Forest camping in Missouri with horseback riding

Missouri’s natural landscapes are as entertaining as its fun-loving cities.

92% (2383 reviews)
92% (2383 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Missouri

Dog-friendly getaways

Under $50

12 top forest campgrounds in Missouri with horseback riding

93%
(1647)

Spring Lake Ranch

43 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents101 acres · Potosi, MO
Spring Lake Ranch boasts countless trails and lake activities. Formerly known as Sayersbrook Bison ranch, at one time it was one of the largest Bison ranches in the world. This property is filled with amazing things to see and explore. Nothing like it in Missouri. Lake is 60+ acres and is spring fed. Amazing fishing, swimming and kayaking. We are pet friendly. You will have amazing lake views and will be close to hiking trails, horseback riding, and wine tasting at Edge Cliff Wineries which is next door to us. The beautiful shower house is super clean, has restrooms and hot showers and it is within walking distance. Firewood and ice are available to purchase; kayaks and fishing poles are available for rent. If you forget something at home stop by our little country store, we might have it! :) The sites are about 20 ft from each other - if you are looking for more privacy please check out the secluded site or the peninsula.
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$21
 / night
98%
(568)

Arcadia Valley Outdoors Land

37 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents150 acres · Ironton, MO
A wooded, more private camping experience with unique site designs and natural elements. Wood-burning sauna and hot tub available for guest use. Primitive Camping Van/vehicle Camping Small Trailers Glamping Bike Trails, Hiking, creek sit-in' on site! Best of the midwest biking, hiking, Ozark Trail, rock climbing Elephant Rocks Park, Johnson Shut-ins and more swimming holes nearby! Wood for sale on site, $5 per bundle, Fire starters also available. Ask us about our "Really Good At Camping" merchandise. We have shirts, mugs & wine tumblers! *Cash Only* at this time. We Have free stickers! *For camp site locations please refer to our map in the campsite listing photos. We are located just west of the Ironton Water Works Plant and the Shepherd Mountain Lake dam. Turn right after the dam, drive through Shepherd Mountain Lake Park. If our "campground guests only" gate if it is closed, and please close gate behind you. Thank you! No Hook Ups No swimming in the lake and no outside boats, but we have boats for campers to use free of charge! General Store and restroom facilities/showers coming soon!
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$25
 / night
97%
(52)

Hawks Bluff Campground

56 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents460 acres · Tiff, MO
Escape the city! We have a very special property that nourishes the soul and provides space to roam and breathe fresh air. We have 460 acres to explore. A beautiful creek running through our property. We have cows, mules, goats, dogs and cats. We are on a bluff so if you are rock hunters you have come to the right place. We offer rock hunting. and we have extra buckets. We have the best Drusy (lots of colors), Crazy Lace Agate, Calcite, Chalcedony, Quartz, Chert, Barite, Bladed Barite, Iron Ores and more. Check us out on Facebook Hawks Bluff Farm Rocks and Drusy. We have firewood, ice, eggs, ground beef, propane exchange and new propane tanks available. Ask us about our kayaking options!
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$25
 / night
99%
(548)

Selby Farm Horse Retirement

10 sites · RVs, Tents75 acres · Wooldridge, MO
Summary: Easy access from I-70 Great views. Usually very quiet except for wildlife sounds Portapottie at both camping areas Great star viewing. Excellent conditions for pets Hosts live nearby and are good communicators via text or phone. Hosts can direct you to several local attractions and shopping options. Hosts are happy to take questions before, during, or after your stay. Narrative about Selby Farm: Selbys have lived on this 75 acre farm since 1990. Doug and Brenda are retired from teaching at nearby public schools. Our Farm is now dedicated to boarding retired horses for their owners. Feel free to review the Selby Farm Horse Retirement webpage if you are a horse fan. We encourage you to visit our business website where you will see more farm pictures, videos, and where you will learn more about us. We practice rotational grazing for the health of the horses and the health of our pastures. The horses live in a herd as they would in the wild. Basically, they are hanging out with their friends! They also get regular care and feed and so are VERY happy. You will see and probably interact with the horses if you wish. They are guaranteed to come closer if you have treats like carrots and apples slices. Our quiet county road used to be the main road along the river. A hundred years ago it was called "Shanty Road". The shacks that were along it housed workers that harvested food from farms in the river bottom. The only evidence of those shacks now is perrenial flowers growing in unusual places. The area is inhabited by professionals working in nearby towns and cities. In fact there are only five homes along our 1.5 mile section of Copps Chapel Road. The native Americans who used this area did so because of the great diversity of wildlife and availability of water. Also the view is amazing in all directions. Was using this ridge top encampment for security, or just because the view is so satisfying? The Missouri River is on the far side of the bottoms now, but has been very close historically. There is also a large spring flowing from a cave nearby. Witness the flint chips when you walk through our barn lot. You are likely to see a broken stone tool that was once worked on by a native American. These river hills are composed of soils blown in from the end of the last ice age. Being near the river, erosion has cut down the surrounding area making the scenic topography associated with Missouri River valleys and river hills.
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$23.50
 / night
97%
(53)

Eminence Cottages and Camp

45 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents28 acres · Eminence, MO
Welcome to Eminence Cottages & Camp Our Resort is perfectly located to enjoy the natural wonders that abound in this area. Eminence Cottages and Camp is in the center of Missouri's largest national park; The Ozark National Scenic Riverways. We invite you to enjoy river fishing and canoeing, hiking and biking the famous Ozark Trail, abundant wildlife viewing, spring hopping and auto tours. Relax in our well-appointed cottages or get close to nature in the campground. Once settled you'll be ready to float the Current or Jacks Fork River. Call to make your reservation!
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$20
 / night
100%
(129)

B Berry Farms & Co.

15 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents42 acres · Elkland, MO
Would you like to try something different than your everyday routine? Well, then come on out to a little place in the country to unplug, unwind, or just enjoy life that's all around you. Our little spot is called B Berry Farms and Co. We are a 40-acre family U-Pick Berry farm and 24-hour Campground with 5 RV spots with 20 amp or 30 amp electricity your choice. And we are right in the heart of the Missouri Ozarks with over 4,000 you-pick Berry bushes (and fresh produce in 24' )covering, 7 acres we have something for almost everyone. If you want cleaner health products in your life then we can help you with that as well, We are also a natural skin care product manufacturer. Either Bonding by the wood-fired stove in our bunkhouse or cuddling up in the chairs outside enjoying hot cocoa as it snows. Just looking off into the distance and seeing the sun setting with bursting colors over the rows and rows of berries. Experience a darker night sky than most are used to. Or walk the many acres of colored coated diverse trails, enjoy 2 horseshoes pitching areas, pick delicious berries, throw axes at a log target, swing on several adult swings, play an intense game of pool on our table, climb a 12-foot high wall, enjoy our 10' bouncing net hanging from the ceiling, play in the many sandboxes, sweat out a game with a 35' professional Volleyball net (ball provided)and badminton(we have rackets and birdies), play in the water cube as it sprays in all directions or our new Waterhole WATERPARK play area which sprays water in all directions with water slide, ( Trampoline, 95' kids Zipline, 9'x9' colored swing net, 2 swings, 14' fireman's pole, monkey bars, rock climbing walls, swing bridge) and so many more things to do. Hot showers, 2 solar heated shower houses (seasonal frost to frost), 2 restrooms, a hand washing station, and a hand laundry tubb. We sell farm fresh eggs, and baked goods(homemade breads, cinnamon rolls, cookies, muffins, and many fresh seasonal vegetables as well picked to order,and handmade natural products.
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$7
 / night
98%
(89)

Big River Outdoors Campground

80 sites · RVs, Tents87 acres · Frankclay, MO
80+ acres with over a mile of river frontage. Also a unique custom off road park on the property. Swimming, fishing, kayaking, and live music on weekends. Tent camping or RV/camper . Campers who need electric are allowed to bring a generator. We have limited electric as of now. We are located just 2-3 miles from 3 different gas stations but are also very secluded.
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$50
 / night
95%
(11)

Holler back Horse Camp and Cabins

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents83 acres · Pineville, MO
Welcome to our picturesque 83 acre campground nestled against the scenic Huckleberry Conservation area. As nature enthusiasts, we offer an idyllic retreat where you can immerse yourself in the great outdoors. Lace up your hiking boots and explore the trails winding through the pristine wilderness, or bring your equine companion and saddle up for an exhilarating horseback ride through the enchanting forests. Take a moment to pause and watch the abundant wildlife as they go about their daily routines. For water lovers, nearby kayaking facilities provide the perfect opportunity to paddle along serene rivers and lakes, admiring the stunning landscape from a different perspective. After a day of adventure, venture into the charming small town, where you can unwind at the local movie theater, catching the latest blockbusters, or enjoy some friendly competition at the nearby bowling alley. With nature as your backdrop and an array of recreational activities at your fingertips, our campground is the ultimate destination for those seeking a harmonious blend of tranquility and adventure. In addition to the stunning natural surroundings and recreational opportunities, we take pride in providing comfortable accommodations for our guests. Our cabins are equipped with all the amenities you need for a cozy and convenient stay. Each cabin features comfortable beds, a fully equipped kitchenette, a private bathroom, and a cozy living area where you can unwind after a day of outdoor exploration. Alternatively, if you prefer to bring your own home on wheels, we offer spacious RV sites where you can park and enjoy a home-away-from-home experience. Our RV sites are equipped with, water, and electricity, ensuring a hassle-free camping experience. Whether you choose to stay in one of our cabins or bring your own RV, our campground provides the perfect base for creating lasting memories amidst the beauty of nature.
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$15
 / night
100%
(111)

D'Ranch at Clearwater

10 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Gravois Mills, MO
D'Ranch at Clearwater is a small, 40 acre hobby farm located on the north side of the Lake of the Ozarks in Central Missouri. What started as a simple love of backyard chickens has now become a dream farm for Tracey Durant and her husband Theodore. Nestled in the valley between two forest covered hillsides, and running adjacent to Clearwater Creek on the east and the lake on the south, D'Ranch could not have been a more perfect location for the Durants to plant their roots and get their feet wet. While they continue their love of backyard chickens with their small egg and hatchery operation know as HeebyJeeby Chickens, they have expanded their interests to an array of friendly farm animals including horses, cows, pigs, goats, sheep, ducks, and an occasional turkey or two. 
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$15
 / night
96%
(13)

Arcadia Valley BaseCamp

1 site · Tent68 acres · Arcadia, MO
BaseCamp is respite nestled into the Arcadia Valley just miles from Shepherd Mountain Bike Psrk. With nearly 70 acres surrounded by Mark Twain National Forest, there are many opportunities for hiking, botanical exploration, licensed fishing, mountain biking, equine accessible trails, and much more. There is a small pond on the property with a walking trail and a rock garden that doubles as a small creek when rains are heavy. With camping options ranging from backpacking and tent camping to van dwellers and Tiny House glamping, all are welcome. Adventure begins at Base Camp!
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$18.50
 / night
100%
(1)

Shoal Home, an Ozark getaway

1 site · Tent30 acres · Steelville, MO
Learn more about this land:Relaxing and private area, close to fishing, floating or hunting. Site has electric and well. No restroom facilities. The site is fairly level and has plenty of room. Land is mostly wooded with small streams. Two miles from the Huzzah Creek for swimming and fishing. Shoal Creek runs along the edge of the property, and lies within the Mark Twain National Forest with thousands of acres of public land available nearby. Campers MUST be respectful of our neighbors, including no loud noise after 10:30pm.
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$32
 / night
100%
(19)

Canvas Tent in Private Woodland

1 site · Lodging5 acres · Willard, MO
Get ready for "scout camp" energy at Camp Fernweh, perched uphill amidst a mix of hardwoods and junipers! Picture yourself surrounded by the whispering leaves of shagbark hickory, sturdy oaks, and the bursts of color from vibrant redbuds. 
If the season’s right, you'll find pockets of wild black raspberries and gooseberries waiting to be discovered. Take to winding trails that span our 5 acres, inviting leisurely exploration or spirited adventures. We currently have one 13' canvas tent with 2 "bring your own tent" sites in the making. 
Despite being conveniently close to your car, our campsites exude a sense of privacy and seclusion, just far enough away to feel like you hiked to get to your perfect spot! 

Being good to Mother Earth is at the heart of what we do. We prioritize sustainability with a newly constructed outhouse featuring a composting toilet, ensuring your comfort while respecting the environment.
 Our inspiration for Camp Fernweh is the "sleep-away scout camps" we never got to attend. Workshops, campfire book chats and simple camping are what we do best! Check out our website to see if we have an event going on during your stay. Camp Fernweh, just 15 minutes north of Springfield off Hwy 13, offers easy access to outdoor adventures! Within 5-10 minutes, you'll find Ozark Greenways for cycling and walking, 2 mountain biking parks, and hiking spots in conservation areas. Don't miss the nearby Frisco Highline Trail in Willard, MO, along with convenient grocers. Plus, Fantastic Caverns and Crystal Cave are just minutes away for added exploration!
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$60
 / night

Available this weekend

Star Hosts in Missouri

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Forest camping in Missouri with horseback riding guide

Overview

Whether road-tripping along part of the historic Route 66, vacationing at the Lake of the Ozarks, or following in the footsteps of homegrown hero Mark Twain—Missouri is made for traveling. From Kansas City to St Louis, you’re never far from a state park—there are 38 to choose from—while the vast Mark Twain National Forest encompasses 1.5-million acres spread across seven different wilderness areas. Plan your camping trip from May through October to make the most of the forests, lakes, and wilderness areas, or cozy up in an RV through the snowy winter months.

Where to go

North Missouri

Kansas City, Missouri’s largest city, is best known for its jazz scene and BBQ restaurants, but there are also plenty of natural attractions to explore in the north. Head to nearby Weston Bend State Park to camp along the Missouri River, or go biking and horseback riding along the multi-use trails of Crowder State Park. Over on the eastern state border, Wakonda State Park has six lakes to choose from, while the Mark Twain State Park has family campgrounds in the Salt River Hills.

Central Missouri

State capital Jefferson City lies at the heart of Missouri, and just to the north, Rock Bridge Memorial State Park provides tranquil camping amid a backdrop of natural caves, streams, and woodlands. Summer campers flock to the Lake of the Ozarks region, where the huge reservoir is fringed with sandy beaches, golf courses, and restaurants. If you tire of the Ozarks camping resorts, Bennett Spring State Park makes a worthy alternative, renowned for its trout fishing.

St Louis and Southeast Missouri

At the meeting point of the Mississippi and the Missouri Rivers, St Louis is home to one of Missouri’s most visited attractions, the Gateway Arch National Park. Nearby, hikers can enjoy full-amenity camping at Meramec River State Park, while Castlewood State Park is renowned for its mountain biking trails, and Sam A Baker State Park is one of the region’s most visited. Alternatively, escape to the wilderness of the Mark Twain National Forest, where you can choose between tent/RV sites, cabins, or dispersed camping in the woods. 

Southwest Missouri

Bordered by Kansas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas, the southwest is Missouri’s wild frontier. Venture into the Mark Twain National Forest to enjoy backcountry camping in the wilderness, rev up your OHV and tackle the off-road trails of St Joe State Park, or fish for rainbow trout in the stocked waters of Roaring River State Park. Finally, don’t miss the hike to Grand Falls. The 163-foot wide waterfall is Missouri’s largest, and lies just outside of Joplin. 

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