The best camping near Washington State Park

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.

• 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.

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

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.

• 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.