Reservations
How to book campsites for four families—and the permits we’ll need.
Table of Contents
- Book Camping Through Missouri State Parks
- Picking Sites for the Group
- What Camping Costs
- Fishing Permits (don’t skip this)
- Boats & Bikes — No Reservation Needed
- Reservation Checklist
Book Camping Through Missouri State Parks
Cuivre River campsites are reserved online or by phone:
- Online: icampmo1.usedirect.com/MoStateParksWeb
- Phone: 877-422-6766 (Missouri State Parks reservations)
- Park office: (636) 528-7247 for questions about specific sites
The Fourth of July books fast. Our trip spans the holiday weekend, the busiest camping week of the year. Reserve as early as the booking window allows and grab adjacent sites in the same loop before they’re gone.
Picking Sites for the Group
We want four sites close together—ideally adjacent or in the same loop—so kids can move between camps and we can share one fire and canopy.
Match site type to each family’s rig:
| Family setup | Site type to book |
|---|---|
| RV / camper with hookups | Sewer / Electric / Water or Electric |
| Camper needing power | Electric (up to 50-amp on some) |
| Tent camping | Basic (or electric for fans/fridge) |
Tips:
- In July heat, an electric site is worth it for a fan, a powered cooler, or charging—book electric where you can.
- Note each site’s max occupancy and vehicle limits when booking; our group has several vehicles plus boat/bike racks.
- Ask the office which loops are closest to the showers, beach, and amphitheater.
What Camping Costs
Fees are per site, per night, and vary by type (roughly basic < electric < full hookup). Each family pays for its own site. Confirm current rates at booking—prices are set by Missouri State Parks and can change season to season.
There is no separate entrance fee—Missouri State Parks are free to enter.
Fishing Permits (don’t skip this)
Most adults need a Missouri fishing permit. Buy before the trip:
- Where: mdc.mo.gov/buy-permits, the MO Fishing app, or local vendors (Walmart in Troy).
- Who needs one: Generally anglers 16–64. Kids under 16 fish free. Missouri residents 65+ have a reduced/exempt status—check current rules.
- Options: A short-term (e.g., daily) permit can be cheaper if you’ll only fish a day or two; an annual permit pays off if you fish often.
Confirm the latest rules and prices on the MDC site before you buy.
See the Fishing guide for what to bring and where to cast.
Boats & Bikes — No Reservation Needed
- Kayaks/canoes: Just bring them. Lake Lincoln is electric-motor-only; no permit needed for paddle craft. PFDs required for kids.
- Bikes: Free to ride park roads and the two mountain-bike trails. No pass needed.
Reservation Checklist
- Pick dates: July 1–7, 2026 (check-in/check-out times vary—confirm at booking)
- Book 4 sites, clustered, matched to each family’s setup
- Save all confirmation numbers in the group chat
- Adults buy Missouri fishing permits
- Note shower/beach/amphitheater proximity
- Confirm pet rules if anyone brings a dog (leashed, attended)