How to Book a Group Camping Trip at Blue Springs Ranch

Planning a group camping trip requires finding the perfect destination that offers both adventure and convenience. Blue Springs Ranch in Missouri stands out as an exceptional choice with its 150 acres of natural beauty along the Meramec River, offering everything from camping sites to cabin accommodations.

To book a group camping trip at Blue Springs Ranch, call +1 (573) 732-5200 if your arrival is less than 72 hours away, or use their online reservation system for trips further in the future. This family-oriented resort in Bourbon, Missouri, provides a comprehensive vacation experience with activities like floating trips and trail rides that can keep your entire group entertained.

Your group will appreciate the variety of accommodation options at Blue Springs Ranch, from traditional campgrounds to comfortable cabins for those who prefer more amenities. When organizing your trip, consider booking well in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure your group can enjoy this popular outdoor destination together.

Planning Your Group Camping Adventure

Successful group camping trips require thorough planning to ensure everyone enjoys their time at Blue Springs Ranch. Consider your group’s size, preferences, and the booking timeline to create a seamless outdoor experience.

Determining the Group Size and Needs

Before making reservations, establish your final headcount. Blue Springs Ranch accommodates various group sizes, from small family gatherings to large corporate retreats.

Consider the camping experience level of your group members. Are they seasoned campers or first-timers? This will help determine if you need cabins or basic campsites.

Make a list of essential amenities your group requires. Some members might need electricity for medical devices, while others may prioritize proximity to restrooms.

Discuss meal planning in advance. Will you cook communally or individually? Blue Springs Ranch offers campfire areas, but larger groups should plan cooking arrangements carefully.

Consider special accessibility needs within your group. Some campsites are more accessible than others for those with mobility challenges.

Choosing the Ideal Campsite at Blue Springs Ranch

Blue Springs Ranch spans 150 acres along the Meramec River, offering diverse camping options. Each area has unique advantages depending on your group’s preferences.

• Riverside Campsites: Perfect for groups who want immediate water access. These sites fill quickly during peak seasons.
• Cabin Areas: If your group includes less outdoorsy members, consider the resort’s cozy cabins which provide comfort while still enjoying nature.
• RV Sites: For those bringing recreational vehicles, dedicated sites with hookups are available.

Consider proximity to shared facilities like bathhouses, playgrounds, and activity areas based on your group’s priorities. Groups with children might prefer sites near play areas.

Check the campground map online to identify neighboring campsites if you’re bringing multiple families who want to camp adjacent to each other.

Understanding the Booking Process

For group reservations, especially during peak season, book well in advance. If your arrival date is less than 72 hours away, you must call 1-800-333-8007 directly rather than booking online.

Note that cabin check-in time is 4:00 PM, so plan your arrival accordingly. Early arrivals may need to wait to access accommodations.

For large groups, a deposit is typically required to secure your reservation. Ask about group discount rates when booking multiple sites or cabins.

Understand the cancellation policy before finalizing your reservation. Weather conditions can change plans, so know your options.

If your group wants to participate in popular activities like floating trips or trail rides, book these separately from your campsite reservation. These activities often require their own reservations and fill up quickly.

Preparing for the Trip

A successful camping trip to Blue Springs Ranch requires thoughtful preparation before you arrive. Planning ahead ensures everyone in your group will have a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable outdoor experience.

Packing Essentials and Gear

When preparing for Blue Springs Ranch, pack clothing appropriate for the season and weather forecast. Always bring extra layers as Missouri weather can be unpredictable, especially near the Meramec River.

For camping, bring tents, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, and pillows. Don’t forget chairs, coolers, cooking equipment, and lighting solutions such as lanterns and flashlights with extra batteries.

Essential items include:

• Personal items: Toiletries, medications, sunscreen, insect repellent
• Food supplies: Coolers, easy-to-prepare meals, snacks, drinking water
• Camping gear: Firestarter, multi-tool, rope, duct tape
• River activities: Towels, water shoes, dry bags, swimwear

Consider bringing games, musical instruments, or star-gazing equipment for evening entertainment when not enjoying organized ranch activities.

Safety Measures and Guidelines

Familiarize yourself with Blue Springs Ranch’s specific safety rules before arrival. The ranch has established guidelines to ensure everyone’s safety while enjoying their stay.

Create a contact list with everyone’s information and emergency contacts. Designate a first aid coordinator and bring a well-stocked first aid kit with basic medications, bandages, and treatments for common outdoor injuries.

If planning river activities, review water safety protocols with your group. Everyone should understand basic water safety, especially those with limited swimming abilities. Consider bringing life jackets for extra safety during float trips.

Check the weather forecast regularly in the days leading up to your trip. Have a communication plan in place, as cell service may be limited in some areas of the ranch.

Organizing Activities and Itinerary

Create a flexible itinerary that includes both group activities and free time. Blue Springs Ranch offers numerous recreation options including float trips, trail rides, and seasonal events that should be booked in advance.

Consider creating a shared online document with the schedule that all group members can access. Include:

• Meal planning and cooking assignments
• Activity reservations with times and meeting locations
• Carpooling arrangements
• Free time blocks

Mix structured activities with downtime for relaxation. Morning hikes, afternoon river floats, and evening campfires create a balanced experience. For large groups, organize into smaller teams for certain activities.

Remember that activities like float trips and trail rides require advance reservations, especially during peak seasons. Contact the ranch directly to discuss group rates and availability for your preferred activities.