RV camping in Missouri is a wonderful way to explore the state. You have the freedom to stay absolutely anywhere in comfort, and it’s easy to hop from one spot to another so you can see more of the state.
Of course, you will need to do a bit of planning before RV camping in Missouri. This guide will share everything you need to know to plan a Missouri RV trip.
Finding Campgrounds
Missouri has plenty of campground options. Whether you prefer luxury camping or rustic camping, camping in the middle of nowhere, or urban camping, you can find a spot that suits you.
Exploring Public Campgrounds in Missouri
Let’s look at the many public campgrounds in the state. In Missouri, these include state park campgrounds, campgrounds run by the National Park Service, and national forest campsites.
National Park Camping
Missouri is home to several national park sites including the famous Gateway Arch National Park. However, the only NPS site that allows RV camping is Ozark National Scenic Riverways.
The campgrounds in Ozark National Scenic Riverways are:
- Big Spring Campground
- Pulltite Campground
- Round Spring Campground
- Alley Spring Campground
- Two Rivers Campground
Some of these offer electrical hookups, dump stations, and/or potable water, but not all do. Be sure to check that the campground you choose has the amenities you want.
National Forest Camping
You can also camp in Missouri’s Mark Twain National Forest. This is an excellent way to escape into nature and surround yourself with natural beauty.
A favorite national forest campground among RVers is Cobb Ridge Campgrounds. This place is especially popular with off-roaders, but it’s a great site for anyone. Some campsites are primitive, while others have some hookups. All are clean and well-maintained.
State Park Camping
Want to check out Missouri’s state parks? They’re stunning and full of recreation opportunities.
One of the best state parks for camping is Mark Twain State Park in Florida, MO. This gorgeous park is located on Mark Twain Lake, making it perfect for fishing, boating, and swimming. There are hiking trails through the trees, and plenty of campsites, many with electric hookups.
Exploring Private Campgrounds and RV Parks
Private RV parks are also an option and are sometimes the best choice. From glamping resorts to simple campgrounds with little more than hookups and dump stations, you’re sure to find a private park that suits your needs and budget.
One of our favorite private RV parks in Missouri is Blue Springs Ranch. This beautiful resort is about an hour outside of St. Louis, so day trips to the city are possible. The campground itself features easy access to the Meramec River, an onsite waterpark, a playground, and more.
Boondocking in Missouri
Of course, you could also skip the campgrounds entirely and try boondocking in Missouri instead. There are a few wonderful places to do this and it will save you money.
Some of the best boondocking sites in the state are the two campgrounds in the Montrose Wildlife Management Area. These sites are located near a creek and are close to an excellent place to go birdwatching.
Preparing for RV Camping
Once you know where you’re staying, you’ll want to make sure you have everything you need to enjoy RV camping in Missouri. This includes an RV, of course, but also all the things you need to pack in that RV.
Choosing the Right RV for Your Needs
If you will be choosing one of our Missouri RV rentals, you may want to know how to choose the right rig for you. Here are a few questions you can ask yourself:
- Do I want to drive an RV, or would I rather have it delivered?
- If driving, do I want to tow a trailer or drive a motorhome?
- If towing, can my vehicle handle a trailer big enough for my family?
- How many people does the RV need to sleep?
- What size campsite does the RV need to fit into?
- What amenities do I need and which can I live without?
- What items would I like included with my RV rental?
Once you know these things, you can filter through the RVshare website and read descriptions of RVs to choose one for you.
Packing Essentials for a Successful Trip
Once you have your RV rental booked, you will need to pack it. Fortunately, we have a packing list for every kind of camping trip.
Considerations for Camping in Missouri
Before you head to the state, it’s important to know the laws regarding RVing in Missouri. They’re similar to other states, but we’ve outlined the key points below.
In Missouri, no rig should be more than 65 feet long. This is true even if you are towing, or triple towing, which is allowed in the state. Trailers shouldn’t exceed 45 feet in length and motorhome limits are the same. Additionally, no RV should be more than 8.5 feet wide and 13.5 feet tall.
Overnight parking is allowed in Missouri state rest areas, so it’s pretty easy to find a place for a quick overnight stop.
Planning Your Itinerary
Now it’s time to decide what you want to do while RV camping in Missouri. From the excitement of Kansas City and St. Louis to the relaxing beauty found in the state’s rural areas, there’s something for everyone in this state. How will you explore?
Features and Attractions in Missouri
We love to drive scenic byways, and the gorgeous drives in Missouri are no exception. Try a drive along Crowley’s Ridge Scenic Byway or Ozark Mountain Parkway for lovely views.
You’ll also want to see some of Missouri’s landmarks. The Gateway Arch in St. Louis is an obvious one, but we also recommend adding The Mark Twain Boyhood Home and/or Graham Cave.
National park sites are also a great addition to your list of things to do in Missouri. The two we’ve mentioned so far are awesome, but so are the George Washington Carver National Monument and the Harry S. Truman National Historic Site.
Festivals, Fairs, and Events in Missouri
Another way to make your vacation extra memorable? Add an event to your itinerary! There are lots of wonderful events happening in Missouri, so finding one to add to your trip plan should be simple.
Some of the best annual events in the state include the Fair Saint Louis in Gateway Arch National Park during July, the Annual Missouri Day Festival in North Central Missouri Fairgrounds during October, and the Ozark Empire Fair in Springfield during July and August.
Exploring Outdoor Activities
Spending time outdoors while RV camping in Missouri is another excellent way to see the state. From fabulous hiking trails to some of the best fishing spots in the country, finding ways to enjoy the great outdoors is a cinch.
Hiking, Biking and Nature Trails
The maze of trails that winds its way through Missouri is an impressive one. Don your boots or grab your bike and take advantage of those trails while RV camping in Missouri.
For hikers, some of the best trails include the following:
- Riverscene Trail in Castlewood State Park — Moderate
- Lewis and Clark Trail and Clark Trail Loop in Weldon Spring Conservation Area — Moderate
- Sandstone Canyon Trail in Don Robinson State Park — Moderate
- Mina Sauk Falls Trail in Taum Sauk Mountain State Park — Moderate
Prefer to bike? Try the trails listed below:
- Lone Wolf Trail in Castlewood State Park
- Grotpeter Trail in Castlewood State Park
- Flint Quarry and Chubb Trail Loop in West Tyson County Park
- Zombie Trail in Sherman Beach Park
- Bluff View Trail in Bluff View Park
Fishing, Boating, and Water Activities
Want to enjoy some of Missouri’s bodies of water? There are several good ones, and whether you enjoy fishing, boating, swimming, or chasing waterfalls, you’re sure to find one you love.
For the anglers out there, there are many amazing fishing spots in Missouri. These include places like Table Rock Lake—which is often touted as one of the best bass fishing spots in the country—and Roark Creek near Branson for excellent fly fishing.
The swimmers in your group will appreciate that Missouri also has some great beaches. The sandy beach in Long Branch State Park is one of our top picks. We love the soft, golden sands and the warm shallow waters that are ideal for families with kids.
Missouri is also home to some great waterfalls. We recommend heading to Meramec State Park and checking out Meramec Falls for a spectacular sight.
Wildlife Viewing and Photography
Many people like to check out the local fauna while RV camping in Missouri. Honestly, if you spend enough time in the state parks and national forest, you’re likely to see a number of animals. You can also head to Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge, Pickle Springs Natural Area, or Big Muddy National Fish and Wildlife Refuge.
Family-Friendly Activities and Attractions
Missouri is a wonderful state for a family vacation, and many of the attractions mentioned above would be excellent for people of all ages. But there are also some family-friendly activities that deserve their own mention.
Historical Sites and Museums
We will always recommend sneaking a little education into your family vacations. In Missouri, this is easy to do, thanks to the many historic sites and museums in the state.
One of our favorite roadschooling history lessons is at the Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site. We also love the many learning opportunities found at the following museums:
- City Museum in St. Louis
- Missouri History Museum in St. Louis
- Saint Louis Art Museum in St. Louis
- St. Louis Science Center in St. Louis
- The Magic House in St. Louis
- National WWI Museum and Memorial in Kansas City
- Arabia Steamboat Museum in Kansas City
- TITANIC Museum Attraction in Branson
Amusement Parks, Zoos, and Wildlife Refuges
Looking for a day of non-stop fun for the whole family? Why not head to one of Missouri’s amusement parks? The state has a few excellent ones, including Silver Dollar City in Branson, Six Flags St. Louis, and Worlds of Fun in Kansas City.
Of course, zoos are also an awesome pick for families with kids. The St. Louis Zoo is one of the best in the country and is free to enter. We also love the Kansas City Zoo and Aquarium.
Safety and Preparedness when RV Camping in Missouri
You will want to head into your trip safely. Packing a first aid kit and driving carefully both go a long way towards having a safe adventure. It can also be a good idea to know what natural disasters might strike and what wild animals you might run into.
Weather Conditions and Natural Disaster Preparedness
The most common natural disasters in Missouri are earthquakes and tornadoes.
There isn’t a whole lot you can do to prepare for earthquakes, but RVs are made to shift and absorb energy while being driven. They are actually pretty good at withstanding mild earthquakes. If you’re in your rig when an earthquake strikes, stay indoors and away from heavy light fixtures and windows.
When it comes to tornadoes, download a weather app with push notifications so you can be notified if a tornado watch or warning is issued. Pack a “bug out” bag with a flashlight, first aid kit, hand-crank radio, and water bottles, and know where the nearest tornado shelter is. If a tornado warning is issued for your area, head immediately to the shelter.
Wildlife Encounters and Precautions
Copperhead snakes and black widow spiders are the animals most likely to hurt you during your time in Missouri. Avoid these critters by watching your step and looking before you put your hand in small spaces.
The state is also home to black bears and coyotes. While these animals are unlikely to bother you, it’s a good idea to make plenty of noise while hiking to scare them off. If you happen across a bear or a coyote, back away slowly, using bear spray for defense only if the animal chases or charges you.
Hopefully, this article has given you plenty of ideas to plan your trip RV camping in Missouri. If you’re new to RVing, check out our guide to the ins and outs of RV renting.
