Mountain Camping in Missouri
Discover the best mountain camping across Missouri. Rise above it all in mountain campgrounds. Crisp air, towering peaks, and endless alpine adventure.
Featured Campgrounds
Handpicked destinations that define the region
Johnson'S Shut-Ins State Park Campground
Ancient volcanic rhyolite formations rise in shades of pink and purple along cascading waterways, creating the most rugged mountain terrain in Missouri's Ozark highlands. Trails wind through exposed rocky glades and oak-hickory forest across the St.
1 Campground
The St. Francois Mountains—Missouri's oldest peaks—rise in forested ridges around this riverside sanctuary, where ridgeline trails wind through hardwood canopies toward panoramic views.
Greenville Recreation Area
Ancient Ozark hills rise dramatically from Wappapello Lake's shores, creating a landscape of rocky bluffs, forested ridges, and winding waterways that reward hikers with ever-changing vistas.
About Mountain Camping in Missouri
Mountain camping in Missouri offers an unexpected adventure into some of the Midwest's most ancient and rugged terrain, centered primarily in the St. Francois Mountains and the broader Ozark highlands.
Best Time
The prime season for mountain camping in Missouri runs from mid-April through October, with spring and fall offering the most comfortable conditions and spectacular scenery. April and May bring wildflower displays across the mountain slopes, moderate temperatures in the 60s-70s, and flowing streams at their most dramatic after spring rains, though occasional storms can make forest roads muddy.
Scenery Highlights
- Stunning mountain panoramas
- Cool alpine temperatures
- Alpine lakes and meadows
- World-class hiking trails
Explore Mountain Camping in Missouri
Browse 20 campgrounds on our interactive map. Filter by amenities, price, ratings, and more.
Plan Your Trip
Popular Activities
Tips & Recommendations
- 1Reserve campsites early for popular state parks, especially Johnson's Shut-Ins and Sam A.
- 2Baker, which fill quickly on spring and fall weekends—Missouri State Parks accepts reservations up to 12 months in advance through their online system.
- 3Bring layered clothing regardless of season, as mountain temperatures can swing 20-30 degrees between day and night, and valleys often experience cooler microclimates than surrounding areas.
- 4Invest in quality hiking boots with ankle support and aggressive tread for navigating rocky, uneven terrain on mountain trails, and consider trekking poles for steep descents.
Mountain Camping in Missouri FAQ
We've ranked 20+ mountain campgrounds in Missouri based on elevation, scenery, and access to trails. Top options offer stunning alpine views and cool summer temperatures.
Mountain camping in Missouri requires preparation for cooler temperatures and changing weather. Bring layers, be prepared for afternoon storms, and allow time for altitude acclimation at higher elevations.
Mountain camping season in Missouri typically runs June through September, though lower elevations may be accessible earlier. Snow can linger at higher elevations into July.
Popular Missouri Campgrounds Book Fast
The best mountain camping in Missouri book up quickly. Set up free alerts to catch cancellations.
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Johnson'S Shut-Ins State Park Campground
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