Silver Mines
4.5989 reviewsMARK TWAIN
Silver Mines
$15.00 - $100.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
Hookup Site Fee$25.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$100.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $15 for tent-only sites without electricity to $100 for large group sites accommodating up to 100 people. Additional fees may apply for extra vehicles and reservation changes or cancellations.
About this campground
Nestled along the banks of Missouri's only whitewater river, Silver Mines Campground beckons adventurers with its perfect blend of natural beauty and rich history. Here, where silver prospectors once sought their fortunes, modern-day explorers find treasures of a different kind: pristine waters perfect for kayaking and swimming, scenic trails that wind through ancient forests, and some of the best fishing spots in the region. Whether you're settling into one of the well-appointed single-family campsites or gathering with friends at a spacious group site, you'll appreciate the convenience of 30-amp electric hookups at select locations, making your wilderness retreat as comfortable as it is memorable.
The campground provides options for tent camping, RV camping, and group camping. Some sites include electric hookups, accommodating a variety of camping preferences.
Historical SignificanceBefore campers pitched their first tent here, prospectors wielded pickaxes in these hills, drawn by whispers of silver veins hidden in the ancient rock. Today's Silver Mines Campground stands as a living monument to this fascinating chapter of Missouri's mining heritage. Though the miners have long departed, their legacy remains etched into the landscape, offering visitors a unique opportunity to camp where history was literally unearthed. The old mining sites serve as silent storytellers, adding layers of intrigue to every hike and adding depth to campfire conversations under the stars.
Weather and SeasonsEach season brings its own magic to Silver Mines Campground. Spring arrives with a rush of excitement as snowmelt and rainfall swell the St. Francis River, creating thrilling conditions that draw kayakers from across the Midwest. As summer unfolds, warm temperatures transform the river into a natural swimming pool, while anglers find the calmer waters perfect for casting their lines. Seasoned campers come prepared for nature's unpredictability – afternoon thunderstorms can sweep through dramatically, and the lush forest environment means tick protection is essential. Yet these small considerations pale compared to the rewards of experiencing this dynamic landscape through the changing seasons.
ElevationThe campground's gentle terrain makes it accessible to campers of all abilities, with sites thoughtfully positioned to take advantage of the natural landscape's contours and the cooling breezes from the river valley.
Natural Features and SceneryPrepare to be captivated by a landscape that tells a story billions of years in the making. The St. Francis River has carved its path through some of the oldest exposed rock in North America, revealing stunning formations of Precambrian granite and felsite that create a geological wonderland. As Missouri's sole whitewater river, it offers a rare combination of rushing rapids and peaceful pools, all framed by towering hardwoods and delicate wildflowers. Wildlife thrives in this protected habitat – deer emerge at dawn to drink from the river's edge, wild turkeys strut through the underbrush, and if you're lucky, you might spot a river otter playing in the current. Every sunrise paints these ancient rocks in new colors, ensuring that no two mornings at Silver Mines are ever quite the same.
Geological RegionSilver Mines Campground sits within the majestic Mark Twain National Forest, where the St. Francis River has performed a million-year masterpiece of erosion through billion-year-old bedrock. This remarkable setting showcases some of North America's most ancient geological formations – Precambrian granite and felsite rocks that predate most life on Earth. As Missouri's only whitewater river, the St. Francis has sculpted a unique recreational playground through these primordial stones, creating dramatic shut-ins, peaceful pools, and rapids that challenge and delight paddlers. This rare combination of ancient geology and dynamic water features makes the campground a destination unlike any other in the Midwest, where every rock face tells a story that began before the continents took their current shape.
Campsite details
AccessibilityVault toilets and some facilities are described as accessible, but detailed accessibility evaluations are not provided in the source.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as spacious and large, suitable for both RVs and tents. Specific dimensions or measurements are not provided.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies depending on the loop and site. Some sites, like those in the Spring Branch loop, are described as secluded and surrounded by trees, while others note less privacy due to proximity to neighboring sites.
Total Campsites74 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose riverside sites for proximity to water and scenic views. Sites in the Spring Branch Loop are more rustic and peaceful.
Best CampsitesSite #12 is highlighted for its riverside location and spaciousness. Site #9 also has water access, and site #41 is noted for its privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Group sites accommodate up to 100 people, while single-family campsites and RV sites vary.
Groups
Group sites can accommodate up to 75 and 100 people. Additional details like space dimensions or vehicle limits are not mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features multiple loops, including the River Loop and Spring Branch Loop. Sites vary between asphalt, grass, gravel, or dirt parking spurs.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground operates seasonally, opening on March 6 and closing on October 30.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled with a $10 fee and additional charges for late cancellations, including forfeiting the first night's fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Silver Mines Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Activities include hiking, fishing, swimming, and boating. The location along the St. Francis River enhances opportunities for water-based recreation.
Hiking
The campground features the 2-mile Silver Mines Trail, which follows both sides of the river and connects to picnic areas. A 1.2-mile trail leads to a conservation area with spectacular rock formations. User reviews highlight the hiking experience: "The hiking trail along the river is beautiful," and "Nice hikes along the river and to Millstream Gardens."Fishing
Fishing is permitted and described as good in parts of the St. Francis River. Specific fish species or quality of fishing were not detailed.Swimming
Some sections of the St. Francis River are available for swimming and are described as easily accessible and family-friendly. A review noted, "The dam area is cool to swim with kids."Boating
Boating, particularly whitewater kayaking, is a popular activity during spring when water levels rise. An annual kayaking competition is held in March.Wildlife viewing
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, enhancing the experience for nature enthusiasts. Specific species are not mentioned.Water Sports
Whitewater kayaking is a highlight, especially during spring when the river is classified as a whitewater river in Missouri.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours are not specified, but noise from campers has been reported.
Hazards
General hazardsTicks and mosquitoes are prevalent. "Ticks were pretty bad," and "lots of bugs," according to user reviews. Water levels can vary, making some activities more challenging.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 35%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6.2 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services including hospitals and police stations are located in Fredericktown, approximately 4 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 6, 2025 - October 30, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available, but specific details such as pickup schedules or recycling options are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresSt. Francis River is adjacent to the campground, providing opportunities for swimming, fishing, and kayaking. The Millstream Gardens Conservation Area is nearby.
Common complaintsLack of showers and a dump station are frequently noted. "No dump station or showers!" "Bathrooms were so bad you could not even go into them." Noise from nearby campers and highways were also mentioned.
HostCampground hosts are praised for their friendliness and helpfulness: "Hosts were amazing and helpful," "Camp hosts checked up on us regularly."
Campground Map
MARK TWAIN
Driving directionsFrom St. Louis, Missouri, take I-55 south to Festus, then take Highway 67 south to Fredericktown, then take Highway 72 west for approximately 4 miles to Highway D. Turn left and travel approximately 2 miles on Highway D to the recreation area.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, though signage leading to the campground is considered difficult to spot, especially in the dark, as noted in user reviews: "The sign on the road is a typical national forest brown wooden sign and very hard to see in the dark."Nearby places
Fredericktown (approximately 4 miles)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and other essentials can be found in Fredericktown, approximately 4 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.6
89 reviews
Silver Mines is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, user reviews for Silver Mines Campground are mixed, with frequent praise for the scenic beauty, cleanliness, and friendly hosts, but consistent complaints about the lack of showers, dump stations, and occasional noise or maintenance issues.
Review Summaries
Based on 89 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently commend the campground's cleanliness, spacious sites, and proximity to the St. Francis River. Comments like "Beautiful park on the St Francis River" and "The site pads are all paved...
Based on 89 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the absence of showers and dump stations, noise from neighboring campers or nearby highways, and occasional maintenance issues with bathrooms.
Based on 89 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend planning for the lack of showers and dump stations by bringing portable solutions. They also suggest exploring the hiking trails and nearby attractions like Millstream Gardens.
Based on 89 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring is noted for kayaking due to high water levels, while summer brings opportunities for swimming and fishing. Fall is recommended for its quieter atmosphere and scenic foliage.
Based on 89 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Beautiful area but the bathrooms were so bad you could not even go into them." "Loved our stay at Silver Mines; it was clean and quiet at night; and the trails are beautiful!" "The camp hosts were...
Based on 89 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #5 is described as flat and spacious with ample sun. Site #9 has water access directly at the campsite. Sites in Spring Branch loop are noted for their seclusion. Group sites are criticized for...
Based on 89 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews from users with disabilities, but accessible vault toilets are mentioned.
Based on 89 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but specific reviews regarding pet policies or experiences are not noted.
Based on 89 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025