R
Randall B.
Scout
ScoutRedman Creek Campground
Very Clean
$24 a night with no discount. We received half off with our access pass card. Clean private showers. Very quiet!
Best Campgrounds near Cape Girardeau, MO
Camping near Cape Girardeau, Missouri includes a mix of state parks, RV resorts, and conservation areas along the Mississippi River and surrounding woodlands. Trail of Tears State Park, located about 10 miles north of Cape Girardeau in Jackson, offers year-round camping with both electric and basic sites. The electric loop sits directly beside the Mississippi River with views of passing barges and trains, while a more secluded basic loop is nestled in wooded terrain near Lake Boutin. Within city limits, The Landing Point RV Park and Cape Camping & RV Park provide convenient options for travelers with full hookup sites. General Watkins Conservation Area, south of Cape Girardeau near Benton, offers a smaller, more rustic camping experience with just a few sites that are particularly popular during deer hunting season in November.
Most campgrounds in the region are accessible year-round, though summer humidity makes electric sites desirable from April through September for air conditioning or fans. Trail of Tears State Park requires reservations, which can be made up to 365 days in advance with a small reservation fee. Verizon cell service typically shows 2-3 bars throughout the area. The Mississippi River location means train noise is common at riverside campgrounds, with frequent horn blasts at crossings. According to reviews, campgrounds near the river can experience both barge and train noise throughout the day and night. Winter camping is available but less crowded, with weeknights offering the most solitude even during peak summer months.
The camping options around Cape Girardeau accommodate various preferences and needs. RV campers will find full-service parks in town with 30 and 50 amp hookups, while tent campers can enjoy more natural settings at state parks and conservation areas. Trail of Tears State Park features fishing opportunities, hiking trails, and a swimming area at Lake Boutin that becomes popular during summer months. One visitor noted, "The lake's swimming area was very popular, as were other parts of the day use sections of the park." For those seeking convenience, some businesses in Cape Girardeau, including Cracker Barrel and Planet Fitness, allow overnight RV parking. These urban camping alternatives provide easy highway access and proximity to restaurants and services for travelers passing through the area.
Campground Showdown near Cape Girardeau, MO
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Best Camping Sites Near Cape Girardeau, Missouri (102)
1. Trail of Tears State Park Campground
20 ReviewsMcClure, IL10 milesWebsite+1 (573) 290-5268"There is a lot of history and nearby Cape Girardeau is a very neat city to visit."
"Due to the pandemic, only one host has volunteered for Trail of Tears."
2. The Landing Point RV Park
4 ReviewsCape Girardeau, MO4 milesWebsite+1 (573) 334-7878"Water park close by (5 minute drive) that was great for the kids on a hot day. Camping spots was all nice and level. looked like all the spots was full hook ups."
"There is a big grassy area in the middle of the loop of wanting to play games and run around."
3. Cape Camping & RV Park
3 ReviewsCape Girardeau, MO2 milesWebsite+1 (573) 332-8888"There was a public paved walking trail along the back of the CG, which was very nice to walk the dogs. There was also a 2 acre fishing pond for CG residents to use."
4. General Watkins Conservation Area
7 ReviewsOran, MO16 milesWebsite+1 (573) 290-5730"Sites are only a few miles from our house, we use it to test out new gear (hammocks) General Watkins has a good amount of ponds (great fishing) and has a few good walking/ small hiking trails."
"There are a couple of loop trails and we walked one of them. We arrived on a Sunday afternoon. The locals use the area for fishing and walking and it was somewhat busy in the afternoon."
5. Bean Ridge Pond Campground
3 ReviewsMcClure, IL10 miles+1 (618) 253-7114"There are only two camp site at this location and they are very close to each other. The camp sites are also very narrow."
8. Lake Boutin Campground — Trail of Tears State Park
1 ReviewMcClure, IL11 milesWebsite+1 (573) 290-5284$15 / night
"There’s a short hiking trail down to the lake, fun walk through nature in the area. Beautiful look out over the Mississippi River."
9. Giant City State Park Campground
24 ReviewsMakanda, IL29 milesWebsite+1 (618) 457-4836"There is currently walk in only unless you are reserving a horse camp. There are fantastic hiking trails and equestrian trails here and you would think you are in the mountains here."
"The Trillium Trail in the Park has beautiful views and rock formations. Get ice cream and walk the Secret Garden in Makanda. Lake Glendale is close by for swimming and kayak rentals."
10. Horseshoe Lake Alexander County
4 ReviewsOlive Branch, IL18 milesWebsite+1 (618) 776-5689"Lake is more of a swamp with cypress trees, very pretty. Showers dated but clean. They are multiple stalls. Of note, there is not much around in the way of stores."
Recent Camping Photos near Cape Girardeau, MO
93 Photos of 102 Cape Girardeau Campgrounds
Barbara L.
Trail of Tears State Park Campground
Makayla C.
Lake Boutin Campground — Trail of Tears State Park
MickandKarla W.
Little Ole Opry Campground
Bill C.
Trail of Tears State Forest
Willow Springs Campground
Willow Springs Campground
Tod S.
Horseshoe Lake Alexander County
Elisha S.
Turkey Bayou Campground
M H.
Giant City State Park Campground
James M.
Touch of Nature Education Center
Brian O.
Little Grassy Lake Campground
Shelby B.
Little Grassy Lake - Crab Orchard NWR
Art S.
Camp Manitowa at Cedar Point
Recent Reviews near Cape Girardeau, MO
485 Reviews of 102 Cape Girardeau Campgrounds
Sarah R.ScoutJohnson Creek
NO WATER AT ALL
I have camped here for several years even the non potable water has been disconnected for a couple years now. There are no camping spots on or near the lake they are all uphill.
Ryan B.
TravelerJackson Falls
Great spot if you have the right equipment!
Our family had a great time camping here! The road leading into the campsite is mostly gravel with a few rough patches. There are a few shallow creek crossings to reach the more remote spots (water levels may vary depending on rainfall).
4x4 isn’t necessarily required, but I’d highly recommend it—along with a high-clearance vehicle. We brought our Jeep Wrangler, and it handled everything like a champ. We didn’t even need to engage 4x4 the entire way in.
There are a few campsites you can access without crossing the creeks, but the dispersed site we stayed at was surprisingly clean. We only found a couple small pieces of trash—otherwise, it was spotless. Previous campers left some firewood and kindling near the rock fire ring, and we made sure to do the same for the next group.
We camped during the weekdays, and it was nice and quiet. As we were leaving on Friday, more people were starting to show up, so I’d assume weekends get pretty busy. That said, most campers didn’t go past the first creek, so the farther back you go, the fewer people you’ll run into.
One thing to note: I have Verizon, and I was on SOS the entire time—so don’t expect reliable service out there if you have Verizon.
Ryan B.TravelerJackson Falls
Decent place to stay
There is tent camping in the area of the bath house that doesn’t require any creek crossing. Now, getting to the more remote spots can be sketchy if you have a small or very loaded vehicle. There are two small creeks to cross and are somewhat rough to get through. I made it through in my minivan, but dragged through the second creek.
There are hiking trails that run through, but that’s about all I can say about that.
I had no Verizon cell service unless I walked about 2/10 of a mile up a hill to an opening and only then I could make a phone call, but I couldn’t access the Internet.
- SSandra P.Scout
Love's RV Hookup-Charleston MO 981
Ok spot
It has full hookups if you want. 2pm checkin time. Noon checkout. Easy checkin on phone. Needed electric so nice to have this option
MickandKarla W.
LegendBoomland RV Park & Campground
Great for an Overnighter
Boomland RV Park& Campground was super easy to find off I-57 near the I-55 junction. After passing the Boomland complex, the large campground sign clearly marks the right turn into the park. The campground operates first come, first served, so campers choose a site in either the 50/30-amp or 30-amp pull-through sections, all with full hookups, with power options clearly marked on numbered site posts. We drove the small campground loop to find a longer pull-through so we would not have to disconnect our 40-foot fifth wheel and F-450 for an overnight stay, and settled on site 20 with 50/30-amp service. The 30-amp section in the center of the campground appeared to have the longest sites overall. After parking and setting up, registration was handled inside the building by completing an envelope with name, vehicle license number, and payment, then dropping the envelope in the box. All utilities functioned properly, though the campground does not offer Wi-Fi. Cell service was solid with three bars on both Verizon and T-Mobile. We walked to the Boomland complex and noticed 24-hour diesel pumps that accept major credit and trucker cards, which could be convenient even though we did not fuel there. The Boomland complex was worth exploring, with a restaurant, gift shop, packaged foods, fireworks, souvenirs, and snacks, and during our November visit the seasonal Christmas shop was especially impressive. Boomland also offers a 10% military discount on non-food items. The campground does not have a designated pet area, but a large park-like space across the street provided plenty of room for off-leash exercise. Overall, this campground made a solid and convenient overnight stop.
- GGeoffreyCunhaScout
Touch of Nature Education Center
Amazing experience at Touch of Nature Education Center!
I had an amazing experience at Touch of Nature Education Center! As a student who loves exploring the outdoors, I found the facilities to be very educational and fun at the same time. I am glad I chose this destination after a hard study year. With the help of tutors (check mysupergeek review) and their professional guidence I finished my study year successfully! And with the help of Touch of Nature Education Center, I recharged fully for the next study year!
The staff was friendly and knowledgeable, making it a great place to learn about nature while enjoying camping and outdoor activities. It’s a perfect spot for students to connect with nature, learn new skills, and take a break from studying. Highly recommended for anyone looking to combine education with outdoor adventure!
Ricky R.
GuideRedman Creek Campground
Full hookup Corps of Engineers Campground
Updated campground with paved pads, full hookups and 50 amps. Has nice shower building. Most sites are level and can accommodate larger rigs. Some sites are close to state highway and with traffic noise.
Michael R.GuideDutchman Lake Camp
Dutchman Lake Dispersed Camping
Plenty of dispersed camping on a well maintained dirt road. There’s fire pits all over and no shortage of spots.
Guide to Cape Girardeau
Campgrounds near Cape Girardeau, Missouri sit at the eastern edge of the Ozark Plateau where limestone bluffs meet the Mississippi River floodplain. Summer temperatures regularly reach 90°F with high humidity from June through August, while winter nights often drop below freezing. The region's clay soil can create muddy conditions after rainfall, particularly at primitive campsites where drainage is limited.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Boutin at Trail of Tears State Park Campground offers accessible shoreline fishing. "Not a large state park, but the campgrounds, small lake with swimming area, and the views of the Mississippi River valley are good," notes Ralph S. The primitive sites provide easier lake access via hiking trails.
Wildlife viewing: The conservation lands around General Watkins Conservation Area contain multiple ponds and hiking paths for wildlife observation. "There are about 5 primitive sites. No water sewer or electric. There are multiple lakes in the area and hiking trails as well," writes John W. Deer sightings are common, especially in early morning and evening hours.
Hiking trails: The forested areas around Bean Ridge Pond Campground feature multiple walking paths with seasonal wildflowers. "The area is very pretty. Soft ground for staking a tent. Bugs were alright, no need for bug spray," according to Cameron. Trails range from short quarter-mile loops to longer routes connecting fishing ponds.
What campers like
River proximity: Campers appreciate the unique riverside locations where barges and boats can be observed. "One of the best camping views of the mississippi river! The campsite overlooks the mighty mississippi river and oh what a view it is, watching tugboats move barges up and down," writes Chad H. about Trail of Tears State Park Campground.
Quiet atmosphere: Despite being just minutes from town, many sites offer peaceful surroundings. At Pine Hills campers find solitude: "Only 1 other camper when I showed up. Very quiet and clean (although you do hear a train whistle occasionally)," reports Dave N. The campground features just a few sites spread across a wooded area.
Clean facilities: Many campsites maintain well-serviced bathrooms despite their rustic settings. "Park ranger drove through the campsite around 9:30pm, I really liked that, made it feel safer. Very enjoyable experience, bathrooms were extremely clean," writes Makayla C. about Lake Boutin Campground. Most state park facilities receive regular maintenance even during off-peak seasons.
What you should know
Train noise: Railroad tracks parallel much of the Mississippi River, creating periodic noise disturbances. "It's not a bad little spot for a weekend escape. There will be a train that comes through in the middle of the night, but other people have never been an issue for us," explains Eric B. about his stay at Trail of Tears State Park.
Limited services: Most conservation areas have minimal facilities. "No facilities, pack in-pack out. 1/2 mile gravel road leads to sites. Should be accessible by cars, vans, and small motorhomes/trailers," advises Dave N. about Bean Ridge Pond Campground.
Seasonal popularity: Campgrounds fill quickly during specific seasons and hunting periods. "This campground will always be packed for Missouri firearm deer season. Mid November. But normally has open spots rest of the time," reports Matthew G. about General Watkins Conservation Area. Weekends from April through October typically see higher occupancy rates.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming access: Lake Boutin within Trail of Tears State Park provides a designated swimming area during summer months. "There's a short hiking trail down to the lake, fun walk through nature in the area," notes Makayla C. The beach area has no lifeguard but offers gradual entry points suitable for younger swimmers.
Playground availability: While most conservation areas lack play equipment, some developed campgrounds include basic recreational facilities. At The Landing Point RV Park, "It has big sites and lots of grass. No pool or anything and a very small play area but it works well for them because they are older and don't care about those things," says Megan T.
Cell service considerations: Most campsites have limited connectivity for devices. "No WiFi. 2 bars Verizon LTE," reports MickandKarla W. about Cape Camping & RV Park. Downloading entertainment or information before arrival helps families prepare for spotty service areas.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain requiring leveling equipment. "Sites are flat and most are pull through," notes Joel R. about Giant City State Park Campground. Smaller trailers and campers have more site options than larger rigs at conservation areas.
Electrical limitations: Not all electrified sites offer consistent service. "Electric was not working at some sites and one post had hookups for two sites. No sewer, there is a dump station down the road," warns marcella about Horseshoe Lake Alexander County campground. Testing outlets before setup prevents surprises.
Access road conditions: Approach roads to some campsites can be challenging after rainfall. "Road coming into the camp ground can get a little rough depending on season, but it's gravel. Spots are perfect for smaller rigs," advises Matthew G. about General Watkins Conservation Area. Larger motorhomes and fifth wheels should call ahead during wet periods.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there tent camping options near Cape Girardeau?
Are there tent camping options near Cape Girardeau?
Tent campers have several options near Cape Girardeau. Trail of Tears State Forest offers remote dispersed camping with basic amenities including picnic tables, raised fire rings, and porta-potties. It's about 30 minutes from Cape Girardeau with potable water available (though occasionally under boil advisories). General Watkins Conservation Area provides a more primitive experience with three back-in spots featuring fire pits and tables, ideal for smaller setups and testing gear. The access road can be rough depending on the season. Both locations offer peaceful natural settings that appeal to tent campers seeking a more rustic experience.
What campgrounds are available in Cape Girardeau, Missouri?
What campgrounds are available in Cape Girardeau, Missouri?
Cape Girardeau offers several camping options for visitors. Trail of Tears State Park Campground is a popular choice with electric and water hookups, making it perfect for short-term stays while exploring the city. For those needing a convenient overnight parking option, Cracker Barrel — Cape Girardeau provides well-lit pull-through RV/bus sites behind the building. Additional options include Cape Camping & RV Park and The Landing Point RV Park, both offering standard amenities for travelers. The area's campgrounds provide good access to Cape Girardeau's attractions while offering varying levels of facilities and natural settings.
What RV rental services are available in Cape Girardeau?
What RV rental services are available in Cape Girardeau?
While Cape Girardeau itself has limited dedicated RV rental services, travelers have options in the surrounding area. The region is served by national rental platforms that allow for RV pickup in nearby larger cities. Local dealerships occasionally offer rentals alongside their sales operations, though availability may be limited and seasonal. For overnight RV parking without rentals, Horseshoe Lake Alexander County provides electric hookups (though some sites may have issues) and a dump station down the road. For visitors bringing their own RVs, Little Ole Opry Campground offers convenient access off the highway through Jackson. Call ahead to confirm current rental availability and reservation requirements.
What are the best camping areas in Southeast Missouri near Cape Girardeau?
What are the best camping areas in Southeast Missouri near Cape Girardeau?
Southeast Missouri offers excellent camping options within driving distance of Cape Girardeau. Asher Creek Campground — Lake Wappapello State Park features standard Missouri State Park rates and amenities with campgrounds both on the lake and up on the ridge. Weeknights and off-season periods offer remarkable tranquility. Perryville RV Resort By Rjourney is highly rated for its cleanliness, friendly staff, and convenient location with drive-through sites, tree coverage, and easy interstate access. Other noteworthy options include Little Ole Opry Campground near Jackson and Lake Boutin Campground at Trail of Tears State Park. These locations provide varying experiences from peaceful forest settings to lakeside relaxation.
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