Wilderness Lodge

3.0 star property
Family-friendly lodge with a private beach and free breakfast

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Wilderness Lodge

Mini-golf
Seasonal outdoor pool, pool umbrellas, sun loungers
Exterior
Standard Hilltop | 1 bedroom, individually decorated, individually furnished
Summer House | 1 bedroom, individually decorated, individually furnished

Reviews

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Bar
  • On private beach
  • Hot Tub
  • Pool
  • Breakfast included
  • Pet friendly

Explore the area

View in a map
2331 Co Rd 342, Lesterville, MO, 63654
  • Place, Taum Sauk Mountain State Park
    ‪21 min drive‬
  • Place, Johnson's Shut-ins State Park
    ‪29 min drive‬
  • Place, K Bridge Recreation Area
    ‪59 min drive‬

Room options

Standard Hilltop

  • Hill view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Queen Bed and 1 Twin Bed

King Hilltop

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • Hill view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

Riverside Suites

  • 1 bedroom
  • River view
  • Sleeps 6
  • 2 Queen Beds and 1 Double Sofa Bed

Jacks Cabin

  • 3 bedrooms
  • Hill view
  • Sleeps 8
  • 2 Queen Beds, 2 Twin Beds and 1 Queen Sofa Bed

Upper Turkey Run

  • 3 bedrooms
  • Hill view
  • Sleeps 8
  • 1 Queen Bed, 2 Twin Beds, 1 Twin Bunk Bed and 1 Queen Sofa Bed

Lower Turkey Run

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Hill view
  • Sleeps 6
  • 1 Queen Bed, 2 Twin Beds and 1 Queen Sofa Bed

Rock Cottage

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Sleeps 5
  • 1 Queen Bed and 2 Twin Beds

Summer House

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Sleeps 7
  • 2 Queen Beds, 1 Twin Bed and 1 Queen Sofa Bed

About the neighborhood

Lesterville

Wilderness Lodge places you 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. This 26-room, 3-star lodge has free breakfast, a private beach, and free self parking.

What's nearby

  • Taum Sauk Mountain State Park - 21 min drive - 8.3 miles
  • Johnson's Shut-ins State Park - 29 min drive - 13.3 miles
  • Fort Davidson State Historic Site - 50 min drive - 29.1 miles
  • Elephant Rocks State Park - 57 min drive - 34.4 miles
  • K Bridge Recreation Area - 59 min drive - 32.6 miles

Getting around

  • Arcadia Valley Station - 36 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Lounge at Wilderness Lodge - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Rio Rata - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Dining Room at Wilderness Lodge - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪The Rec Hall - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Paula's Home Cooking - ‬10 min drive

About this property

Wilderness Lodge

Family-friendly lodge with a private beach and free breakfast
Guests staying at Wilderness Lodge enjoy access to a private beach, karaoke, and free WiFi in public areas. You can take advantage of free parking if you drive. Front-desk staff can help with luggage storage, and provide local restaurant recommendations. Other amenities at this family-friendly lodge include a hot tub, meeting rooms, and conference space.
A seasonal outdoor pool and a hot tub are on site. Other recreational amenities include a private beach.

The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.

Similar properties

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

Access methods

Front desk (limited hours)

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets for USD 40 per accommodation, per stay, plus a deposit of USD 40 per stay
  • Dogs and cats only
  • 2 total pets
  • Restrictions apply
  • For more information, guests can reach out to the property at the number on the booking confirmation
  • Service animals exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

  • Free rollaway/extra beds are available
  • Free cribs/infant beds are available

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

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

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might 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
  • Check-in: 3:30 PM
  • Check-out: 11:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
The front desk is available during limited hours. Driving? This property offers free parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • 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.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash.
  • Parties and events are allowed on site.
  • Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, and a smoke detector.
  • Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • The seasonal pool is open from May to September.
  • Connecting or adjoining rooms can be requested, but all rooms are subject to availability. Contact the property using the phone number on your booking confirmation.
  • There are no elevators.
  • 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

Will I be able to park at Wilderness Lodge?

Yes, self parking is offered for free at the lodge.

Does Wilderness Lodge have a casino at the property?

No, Wilderness Lodge doesn't have a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at Wilderness Lodge?

No, this lodge doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there are an outdoor pool and a hot tub. The seasonal pool is normally open from May until September.

Is Wilderness Lodge a good place to stay for couples?

This riverfront lodge offers many amenities for couples, including Champagne service as well as a private beach and a bar.

Does Wilderness Lodge have a hot tub?

Yes, guests can enjoy a spa tub at this lodge.

Does Wilderness Lodge have a restaurant with a breakfast menu?

Yes, Wilderness Lodge serves free full breakfasts at The Lodge each morning.

Does Wilderness Lodge allow pets to stay for free?

Although they can't stay for free, cats and dogs are welcome at Wilderness Lodge for a fee of USD 40 per accommodation, per stay. A deposit of USD 40 per stay is collected.

Are there connecting rooms at Wilderness Lodge?

Yes, you can book connecting guestrooms at this lodge for your group or family vacation.

Are there rooms with balconies at Wilderness Lodge?

Yes, some guestrooms at this lodge offer either a furnished patio or a porch where guests can enjoy river or hill views.

Does Wilderness Lodge offer wedding services?

If you plan to exchange vows during your trip, consider the wedding services available at Wilderness Lodge.

Reviews

Wilderness Lodge Reviews

9.4

Exceptional

8.8/10

Cleanliness

9.6/10

Staff & service

8.8/10

Amenities

8.6/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.2/10

Eco-friendliness
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

6/10 Okay

Mike

Traveled with partner
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

6/10 Okay

Joseph

Traveled with family
Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mary

Traveled with family
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

robin

Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ian

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Megan

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

Hidden Gem

Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kirk

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Richard

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

10/10 Excellent

Gary, St Louis

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

10/10 Excellent

Gary, St Louis

Traveled with partner
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

Kristina

Traveled with group, Traveled with family
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

10/10 Excellent

Michelle

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jean

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jill

Traveled with partner
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

Joshua

Traveled with family and small children
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Awesome dinners and breakfasts!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Nicole, BLUE SPRINGS

Traveled with family and small children, Traveled with pets, Traveled with family
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

Stacy

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

10/10 Excellent

Nanet

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

10/10 Excellent

Sueleal

Traveled with family
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

Robert

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Traveled with group
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

Traveled with family
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

lettie

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 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