Discover the best mountainous campgrounds in Missouri

United States
—
Missouri

98% (1481 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Missouri

Under $50

Dog-friendly getaways

98%

(196)

Howler Bike Park Stays

26 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents180 acres · MO

Welcome to Howler--the Midwest's Premier Mountain Bike Park! Hospitality means everything to us and we would be honored to have you as a guest on our downhill trails or a guest to the Ozark Mountains looking for a great place to stay--or both! We think we've got some surprises in store for you when you get here. You'll find us located just off Highway 65 in the beautiful Ozark Mountains. We're seven minutes from Branson, one of the busiest tourist destinations in the Midwest, but take the five-minute ride or walk down to Base Camp and you'll feel miles away from it all. Howler is imagined, designed, and maintained by riders who love our unique terrain and wanted to pull the best from it. Our trails are built with all skill levels in mind with a clear goal of rider progression. But Howler Bike Park Stays isn't just for riders! We've got all kinds of things to do for riders and non-riders alike! Start your day in Base Camp, the hub of activity at Howler. If you need a caffeine kick to get you started, we've got you covered with a specialty coffee drink, blended, or smoothie at Howler Coffee Shop! And, Chef Dustin is now serving breakfast with three delicious options to power you up for your day! Around noon and throughout the day, you can enjoy Chef's insanely-delicious food at the Growl Grill. Stop in the Welcome Center for bike passes, Howler merch, and bike gear. Are you shredding with us and need a new tube or tire change? We have got you taken care of in Howler Bike Co. next to the Welcome Center. We have beer and wine available at the Growl Grill, and you’re welcome to take your purchases to your tent to enjoy! New in Spring 2023, is our Skills Park and our Children's Play Area-complete with a mini pump track for Stryders or small bikes--and a beautiful cedar swing set! We also have a mile round trip Hiking Trail through the woods where you can see glimpses of riders shredding the mountain trails. Feel like a break at the top of the hike? We've got a picnic table so you can enjoy the scenery and eat some mouth-watering food from the Growl Grill! We also have our all-new bathrooms and showers, complete with shampoo/body wash and hair dryers. And you can keep all your necessary items near you while you ride with our all-new lockers. They're free and you only need to enter a four-digit code of your choosing to use them.

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!

B Berry Farms & Co.

15 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents42 acres · Elkland, MO

Would you like to try something different than your everyday routine? Well, then come on out to a little place in the country to unplug, unwind, or just enjoy life that's all around you. Our little spot is called B Berry Farms and Co. We are a 40-acre family U-Pick Berry farm and 24-hour Campground with 5 RV spots with 20 amp or 30 amp electricity your choice. And we are right in the heart of the Missouri Ozarks with over 4,000 you-pick Berry bushes (and fresh produce in 24' )covering, 7 acres we have something for almost everyone. If you want cleaner health products in your life then we can help you with that as well, We are also a natural skin care product manufacturer. Either Bonding by the wood-fired stove in our bunkhouse or cuddling up in the chairs outside enjoying hot cocoa as it snows. Just looking off into the distance and seeing the sun setting with bursting colors over the rows and rows of berries. Experience a darker night sky than most are used to. Or walk the many acres of colored coated diverse trails, enjoy 2 horseshoes pitching areas, pick delicious berries, throw axes at a log target, swing on several adult swings, play an intense game of pool on our table, climb a 12-foot high wall, enjoy our 10' bouncing net hanging from the ceiling, play in the many sandboxes, sweat out a game with a 35' professional Volleyball net (ball provided)and badminton(we have rackets and birdies), play in the water cube as it sprays in all directions or our new Waterhole WATERPARK play area which sprays water in all directions with water slide, ( Trampoline, 95' kids Zipline, 9'x9' colored swing net, 2 swings, 14' fireman's pole, monkey bars, rock climbing walls, swing bridge) and so many more things to do. Hot showers, 2 solar heated shower houses (seasonal frost to frost), 2 restrooms, a hand washing station, and a hand laundry tub. We sell farm fresh eggs, and baked goods(homemade breads, cinnamon rolls, cookies, muffins, and many fresh seasonal vegetables as well picked to order,and handmade natural products.

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.

Sunset Mountain

16 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Noel, MO

Sunset Mountain is an exclusive RSVP only, adults only nudist campground located on my working cattle farm. (Please do not drive up to our gate and try to get in. Please make a reservation in advance.) Although we cater to adults only we follow TNSF and AANR guidelines for social nude recreation. If you are not familiar with TNSF or AANR you can do a quick internet search and see some basic guidelines for social nude recreation. Sunset Mountain is a nice quiet place to relax and work on your tan. We have RV sites, tent camping areas a bus, container and camper available as lodging options. The campground has a bathroom facility with indoor shower and outdoor showers. We have a hot tub guests can use along with hiking trails and a propane grill. Sunset Mountain is near the Elk River in Noel Missouri and close to Northwest Arkansas where there are mountain biking trails, museums and many other activities. Sunset Mountain is listed on the Monarch Butterfly Waystation registry as well. Come stay on the buff bluff! We are located 1.2 miles away from the Noel city park that has free Elk River access, 4 miles to Mt. Shira free Elk River access near Shady Beach and 5.2 miles to the free Elk River access in Pineville, MO near Shady Beach Pineville.

12 top mountainous campgrounds in Missouri

98%

(694)

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!

Howler Bike Park Stays

26 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents180 acres · MO

Welcome to Howler--the Midwest's Premier Mountain Bike Park! Hospitality means everything to us and we would be honored to have you as a guest on our downhill trails or a guest to the Ozark Mountains looking for a great place to stay--or both! We think we've got some surprises in store for you when you get here. You'll find us located just off Highway 65 in the beautiful Ozark Mountains. We're seven minutes from Branson, one of the busiest tourist destinations in the Midwest, but take the five-minute ride or walk down to Base Camp and you'll feel miles away from it all. Howler is imagined, designed, and maintained by riders who love our unique terrain and wanted to pull the best from it. Our trails are built with all skill levels in mind with a clear goal of rider progression. But Howler Bike Park Stays isn't just for riders! We've got all kinds of things to do for riders and non-riders alike! Start your day in Base Camp, the hub of activity at Howler. If you need a caffeine kick to get you started, we've got you covered with a specialty coffee drink, blended, or smoothie at Howler Coffee Shop! And, Chef Dustin is now serving breakfast with three delicious options to power you up for your day! Around noon and throughout the day, you can enjoy Chef's insanely-delicious food at the Growl Grill. Stop in the Welcome Center for bike passes, Howler merch, and bike gear. Are you shredding with us and need a new tube or tire change? We have got you taken care of in Howler Bike Co. next to the Welcome Center. We have beer and wine available at the Growl Grill, and you’re welcome to take your purchases to your tent to enjoy! New in Spring 2023, is our Skills Park and our Children's Play Area-complete with a mini pump track for Stryders or small bikes--and a beautiful cedar swing set! We also have a mile round trip Hiking Trail through the woods where you can see glimpses of riders shredding the mountain trails. Feel like a break at the top of the hike? We've got a picnic table so you can enjoy the scenery and eat some mouth-watering food from the Growl Grill! We also have our all-new bathrooms and showers, complete with shampoo/body wash and hair dryers. And you can keep all your necessary items near you while you ride with our all-new lockers. They're free and you only need to enter a four-digit code of your choosing to use them.

B Berry Farms & Co.

15 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents42 acres · Elkland, MO

Would you like to try something different than your everyday routine? Well, then come on out to a little place in the country to unplug, unwind, or just enjoy life that's all around you. Our little spot is called B Berry Farms and Co. We are a 40-acre family U-Pick Berry farm and 24-hour Campground with 5 RV spots with 20 amp or 30 amp electricity your choice. And we are right in the heart of the Missouri Ozarks with over 4,000 you-pick Berry bushes (and fresh produce in 24' )covering, 7 acres we have something for almost everyone. If you want cleaner health products in your life then we can help you with that as well, We are also a natural skin care product manufacturer. Either Bonding by the wood-fired stove in our bunkhouse or cuddling up in the chairs outside enjoying hot cocoa as it snows. Just looking off into the distance and seeing the sun setting with bursting colors over the rows and rows of berries. Experience a darker night sky than most are used to. Or walk the many acres of colored coated diverse trails, enjoy 2 horseshoes pitching areas, pick delicious berries, throw axes at a log target, swing on several adult swings, play an intense game of pool on our table, climb a 12-foot high wall, enjoy our 10' bouncing net hanging from the ceiling, play in the many sandboxes, sweat out a game with a 35' professional Volleyball net (ball provided)and badminton(we have rackets and birdies), play in the water cube as it sprays in all directions or our new Waterhole WATERPARK play area which sprays water in all directions with water slide, ( Trampoline, 95' kids Zipline, 9'x9' colored swing net, 2 swings, 14' fireman's pole, monkey bars, rock climbing walls, swing bridge) and so many more things to do. Hot showers, 2 solar heated shower houses (seasonal frost to frost), 2 restrooms, a hand washing station, and a hand laundry tub. We sell farm fresh eggs, and baked goods(homemade breads, cinnamon rolls, cookies, muffins, and many fresh seasonal vegetables as well picked to order,and handmade natural products.

Sunset Mountain

16 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Noel, MO

Sunset Mountain is an exclusive RSVP only, adults only nudist campground located on my working cattle farm. (Please do not drive up to our gate and try to get in. Please make a reservation in advance.) Although we cater to adults only we follow TNSF and AANR guidelines for social nude recreation. If you are not familiar with TNSF or AANR you can do a quick internet search and see some basic guidelines for social nude recreation. Sunset Mountain is a nice quiet place to relax and work on your tan. We have RV sites, tent camping areas a bus, container and camper available as lodging options. The campground has a bathroom facility with indoor shower and outdoor showers. We have a hot tub guests can use along with hiking trails and a propane grill. Sunset Mountain is near the Elk River in Noel Missouri and close to Northwest Arkansas where there are mountain biking trails, museums and many other activities. Sunset Mountain is listed on the Monarch Butterfly Waystation registry as well. Come stay on the buff bluff! We are located 1.2 miles away from the Noel city park that has free Elk River access, 4 miles to Mt. Shira free Elk River access near Shady Beach and 5.2 miles to the free Elk River access in Pineville, MO near Shady Beach Pineville.

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.

97%

(19)

Sage Mountain Recreational Area MO

10 sites · RVs, Tents50 acres · Berger, MO

Sage Mountain is a recreational area located in the heart of Missouri wine country. Located between Hermann and Washington on the south side of the Missouri river. Our 50 acres of virgin forest is home to an abundance of diverse wildlife, 3.6 miles of hiking trails, bolted climbing and bouldering routes established, and a large impressive cave. We are located near the Katy trail for more hiking and biking. Access to the Missouri river for boating and fishing. On site we have an abundance of areas for back country camping, or we allow car camping in our open parking lot.

99%

(119)

Dockley Ranch

13 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Chadwick, MO

Here at Dockley Ranch, guests can enjoy 80 acres of Missouri Ozarks. Features include a waterfall and hiking trails, peaceful vistas and goats, alpacas, and chickens to entertain. Rent a 1-room cabin or pitch a tent, watch the stars from the hillside stage, grill at the covered pavilion and enjoy the sounds of the countryside. PROPERTY MAP: https://www.hipcamp.com/en-US/dashboard/land/2565/map

100%

(1)

Hummingbird Inn and Campsites

7 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Reeds Spring, MO

The Hummingbird Inn is a beautiful retreat with many acres in its environs. There are two swimming and fishing ponds to choose sites from as well as off the beaten path places to set up camp. You'll only be about 15 minutes from downtown Branson but nestled up on a beautiful ozark mountain. The views are incredible here. We hope you will enjoy your stay. There is water available from several spigots powered by a large well. There are no bathrooms so you'll need to release in the woods and take your hygienic paper out with you. Looking for wwoofers as well. Please turn right before the inn and go down and park by the warehouse being careful not to block the golf cart trail. Camp anywhere first come first serve other than the trail itself. Please turn left before the inn and turn immediately left to the lower pond and park near or around the pond. Swim at your own risk!

96%

(23)

Arcadia Valley BaseCamp

2 sites · RVs, Tents68 acres · Arcadia, MO

BaseCamp is respite nestled into the Arcadia Valley just miles from Shepherd Mountain Bike Psrk. 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. 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!

94%

(49)

Water Mountain

30 sites · RVs, Tents180 acres · Belle, MO

Ive own this land since 2005 and have used it for camping, parties, and venue.Learn more about this land:This is a 180 acres of camping along the Gasconade River. Lots of great spots for camping, hiking, and UTV/ATV riding. 50% forest, 10% trails, 20% along river, 10% bluffs, and 10% flat with grass field.

100%

(5)

Spring Rock Ranch Glamping & Nature

3 sites · Lodging520 acres · Dora, MO

Spring Rock Ranch is a 520 acre luxury glamping and natural experience venue. Air conditioning, private ensuite bathroom and plush white bedding make sleeping in the woods so dreamy! Nature Trails are carved through the woods and fields and are open for guests to explore. Open pastures reveal abundant deer and turkey. Gushing springs, seasonal falls and creeks traverse the land. Wildflowers and native plants and wildlife are abundant, black bears are also sometimes spotted. The ranch is just 3 miles from Vera Cruz Access (Conservation area for fishing, kayaking, swimming) by gravel road. Located only 11 miles from the new Bryant Creek State Park, opened in 2022. There is also guided fishing, day fishing and pay per pound Trout at Rockbridge, 13 miles away. Just 22 miles to canoe & kayaking at Twin Bridges, 37 miles to Tecumseh Park Fishing Access where the North Fork River runs into the Norfork Lake for Striped Bass and Trout. The Camp Store on site is opened to guests 24/7 by self-serve, leave payment in the store! We offer firewood bundles, ice cream, eggs, milk, meats, charcoal, hats and shirts, houseplants and more!

97%

(16)

Holler back Horse Camp and Cabins

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents83 acres · Pineville, MO

Welcome to our picturesque 83 acre campground nestled against the scenic Huckleberry Conservation area. As nature enthusiasts, we offer an idyllic retreat where you can immerse yourself in the great outdoors. Lace up your hiking boots and explore the trails winding through the pristine wilderness, or bring your equine companion and saddle up for an exhilarating horseback ride through the enchanting forests. Take a moment to pause and watch the abundant wildlife as they go about their daily routines. For water lovers, nearby kayaking facilities provide the perfect opportunity to paddle along serene rivers and lakes, admiring the stunning landscape from a different perspective. After a day of adventure, venture into the charming small town, where you can unwind at the local movie theater, catching the latest blockbusters, or enjoy some friendly competition at the nearby bowling alley. With nature as your backdrop and an array of recreational activities at your fingertips, our campground is the ultimate destination for those seeking a harmonious blend of tranquility and adventure. In addition to the stunning natural surroundings and recreational opportunities, we take pride in providing comfortable accommodations for our guests. Our cabins are equipped with all the amenities you need for a cozy and convenient stay. Each cabin features comfortable beds, a fully equipped kitchenette, a private bathroom, and a cozy living area where you can unwind after a day of outdoor exploration. Alternatively, if you prefer to bring your own home on wheels, we offer spacious RV sites where you can park and enjoy a home-away-from-home experience. Our RV sites are equipped with, water, and electricity, ensuring a hassle-free camping experience. Whether you choose to stay in one of our cabins or bring your own RV, our campground provides the perfect base for creating lasting memories amidst the beauty of nature.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Mountainous camping in Missouri guide

Overview

Whether road-tripping along part of the historic Route 66, vacationing at the Lake of the Ozarks, or following in the footsteps of homegrown hero Mark Twain—Missouri is made for traveling. From Kansas City to St Louis, you’re never far from a state park—there are 38 to choose from—while the vast Mark Twain National Forest encompasses 1.5-million acres spread across seven different wilderness areas. Plan your camping trip from May through October to make the most of the forests, lakes, and wilderness areas, or cozy up in an RV through the snowy winter months.

Where to go

North Missouri

Kansas City, Missouri’s largest city, is best known for its jazz scene and BBQ restaurants, but there are also plenty of natural attractions to explore in the north. Head to nearby Weston Bend State Park to camp along the Missouri River, or go biking and horseback riding along the multi-use trails of Crowder State Park. Over on the eastern state border, Wakonda State Park has six lakes to choose from, while the Mark Twain State Park has family campgrounds in the Salt River Hills.

Central Missouri

State capital Jefferson City lies at the heart of Missouri, and just to the north, Rock Bridge Memorial State Park provides tranquil camping amid a backdrop of natural caves, streams, and woodlands. Summer campers flock to the Lake of the Ozarks region, where the huge reservoir is fringed with sandy beaches, golf courses, and restaurants. If you tire of the Ozarks camping resorts, Bennett Spring State Park makes a worthy alternative, renowned for its trout fishing.

St Louis and Southeast Missouri

At the meeting point of the Mississippi and the Missouri Rivers, St Louis is home to one of Missouri’s most visited attractions, the Gateway Arch National Park. Nearby, hikers can enjoy full-amenity camping at Meramec River State Park, while Castlewood State Park is renowned for its mountain biking trails, and Sam A Baker State Park is one of the region’s most visited. Alternatively, escape to the wilderness of the Mark Twain National Forest, where you can choose between tent/RV sites, cabins, or dispersed camping in the woods.

Southwest Missouri

Bordered by Kansas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas, the southwest is Missouri’s wild frontier. Venture into the Mark Twain National Forest to enjoy backcountry camping in the wilderness, rev up your OHV and tackle the off-road trails of St Joe State Park, or fish for rainbow trout in the stocked waters of Roaring River State Park. Finally, don’t miss the hike to Grand Falls. The 163-foot wide waterfall is Missouri’s largest, and lies just outside of Joplin.