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St. Francois State Park Missouri (MO) RV Rentals

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Introduction

St. Francois State Park is a prime destination for RV camping, offering a blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and a wide range of outdoor activities. The park’s rich history and cultural significance, coupled with its unique geological features and diverse recreational opportunities, make it an ideal spot for RV renters to immerse themselves in the great outdoors.

With a history dating back to the 1930s, St. Francois State Park holds cultural significance as one of the oldest state parks in Missouri. Its historic structures, including a picturesque stone lodge built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, provide a glimpse into the park’s past and add to its charm.

RVThereYet is an RV rental company, offering a diverse fleet of motorhomes, including Class A, Class B, and Class C Rentals, Travel, Trailers, and Motorhomes for unforgettable adventures in scenic RV parks and campsites in St. Francois State Park. Ensure early reservations for camper rentals at St. Francois State Park.

Camping Accommodations

37

'

Max RV length

37

'

Max trailer Length

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

Generator use

Food storage

Sewer hookup

Dogs & cats

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Transportation

  • Driving/Transportation

When visiting St. Francois State Park private vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The park can be accessed from multiple entrances including the main entrance off Highway 67 and the Coonville Creek Conservation Area entrance. Visitors can navigate the park’s roads to reach various amenities and trailheads. It’s important to note that the park has restrictions on rig sizes with some areas accommodating smaller RVs and trailers. Therefore it’s advisable to check the park’s guidelines for specific size limitations before planning your visit.

  • Parking area

St. Francois State Park offers designated RV parking areas near the camping facilities. Overnight parking outside of designated campsites is not permitted. It is recommended to camp with an RV within the park’s designated camping areas as this provides convenient access to the park’s amenities and allows for a seamless exploration of the park’s natural and historical attractions.

  • Public Transportation

St. Francois State Park does not have public transportation or shuttle buses within the park. However visitors can explore the park’s natural beauty and historical sites by utilizing the network of walking paths and hiking trails. These paths offer a scenic way to traverse the park and access its various points of interest while enjoying the tranquility of the natural surroundings.

Top Campsites in St. Francois State Park

  • Reservations camping

1. St. Francois State Park Campground

Located within St. Francois State Park this campground offers 102 spacious sites for RVs and tents. The serene setting provides a perfect base for exploring the park’s trails fishing in the streams and enjoying picnics. Amenities include electric hookups modern restrooms and hot showers. The campground is pet-friendly and open year-round accommodating RVs and trailers of various sizes.

2. Hawn State Park Campground

Nestled near St. Francois State Park Hawn State Park Campground features 33 reservable campsites surrounded by lush woodlands. Visitors can hike the scenic trails marvel at the natural beauty and observe wildlife. The campground offers electric hookups picnic tables and a playground. It is pet-friendly and operates seasonally welcoming RVs and trailers of limited size.

3. Sam A. Baker State Park Campground

Situated in the vicinity of St. Francois State Park Sam A. Baker State Park Campground boasts 82 campsites including options for both RVs and tents. The park’s natural beauty and recreational opportunities such as swimming and fishing in the river make it a popular choice. The campground provides electric hookups modern restrooms and a camp store. It is pet-friendly and open seasonally accommodating RVs and trailers of various sizes.

4. Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park Campground

Located near St. Francois State Park Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park Campground offers 80 campsites in a picturesque setting along the Black River. Visitors can enjoy swimming hiking and exploring the unique geological formations. The campground provides electric hookups hot showers and a camp store. It is pet-friendly and open seasonally welcoming RVs and trailers of limited size.

  • First-come first-served

1. Big River Campground

Big River Campground in St. Francois State Park offers 18 first-come-first-served campsites providing a rustic camping experience amidst the natural beauty of the park. The campground is open seasonally typically from April to October and can accommodate RVs and trailers of various sizes. While the sites do not have electric hookups they offer a serene setting for nature enthusiasts. The campground is pet-friendly allowing visitors to bring their furry companions along for the outdoor adventure.

2. Coonville Campground

Coonville Campground nestled within St. Francois State Park features 25 first-come-first-served campsites providing a peaceful retreat for campers seeking a connection with nature. The campground is open seasonally typically from May to September and can accommodate RVs and trailers of limited size. While the sites do not offer electric hookups they provide a tranquil setting for outdoor enthusiasts. Coonville Campground is pet-friendly allowing campers to bring their four-legged friends to enjoy the natural surroundings.

3. Silver Mines Recreation Area Campground

The Silver Mines Recreation Area Campground within St. Francois State Park offers 30 first-come-first-served campsites providing a picturesque setting for campers to immerse themselves in the park’s natural wonders. The campground is open seasonally typically from April to October and can accommodate RVs and trailers of various sizes. While the sites do not have electric hookups they offer a serene ambiance for outdoor enthusiasts. The campground is pet-friendly allowing visitors to bring their furry companions along for the camping experience.

  • Alternate camping

Private Campgrounds

In the event that campsites within St. Francois State Park are fully booked RV renters can explore private campgrounds in the vicinity. Options such as “Big River Resort” and “Silver Mines Campground” offer additional camping opportunities with various amenities including electric hookups water and sewer connections. These private campgrounds often provide a range of recreational activities and are situated in scenic locations allowing visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the area while experiencing the comforts of a private campground.

Backcountry Camping

For those seeking a more rugged and immersive camping experience backcountry camping near St. Francois State Park can be a rewarding option. Nearby areas such as the Mark Twain National Forest and Bell Mountain Wilderness Area offer opportunities for dispersed camping allowing RV renters to find secluded spots amidst the wilderness. While backcountry camping requires careful planning and adherence to Leave No Trace principles it provides a unique way to connect with nature and explore the untamed landscapes surrounding the state park.

These alternative camping options provide flexibility for RV renters ensuring that even if the campsites within St. Francois State Park are at capacity there are still opportunities to enjoy the outdoor beauty of the region through private campgrounds and backcountry camping experiences.

  • General activities

Hiking

Hiking is a favorite activity among outdoorsy RV campers at St. Francois State Park. The park offers a network of scenic trails that cater to various skill levels including the Coonville Creek Trail Mooner’s Hollow Trail and the White Oaks Trail. These trails wind through diverse terrain including woodlands meadows and along the banks of clear streams providing opportunities to encounter the park’s natural beauty and wildlife.

Fishing

Fishing enthusiasts are drawn to the clear streams and serene lakes within St. Francois State Park. The park’s lakes and waterways are teeming with a variety of fish species including bass catfish and sunfish. Anglers can cast their lines from the shore or venture out onto the water in search of their next big catch surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the park’s natural surroundings.

Bird Watching

St. Francois State Park is a haven for birdwatching enthusiasts offering opportunities to spot a diverse array of avian species. The park’s varied habitats including woodlands wetlands and open spaces attract a wide range of birdlife. Visitors can observe species such as warblers woodpeckers and raptors while exploring the park’s trails and scenic overlooks making it an ideal destination for birdwatching and nature photography.

Cycling

Cycling enthusiasts can explore the park’s picturesque landscapes and scenic trails by bike. St. Francois State Park features designated cycling trails including the Mooner’s Hollow Trail and the Big River Trail offering opportunities for riders to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the park while enjoying a recreational cycling experience.

Wildlife Viewing

Wildlife viewing is a popular pastime for RV campers at St. Francois State Park. The park’s diverse ecosystems provide habitats for a variety of wildlife including deer wild turkeys and small mammals. Visitors can embark on leisurely walks or hikes to observe and appreciate the park’s inhabitants capturing memorable encounters with the region’s natural fauna in their natural habitats.

  • Alternative activities

Sightseeing

For RV campers who prefer a more relaxed approach to exploring the park sightseeing offers an opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty and historical landmarks of St. Francois State Park. Visitors can take leisurely drives through the park’s scenic roads stopping at overlooks and points of interest such as the historic stone lodge and the tranquil lakes providing picturesque backdrops for memorable moments and photo opportunities.

Nature Watching

Nature watching provides a peaceful and immersive experience for RV campers who enjoy observing the park’s flora and fauna without engaging in strenuous activities. The park’s diverse ecosystems offer opportunities to spot a variety of plant species as well as wildlife such as songbirds butterflies and small mammals. Visitors can take gentle strolls along the park’s trails or simply relax in serene natural settings allowing for tranquil moments of connection with the park’s natural surroundings.

Scenic Photography

St. Francois State Park offers numerous Instagram-worthy photo opportunities for RV campers who appreciate capturing the beauty of nature through photography. From the vibrant colors of wildflowers in spring to the serene reflections on the park’s lakes and the striking rock formations the park provides an array of visually captivating scenes that are ideal for capturing stunning images and sharing the park’s natural splendor with others.

Picnicking

Picnicking is a leisurely and enjoyable activity for RV campers at St. Francois State Park providing a chance to relax and dine amidst the park’s scenic landscapes. The park offers designated picnic areas with tables and grills allowing visitors to savor meals surrounded by the tranquility of nature. Whether enjoying a casual lunch or a sunset dinner picnicking provides an opportunity to unwind and appreciate the park’s natural beauty in a comfortable and laid-back setting.

Historical Exploration

RV campers with an interest in history can explore the park’s historical landmarks and learn about its cultural significance. The park’s Civilian Conservation Corps-built stone lodge and other historic structures offer insights into the park’s past providing opportunities for visitors to appreciate the architectural and historical elements of St. Francois State Park while enjoying a leisurely and educational experience.

Season-specific experiences in St. Francois State Park

  • Spring activities

Wildflower Viewing

Spring brings a burst of vibrant wildflowers to St. Francois State Park adorning the meadows and woodlands with a kaleidoscope of colors. RV campers can take leisurely strolls along the park’s trails such as the Coonville Creek Trail to immerse themselves in the stunning floral displays. Notable locations for wildflower viewing include the meadows near the historic stone lodge and the banks of the park’s serene lakes providing picturesque settings for capturing the beauty of the spring blooms.

Historic Stone Lodge

The historic stone lodge at St. Francois State Park offers a captivating glimpse into the park’s past and serves as a focal point for historical exploration. RV campers can visit the lodge to admire its unique architecture constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. The lodge’s location near the park’s main entrance makes it easily accessible for visitors providing an opportunity to appreciate the park’s historical significance and architectural charm amidst the rejuvenating ambiance of spring.

Bird Watching

Springtime at St. Francois State Park offers prime birdwatching opportunities as migratory species return and resident birds become more active. The park’s diverse habitats including woodlands and wetlands attract a variety of bird species making it an ideal destination for birdwatching enthusiasts. RV campers can spot warblers woodpeckers and other avian residents while exploring the park’s trails and serene natural settings creating memorable encounters with the region’s feathered inhabitants.

Photography at Coonville Creek

The tranquil beauty of Coonville Creek in spring provides an enchanting backdrop for photographers seeking captivating natural scenery. RV campers can capture the serene flow of the creek framed by the lush foliage and vibrant wildflowers that bloom along its banks. The picturesque setting offers a wealth of opportunities for capturing stunning images from close-up shots of blooming flowers to scenic landscapes that showcase the park’s natural splendor during the spring season.

Springtime Hiking

Spring is an ideal time for RV campers to explore the park’s scenic trails and immerse themselves in the rejuvenating ambiance of the season. The Coonville Creek Trail in particular offers a captivating hiking experience amidst the vibrant landscapes of spring. As nature awakens hikers can witness the emergence of new growth blossoming wildflowers and the revitalization of the park’s natural surroundings creating a memorable and invigorating outdoor adventure.

  • Summer activities

summertime RV campers at St. Francois State Park can enjoy a variety of seasonal activities and attractions

Swimming and Picnicking at Big River

The summer heat invites visitors to cool off in the refreshing waters of Big River where a designated swimming area provides a perfect spot for aquatic recreation. Families can also indulge in picnicking along the riverbank creating memorable moments amidst the serene natural surroundings.

Canoeing and Kayaking on the Lakes

The park’s tranquil lakes offer ideal conditions for canoeing and kayaking adventures during the summer months. RV campers can explore the calm waters admiring the scenic beauty of the park from a unique perspective while enjoying the peaceful ambiance of the summer season.

Evening Campfire Gatherings

Summer evenings at the park provide an inviting setting for campfire gatherings where RV campers can come together to share stories roast marshmallows and enjoy the camaraderie of outdoor living. The crackling campfire and the starry night sky create a warm and inviting atmosphere for socializing and relaxation.

Guided Nature Walks and Interpretive Programs

The summer season brings opportunities for guided nature walks and interpretive programs at St. Francois State Park. Knowledgeable park rangers lead informative excursions providing insights into the park’s natural history wildlife and ecological significance offering educational and engaging experiences for RV campers seeking to deepen their understanding of the park’s natural wonders.

Scenic Photography at Sunset

The long summer days culminate in breathtaking sunsets providing captivating opportunities for photographers to capture the park’s natural beauty in the warm glow of the evening light. RV campers can seek out scenic viewpoints and tranquil settings to witness and photograph the stunning sunset vistas creating lasting memories of the summer season at St. Francois State Park.

  • Fall activities

Fall Foliage Hikes

The park’s network of trails becomes adorned with the vibrant hues of autumn foliage creating a picturesque backdrop for hiking adventures. RV campers can traverse the Coonville Creek Trail and other scenic routes immersing themselves in the breathtaking beauty of the changing leaves and capturing the essence of fall through leisurely walks amidst the colorful landscapes.

Bird Migration Watching

Fall brings the spectacle of bird migration to St. Francois State Park attracting birdwatching enthusiasts eager to witness the seasonal movements of avian species. RV campers can observe migratory birds as they pass through the park offering opportunities to spot a diverse array of feathered visitors and appreciate the natural rhythms of migration.

Fall Photography Excursions

The park’s scenic vistas and woodland settings provide captivating opportunities for photographers to capture the splendor of autumn. RV campers can seek out prime locations for photographing the fall foliage serene lakes and the park’s natural landscapes creating stunning images that showcase the vibrant colors and seasonal beauty of St. Francois State Park during the autumn season.

Nature Interpretation Programs

Fall at St. Francois State Park brings opportunities for nature interpretation programs and guided walks that highlight the ecological and wildlife aspects of the season. Park rangers lead informative excursions shedding light on the park’s natural history the behaviors of wildlife during the fall and the ecological significance of the changing seasons offering engaging and educational experiences for RV campers seeking to deepen their understanding of the park’s natural wonders.

Scenic Drives and Overlooks

The park’s scenic roads and overlooks provide ideal settings for RV campers to embark on leisurely drives and admire the panoramic views of the fall foliage. Visitors can traverse the park’s roads stopping at designated overlooks to behold the sweeping vistas of the autumn landscapes providing an opportunity to appreciate the seasonal splendor from the comfort of their vehicles.

  • Winter activities

Winter Hiking and Scenic Views

The park’s trails transform into tranquil winter wonderlands inviting RV campers to embark on invigorating hikes amidst the serene beauty of the snow-dusted landscapes. Scenic overlooks along the trails provide breathtaking views of the winter scenery offering opportunities to capture the park’s natural splendor in its frosty tranquil state.

Wildlife Tracking and Observation

Winter provides a unique opportunity for RV campers to engage in wildlife tracking and observation as the snow reveals traces of animal movements and behaviors. Visitors can explore the park’s woodlands and open spaces seeking signs of wildlife activity and observing the winter behaviors of resident animals creating memorable encounters with the park’s natural inhabitants in their seasonal habitats.

Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing

The park’s snowy terrain offers ideal conditions for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing adventures allowing RV campers to traverse the winter landscapes and enjoy the invigorating exercise and scenic beauty of the park in its snow-covered state. The park’s trails become pathways for winter exploration providing opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to experience the tranquility and natural allure of the winter season.

Winter Photography

The park’s winter landscapes create captivating opportunities for photographers to capture the serene beauty of the season. RV campers can seek out scenic viewpoints and tranquil settings to photograph the snow-covered woodlands frozen lakes and the park’s natural features creating stunning images that showcase the enchanting winter scenery of St. Francois State Park.

Cozy Campfire Gatherings

Winter evenings at the park offer an inviting setting for cozy campfire gatherings where RV campers can gather around the warmth of the fire share stories and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the winter season. The crackling campfire and the starry night sky create a comforting atmosphere for relaxation and camaraderie amidst the tranquility of the winter landscapes.

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