RV Parks In Memphis, Missouri -- Find Campgrounds
40.4578° N, 92.1713° W
Quick Overview
Memphis, Missouri sits in Scotland County where rolling farmland meets the Chariton River valley, creating a peaceful rural setting that draws RVers seeking authentic Midwest charm. This small agricultural community offers a genuine slice of Missouri life, with wide-open skies, friendly locals, and the kind of quiet that only comes from being surrounded by working farms and pastureland. The town's Main Street still looks much like it did decades ago, complete with locally-owned businesses and that unhurried pace that makes camping here feel like stepping back in time.
The Memphis area features several RV campgrounds and parks, all of which are paid facilities offering various amenities for travelers. You won't find any free camping options here (some free sites), but the paid parks provide solid value with most offering full hookups, clean facilities, and that personal touch you get from family-owned operations. These campgrounds range from basic overnight stops to more developed parks with recreational amenities, giving you flexibility based on your travel style and budget.
From your campsite in Memphis, you're perfectly positioned to explore northeast Missouri's agricultural heritage and outdoor recreation opportunities. The nearby Mark Twain National Forest offers hiking trails, fishing spots, and wildlife viewing just a short drive south. Lake Thunderhead, about 30 minutes away, provides excellent bass fishing and peaceful paddling opportunities. The town itself hosts the annual Memphis Picnic each summer, a community celebration that's been running for over a century and gives visitors a genuine taste of small-town Missouri hospitality.
RVers who prefer full amenities will appreciate the area's developed campgrounds with electrical hookups, water, and sewer connections. Those seeking a more natural experience can find parks with larger sites and fewer neighbors, though truly primitive camping requires a drive to nearby state conservation areas. The region attracts a mix of travelers: retirees exploring the Midwest, families visiting relatives in the area, and hunters heading to the abundant deer and turkey habitat in surrounding counties.
Spring through fall offers the most comfortable camping weather, with mild temperatures and regular rainfall keeping the countryside green. Summer brings warm days perfect for outdoor activities, while fall delivers spectacular colors as the hardwood forests change. Winter camping is possible but limited, as some seasonal campgrounds close during the coldest months.
Whether you're passing through on Highway 136 or planning an extended stay to explore northeast Missouri, Memphis provides a solid base camp with genuine Midwest hospitality.
Top Rated Dump Stations in Memphis
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All Dump Stations Near Memphis
| Station Name | Distance | Rating | Category | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primitive Camping Area | 2.6 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Lake Showme Campground #3 | 2.6 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Lake Showme Campground #1 | 2.7 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Farmers Lake Campground | 7.2 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Lakewood RV Sales | 8.7 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Century View Campground | 10.6 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Halsted's Hideaway Campground | 11.9 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Waubonsie Trail Park Campground | 13.9 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Lake Sugema Campgrounds | 18.1 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Lacey Keosauqua State Park | 19.2 mi | \u2014 | RV Park | Varies |
Primitive Camping Area
2.6 miLake Showme Campground #3
2.6 miLake Showme Campground #1
2.7 miFarmers Lake Campground
7.2 miLakewood RV Sales
8.7 miCentury View Campground
10.6 miHalsted's Hideaway Campground
11.9 miWaubonsie Trail Park Campground
13.9 miLake Sugema Campgrounds
18.1 miLacey Keosauqua State Park
19.2 miTraveling to Memphis by RV
Highway 136 serves as the main east-west route through Memphis, connecting directly to Highway 63 about 20 miles east near Kirksville. This route offers easy access for RVers, with wide shoulders and gentle grades that won't challenge even larger rigs. The drive from Kansas City takes about two and a half hours via Highway 36 east to Chillicothe, then north on Highway 65 to connect with 136. From St. Louis, expect roughly three hours via Highway 63 north through Columbia and Moberly.
The countryside between major cities provides some of Missouri's most scenic rural driving, with rolling hills, historic barns, and working farms creating picture-perfect views. Spring brings wildflowers along the roadsides, while fall offers spectacular color displays from the oak and maple groves scattered throughout the farmland. Take your time on these back roads – they're part of the experience.
RV-specific considerations include limited fuel options in Memphis itself, so top off your tank in larger towns like Kirksville or Macon before arriving. The nearest full-service truck stops with RV lanes are about 30 minutes away in either direction on Highway 63. Grocery shopping is basic in Memphis, with one small market handling essentials but limited fresh produce and specialty items.
For major supplies or repairs, Kirksville offers Walmart, hardware stores, and basic RV services. The roads around Memphis are generally well-maintained, but watch for farm equipment during planting and harvest seasons, especially on the smaller county roads leading to campgrounds outside town.
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Dump Station Costs in Memphis
RV camping rates in Memphis run considerably lower than urban areas, with most parks charging $25-35 per night for full hookups. Budget-conscious travelers can find basic sites with electric and water for around $20-25, while premium spots with sewer, cable, and Wi-Fi might reach $35-40 during peak hunting seasons. Since a portion% of the area's camping options are free and a portion% require payment, you'll need to budget for nightly fees regardless of where you stay.
Seasonal pricing follows hunting and farming patterns rather than traditional tourist seasons. Expect higher rates during deer season (November) and turkey season (April-May) when hunters fill available sites. Summer rates remain steady, while winter often brings discounts as demand drops significantly.
Membership programs like Passport America and Good Sam can provide 10-20% discounts at participating parks, though selection is limited in this rural area. The real savings come from the extended stay rates many local parks offer – weekly and monthly discounts can reduce costs substantially if you're planning a longer visit.
Fuel costs typically run slightly higher than urban areas due to limited competition, so factor that into your travel budget. Grocery prices at the local market reflect the convenience premium of small-town shopping. For significant savings on supplies, plan a shopping trip to Kirksville or Macon where larger stores offer more competitive pricing.
Contact station for pricing details.
Prices may vary. Always confirm with the station before visiting.
What RVers Are Saying About Memphis
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Best Time to Visit Memphis by RV
Winter
December-February
20-40°F
Crowds: Low
Several seasonal campgrounds close; limited services but peaceful atmosphere for winter camping enthusiasts.
Spring
March-May
45-70°F
Crowds: Medium
Turkey hunting season brings crowds in April-May; wildflowers bloom and weather becomes ideal for camping.
Summer
June-August
65-85°F
Crowds: Medium
Peak camping weather with warm days and cool nights; Memphis Picnic in July draws visitors.
Fall
September-November
40-70°F
Crowds: High
Deer hunting season creates highest demand; spectacular fall colors but book early for November stays.
Explore the Memphis Area
The best RV camping experience in Memphis comes from choosing parks that embrace the rural setting rather than fighting it. Look for campgrounds with larger sites that give you room to spread out and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Many of the local parks are family-owned operations where the owners actually live on-site, providing that personal touch and local knowledge you won't get at chain facilities.
Boondockers should know that true free camping isn't available in the immediate Memphis area, but the Mark Twain National Forest about 45 minutes south offers primitive camping opportunities for self-contained RVs. The Thousand Hills State Park near Kirksville also provides a more natural setting with basic amenities at reasonable state park rates.
For activities, the Memphis area shines during hunting seasons, with excellent deer and turkey populations drawing sportsmen from across the Midwest. The Chariton River provides decent fishing for catfish and bass, though access points are limited. Local farmers often welcome visitors during harvest season – just ask permission before exploring or taking photos.
Dining options center around Casey's General Store for basics and the local cafe that serves hearty Midwest fare. Don't expect gourmet options, but the portions are generous and prices fair. For pet owners, the open countryside provides excellent walking opportunities, though keep dogs leashed around livestock areas. The local veterinarian in town handles basic needs, but serious emergencies require a trip to Kirksville.
National Parks Nearby
Other Cities in Missouri
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Read more →Frequently Asked Questions About Dump Stations in Memphis
What are the best RV campgrounds in Memphis, Missouri?
Memphis offers several family-owned RV parks that provide full hookups and personal service typical of small-town operations. Most feature level sites suitable for larger rigs, clean restrooms, and that friendly Midwest hospitality. The best choice depends on whether you prioritize amenities or a more natural setting among the working farms.
Is there free RV camping near Memphis, Missouri?
No free camping exists in the immediate Memphis area, but the Mark Twain National Forest about 45 minutes south offers primitive camping for self-contained RVs. Thousand Hills State Park near Kirksville provides affordable camping with basic amenities at state park rates, typically much less than private campgrounds.
What is the best time of year to camp in Memphis, Missouri?
Late spring through early fall offers the most comfortable weather, with May through September providing ideal camping conditions. Avoid November if possible, as deer hunting season fills campgrounds and drives up rates significantly. Winter camping is possible but several seasonal parks close during the coldest months.
Are there full hookup RV parks in Memphis, Missouri?
Yes, most of the area's RV parks offer full hookups including electric, water, and sewer connections. These family-owned operations typically provide 30 and 50-amp service along with clean facilities. Some also include cable TV and Wi-Fi, though internet speeds may be slower than urban areas.
Can I boondock near Memphis, Missouri?
True boondocking opportunities are limited in the immediate Memphis area, but the Mark Twain National Forest south of town allows primitive camping for self-contained RVs. Some local farmers might allow overnight parking with permission, but this isn't reliable. Most visitors opt for the affordable rates at local RV parks instead.
What activities are available for RVers camping in Memphis, Missouri?
The area excels for hunting enthusiasts, with excellent deer and turkey populations drawing sportsmen from across the Midwest. Fishing opportunities exist along the Chariton River, though access points are limited. The rural setting provides excellent stargazing, farm visits during harvest season, and peaceful walks through working agricultural land.
What are the best RV campgrounds in Memphis, Missouri?
Memphis offers several family-owned RV parks that provide full hookups and personal service typical of small-town operations. Most feature level sites suitable for larger rigs, clean restrooms, and that friendly Midwest hospitality. The best choice depends on whether you prioritize amenities or a more natural setting among the working farms.
Is there free RV camping near Memphis, Missouri?
No free camping exists in the immediate Memphis area, but the Mark Twain National Forest about 45 minutes south offers primitive camping for self-contained RVs. Thousand Hills State Park near Kirksville provides affordable camping with basic amenities at state park rates, typically much less than private campgrounds.
What is the best time of year to camp in Memphis, Missouri?
Late spring through early fall offers the most comfortable weather, with May through September providing ideal camping conditions. Avoid November if possible, as deer hunting season fills campgrounds and drives up rates significantly. Winter camping is possible but several seasonal parks close during the coldest months.
Are there full hookup RV parks in Memphis, Missouri?
Yes, most of the area's RV parks offer full hookups including electric, water, and sewer connections. These family-owned operations typically provide 30 and 50-amp service along with clean facilities. Some also include cable TV and Wi-Fi, though internet speeds may be slower than urban areas.
Can I boondock near Memphis, Missouri?
True boondocking opportunities are limited in the immediate Memphis area, but the Mark Twain National Forest south of town allows primitive camping for self-contained RVs. Some local farmers might allow overnight parking with permission, but this isn't reliable. Most visitors opt for the affordable rates at local RV parks instead.
What activities are available for RVers camping in Memphis, Missouri?
The area excels for hunting enthusiasts, with excellent deer and turkey populations drawing sportsmen from across the Midwest. Fishing opportunities exist along the Chariton River, though access points are limited. The rural setting provides excellent stargazing, farm visits during harvest season, and peaceful walks through working agricultural land.
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