Best Camping in and near Arrow Rock State Historic Site

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Explore a unique park that encompasses part of an 18th-century river town.

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Top-rated campgrounds near Arrow Rock State Historic Site

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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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MoonRise Cabin-Farm w/ Trails

5 sites · Lodging170 acres · Hartsburg, MO

Enchanting hand-built and rustic off-grid cabin overlooks the Missouri River bottom, nearby bluffs, and scenic, peaceful 177 acre farm -Close to Columbia, Hermann & Jeff City -Spacious studio-style bedroom -Large sunny windows -Outdoor kitchen -Screened-in porch -Fire pit -Incredible views, total stargazers dream -Pets OK! -Outdoor shower (cold!) Secluded & surrounded by nature, find yourself restored after hiking, antiquing, cooking, or drinking wine and taking in the beautiful surroundings. THE SPACE The Moon-Rise Cabin sits atop a ridge overlooking the 177 acre farm and surrounding conservation land ridges. The views from this private little solar powered, off-the-grid getaway are stunning! THE TINY CABIN The cabin is equipped with solar powered lights, phone and computer charging stations, a propane powered heating system and kitchen range. Cold running water flows in the kitchen sink located in the hand built screened in porch and also in the outdoor shower- perfect for cleaning up after a long summer's day of hiking trails or biking on the Katy Trail. BATHROOM The half bath is a clean and comfy outhouse. The property boasts many delicate ecosystems that are thriving thanks to being fully organic and untouched by chemicals for over 40 years. OUTDOOR KITCHEN The outdoor kitchen (on the screened-in porch) includes a gas range for cooking and making morning coffee, and comes equipped with utensils, pots, pans, dish ware, etc. WILDLIFE Warmer months you'll surely encounter some of the resident tree frogs, birds, peregrine falcon, bald eagles, worms, Gary the groundhog, possums, snakes, armadillos, insects, dragon flies, bumblebees, lightning bugs, deer, wild flowers, trees, grass, turtles, fish and celebrity Justin Beaver. SWIMMING POND We have a swimming pond nearby with a little beach. You might also enjoy using our paddle board on the pond! FISHING We also invite you to fish in our pond. You are welcome to keep and eat any fish that you like, with the exception of all bass under 12 inches. Please be sure to release these until they get to breeding age in order to help us ensure the healthiness of our pond. Anything larger than 13 inches is all yours! ADDITIONAL ACCOMMODATIONS We have another cabin on the property that sleeps 2. Please inquiry if you'd like to make a family or friends trip to the farm! NEIGHBOURHOOD DESCRIPTION The Moon-Rise Cabin sits on 176 acres of beautiful wooded ridges and deep valleys, ponds and meadows and is directly adjacent to the 657 acre Hart Creek Conservation Area. The town of Hartsburg and the Katy Trail access is about a mile away and a flat and easy ride. Be sure to check out The Hitching Post, Hartsburg's local watering hole famous for its bluegrass jams! Hartsburg Hitching Post hours: Monday-Thursday open 4pm-1am, Friday and Saturday open 3pm-1am, Sunday open 12pm-12am. The Burg is a great place to grab breakfast, lunch or dinner on Friday and Saturday, or breakfast and lunch on Sunday. The Burg Cafe hours: Monday-Thursday Closed, Friday open 11 am-7pm, Saturday and Sunday open 7am - 1pm. The Burg has a small number of grocery items for sale as well, including ice and beverages! The closest grocery store is located in Ashland, Missouri, about 10 minutes north. The Moon-Rise Cabin is approximately 30 minutes south of Columbia and about 30 minutes north of Jefferson City, Missouri. GETTING AROUND The Moon-Rise Cabin is less than 2 miles from the nearest Katy Trail access and biking to the cabin is an easy ride through the town of Hartsburg and along the Hart Creek. The only access to nearby towns is by personal vehicle or bike as no public transportation is available. Important: We are committed to protecting our properties which is why we've partnered with Know Your Guest, the leading vacation rental guest-screening provider. Please note that before your booking begins, you will need to verify your details and ID through Know Your Guest. You will also be given the choice between paying a refundable deposit or buying a non-refundable damage waiver. We suggest you buy the damage waiver as this protects you in case you cause accidental damage during a booking.

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Big River Ranch

8 sites · RVs, Tents1600 acres · Lexington, MO

At Big River Ranch, you'll always find something to do. From fishing to enjoying the 20 miles of riding trails the Ranch has to offer you'll never get tired of it. - Enjoy views of the Missouri River from the 100 foot elevation of the bluffs. - Over 20 miles of horse riding and UTV trails. - Diverse habitat of deciduous forests, cedars, and pines, wildflowers, ponds, streams, and rolling hills.

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Green Acres at Red Brick Farmhouse

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents185 acres · Higginsville, MO

A quiet country retreat nestled in the picturesque rural outskirts of Higginsville, Missouri. Our yard consists of 3 acres of a 180-acre farm in which we have three RV sites with water and electric hookups, two camping sites and one on-site travel trailer for rent. Wifi is available at all sites, except for Site 3. Green Acres at Red Brick Farm is located just 50 miles east of Kansas City off of I-70 at Exit 49. Once you are off of I-70 your drive is less than 8 minutes away on all blacktop roads. At Exit 49 there is also a Pilot Station for RV fuel ups. Site 2 is on gravel with 30 amp hookup and water, preferably best for RV’s and trailers 25’ and under. Site 1 and Site 3 are on gravel with a 20/30/50 amp hookup and water, best suited for larger RV’s and trailers. We would prefer your travel trailer or RV length to be 35’ or under. You may choose your site location, but due to the small amount of sites we have we may have to alter your choice. This is so we can accommodate our guests in the best way possible, depending on the size of each rig. If you are towing a vehicle or pulling a trailer your total length should be 55’ or under. We will not accept Triple Axels. Site 4 and site 5 are for tents, pop ups, very tiny trailers and are in flexible locations. A 20 amp standard outlet can be provided for site 4 and site 5. For your use is a shower, toilet, and bathroom sink in our farmhouse basement. Please arrive before dusk, so you don’t disturb other campers. Site 6 Is the on-site travel trailer, ‘Ain’t She Cute’. No Pets are allowed when reserving ‘Ain’t She Cute’. The vintage style travel trailer is completely renovated and decorated with collectibles and antiques and is available for booking. It is furnished with a queen size bed, tiny kitchen, TV, wifi, and full size, not trailer size, bathroom. The trailer is for 2 guests, but an additional guest may sleep on the daybed, preferably a child or small adult. We live onsite in our 1920’s Prairie Style home which is also Red Brick Farmhouse Bed and Breakfast with three Guest Rooms available for booking. To find out more about our other lodging choices, contact us at Red Shanty Cafe in Higginsville, Missouri. At your disposal, is the use of our outdoor furniture, a large yard to walk around in, a fire pit, a BBQ grill, and even a tire swing. You are welcome to take a stroll along the winding country road or sit and relax and view the landscape with our dozens of mature shade trees, and surrounding row crop fields and pastures. Our restaurant, Red Shanty Cafe and BBQ, is located in the town of Higginsville, about 5 miles from Red Brick Farmhouse. Red Shanty Cafe is open Weds and Thurs, 11am - 8 pm and Fri and Sat, 11am - 9pm. There is also a great little breakfast diner, called Michelle’s Place located just 3 miles from the Farmhouse in Mayview, Missouri. Interested in sightseeing we are a short drive from Confederate State Park, Missouri Veteran's Cemetery, and several Civil War sites. In addition to historic sites, numerous of Missouri's finest wineries and orchards are just a 10 to 30 minute drive from our location. You may also want to take a drive or ride on the Old Trails Scenic Byway, Route 24 for a car or motorcycle tour that will reset your pace from city life. We truly hope you enjoy midwest living when visiting Green Acres at Red Brick Farmhouse. For the skilled driver of a RV or travel trailer, going around our circle driveway has not been a problem. We have witnessed a 55 foot truck and travel trailer combination do it with ease. When departing your stay please go slow, swing wide and stay on the gravel. Also have your companion help guide you around the circle drive. More about us: The proprietors of Red Brick Farmhouse Bed and Breakfast, ‘Ain't She Cute' and Green Acres at Red Brick Farmhouse RV and Campsites are Annette Meinershagen Dittmer and also on the broom closet staff is her husband, Kenton Dittmer. After working in several restaurants and becoming a Home Economics teacher, she came to the realization that she loved teaching Foods. Annette gained much inspiration from her mother and father in developing her gift for hospitality; preparing and serving meals for events and parties over the years. Along with her husband, Kenton, (a very talented building contractor) they have done much renovating of their 100 year old prairie style home and their original restaurant, Red Shanty BBQ and Roadside Cafe, located in Higginsville. Since opening the restaurant in 2008 Annette wanted to fulfill her dream of running a Bed and Breakfast, so in 2015 the venture began. In 2016 she added ‘Ain’t She Cute’ and the RV and camping sites. Annette and Kenton, natives of Higginsville, live on the property. More about the farm: Our quiet country retreat, in the picturesque rural outskirts of Higginsville, Missouri, has been in our family for four generations. Currently farming the land has been minimized just to row crops, but there was a time when there was a team consisting of a mule, named Jamie and horse, named Dan that tilled the soil for the crops. There were milk cows and the generations before me used a separator for the cream and milk. They had pigs, chickens, and another horse named Clipper that my mother road to school. They had several vegetable and fruit gardens and even planted peanuts. There are remnants of the old buildings that once stood on the farm. The old chicken house foundation is located near the current fire pit and a hand dug well is covered by an old tractor tire we use for our compost. The small shed in the back corner of the yard was once a pump house, a playhouse, then a chicken house and now a Junque house. There once was a barn, a silo, a feed lot, an outhouse, and a hog shed. There were old tires, iron wheels, brick piles, and a gas tank on stilts. There was a screened in porch, beautiful hydrangeas and still a wonderful front porch. There were lots and lots of large pecan and walnut trees. At one point there were over 60 wonderful shade trees in the yard. We have lost some, but still enjoy many of the trees my grandfather planted. My mother, her siblings and parents moved here in the early years of WWII. During that period of time her brother died flying over Germany fighting for us. Our children lived all their grade school and high school years in this Red Brick Farmhouse. Some winters were so terribly cold in this old house it was almost miserable. I love this old house and it is truly been a labor of love. Again, Thank you, Kenton and Annette

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The Pocket

4 sites · Lodging, RVs30 acres · Columbia, MO

A literal 30 acre pocket of paradise tucked away just minutes North of Columbia, MO. Here you’ll find a private lake with fishing access, rolling hills with stunning sunrises and sunsets and complete privacy (other than the hosts that live on the property) perfect for a glamping getaway. Level spot with electric and water for an rv, or stay in our 28’ bunkhouse (sleeps 6) RV. Our rentable 24’ yurt will be available soon. Picnic tables, fire pit and grill available. Pet friendly, fiber Wi-Fi coming soon. Come play yard games, swing, fish, bring your kayak or paddle board, kids can play or swim on our sandy beach, or just walk our 1 mile perimeter trail, a perfect place to rest, rejuvenate and recharge. Farm fresh eggs are available as is any extra firewood. We look forward to meeting you and sharing our little pocket of paradise.

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Herb Farm Glamping Couples Retreat

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Huntsville, MO

My name is Connie and I own and operate a medicinal herb farm. My husband and I added bell tents for a glamping experience three years ago, to share the beauty and serenity of this place with others. Guests will have access to approximately five acres of hammock and seating areas, volleyball net, outdoor theater with a 150 inch screen, firepit, and trails. Nice private outhouse and shower stall are a short walk from the tent area. Hot water on demand. Towels and robes provided for the hot tub. Guests can choose one movie per stay to be shown on the night of their choice at sundown. Light towels and mosquito repellants are provided at the tent. See photos of all areas for details.

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Dripping Creek Cabin

1 site · Lodging20 acres · Ashland, MO

This is a cabin that has 20 acres to hike and a creek to walk! There’s a swimming hole to splash in when the water is up. It’s close to Ashland and Hartsburg for any grocery or eatery needs you may have. There’s a firepit and a hot tub. It’s also close to Mark Twain National forest, the Missouri River, and Conservation wild areas.

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Savanna Springs

1 site · Tent160 acres · Wooldridge, MO

Once a cattle, corn, and soybean farm, we recently purchased the property and have the goal of regenerating and converting it to perennial trees and shrubs with animals grazing amongst them. Learn more about this land:We love this place and we think you will too. Named after the spring-fed streams that run through the property and our vision of returning the corn and soybean fields back into an oak and walnut inspired savanna, Savanna Springs is tucked into a secluded valley at the end of a dead end road just 10 minutes from I-70. The campsite sits in a crook of a stream surrounded by magnificent sycamore trees. Relax under their canopy while listening to the water babble by or go for a walk and explore the 160-acre property. Off the property there are plenty of other places to explore. Take a walk or bike on the tree canopied gravel roads that are near by. Additionally, the famous Katy trail is about 15-20 minutes away and also a great place to take a stroll or pedal away. Columbia, home of the University of Missouri, is 20 miles away and has just about anything that you can think of.

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Green Goat Cottage

1 site · Lodging40 acres · Fayette, MO

The cozy cottage has thick walls built of straw bales and plaster; many windows; wood stove; window air conditioner; electricity; hot/cold water; full kitchen with large refrigerator, electric stove/oven, double sink, and dishware; bathroom with full tub/shower, sink, compost toilet and washing machine. The upstairs has two bedrooms - one with two extra long twin beds that can be joined as king size (bedding supplied). Bring your queen air mattress or sleeping bags for the other bedroom. Access to upstairs is a firmly fixed leaning ladder. There are fields and ponds to explore. An outdoor fire pit is available for those cool nights under the stars. If you want bring your horses there is a fenced area for boarding and water available. You may park trailer on property. Extra $10 @ night per horse. Numerous Conservation Areas within 15 to 30 minutes with multiple trails, lakes and more.

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Little Cabin On The Farm

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Jamestown, MO

Natural cabin for nature lovers on a little homestead. This cabin was built using local wood and is situated in a grove of mature oak and persimmon trees. Relax on the porch, sit around the fire, or enjoy looking out the window at wildlife (lots of birds!) and livestock. The cabin has a loft, galley kitchen, and a small bathroom with shower. Less than 20 minutes away from I-70, just over 30 minutes from Columbia, MO. Located close to Missouri river access at Lupus, and is approx 10 minutes away from Plowboy Bend Conservation Area, Prairie Home Conservation Area, and Big Muddy NWR. There is one twin bed on ground level and a twin and full bed in the loft, option to move full mattress to the floor. Family friendly, pets must be on a leash at all times (we have katadhin sheep, Irish Dexter cattle, plus many more).

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Camp Mara Wanna

2 sites · Lodging, Tents10 acres · Warrensburg, MO

🌲 Welcome to Camp Mara Wanna! 🌲 (Mara Wanna Consumption is always an Optional choice, never a requirement to reserve.) Nestled on 10 acres just South of Warrensburg. This Stay-Cation offers private "Back Country" style camping with a Mara-Wanna friendly vibe. Whether visiting to unwind in nature, indulge in some good Kush & Relaxation, or maybe you just yearn for a bit more privacy while visiting your favorite local attractions...we've got you covered. 🍃 Immerse yourself in the great outdoors and let your worries drift away. Camp's landscape features a few "bite size" walking tracks, a quiet little creek, the soothing sounds of nature, and plenty of space for fun outdoor games or some quiet meditation and yoga. Speaking of nature, it can sometimes catch us off guard with its Snakes, Ticks, Chiggers, and Poison Ivy. SO, Please consider this one of the many kind reminders you will receive throughout your stay to tread cautiously and pack all of the lotions and potions necessary to detour bugs and the Sun's UV Rays. New to the area? There are countless locations to explore outside of Camp. Bring your Bike, Bestie, and Bud to experience the beauty and versatility of the Katy Trail, the longest developed rail-trail in the country. Fishing, Paddle Boarding, Kayaking and Hiking Lovers - Truman Lake might just be your spot. Interested in the timeless artistry and quality of Amish Craftsmanship? Windsor aka "Amish Country", along with many other interesting places like Powell Gardens (a 970-acre botanical garden,) the Lone Jack Battlefield Museum (a historical battle site,) are all within a mere 30 minutes from Camp. Uninterested in straying too far from Camp. No problem! This area offers a charming small-town feel while still providing many of the comforts of a bigger city. There is bowling, night life, antique stores, artisan shops and more, all within a rocks throw away. AND OF COURSE...we CAN NOT forget our local dispensary...located 5 miles from Camp; you can choose to pick it up, or there is the possibility to have your green delivered. We are excited to have you join us this Camping Season and discover why Camp Mara-Wanna is the ultimate destination for chill vibes and relaxation. 💚Mara-Wanna Friendly Camping 📍 Warrensburg, MO 🏕️ BackCountry Style Camping 🏞️ Private 10 Acres 🌳 Partially Wooded 🖼️ Picturesque Scenery 🫣 Limited Campsites 👨‍🍳 Chef Onsite 🧘🏽‍♀️ Yoga Instructor Onsite 🍭 Licky’s and Chewy’s 🚫 25+ (w/ Valid ID Only) ⛺️ B.Y.O. Tent 🌱 B. Y. O. Bud

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Peaceful yard 🏕️ camping

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Columbia, MO

So much to do in Columbia. Bring your own tent, single parking spot. Welcome, well behaved humans and pets 🐕 (power is available upon request) Just North of Columbia city limits and only a couple miles south of Finger Lakes. Columbia is well known for the nearby Katy Trails, easy access to restaurants, hospitals, shopping, entertainment, camping, college and much more.

The best camping near Arrow Rock State Historic Site guide

Overview

About

While many state parks preserve scenic landscapes, Arrow Rock State Historic Site preserves portions of an 18th-century river town, showcasing what Missouri life would have been like centuries ago. Named for the rock bluff along the Missouri River, the region saw many travelers along the Santa Fe Trail. Interpretive programs and a visitor center museum bring the past to life. Grab a meal and a drink at J. Huston Tavern. In operation since 1834, it is the oldest continuously operating restaurant west of the Mississippi River. Tour the old courthouse, a jail, and a boarding school, as well as a former home of artist George Caleb Bingham. Outdoor recreation is found on the hiking trails and a 4-acre fishing pond.

Notable campgrounds

Best for tent campers: Arrow Rock State Historic Site Campground’s basic sites (number 1 through 12) are in a quiet loop separated from the main campground.
Best for glamping: Arrow Rock State Historic Site Campground has one full-hookup site.
Best for water lovers: Sites 13 through 22 at Arrow Rock State Historic Site Campground are close to Big Soldier Lake.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Reservations may be made up to 12 months in advance through the Missouri State Park website or by phone.
The campground is open year-round, with reservations offered April 1 through October 31.
Showers and water are available April 1 through October 31.
The park primarily offers basic and electric-only, with one full-hookup site.
Pull-thru campsites are available.
Water is available at a handful of spigots placed throughout the campground.
Weekend reservations require a two-night stay, either Friday and Saturday or Saturday and Sunday.
Advanced reservations are recommended for weekends and holidays, especially in the summer peak season.

When to go

This park is a year-round destination, with indoor activities to enjoy in addition to the natural landscapes. Spring and autumn are particularly scenic, with colors popping amid the wildflowers and fall foliage. Temperatures are generally moderate in these seasons. Summer brings warmer temperatures and humidity. In the winter season, campers may encounter freezing temperatures and precipitation and need to be prepared. An annual Christmas tour highlights decorations and history in the village.

Know before you go

From June through October, the Lyceum Theatre operates in a historic church in the Village of Arrow Rock, bringing live entertainment to the region.
Arrow Rock was once home to one of Missouri’s busiest ports, and the River Landing Trail showcases this history. Today, the area has reverted to wetlands and forest.
Cell signals may be weak or limited. The park does offer wifi onsite.