Missouri / Wayne County

Redman Creek Recreation Area

Open — Open seasonally from mid-March through early November. The campground is currently closed for the winter season and will reopen in spring 2026. Reservations available through Recreation.gov.

About

Redman Creek Recreation Area is one of the premier camping destinations at Wappapello Lake, a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers lake in southeast Missouri. The campground features 109 full-service campsites divided between Redman East and West campground loops, each with its own shower house and playground. All campsites include 50-amp electric, water, and sewer hookups, along with a picnic table, lantern post, and fire pit. Recent improvements at Redman East include newly paved campsites. Some restroom facilities were replaced in 2021. The recreation area offers extensive amenities beyond camping. Water-based activities are popular, with a 4-lane boat ramp with courtesy dock, accessible fishing pier, and seasonal swimming beach providing access to the 8,400-acre Wappapello Lake. The new paved Lake View Trail is a highlight, connecting the entire Wappapello Dam area with multiple trailheads and unique landscapes, perfect for hikers, bikers, and walkers of all abilities. Land-based recreation includes tennis, basketball, sand volleyball courts, and playgrounds available year-round. Day visitors can utilize 17 picnic sites or reserve one of four group shelters. Wappapello Lake sits in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains and is fed by the St. Francis River. The lake and surrounding 45,000 acres of public land offer excellent opportunities for boating, fishing, hunting, and kayaking year-round. The Corps of Engineers provides free, family-oriented programs throughout the operating season, including the popular Festival of Lights Auto Tour during the holiday season. Nearby attractions include the Pine Ridge Nature Trail, Shell Lake Archery Trail, Mingo Wildlife Refuge (11.6 miles), Lake Wappapello State Park (17 miles), and Sam A. Baker State Park (34 miles).

Directions

From St. Louis: Take I-55 south to Highway 67. Go south and turn left on State Highway D. Take Highway D south for 20 miles and look for signs. From Poplar Bluff: Take Highway 60 east to Highway T. Take exit toward Wappapello Lake (north). Continue and look for signs.

Nearby Campgrounds