Camping in Salem, MO, US: 12 Best Campgrounds 2025

United States
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Missouri
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Salem

89% (1984 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Salem

Star Hosts in Salem

Top camping destinations

Mark Twain National Forest

Buffalo National River

616 campgrounds

Washington State Park

396 campgrounds

Shell Knob

101 campgrounds

Available this weekend

98%

(59)

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.

Four Creeks Campground

19 sites · RVs, Tents90 acres · Ellington, MO

Three crystal clear creeks to swim, wade, hunt rocks, or just relax. We have several tent sites right on the creeks and RV sites close for just a short walk for swimming fun. Close to Mark Twain National Forest, for hiking Rocky Creek trail Head, Blue Springs trail to Rocky Falls, Black River and the Current for floating, Kayaking or fishing. Clearwater Lake for boat rentals or Jet skies. Sites to see, Blue Springs, Big Springs Johnson Shut Inns, Elephant Rock, Rocky Falls, and many state parks to explore. We are also only three miles from the town of Ellington, MO for your shopping needs, several restaurants and antiquing.

98%

(85)

Hagood Farms and Trails

8 sites · Tents164 acres · Sullivan, MO

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.

100%

(3)

Twisted H Ranch LLC

3 sites · RVs120 acres · Mountain View, MO

Welcome to Twisted H Ranch, a serene 120-acre working cattle farm nestled in the heart of nature's beauty. Our campground offers 8 spacious campsites, each equipped with full-service hook-ups including sewer, water, and electricity. For your convenience, we also provide a laundry and shower house on-site, ensuring a comfortable stay year-round. Located just 2 miles from the Upper Jack's Fork River, outdoor enthusiasts will find endless opportunities for adventure. Whether you prefer floating along the clear spring waters of the Current River or exploring scenic hiking trails, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Bring your bike and tackle our challenging loop trail, or simply unwind and observe the abundant wildlife that calls our campground home. At Twisted H Ranch, our goal is to provide a safe and relaxing retreat where you can connect with nature and rejuvenate your spirit. Sit back, listen to the soothing sounds of the peepers, and marvel at the starry night sky. As we continue to expand our offerings, we look forward to welcoming you to our ranch and creating unforgettable memories together. Join us in 2024 as we complete our two cabins, outdoor riding arena, and horse stalls, adding even more excitement to your stay.

97%

(18)

Delightful 1 bedroom peaceful tiny house

1 site · Lodging20 acres · Salem, MO

We bought this property to enjoy our horses and cattle as well as the small animals including our rabbits , chickens , ducks , and more . We turned one of our barns into a place to have music and line dancing, however over time it turned into a perfect place for weddings and gathering events. We enjoy meeting the people who visit our farm . The sunsets behind the barn are therapeutic and soothing to the soul! Our small animals are the heart of the farm. We enjoy them and our guests are welcome to enjoy them as well. Learn more about this land:You won’t forget the peaceful surroundings of this rustic destination. Your stay with us is sure to bring you back to simplicity of life while comfortably cozy and relaxed . While TV and WiFi are available , you will find yourself content with viewing the activities of the surroundings and serene atmosphere. Just minutes away you’ll find exciting selections of activities , excellent dining , and friendly small businesses with a wide selection of interest .Guests are welcome to our venue and we encourage meeting with us to enjoy farm animals and surroundings .This is a working farm. This includes small and large farm animals .

12 top campgrounds near Salem

93%

(1798)

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.

Four Creeks Campground

19 sites · RVs, Tents90 acres · Ellington, MO

Three crystal clear creeks to swim, wade, hunt rocks, or just relax. We have several tent sites right on the creeks and RV sites close for just a short walk for swimming fun. Close to Mark Twain National Forest, for hiking Rocky Creek trail Head, Blue Springs trail to Rocky Falls, Black River and the Current for floating, Kayaking or fishing. Clearwater Lake for boat rentals or Jet skies. Sites to see, Blue Springs, Big Springs Johnson Shut Inns, Elephant Rock, Rocky Falls, and many state parks to explore. We are also only three miles from the town of Ellington, MO for your shopping needs, several restaurants and antiquing.

Ozarks Piney Bend Riverfront

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents7 acres · Dixon, MO

Experience the Missouri Ozarks in all it's glory! Our property sits on 7 acres running on both sides of the beautiful, crystal clear Big Piney River. We sit right at the bottom of a beautiful bluff right along the banks of the river! We have a dry cabin, with outdoor water, bathroom and cedar shower house. We have a fully stocked new camper with everything you'll need for up to 6 people, including ice cold A/C! We also own a large beautiful sand bar on the Big Piney River perfect for setting up your tent or hammock camping (only accessible by swimming or kayak, which we can provide for a fee)

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!

Eminence Cottages and Camp

45 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents28 acres · Eminence, MO

Welcome to Eminence Cottages & Camp Our Resort is perfectly located to enjoy the natural wonders that abound in this area. Eminence Cottages and Camp is in the center of Missouri's largest national park; The Ozark National Scenic Riverways. We invite you to enjoy river fishing and canoeing, hiking and biking the famous Ozark Trail, abundant wildlife viewing, spring hopping and auto tours. Relax in our well-appointed cottages or get close to nature in the campground. Once settled you'll be ready to float the Current or Jacks Fork River. Call to make your reservation!

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.

Hagood Farms and Trails

8 sites · Tents164 acres · Sullivan, MO

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.

100%

(5)

Meramec Campground

39 sites · RVs10 acres · Stanton, MO

Welcome to Meramec Campground! We are your premier Sullivan, Missouri Campground family owned and operated by Kiefer Campgrounds. We are part of a collection of RV parks and campgrounds that spares no expense to ensure your stay with us is nothing less than the BEST! We are conveniently located 45 miles from St. Louis off Interstate 44 and are open year round. We are also golf cart friendly. Please visit www.merameccampground.com or give us a call at 217-342-1111 for more details.

Twisted H Ranch LLC

3 sites · RVs120 acres · Mountain View, MO

Welcome to Twisted H Ranch, a serene 120-acre working cattle farm nestled in the heart of nature's beauty. Our campground offers 8 spacious campsites, each equipped with full-service hook-ups including sewer, water, and electricity. For your convenience, we also provide a laundry and shower house on-site, ensuring a comfortable stay year-round. Located just 2 miles from the Upper Jack's Fork River, outdoor enthusiasts will find endless opportunities for adventure. Whether you prefer floating along the clear spring waters of the Current River or exploring scenic hiking trails, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Bring your bike and tackle our challenging loop trail, or simply unwind and observe the abundant wildlife that calls our campground home. At Twisted H Ranch, our goal is to provide a safe and relaxing retreat where you can connect with nature and rejuvenate your spirit. Sit back, listen to the soothing sounds of the peepers, and marvel at the starry night sky. As we continue to expand our offerings, we look forward to welcoming you to our ranch and creating unforgettable memories together. Join us in 2024 as we complete our two cabins, outdoor riding arena, and horse stalls, adding even more excitement to your stay.

100%

(1)

Misfit Acres

11 sites · Tents17 acres · Rolla, MO

Escape to nature's embrace at our idyllic farm nestled near Mark Twain National Forest and the enchanting Meramec and Onondaga Caves. Embrace tranquility away from the city buzz with primitive camping amidst secluded woodlands. At our farm, you can feed and care for our friendly animals, creating memories to cherish forever. As you enter the Ozark Mountains, be mesmerized by the sweeping scenic views that surround our farm, offering a backdrop of natural beauty that enhances your stay. Experience the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation in the heart of Missouri's breathtaking countryside. Local attractions include: fugitive beach, lane springs recreation area, onondaga Cave, Meramac Caverns, local strawberry and blueberry picking farms, St. James Winery, Spencer Manor Winery, the Public House, Ozark Scenic Riverways, 2 hrs to St. Louis and Springfield, 45 minutes to Fort Leonard Wood, Mark Twain National Forest, 1.5 hrs to Johnson Shutins and Elephant Rocks, historic Route 66. For foodies: Crepe Escape, Public House, St. James Winery, Public House, Alex’s Pizza, Spencer Manor, Kusina Filipino, Popcorn Corner, Prince Solomon’s Royal Indian Restaurant, Southside Creamery, Master Donuts, Pryors Pizza

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Sacred Fire Farms and Herb Gardens

6 sites · Lodging22 acres · Bourbon, MO

Learn more about this land: Do you have a curiosity about herbalism, natural remedies and folk healing traditions? Come visit us at this family owned century farm in the process of reclamation. You can sign up for a guided plant walk provided by owner Nancy Herold, visit her remedy gardens or just chill at Brazil Creek, also located and accessed from the property. If you choose, you can even get more in depth classes on herbalism and folk remedy traditions. Owners Nancy and Michael Herold love to share their knowledge of herbal medicine as well as the history of her family's homestead founded shortly after the Civil War. Not wanting to rough it? Reserve the cozy barn loft in our newly restored 115 yr old barn. A fully furnished lodging space with kitchen, private entrance and shower!

Delightful 1 bedroom peaceful tiny house

1 site · Lodging20 acres · Salem, MO

We bought this property to enjoy our horses and cattle as well as the small animals including our rabbits , chickens , ducks , and more . We turned one of our barns into a place to have music and line dancing, however over time it turned into a perfect place for weddings and gathering events. We enjoy meeting the people who visit our farm . The sunsets behind the barn are therapeutic and soothing to the soul! Our small animals are the heart of the farm. We enjoy them and our guests are welcome to enjoy them as well. Learn more about this land:You won’t forget the peaceful surroundings of this rustic destination. Your stay with us is sure to bring you back to simplicity of life while comfortably cozy and relaxed . While TV and WiFi are available , you will find yourself content with viewing the activities of the surroundings and serene atmosphere. Just minutes away you’ll find exciting selections of activities , excellent dining , and friendly small businesses with a wide selection of interest .Guests are welcome to our venue and we encourage meeting with us to enjoy farm animals and surroundings .This is a working farm. This includes small and large farm animals .

Under $50

98%

(712)

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!

Ozarks Piney Bend Riverfront

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents7 acres · Dixon, MO

Experience the Missouri Ozarks in all it's glory! Our property sits on 7 acres running on both sides of the beautiful, crystal clear Big Piney River. We sit right at the bottom of a beautiful bluff right along the banks of the river! We have a dry cabin, with outdoor water, bathroom and cedar shower house. We have a fully stocked new camper with everything you'll need for up to 6 people, including ice cold A/C! We also own a large beautiful sand bar on the Big Piney River perfect for setting up your tent or hammock camping (only accessible by swimming or kayak, which we can provide for a fee)

Four Creeks Campground

19 sites · RVs, Tents90 acres · Ellington, MO

Three crystal clear creeks to swim, wade, hunt rocks, or just relax. We have several tent sites right on the creeks and RV sites close for just a short walk for swimming fun. Close to Mark Twain National Forest, for hiking Rocky Creek trail Head, Blue Springs trail to Rocky Falls, Black River and the Current for floating, Kayaking or fishing. Clearwater Lake for boat rentals or Jet skies. Sites to see, Blue Springs, Big Springs Johnson Shut Inns, Elephant Rock, Rocky Falls, and many state parks to explore. We are also only three miles from the town of Ellington, MO for your shopping needs, several restaurants and antiquing.

Eminence Cottages and Camp

45 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents28 acres · Eminence, MO

Welcome to Eminence Cottages & Camp Our Resort is perfectly located to enjoy the natural wonders that abound in this area. Eminence Cottages and Camp is in the center of Missouri's largest national park; The Ozark National Scenic Riverways. We invite you to enjoy river fishing and canoeing, hiking and biking the famous Ozark Trail, abundant wildlife viewing, spring hopping and auto tours. Relax in our well-appointed cottages or get close to nature in the campground. Once settled you'll be ready to float the Current or Jacks Fork River. Call to make your reservation!

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.

Dog-friendly getaways

93%

(1798)

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.

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!

Ozarks Piney Bend Riverfront

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents7 acres · Dixon, MO

Experience the Missouri Ozarks in all it's glory! Our property sits on 7 acres running on both sides of the beautiful, crystal clear Big Piney River. We sit right at the bottom of a beautiful bluff right along the banks of the river! We have a dry cabin, with outdoor water, bathroom and cedar shower house. We have a fully stocked new camper with everything you'll need for up to 6 people, including ice cold A/C! We also own a large beautiful sand bar on the Big Piney River perfect for setting up your tent or hammock camping (only accessible by swimming or kayak, which we can provide for a fee)

Eminence Cottages and Camp

45 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents28 acres · Eminence, MO

Welcome to Eminence Cottages & Camp Our Resort is perfectly located to enjoy the natural wonders that abound in this area. Eminence Cottages and Camp is in the center of Missouri's largest national park; The Ozark National Scenic Riverways. We invite you to enjoy river fishing and canoeing, hiking and biking the famous Ozark Trail, abundant wildlife viewing, spring hopping and auto tours. Relax in our well-appointed cottages or get close to nature in the campground. Once settled you'll be ready to float the Current or Jacks Fork River. Call to make your reservation!

Four Creeks Campground

19 sites · RVs, Tents90 acres · Ellington, MO

Three crystal clear creeks to swim, wade, hunt rocks, or just relax. We have several tent sites right on the creeks and RV sites close for just a short walk for swimming fun. Close to Mark Twain National Forest, for hiking Rocky Creek trail Head, Blue Springs trail to Rocky Falls, Black River and the Current for floating, Kayaking or fishing. Clearwater Lake for boat rentals or Jet skies. Sites to see, Blue Springs, Big Springs Johnson Shut Inns, Elephant Rock, Rocky Falls, and many state parks to explore. We are also only three miles from the town of Ellington, MO for your shopping needs, several restaurants and antiquing.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

Mark Twain National Forest

Bunker, Missouri

The rustic campsites are adjacent to the Meramec River - perfect for splashing around.

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(4)

Onondaga Cave State Park

Miramiguoa Park, Missouri

100%

(3)

Taum Sauk Mountain State Park

Arcadia, Missouri

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping near Salem guide

Overview

Time seems to have stood still in some of the nooks and crannies of the Salem region. A Model A Ford sits beside an “old-timey” gas station, colorful vintage quilts await new owners in antique stores, and landscapes older than civilization beckon. This small town is a scenic home base for exploring the forests and waterways of the Missouri Ozarks. Campers will find tent, RV, and glamping options in Salem and nearby towns like St. James, Rolla, and Lesterville. Patches of the Mark Twain National Forest are also nearby, offering camping within an hour’s drive of Salem.

Where to go

Montauk State Park

Located 30 minutes south of Salem, Montauk State Park is a scenic day trip or camping location. The waters of Pigeon Creek join with the bubbling Montauk Spring, creating the Current River, one of Missouri’s most popular spots for summertime float trips. In addition to paddling, the region is also popular for fishing, thanks to the trout which thrive in the chilly waters created by the park’s seven springs. Hiking and biking trails take visitors through scenic landscapes. Campers will find electric and basic RV and tent campsites, with some offering water views.

Echo Bluff State Park

One of Missouri’s newest state parks, Echo Bluff became an instant favorite, thanks to the abundance of beauty and recreation. Sinking Creek flows through the park, and rising bluffs create majestic views. The campground was built with modern amenities, such as free wifi and full hookups. Those wanting to rough it in a scenic locale can book the walk-in tent sites, which offer elevated, level platforms.

Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park

Approximately an hour east of Salem, Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park is not only a favorite among Missourians, it has received national attention for the unique scenery and well-equipped campgrounds. The East Fork Black River runs through a geologic wonder known as “shut-ins,” created when hard rocks do not erode in the rushing waters. The combination of rocks and waters create a unique playground in the river, with pools and water chutes. The campground offers basic, electric, and full hookup tent and RV sites, as well as special equestrian campsites.

When to go

While summer is humid and hot, it’s a popular time to play in the Missouri waterways near Salem. Spring is cooler, but the water temperatures are too chilly for swimming. While visitors can’t make a splash in fall, the changing of the leaves becomes the star of the show, as the nearby forests and hills erupt in color.