Gasconade Hills Resort

Went on the 6 mile float, we brought 3 of our own kayaks and rented 1 more and a 4 man raft. The river itself was wonderful (other than being slow for the raft which lead to more paddling than they lead on).

Staff was very kind during the check in process and pre-float process. However after floating trying to get my personal kayaks out of the water and into my truck they just acted like we were in the way and were not very helpful. Also didnt even get greeted at the takeout or given instructions on what to do, had to ask if i had to pull my truck down to the takeout or if they would shuttle them up to the parking lot. They also say you can swim at the takeout but it is not a good area for swimming as its a stagnant cove with not the best water and the bottom is a very slippery mud( like almost makes you fall unless youre very careful)

Ive done quite a few floats on various rivers and have never been treated like that at a takeout spot, honestly ruined what was a pretty good day.

Up until the takeout i would have easily gone back and floated there again, however after the lack of customer care at takeout i dont know if id go back.

Also their price for bringing your own kayak is the exact same as if you use one of their kayaks which i think is a bit ridiculous ($40 if your not camping) should be atleast $10 cheaper.

Edit: also at time of our takeout it wasn't like there was a bunch of people there at the same time, there was 2 other people outside of our group.

Owners where nice and friendly. Camp grounds where in good shape and everything worked good and was clean. Our site was gravel once but was now completely grown over and was not very level. Has water access but not really a good swimming spot.

We booked online though an app called HipCamp - The app stated that our site was up along the tree line when all it really did was assign a random lot. They also showed a map with a swimming beach that didn't exist. This was not an issue with the owner more or the app.

There are few places on Earth that feel like they were handcrafted by the Big Guy upstairs on his day off the Gasconade Hills Resort is one of them. Me and my wife? We don’t just float the river… we become one with it. Two kayaks, one tiny but fierce chihuahua in a life vest that’s probably seen more rapids than most Boy Scouts, and a cooler full of snacks(and Root beer). That’s our happy place.  There’s something magical about gliding down the Gasconade River, the way the trees lean over like old friends waving hello, the sun dappling the water like nature’s disco ball, and the subtle sound of our dog growling at ducks like she's got beef with every mallard on the river. It’s peace. It’s laughter. It’s a floating love story with snacks.  The campsites? Perfect. Flat, quiet, and far enough from neighbors that I could play harmonica badly and not be sued. At night, There’s something timeless about sitting by a crackling fire, good music humming through the trees, and your soulmate by your side it’s where the world fades and the moments that matter come alive.  the stars come out like God forgot to turn off the Christmas lights. We roast marshmallows, tell stories, and try to keep the dog from stealing hot dogs when we’re not looking.  And here’s the thing, the little wisdom nugget that floats up with you if you listen close enough between the paddle strokes: life is short. Not in a sad way — in a "jump in the water, pack the s’mores, hug your wife, and let the dog lead the way" kind of way. These are the moments that matter. These float trips, this river, this dog with Napoleon syndrome,  this is joy in its purest, splashiest form.  Final verdict? Six stars out of five. One for me, one for my wife, and four for the tiny river captain riding shotgun with a bark that could scare fish. The Gasconade Hills Resort isn’t just a destination. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best way to find yourself… is to float.

Lots of stuff to do for kids like a small playground, basketball court, yard games, bicycles and more. Nice owners that were accommodating. Nice bathrooms! Most campgrounds have working bathrooms but they are usually big infested with no soap. No bugs and hand soap ready! We tent camped with power and will for sure be back. Highly recommend!

Everything from before the visit all the way through went great. We had to reschedule once due to illness and ended up arriving very late for our first night; both times Sheila, the owner, was very easy to work with to make arrangements. The campsite was well maintained and had great amenities including very clean bathrooms with hot showers. We didn't get to use all of the amenities, but it seemed like they had something for everyone including kids of all ages. The canoe trip (we chose the six mile option that ended at the resort) was lovely. I couldn't have asked for a nicer weekend trip.