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.
Featured Campgrounds
Handpicked destinations that define the region
About Hiking Campgrounds in Missouri
Hiking camping Missouri offers an exceptional blend of rugged Ozark wilderness, pristine spring-fed rivers, and over 1,000 miles of trails winding through Mark Twain National Forest and beyond. The state's southern half is dominated by the ancient Ozark Plateau, where limestone bluffs tower above clear-flowing streams and dense hardwood forests create a canopy of green in summer and brilliant color in fall.
Best Time
Spring and fall are the premier seasons for hiking camping in Missouri, with April through May and September through November offering the most comfortable temperatures and stunning scenery. Spring brings wildflower blooms along forest trails and high water flows in creeks and rivers, though be prepared for occasional rain showers and muddy trail conditions.
Activity Highlights
- Direct trail access
- Mountain and forest settings
- Backpacking base camps
- Scenic wilderness views
Explore Hiking Campgrounds in Missouri
Browse 20 campgrounds on our interactive map. Filter by amenities, price, ratings, and more.
Plan Your Trip
Popular Activities
Tips & Recommendations
- 1Most Missouri state parks and Corps of Engineers campgrounds operate on a reservation system through Recreation.gov, while Mark Twain National Forest sites are often first-come, first-served, though some accept reservations.
- 2Always carry a detailed trail map and compass or GPS device, as cell service is unreliable and trails can be poorly marked in wilderness areas.
- 3Invest in quality hiking boots with ankle support and aggressive tread—Missouri's rocky trails are notorious for twisting ankles and slippery creek crossings.
- 4Tick prevention is critical from April through October; treat clothing with permethrin, perform thorough tick checks after hikes, and consider bringing tick removal tools.
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.
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.
Outdoorithm
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Marble Creek Recreation Area
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