Three Season Camping: Silver Mines, Missouri

For those of us that have discovered Silver Mines Campground in Missouri the only reason we need to go there is "let's go camping". Read on if you've never taken advantage of this gem of a spot.

Silver Mines Campground is named for the silver mine that played out in the 1920s (the now gated entrance is Pic #1) near the campgrounds. Situated on the St. Francis River in the Mark Twain National Forest it is a nice two hour drive from St. Louis.

You won't mind car camping at Silver Mines because there is so much to do you won't spend much time in camp anyway. Open from March to November you can go multiple times a year and do different activities.

Let's start in March. March is time for the American Whitewater Championship kayak races. There are few better venues for this event than the rocks and dam overlooking the St. Francis river just minutes from the campsites. The dam is broken down at one end creating a powerful sluice that shoots kayaks through (see Pic #2). More experienced, or maybe just brave kayakers take their craft up on the dam and drop twenty to forty feet into the swift river. Whether you go on the weekend the course is set-up or for the race it is a great time. Be prepared for late nights these weekends because it is a party.

April and May is great for wildflowers, critter watching and long hikes. The weather is still on the cool side, the bugs aren't too bad, and the flowers are popping up color all over. Perfect time to walk the mile long trails that parallel both sides of the St. Francis river; one leading to the site of the silver mines. Another mile or so upriver will bring you to the Millstream Garden trail. The views are spectacular (see Pic #3) no matter what trail you choose. Always keep your eyes open and camera ready for critter sightings. All kinds of birds from osprey to cardinals, and hawks to blue birds can be sighted by the alert birdwatcher. We have seen deer, skunk, opossum and "it might've been" a snapping turtle.

Hot and humid are the norm for Missouri in June, July and August. The cool inviting St. Francis river is a short walk away from the campsites. Around the old dam the water is deep enough to dive from the top if you're brave. There are plenty of shallow places with little current for those just looking to beat the heat. Bring along fishing gear and find great spots to cast for smallmouth bass, pan fish and catfish (see Pic #4).

These are also the best months for snakes. Watch the cracks and ledges along the dam. Missouri water snakes can be seen slithering about. The boulders and rocks that edge the river are home to many varieties of snakes and lizards so watch where you step.

September and October are warm during the day and cooler at night. Perfect days for snuggling in sleeping bags in the morning before rising for a steaming cup of coffee. It is usually warm enough to fish, hike and maybe even a short swim under the sun. Retire to the campsite a couple of hours before dark and fix a delicious meal. Open a bottle of wine and snuggle under a blanket to watch the stars fill the sky.

At any time of the year it is great to bring your bicycle. Plenty of paved loops to ride around and see the scenery.

There are 26 spaces to choose from at Silver Mine and bathroom facilities are available. A pump supplies fresh water. Each site has a permanent firepit, picnic table, and a metal pole with hook to hang trash bags from (See Pic #5).

Silver Mines is just off Highway 67 to Highway 72 takes you to Highway D and then the Forest Service paved road. You can't miss the sign. Find out more at the Forest Service website.