Hiking Campgrounds in Missouri

Hiking Campgrounds in Missouri

Discover the best hiking campgrounds across Missouri. Experience the best of both worlds with camping that puts you right at the heart of incredible hiking opportunities. Direct trail access and stunning mountain vistas.

20+ Campgrounds4.6★ AverageBest: Late Spring through Fall (May-October)
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Featured Campgrounds

Handpicked destinations that define the region

1
Marble Creek Recreation Area
Photo coming soon
Star
4.6
(116)
Marble Creek Recreation Area
Fredericktown
Mark Twain National Forest

Step directly from your campsite onto the 21-mile Marble Creek Section of the Ozark Trail, where the trailhead sits just across the highway for instant wilderness immersion.

Tents
2
Silver Mines
Star
4.6
(170)
Silver Mines
Fredericktown
Mark Twain National Forest

Trails hug both banks of Missouri's only whitewater river, winding 2 miles through riparian forests before connecting to picnic areas along the rushing water. A separate 1.2-mile path climbs to Millstream Gardens Conservation Area, where billion-year-old rock formations tower above the landscape.

Tents
RVs
3
North Fork Recreation Area
Photo coming soon
Star
4.6
(111)
North Fork Recreation Area
Dora
Mark Twain National Forest

Trailheads spring directly from the campground, offering everything from the quick Blue Spring Trail to the epic 33-mile Ridge Runner, plus 13 miles of Devils Backbone Wilderness paths winding through ridges and hollows.

Tents
RVs

About Hiking Campgrounds in Missouri

Hiking camping Missouri offers an extraordinary blend of rugged Ozark wilderness, ancient mountain terrain, and diverse ecosystems that surprise many first-time visitors to the Show-Me State. The St.

Best Time

The prime hiking camping season in Missouri runs from mid-March through May and September through November, when temperatures range from 55-75°F and humidity levels are manageable. Spring (April-May) showcases spectacular wildflower blooms including Missouri's native dogwood and redbud trees, though trails can be muddy after spring rains and creek crossings may be challenging.

Activity Highlights

  • Direct trail access
  • Mountain and forest settings
  • Backpacking base camps
  • Scenic wilderness views

Campground Locations

Showing top 17 campgrounds near Hiking Campgrounds in Missouri

Map of campgrounds near Hiking Campgrounds in Missouri
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Map Key
1
Marble Creek Recreation Area
2
Silver Mines
3
North Fork Recreation Area
4
Paddy Creek Campground
5
1 Campground
6
Greenville Recreation Area
7
Onondaga Cave State Park Campground
8
Prairie State Park Campground
9
Hawker Point
10
Battle Of Athens State Historic Site Campground
11
Outlet Park
12
Redman Creek Recreation Area
13
1 Campground
14
Special Use Campground
15
Bar-K Wrangler Camp
16
Mill Creek (Missouri)
17
Arrow Rock State Historic Site Campground
View all 164 campgrounds on interactive map

Plan Your Trips

Popular Activities

Backpacking multi-day sections of the Ozark TrailDay hiking through St. Francois Mountains terrainCreek and river crossings on wilderness trailsWildflower identification in spring monthsFall foliage photography along ridge trailsFishing in spring-fed streams and rivers

Tips & Recommendations

  • 1Reserve state park campgrounds like Sam A.
  • 2Baker up to six months in advance through the Missouri State Parks reservation system, especially for fall weekends, while most Mark Twain National Forest campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis with self-pay stations.
  • 3Bring a detailed topographic map and compass as cell service is unreliable in wilderness areas—the Ozark Trail Association provides excellent trail maps for longer routes.
  • 4Essential gear includes sturdy hiking boots with ankle support for rocky terrain, water filtration system or treatment tablets since many trails lack reliable water sources, and trekking poles for steep descents in the St.
17 campgrounds ranked
Based on real camper reviews
Curated for Hiking Campgrounds in Missouri

Hiking Campgrounds in Missouri FAQ

We've ranked 20+ hiking campgrounds in Missouri based on trail access, hiking variety, scenery, and user reviews. Top options are near national forests, state parks, and wilderness areas.
Permit requirements vary by location in Missouri. Many wilderness areas and popular trails require day-use or backcountry permits. Check with the managing agency (National Forest, National Park, or State Park) before your trip.
Late Spring through Fall (May-October) is generally best for hiking camping in Missouri. High-elevation trails may have shorter seasons due to snow. Always check current trail conditions before heading out.
Availability Alerts

Popular Missouri Campgrounds Book Fast

The best hiking campgrounds in Missouri book up quickly, especially during peak season. Set up free alerts to catch cancellations.

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Marble Creek Recreation Area
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