CAMPING & KAYAKING at Cuivre River State Park

A new campground for us, but we have kayaked the lake before. It's not a big lake, but it has some nice little coves to explore and a good launch ramp. Some great hiking trails also.

Cuivre River State Park | Missouri State Parks

Less than an hour from where I live at 44/141, even closer for most of you.

This campground is packed in summer, so let's try it out in the off season.

UPDATE 2/12/26: Just spoke to the park people. As usual, there are no reservations. It's first come/first served. Water is turned off, but spigot available at Site #69. Vault toilet only, located near Site #95. Both are located near entrance to campground loop. We pay when we get there. Cost $27/night or $25/night for seniors. Bring cash. Exact change please.

As always, my campsite is the "quiet zone". Party will be somewhere else.

I'm going to try for site #95 or in that row, just because it backs to woods. Will be arriving late morning on Friday, or noon-ish. I'll have 2 black-ish tents, mine & Kelly's. If #95 looks crappy, I'll be somewhere else. You all know my car.

Bring your dog, your kayak and your hiking gear. We'll figure things out as we go on this one.

If you plan to kayak, be sure to have the right gear. Dress to swim, not to paddle. Water will be ice cold, and none of us are professional rescue people. You'll need knee-high waterproof boots, wet suit pants, and top/coats that don't hold water. No sweatshirts/pants and no big bulky coats..

And be sure to air up your kayak at home and let it sit for 12 hrs, to check for any problems. Just a routine spring check-up.