Camping Rules

Check-In Time

Check-in begins at 3 p.m. 

Checkout Time

Checkout is at 2 p.m. Campers must remove all trash from their campsite before departing.

Designated Campsites and Campsite Availability

General camping is restricted to designated campsites. Before setting up camp at an unoccupied campsite, you must receive confirmation from the park or historic site staff that the site is available. Check-in and same-day reservation procedures are outlined on campground entrance signs.

Campsite Capacity

Maximum typical campsite capacity is two sleeping units (only one of which can be wheeled), two vehicles (non-sleeping units), and six people. Capacity is doubled for family campsites. Exceeding the physical design of the campsite may result in additional fees.

Accessible Campsites

Accessible campsites can be reserved by parties that do not include a person with disabilities only when all non-accessible campsites of the same type are occupied at the given park or site. When this requirement is met, these reservations are available up to seven days in advance.

Non-Camping Visitors

Non-camping visitors must leave the campground by 10 p.m.

Dogs

Only two dogs are recommended per campsite. Pets must be on leashes no longer than 10 feet. Pet bags are generally available. The only pets allowed in most buildings, public swimming areas or waters reserved for fishing are service animals. 

Dogs not working as service animals are permitted in select lodging units through the Cabins for Canines program. Visit the official webpage for specific information. 

Campfires

Campfires are the responsibility of the camper and are restricted to the fire ring or grills provided. Large fires and the burning of trash are strictly prohibited. Campers must completely extinguish all fires before leaving. Portable fire pits are allowed on concrete only. 

Wheeled Vehicles

All wheeled vehicles and trailers must be kept on roads and parking pads except as otherwise permitted by special management regulations.

Motorized Vehicles

The use of all-terrain vehicles, utility terrain vehicles, golf carts, go-karts, etc., is generally not allowed in campgrounds. Allowable motorized vehicles (gas- or battery-powered), such as scooters, Segways, motorized bicycles, hoverboards, etc., must be operated by a licensed driver. The use of personal mobility devices by people with disabilities is allowed. 

If you are unsure whether an item constitutes a personal mobility device or have questions about a vehicle not listed here, you can get more information by contacting the specific park or historic site.

Personal Property

No personal property may be left unattended longer than 24 hours.

Quiet Hours

Quiet hours are 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. Excessive volume is not permitted, and all noise-generating devices must be powered off during quiet hours. Generators are generally not allowed during quiet hours (and are not allowed at all at some facilities). Radios, televisions, musical instruments, barking dogs and other sources of noise can be disruptive to neighboring campers. 

Natural Resources

All plants and animals are protected in Missouri’s state parks and historic sites. Please do not gather or cut firewood, dig holes, use insect-killing devices, collect plants or animals, discharge sewage or gray water on the ground, or engage in any other act that may harm the natural resources.

Attaching Items to Trees

Do not hang lanterns or tie ropes, dog leashes, clotheslines, bungee cords, etc. to trees. Hammocks are allowed to be attached to trees only with a 1-inch nylon strap and at an appropriate height, per code of state regulations.

Shooting Devices

Discharging firearms; BB guns; paintball guns; bow and arrows; slingshots; or any device that uses burning powder, explosives, compressed gases, etc., is prohibited.

Pools, Water Toys and Bounce Houses

Pools and water toys, such as water balloons, Slip ’N Slides and sprinklers pose a safety hazard and can damage natural resources. NO form of pool or water toy will be allowed. Bounce houses may be allowed, but only with an approved Public Assembly and Event Contract. 

Limited Travel Ability

Facilities can make accommodations for bicyclists, backpackers and others with limited ability to travel for the night of their arrival. 

Solicitation and Selling of Items

Both solicitation and the selling of any item are strictly prohibited. This includes the resale of a campsite.

For More Information

Check with the park or historic site staff for more information and any exemptions to the rules listed here.