10 Must-Visit Destinations in Missouri for Nature Lovers

Introduction:
Missouri is a state brimming with natural beauty, from the rolling Ozark mountains to the winding rivers and dense forests, there is no shortage of stunning landscapes to explore. For nature lovers, RV camping is the perfect way to immerse yourself in Missouri’s great outdoors. Whether it’s fishing, hiking, or simply lounging by the campfire, there are countless RV campgrounds scattered throughout the state that provide a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. In this article, we’ll explore 10 must-visit destinations in Missouri for nature lovers, highlighting some of the best RV campgrounds in each location.

1. Lake of the Ozarks State Park
Lake of the Ozarks is a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts, and for good reason. Located in central Missouri, the sprawling park encompasses over 17,000 acres of scenic hills and coves, as well as the massive 55,000-acre reservoir that gives the park its name. RV camping is available at a number of campgrounds within the park, including the Osage Beach Campground. This family-friendly campground offers 140 RV sites with water and electric hookups, as well as modern amenities such as showers and laundry facilities. The park is also home to numerous trails, perfect for hiking or biking, and several designated swimming areas.

2. Meramec State Park
Situated in the eastern Ozarks, Meramec State Park is another popular destination for nature lovers. The park boasts an impressive array of natural attractions, including the Meramec River, which winds through the park’s dense forests and rocky bluffs. For RV campers, the park offers the Meramec Campground, which features 44 spacious sites with electric and water hookups, as well as fire rings and picnic tables. In addition, the park offers an extensive network of trails for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking, as well as excellent fishing opportunities in the Meramec River.

3. Elephant Rocks State Park
Named for its massive elephant-shaped granite boulders, Elephant Rocks State Park is a unique and visually stunning destination in southeast Missouri. The park features a short but scenic hiking trail that winds through the boulder field, as well as a playground and picnicking area. RV campers can stay nearby at the Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park Campground, which offers 80 electric sites as well as unparalleled access to the park’s namesake shut-ins, a series of natural rock waterslides and pools.

4. Mark Twain National Forest
Encompassing over 1.5 million acres in southern Missouri, the Mark Twain National Forest is a wonderland of outdoor adventure. The forest offers an abundance of recreational opportunities, from hiking and camping to fishing and hunting. RV camping is available at numerous campgrounds throughout the forest, including the Berryman Campground, which offers 12 electric sites as well as nearby access to the renowned Berryman Trail, a 24-mile loop popular with hikers and mountain bikers.

5. Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park
Located in the heart of the Ozarks, Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park is a favorite destination for families looking to cool off in the hot summer months. The park is named for its unique series of natural rock waterslides and swimming holes, where visitors can splash and play in the crystalline waters of the Black River. RV camping is available at the park’s eponymous campground, which features 59 electric sites as well as modern amenities such as showers and laundry facilities. The park also offers a fishing lake and several scenic hiking trails.

6. Ha Ha Tonka State Park
Ha Ha Tonka is a hidden gem tucked away in the hills of central Missouri. The park’s main attraction is the ruins of an early 20th-century castle, perched atop a rocky outcropping overlooking the Lake of the Ozarks. Visitors can explore the castle ruins and surrounding gardens, as well as hike through the park’s rugged karst terrain and underground caves. RV camping is available at the nearby Lake Niangua Campground, which offers 182 electric sites and easy access to the lake’s excellent fishing and boating opportunities.

7. Taum Sauk Mountain State Park
At 1,772 feet, Taum Sauk Mountain is the highest point in Missouri. The surrounding state park offers unparalleled views of the surrounding Ozark mountains, as well as access to the Ozark Trail, a 350-mile hiking route that spans the length of the mountain range. RV camping is available at the nearby Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park Campground, which offers 80 electric sites as well as nearby access to the park’s namesake shut-ins, a series of natural rock waterslides and pools.

8. Cuivre River State Park
Cuivre River State Park is a sprawling natural area in eastern Missouri, spanning over 6,000 acres of forest and prairie. The park offers a range of recreational opportunities, including miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, fishing in the Cuivre River, and excellent birdwatching opportunities. RV camping is available at the park’s Camp Sherwood Forest, which features 41 electric sites as well as modern amenities such as showers and laundry facilities.

9. Roaring River State Park
Located in southwest Missouri, Roaring River State Park is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts. The park boasts a pristine trout stream that winds through a scenic valley, as well as numerous hiking trails and a swimming pool. RV camping is available at the park’s campground, which offers 87 electric sites as well as a playground, horseshoe pits, and picnic areas.

10. Pomme de Terre State Park
Pomme de Terre State Park is a peaceful oasis in the heart of the Missouri Ozarks. The park surrounds Pomme de Terre Lake, a sprawling reservoir that offers excellent boating and fishing opportunities. RV camping is available at the park’s two campgrounds, Hermitage and Pittsburg, which offer a total of 182 electric sites between them. The park also offers several hiking trails, swimming beaches, and historic sites to explore.

Conclusion:
Missouri is a state that proudly showcases its natural beauty. For nature lovers, there is an endless array of RV campgrounds and outdoor recreation areas to explore, and the 10 destinations listed above are just the tip of the iceberg. With scenic trails to hike, pristine rivers to fish, and stunning vistas to take in, Missouri is a paradise for RV campers looking to get back to nature. So grab your gear, pack your bags, and hit the road to experience the majesty of Missouri’s great outdoors.