The best camping near Montauk State Park

The Current River runs through the heart of Montauk State Park, fed by seven springs and flanked by lush woodlands. Head down to the river to fish for rainbow and brown trout, then cook up your catch for a waterfront picnic. Hiking and cycling trails tempt explorers away from the water, where you can peek inside the 19th-century gristmill and spot pine warbler and great blue heron. Montauk Campground is split over three sites, all by the river, with a choice of basic and electric hookup sites. Cabins and spacious family sites are also available.

1. You can reserve one of more than 150 campsites in advance via the Missouri State Parks website. 
2. Campsite reservations open 12 months in advance and can be booked up to 7 pm on the day of arrival.
3. Campsites can book up as fast, especially on summer and holiday weekends. Book a minimum of three months in advance to avoid disappointment.

Trout fishing season runs from March through October—outside of this time, it’s catch-and-release only. Springtime is the most picturesque time to hike, when wildflowers bloom along the riverside. Camping is possible year-round, but showers and campground facilities are only available from March through October.

• Montauk State Park is set about a 30-minute drive southwest of Salem.
• No admission fees apply for Missouri state parks, but camping reservation fees, trout tags, and fishing permits are required.
• Park facilities include a park store, restaurant, and motel, as well as accessible restrooms, picnic areas and grills, a playground, a fish cleaning station, and a dump station.