This Restful Campground in Missouri Is the Next Big Thing in Slow Travel

As an RVer, slow travel is my jam. You can’t be in a big hurry when you’re hauling a 30-foot trailer, and once you get set up in a campsite, who wants to move? In the decade of our rolling travels, I’ve come to love the spots where we can truly relax. While people might think of state parks and other remote locales as the best places to unwind, I’ve found that slow travel for me must include some creature comforts, alongside the serenity of nature. That’s why a campground like Hidden Valley Outfitters near Lebanon, Missouri, checks all of the boxes for a relaxed vacation—even if you don’t have an RV.

The idea of slow travel focuses on truly centering yourself in a destination. Instead of hopping from place to place on a lengthy itinerary, you stay in one spot and let your days unwind naturally. Now, to be honest, this is actually hard for me. As a Type A planner, there’s nothing I love more than a good list—at least, that is, before I spend the days conquering it, leaving me more exhausted than energized. Hence, the need for slow travel.

Picture this: You wake up to the sound of birds chirping (literally), and you spend your day splashing in rippling waters under a canopy of towering oaks. After your skin turns pink from a bit too much sun and your body feels worn to the bone, your belly begins to rumble. There’s no hunger like the hunger you feel after a day spent outdoors. Instead of having to concoct a whole meal or drive for dinner, you simply stroll down to the Trading Post campstore for some pizza on the patio while you look out on the splendid scenery of the Missouri Ozarks. This is what a day at Hidden Valley Outfitters is like.

Hidden Valley Outfitters is located in a deep valley along the Niangua River, with the campground sprawling along a mile-long stretch of clear, spring-fed waters. While many spots in the Ozarks are just as beautiful, this campground is extra special because of its proximity to one of Missouri’s best state parks, Bennett Spring. Tiny trout are plumped up in the hatchery before being released into the river each morning, giving anglers a good shot at a catch. Hidden Valley Outfitters just happens to be downriver, making it a prime spot to cast a line.

Time simply slows down when you’re on the water, which is why Hidden Valley Outfitters captures the essence of slow travel. On our last stay, my teenage son took an inner tube down to the river and read a book while keeping cool. If a little more action is your style, have one member of your group drive you to one end of the campground. Then, hop on your floaties and enjoy a natural lazy river ride to the other end of the park. No advanced planning required.

For more fun on the water, book a float trip. The Niangua River is one of Missouri’s best rivers to float. You don’t even have to leave the park to do so. Hidden Valley Outfitters offers rafts, kayaks, and canoes, or you can bring your own and use their shuttle service. You put in at the park and they’ll pick you up downriver. It’s so easy that even a Type B planner can manage to organize this kind of adventure!

Hidden Valley Outfitters has a handful of adorable cabins that sleep four to six people. You simply show up with your clothes, snacks, and shampoo, and they’ll have everything else you need for a slow travel stay. Or, if you want to fall asleep to the sound of the river, bring a tent and book a spot in the Danceyard Campground. My family stays in the Overnight RV Park, where the full-hookup RV campsites are well spaced and within walking distance to the river. 

Now, let’s get back to that food I mentioned earlier. Though my RV has a full kitchen, I don’t really consider it “slow travel” if I have to cook. I love that I can grab a bite in the Trading Post at Hidden Valley Outfitters. My family’s favorite is the St. Louis-style pizza; the cracker-thin crust is topped by a unique blend of cheeses. You can also get options like hot dogs, burgers, and wings. Or, head across the street to Bennett Spring State Park to eat in the historic 1930 dining lodge. 

If I’ve convinced you that Hidden Valley Outfitters is perfect for a slow travel stay, you can start planning your trip. Unlike our state parks, which book up months in advance, this campground can often be booked at the last minute, other than select weekends and holidays. While I’m happy to share one of my local favorites with you, I hope I don’t regret spilling the secret on this hidden gem!