DNR
Home PageThings to Know about Camping
Facilities
Thirty-nine state parks and historic sites offer camping opportunities to suit everyone's needs, from primitive walk-in sites to sites with hookups for water, electricity and sewer.
There are two ways to camp in Missouri state parks. Most campgrounds offer first-come, first-served campsites or you can reserve a site in advance by taking advantage of the centralized reservation system.
Operations
Nearly all state park campgrounds are open year-round. Electric hook-ups are available year-round, while water and showers are usually available from April 1 through Oct. 31 (on-season) in most state parks. Roaring River, Bennett Spring and Montauk state parks are operational Feb. 25. Some northern parks are operational by April 15. All water hydrants are available by May 1.
A two-night minimum stay on the weekend (Friday and Saturday) is required at most state parks. Camping is limited to any 15 days within a 30-consecutive-day period at any one park. Many parks contain rules and policies that are specific to the individual park and its resources. Please call the individual park to inquire of specific rules and, upon your arrival, check the park's bulletin boards for additional rules.
A "no vacancy" sign implies that all first-come, first-served sites are rented for the night, and that all reservable sites are paid in full and reserved for the night. Reservation customers are permitted to arrive any time within the first 24 hours of their stay. This results in some reserved sites remaining empty for the first night when the customer chooses to arrive the next morning. The park or historic site is obligated to hold the reserved site for 24 hours.
Firewood is available for sale at designated times at most state parks, or you may bring your own. Gathering firewood is strictly prohibited. Campers planning to carry in firewood must comply with current firewood advisories.
Early departures that are a result of park emergencies or park failure will produce a refund of all unused camping nights.
Enjoying Missouri State Parks with your Pet
Responsible pet owners and their pets are welcome in Missouri state parks. By following current pet rules, a positive impression will be left for all pet owners and will ensure that this privilege continues.
Senior and Disabled Citizens
Citizens who are 65 years of age or older or persons with disabilities are entitled to a reduced camping fee. An official document such as a driver's license certifying proof of age or disability must be presented when registering. Please visit the Camping Fees and Seasons page for additional information on discounts.
Camper Award
Individuals or families camping in five different state parks or historic sites during one year are awarded a certificate and patch. Camper verification cards are available at all state parks and historic sites and must be verified by staff at each place the individual or family camps. Participants must obey park rules and regulations.
