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Just minutes from Columbia, Rock Bridge Memorial State Park gives visitors the chance to scramble, hike and bicycle through a scenic environment – and lets them peek into Missouri’s underworld. The park contains some of the most popular hiking trails in the state and also offers solitude while hiking in the Gans Creek Wild Area. Visitors can also see a large cave system with its rock bridge, sinkholes, a spring and underground stream at the Devil's Icebox. You can explore Connor's Cave in the light of the opening for a taste of the underground world.
Non-profit, educational or Scout groups can take advantage of the special-use area for overnight primitive camping. It features two fire rings, a vault toilet and several picnic tables. There is no water or electricity. The cost is $2 per person, per night. Reservations are required. For more information, call 573-449-7402.
Camping Fees
Nightly camping rates vary from campground to campground based on different criteria. Campsites with an electric amenity (electric, electric/water, sewer/electric/water) are priced differently for those with 30 amp. service than for those with 50 amp. service (premium). The links below are full listings of the camping rates by facility, broken down by season.
2017 On-Season Rates
(April 1-Oct. 31)*
2017 Off-Season Rates
(Nov. 1-March 31)*
*Exceptions to Season Timelines
At Roaring River, Bennett Spring, and Montauk state parks, the on-season begins Feb. 25. Some northern parks begin on-season operations on April 15. The on-season for Table Rock State Park runs from March through November.
Nine Missouri state park campgrounds offer "value camping" with lower rates that vary depending on the day and season. These value campsites provide you with an even more economical alternative for spending the night and may encourage you to discover a new state park you have not tried before. When you are planning a camping trip, consider staying at one of the following state parks and take advantage of their "value camping:" Graham Cave, Lake Wappapello, Pomme de Terre, Robertsville, Stockton, Harry S Truman, Mark Twain, Van Meter. or Washington. You may discover a new "favorite" park.
Reservation Fees
When making an advance reservation, additional fees apply as listed below. The reservation fee is nonrefundable. These fees apply for each site reserved.
General Camping
Group Tent Area
(Meramec State Park)
To make a reservation $8.50 $8.50
To change a reservation $5.25 $10
To cancel a reservation $8.50* $10*
*This is in addition to the forfeiture of the original reservation fee paid at the time of the reservation.
The Devils Icebox is a must see! While its not huge, its a fun hike and kids will love to explore. Be sure to wear good hiking shoes/boots and bring a flashlight even in daylight to explore the cave. We were lucky to see bats roosting in the ceiling. The park could use better markers along the trails
Awesome trails to hike and only a few minutes from Columbia. Great place to take in the forest scenery, explore the cave-like rock formation, and see some local wildlife.
Bring bug spray, wear hiking shoes of you plan on taking trails other than the walkway, and stop by Pierpont for a meal after the hike.
I absolutely love Rock Bridge! I love hiking year-round on the many miles of trails. Trails available for a range of abilities (although not wheelchair accessible). I do recommend using a map if unfamiliar with the area. Lately, I've been exploring the Shooting Star Trail, which is just past Pierpont. RBMSP is my happy place.
Wonderful place! Beautiful scenery! A enjoyed the trip! The day we went the parking lot was full so we crossed the road and used another. Parts are handicapped accessible.
