Fredericktown, Illinois · Madison County · Campground
Overview Silver Mines Campground is located on the St. Francis River in the Mark Twain National Forest. It offers a variety of recreational opportunities and abundant historic and geological wonders. Recreation Parts of the river are available for swimming, while other portions provide good fishing. Whitewater kayaking…
Overview Silver Mines Campground is located on the St. Francis River in the Mark Twain National Forest. It offers a variety of recreational opportunities and abundant historic and geological wonders. Recreation Parts of the river are available for swimming, while other portions provide good fishing. Whitewater kayaking is a popular activity during the springtime when water runs high. Depending on water levels, the state holds an annual kayaking competition the third weekend of March. The 2-mile Silver Mines Trail follows both sides of the river, leading to various picnic areas. A 1.2-mile trail spurs to a popular conservation area, where visitors can view spectacular rock formations along the river. Facilities The campground offers dozens of single-family campsites, as well as large group sites, all available for tent and RV camping. Some sites have 30-amp electric hookups. The large group site can accommodate up to 74 people. Additional sites are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.Picnic tables and campfire rings with grills are provided, as are accessible vault toilets and drinking water. Parking spurs vary from asphalt, to grass, to gravel or dirt. Natural Features This beautiful area is located along the St. Francis River, the only river in Missouri classified as a whitewater river. It is widely used for kayaking during springtime. The campground is located at a historic mining operation and is known for its Precambrian granite and felsite rocks. A variety of wildlife makes its home in the area. Nearby Attractions The Millstream Gardens Conservation Area is located eight miles west of Fredericktown, or four miles west of the campground, on Highway 72. It is home to the scenic Tiemann Shut-ins and other spectacular sights along the riverbed.
Photos
St. Francis River Uptream From Footbridge — US Forest ServiceSt Francis River — Mark Twain National ForestSt Francis River — Mark Twain National ForestWading by Old Dam — US Forest ServiceSt. Francis River Uptream From Footbridge — US Forest ServiceFootbridge Crossing St. Francis River — US Forest ServiceTurkey Creek Picnic Area at Silver Mines — US Forest ServiceKayakers by old mining company dam on St. Francis riverHawk Perched on Sign at Silver Mines — US Forest ServiceKayakers Playing Around Old Minig Company Dam — US Forest ServiceWinter time view of St. Francis River — Mark Twain National Forest
How to Get There
From St. Louis, Missouri, take I-55 south to Festus, then take Highway 67 south to Fredericktown, then take Highway 72 west for approximately 4 miles to Highway D. Turn left and travel approximately 2 miles on Highway D to the recreation area.
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to SILVER MINES
Heading to SILVER MINES? A few things to know before you go:
Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for SILVER MINES?
No central reservation system listed for SILVER MINES. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232392) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How many campsites are at SILVER MINES?
SILVER MINES has 76 campsites. Site amenities (hookups, vehicle limits, ADA access) vary — see the individual campsite pages for details.
How do I get to SILVER MINES?
From St. Louis, Missouri, take I-55 south to Festus, then take Highway 67 south to Fredericktown, then take Highway 72 west for approximately 4 miles to Highway D. Turn left and travel approximately 2 miles on Highway D to the recreation area.
