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Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park Campground

Camp amidst nature's waterpark in the Missouri Ozarks; explore natural waterslides, hiking trails, and a landscape shaped by ancient geology.

4.8

Nestled in the heart of the Missouri Ozarks, Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park Campground offers a unique camping experience within a natural waterpark. The 'shut-ins' are a series of rock formations carved by the East Fork Black River, creating chutes, pools, and gentle waterfalls for visitors to explore.

A brief summary to Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park Campground

Local tips

  • Reserve your campsite well in advance, especially during the peak season (spring to fall), as this is a popular destination.
  • Bring water shoes to protect your feet while exploring the shut-ins, as the rocks can be slippery and uneven.
  • Be aware that cell service is limited in the campground, but WiFi is available at the camp store.
  • Check the park's website for current firewood advisories and restrictions before your visit.
  • Explore the park's hiking trails, including the Shut-Ins Trail, Black River Trail, and Scour Trail, to experience the diverse landscapes and learn about the park's history.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park Campground is located approximately two hours south of St. Louis. From St. Louis, take Highway 21 south and then turn east onto Highway N, which leads directly to the park entrance. Once inside the park, follow the signs to the campground. Parking is available at your campsite. Note that Highway 21 can be curvy and steep in some areas, so drive carefully if you are driving a large RV or pulling a trailer. There are no fees to enter the park or campground, but camping fees apply. Camping costs vary depending on the type of site, ranging from $14 to $35 per night.

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Discover more about Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park Campground

Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park Campground is located within Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park, a sprawling 9,432-acre natural wonderland in Reynolds County, Missouri. The park's name comes from the unique geological formations known as 'shut-ins,' where the East Fork Black River is forced through a narrow channel of billion-year-old volcanic rock. Over time, the water has eroded the rock, creating a series of natural waterslides, pools, and small waterfalls, making it a popular destination for swimming and water recreation. The campground offers a variety of camping options, from basic walk-in tent sites to full hook-up RV sites. There are also equestrian campsites available for those who want to bring their horses and explore the park's extensive trail system. The campground is open year-round, with potable water available at frost-free spigots during the off-season. Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park has a rich history, dating back to the mid-1800s when the Scots-Irish Johnston family settled in the area. Three generations of Johnstons farmed the land, and 36 members of the family are buried in a small cemetery within the park. Later, St. Louis resident Joseph Desloge purchased much of the land and donated it to the state in 1955, establishing Johnson's Shut-Ins as a Missouri State Park. In 2005, the park was devastated by a catastrophic flood caused by the failure of the Taum Sauk pumped storage plant reservoir. The flood wiped out the park's campground and caused extensive damage to the natural features. However, the park has since been rebuilt and restored, with a new campground opening in 2010. Today, Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park is once again a popular destination for outdoor recreation, attracting visitors from all over the country.

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