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Wilderness Lodge

3.0 star property
After a day of volleyball and basketball, travelers gather around the firepit to unwind or enjoy the seasonal outdoor pool for some sunshine and relaxation.

Choose dates to view prices

Wilderness Lodge, near Taum Sauk Mountain State Park, is a perfect adventure base. Guests enjoy breakfast before mini golf or relaxing in the spa tub. Volleyball courts and hiking/biking trails offer active options to explore the surrounding wilderness.

Reviews

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • On private beach
  • Pool
  • Hot tub
  • Breakfast included
  • Pet friendly
  • Parking included

Room options

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Showing 8 of 8 rooms

View all photos for Standard Hilltop

Standard Hilltop | Individually decorated, individually furnished, free cribs/infant beds

Standard Hilltop

Highlights

Furnished patio
Separate sitting area
Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Fireplace
Air conditioning
Heating
Connecting rooms available
  • Hill view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Queen Bed and 1 Twin Bed

View all photos for King Hilltop

King Hilltop | Individually decorated, individually furnished, free cribs/infant beds

King Hilltop

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)

Highlights

Furnished patio
Separate sitting area
Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Fireplace
Air conditioning
Heating
Connecting rooms available
  • Hill view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Riverside Suites

Riverside Suites | Individually decorated, individually furnished, free cribs/infant beds

Riverside Suites

Highlights

Furnished patio
Separate sitting area
Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Fireplace
Air conditioning
Heating
Connecting rooms available
  • River view
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 6
  • 2 Queen Beds and 1 Double Sofa Bed

View all photos for Jacks Cabin

Jacks Cabin | Living area | Foosball, table tennis, toys, books

Jacks Cabin

Highlights

Furnished patio
Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Fireplace
Air conditioning
Heating
Connecting rooms available
Free rollaway/extra beds
  • Hill view
  • 3 bedrooms
  • Sleeps 8
  • 2 Queen Beds, 2 Twin Beds and 1 Queen Sofa Bed

View all photos for Upper Turkey Run

Upper Turkey Run | Individually decorated, individually furnished, free cribs/infant beds

Upper Turkey Run

Highlights

Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Heating
Connecting rooms available
Free rollaway/extra beds
Free cribs/infant beds
Mini-fridge
  • Hill view
  • 3 bedrooms
  • Sleeps 8
  • 1 Queen Bed, 2 Twin Beds, 1 Twin Bunk Bed and 1 Queen Sofa Bed

View all photos for Lower Turkey Run

Lower Turkey Run | Individually decorated, individually furnished, free cribs/infant beds

Lower Turkey Run

Highlights

Porch/lanai
Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Heating
Connecting rooms available
Free rollaway/extra beds
Free cribs/infant beds
  • Hill view
  • 2 bedrooms
  • Sleeps 6
  • 1 Queen Bed, 2 Twin Beds and 1 Queen Sofa Bed

View all photos for Rock Cottage

Rock Cottage | Individually decorated, individually furnished, free cribs/infant beds

Rock Cottage

Highlights

Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Connecting rooms available
Free rollaway/extra beds
Free cribs/infant beds
Mini-fridge
2 bedrooms
  • 2 bedrooms
  • Sleeps 5
  • 1 Queen Bed and 2 Twin Beds

View all photos for Summer House

Summer House | Individually decorated, individually furnished, free cribs/infant beds

Summer House

Highlights

Furnished patio
Individually furnished
Individually decorated
Air conditioning
Connecting rooms available
Free rollaway/extra beds
Free cribs/infant beds
Mini-fridge
  • 2 bedrooms
  • Sleeps 7
  • 2 Queen Beds, 1 Twin Bed and 1 Queen Sofa Bed

About the neighborhood

Located in Lesterville, Wilderness Lodge is in a rural area and on a private beach. While the natural beauty of Taum Sauk Mountain State Park and Johnson's Shut-ins State Park can be enjoyed by anyone, those looking for an activity can check out Arcadia Valley Golf Club. Fort Davidson State Historic Site and K Bridge Recreation Area are two other places to visit that come recommended. Looking to get your feet wet? Kayaking, water tubing and rafting adventures can be found near the property. Visit our Lesterville travel guide
View more Lodges in Lesterville
Map
2331 Co Rd 342, Lesterville, MO, 63654

What's nearby

  • Devils tollgate
    Taum Sauk Mountain State Park
    17 min drive - 13.4 km
  • Incredible views and incredible hike all close to our current home... what's not to love? Regardless this beauty is worth the drive. #bestof5 #Missouri #stateparks #colorful #blue Read more about this experience here: https://pagesoftravel.org/2016/05/20/johnson-shut-ins-state-park/
    Johnson's Shut-ins State Park
    23 min drive - 21.4 km
  • A huge granite boulder located in Elephant Rocks State Park
    Elephant Rocks State Park
    46 min drive - 55.3 km
  • Fort Davidson State Historic Site
    40 min drive - 46.8 km
  • K Bridge Recreation Area
    47 min drive - 52.7 km

Getting around

  • Arcadia Valley Station
    36 min drive

Restaurants

  • The Rec Hall
    5 min drive
  • Dining Room at Wilderness Lodge
    6 min walk
  • Rio Rata
    10 min drive
  • Lounge at Wilderness Lodge
    9 min drive
  • BRL Dining Hall
    5 min drive

About this property

Wilderness Lodge

Family-friendly lodge near Taum Sauk Mountain State Park
Consider a stay at Wilderness Lodge and take advantage of free full breakfast, a firepit, and mini golf. Adventurous travelers may like the basketball, fishing, and hiking/biking at this lodge. For some rest and relaxation, visit the hot tub. The on-site restaurant, The Lodge, offers breakfast, lunch, dinner, and pool views. Free WiFi in public areas is available to all guests, along with a playground and an arcade/game room.
You'll also find perks like:
  • A seasonal outdoor pool along with sun loungers and pool umbrellas
  • Free self parking
  • Karaoke, a foosball table, and a TV in the lobby
  • Barbecue grills, luggage storage, and a billiards/pool table
Room features
All guestrooms are individually furnished, and feature comforts such as air conditioning.
More amenities include:
  • Free infant beds and free extra beds
  • Shower/tub combinations and shampoo
  • Mini fridges, coffee/tea makers, and housekeeping

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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Free self parking on site

Food and drink

  • Free full breakfast available daily 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM
  • A bar/lounge
  • A restaurant

Restaurants on site

  • Gravel Bar
  • The Lodge

Things to do

  • Arcade/game room
  • Basketball
  • Billiards/pool table
  • Books
  • Fishing
  • Foosball table
  • Games
  • Hiking/biking trails
  • Hot tub
  • Karaoke
  • Library
  • Mini golf
  • Playground
  • Seasonal outdoor pool
  • Table tennis
  • TV in common areas
  • Volleyball

Family friendly

  • Arcade/game room
  • Baby toys
  • Children's games
  • Children's toys
  • Fenced pool
  • Free rollaway/extra bed
  • In-room crib
  • Mini golf
  • Mini-fridge
  • Playground
  • Pool gate
  • Seasonal outdoor pool

Conveniences

  • Limited-hour front desk
  • Luggage storage
  • Water dispenser

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (on request)
  • Wedding services

Business services

  • 1,500 square feet of conference space
  • 24-hour business center
  • Meeting rooms

Outdoors

  • Barbecue grill
  • Firepit
  • In the mountains
  • On a private beach
  • On a river
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Picnic area
  • Pool loungers
  • Pool umbrellas
  • Telescope

Accessibility

  • No elevator

More

  • 14 buildings
  • Built in 1903
  • Communal living room
  • Designated smoking areas
  • Traditional architecture

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided
  • Free crib
  • Free rollaway/extra bed

Bathroom

  • Shampoo
  • Shower/bathtub combination
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Food and drink

  • Champagne service
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Mini-fridge

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Connecting rooms available
  • Individual decor
  • Individual furnishings

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:30 PM; Check-in end time: 9:00 PM
Late check-in subject to availability
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

The front desk is open daily from 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Guests must contact the property in advance for check-in instructions; front desk staffed during limited hours
To make arrangements for check-in please contact the property at least 48 hours before arrival using the information on the booking confirmation
If you are planning to arrive after 9:00 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Front desk (limited hours)

Pets

Pets allowed for an extra charge of USD 40 per accommodation, per stay, plus a deposit of USD 40 per stay
Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees
Welcoming dogs and cats only
2 total pets
Restrictions apply; for more information contact the property at the number on the booking confirmation

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome
Free rollaway/extra beds
Free cribs are available on request at the property

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

  • Pet deposit: USD 40 per stay
  • Pet fee: USD 40 per accommodation, per stay
  • Service animals are exempt from fees

The above list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits may not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash
Cashless transactions are available
Parties and events are allowed on site
Safety features at this property include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, and a smoke detector
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room

We should mention

This property does not have elevators
The seasonal pool will be open from May to September
The property has connecting/adjoining rooms, which are subject to availability and can be requested by contacting the property using the number on the booking confirmation
This property welcomes guests of all sexual orientations and gender identities (LGBTQ+ friendly)

Property is also known as

Wilderness Lodge Lodge
Wilderness Lodge Lesterville
Wilderness Lodge Lodge Lesterville

Frequently asked questions

Does Wilderness Lodge have a pool?

Yes, this property has a seasonal outdoor pool.

Is Wilderness Lodge pet-friendly?

Yes, this lodge allows cats and dogs (limit 2 total). There's a deposit of USD 40 per stay and a fee of USD 40 per accommodation, per stay. Service animals are exempt from fees. Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.

How much is parking?

Self parking is free at this property.

What time is check-in at Wilderness Lodge?

Check-in start time: 3:30 PM; Check-in end time: 9:00 PM. Late check-in is available during limited hours.

What time is check-out at Wilderness Lodge?

Check-out is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Wilderness Lodge located?

Located on a river, this family-friendly lodge is 6.6 mi (10.6 km) from Taum Sauk Mountain State Park and 10.9 mi (17.5 km) from Johnson's Shut-ins State Park. Arcadia Valley Golf Club and Fort Davidson State Historic Site are also within 25 mi (40 km).

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Reviews

Wilderness Lodge Reviews

9.4

Exceptional

8.8

Cleanliness

8.8

Amenities

9.6

Staff & service

8.6

Property conditions & facilities
Rating 10 - Excellent. 26 out of 34 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 4 out of 34 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 4 out of 34 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 34 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 34 reviews

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Jill

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great food, staff is very friendly and accommodating, clean cabins.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Gary

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Food and service was excellent, such a peaceful place.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jill

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great place. Cabin was very clean, loved the decor and the staff. Food was excellent!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Gary

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The staff are all terrific!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kristina

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The staff was amazing an the food was incredible. We has such a restful weekend. We also did a float adn the river was just wonderful.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023

6/10 Okay

Mike

The property was dated with some current up grades. Our cabin was good sized with screened in porch but no tv and internet was poor unless you were in the dinning cabin. The food was good. It is a great pl ace to go if you have children. Down side is they have no instructions in writing or on the computer for the times for meals,directions to their private beach . And finding someone in the office who knows anything
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mary

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Food and hospitality were great. Parking not so great. A variety of things to do. Our second trip there.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Joshua

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Awesome dinners and breakfasts!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Richard

Liked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities
nostalgic place very cool
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Stacy

Liked: Staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great staff! Nice clean cabins! Food was great
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022

8/10 Good

Karin

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The food was great last year, this year had different staff which will hopefully not be there next time. Loved the facility atmosphere, activities available, and look of the property. Did not like Jason, he needs go.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

6/10 Okay

lisa

Some of our parties mattresses were really old. Mice in room. Things left from Other guests indicates not a thorough cleaning
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Nanet

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Recommend
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Liked: Staff & service, amenities
Not to far from STL an easy drive. We did a family trip with Gradparents, nieces, etc... The water on the float was amazingly clear in comparison to other rivers I have been on in Missouri. Although the shortest float was 5 miles or longer.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2020

10/10 Excellent

Nicole

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This is an absolute hidden gem. I just happen on this place when looking for a place near Elephant Rock SP and Johnson's Shutins. It's like stepping back to a nicer time....where hopsitality was still important. The breakfasts and dinners where amazing home cooked comfort food. The fact that they have a bar/happy hour and the drinks are resonsonable is a bonus! I went on a small unplug from the world weekend. I would say if you go here in the summer the atmosphere may be different but it would be a great place to stay with kids or a romantic partner. Pool, Gameroom, mini golf, river is right across the gravel road. I could go on and on.....
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Sueleal

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Staff was excellent and very friendly. Loved all the books and cozy furniture. Loved the cabin and woods. The food was excellent. They asked our food allergies and things we may not have liked ahead of time. Loved the games available. Loved seeing all the dogs and may ask to bring mine next visit. Loved the location near state parks. Loved the decor.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I loved Wilderness Lodge! It feels like a family summer camp. I felt almost like a kid again going to summer camp at Wilderness. I loved the food, staff, amenities and the cabin we stayed in. Def. will visit the Wilderness Lodge again!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2021

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
great location very nostalgic
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Scott

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

great place

Amazing
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2020

10/10 Excellent

James

Liked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities

Very Good!

Really liked this place, it has very much a “throw-back” feel. The food was amazing and the staff is incredible friendly. It was convenient to do a float trip, the pool was wonderful, and having the bar onsite for the dinner hours was very nice. Some of the room could use some updating, but overall very good.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2020

10/10 Excellent

Lisa

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
This place was in the middle of nowhere but so neat and all the food is fresh and home made and absolutely delicious! The staff was beyond accommodating and wonderful! The room was outdated but very neat for a cabin!
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2020

6/10 Okay

Jerry

Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Property conditions & facilities

Last choice resort.

If you have money to waste, this place is for you. Well overpriced for what you are getting. Service is great, but for the price not worth it. Beware that you can't cancel your reservation, they will keep every cent and charge more for any alter on your reservation. Don't forget to bring tick spray, you will need it. River is the best part and it does not belong to them, so you can find cheaper options somewhere else. I paid $1,140.00 for two nights (3 adults, two small kids and two dogs which cost $50 per entire stay). Food was not as great as everyone had written in reviews, those people have not eaten in real restaurants.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2020

10/10 Excellent

Mark T

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Missouri retreat

The property was well maintained and the staff was friendly and genuine.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2020

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

mike

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025