.

99%

(75)

Crooked Creek Ranch

1 site · RV, Tent35 acres · 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.

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(153)

Such and Such Farm Swimming Hole

6 sites · RVs, Tents120 acres · De Soto, MO

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!

97%

(103)

Big River Outdoors Campground

99 sites · RVs, Tents87 acres · Frankclay, MO

80+ acres with over a mile of river frontage. Also a unique custom off road park on the property. Swimming, fishing, kayaking, and live music on 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.

83%

(9)

Lake Perry Campground

29 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Perryville, MO

Lake Perry Campground was established in July, 2024. We are located just outside the main gates of Lake Perry. Lake Perry is a private, gated, lake community that is only accessible by lot owners and their guests. Lake Perry Campground offers 16 full hookup (water, 70 amp electric, and sewer) camping/RV sites that include 8 pull through lots that are 25'wide x 40' long, and 8 back-in lots ranging from 25-30' wide and 30-70' long. Two buddy lots (camper & tent) are available as well. We also have 2 tent lots with 20amp electric and water. We have an ice vending machine on-site 24/7. Starting fall of 2024, we will start construction of a 30'x50' covered pavilion with restrooms and shower houses along with a full bar serving canned beer, craft draft beer, mixed drinks, premium wines, and adult slushy drinks such as the nearly famous Perrywacker (8 liquors). Also available late fall/early winter 2024 is a 400 square foot studio cabin featuring a 12x12 deck, bedroom, full kitchen, full bath, and a kitchenette/bar. (Sleeps 4) We are 5 miles from Mark Twain national Forest, as well as multiple conservation areas with creek access. Several wineries are nearby through scenic backroads. (Charleville, Chaumette, Twin Oaks, Sand Creek). Bring your SXS's for days of backroad riding that spans 4 counties (Perry, Ste Genevieve, Madison, and Bollinger). Check out the featured post on our Facebook page for an extensive list of nearby attractions.

97%

(34)

Arcadia Valley BaseCamp

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents68 acres · 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!

93%

(14)

The Magic Land Homestead

4 sites · Lodging70 acres · 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!

Camping in Washington State Park guide

Overview

About

The Big River makes a slow wind through this section of the Ozark Mountains, where water and woodlands meet. Located in eastern Missouri, Washington State park is home to rugged landscapes and grand outdoor adventures. Wade or float in the river waters—or make a splash in the park’s pool. Explore the state’s largest collection of petroglyphs, with rock carvings dating to around 1000 A.D. A more recent piece of history is the 1000 Steps Trail, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, providing a challenging route to reach a scenic view from a bluff above the river valley. Camping and campground rentals are available.

Notable campgrounds

Best for big rigs: Washington Campground’s pull-through sites offer easy maneuvering.
Best for casual campers: No tent? No problem. Washington Campground’s platform tent sites include a three-season canvas tent.
Best for glamping: Washington Campground’s electric sites offer 30-amp service.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Advanced reservations may not be required, but check ahead for summer weekends and holidays.
Reservations are accepted 12 months in advance online and by phone through the Missouri State Parks office.
This park offers basic and electric campsites, in addition to platform tents and family campsites (with paired pads and a shared yard).
Reservations are offered year-round.
Walk-up reservations are available.

When to go

Summer is river season, making it a nice time to hit the waters—or the park pool. Both offer a refreshing way to cool off from the heat and humidity of Missouri summers. Spring and fall offer moderate temperatures for exploring the trails—watch for wildflowers in the spring and autumnal colors in the fall, reaching their peak in October. Winter camping brings a stillness to the park, along with freezing temperatures and occasional snows. During the off-season, park amenities (like the camp store and showerhouses) are limited.

Know before you go

Individual campsites do not have water spigots. Water spigots are scattered around the camping loops.
Showers and water are available April 1 through October 31, with a frost-free spigot available near the park office.
Watercraft rentals for paddling and floating are available seasonally in the camp store.
Though it feels far from the city, this park is an hour’s drive from Gateway Arch National Park in downtown St. Louis.
Elephant Rocks State Park is 40 minutes to the south, offering a unique landscape to explore.

100%

17 ratings · 1 review

Recommends

· June 2025

Tent · Group trip ·

Washington Campground

Great place!

Heather S.

2 reviews