Wilderness Lodge

Wilderness Lodge

Traveller (110)
Dining (13)
Room & Suite (8)

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About

4.5
#1 of 2 lodges in Lesterville
4.8 of 5 bubbles
Location
4.6 of 5 bubbles
Rooms
4.5 of 5 bubbles
Value
4.6 of 5 bubbles
Cleanliness
4.8 of 5 bubbles
Service
4.6 of 5 bubbles
Sleep Quality
We have 26 cabins, suites, and cottages at Wilderness Lodge. P/Person nightly rates are all inclusive with a 3 course dinner, bagged lunch, and full, seated breakfast included, along with use of resort amenities (river access, inground salt water pool, hot tub, hiking, fishing, miniature golf, tree house, pickleball, horse shoes, basketball, shuffle board, a playground, frisbee golf, rec room,etc). Complimentary appetizers are offered during happy hour in the bar/lounge. We are just a short drive from Johnson Shut-ins, Elephant Rocks, and Taum Sauk. The main lodge features our bar/lounge and dining area, open all day where you'll find games, puzzles, books, and coves for conversations. The Black River is directly across the road from our main lawn- the river, gravel bars, and side streams are great places to explore, swim, catch water critters and just relax in the sun. We rent canoes, rafts, kayaks, and tubes for floating thru our campground, Riversedge. Unwind. Cool Off. Eat Well.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free internet
Pool
Bar / lounge
Game room
Hiking
Books, DVDs, music for children
Children's playground
Internet
Hot bath
Outdoor pool
Saltwater pool
Fence around pool
Restaurant
Special diet menus
Mini golf
Billiards
Canoeing offsite
Fishing
Patio
Table tennis
Board games / puzzles
Children Activities (Kid / Family Friendly)
Kids' outdoor play equipment
Highchairs available
Pets Allowed ( Dog / Pet Friendly )
Conference facilities
Banquet room
Non-smoking hotel
Outdoor fireplace
Outdoor furniture
Picnic area
Shared lounge / TV area
Sun deck
Sun umbrellas
Room features
Air conditioning
Private beach
Fireplace
Interconnected rooms available
Private balcony
Private bathrooms
Coffee / tea maker
Refrigerator
Room types
Non-smoking rooms
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to Giata.
3.0 of 5 stars
HOTEL STYLE
Family
Business

Location

2331 Co Rd 342, Lesterville, MO 63654-0090
220Reviews4Q+A75Room tips
Traveller rating
  • 182
  • 27
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  • 5
  • 2
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Detailed Reviews
AngieH81 wrote a review Sept 2021
Alabama, New York
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Spent 4 days at Wilderness Lodge last week, a guest at a wedding there. We had a wonderful time, and loved this place. It was a great location for a wedding. The staff were helpful and friendly. We stayed in a hilltop cabin, and just loved it. The room was very clean, good water pressure and hot water, the a.c. kept the room very cool like I like, and we slept like logs in the comfy beds. We had a dog with us, and loved walking the trails with her, and taking her to the river. Our cabin’s screened porch was literally up in the trees. I love to read, so it was paradise for that at night. The food was very good - I love not having to choose from a menu. A lovely meal was set in front of me each time. We plan to return again. The river is clean, and the whole area is just beautiful.
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Date of stay: September 2021
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Room Tip: We loved the hilltop cabin for it’s screened porch in the trees
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Wunderlust2020 wrote a review May 2022
+1
4.0 of 5 bubbles
My wife and I stayed at Wilderness Lodge for two nights in one of their spacious cabins. The dinner, dessert and breakfast that was provided as part of our stay was wonderful. Great chef!! The dining room ambiance adds to the experience. Their bar area that serves appetizers is a comfortable, cozy space with many nooks to enjoy the rewarding music played, completing a very relaxing experience. Reviewing a shower might not be customary to most, but water pressure and a good heater are important to us. Wilderness Lodge exceeds all others; and we have traveled every state in the nation. Not to be forgotten is their location makes floating the Black River or playing on their beach area very convenient. The game room is expansive and great for all age groups as well. #explorewilderness
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Date of stay: May 2022
4.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
4.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
4.0 of 5 bubblesService
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Diane R wrote a review Aug 2021
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We stayed at Wilderness Lodge with two families in the adjoining/duplex like River Front Cabin. The cabin was very clean and the decor really sweet and quaint. There was plenty of room for all of us and it was very quiet and private. The lodge serves breakfast, appetizers and dinner every day and the food was fabulous! It is a rustic place, the meals are very "down homey" - things like biscuits and gravy, meatloaf and potatoes, etc. But all high quality and beautifully served. Also, my son is a vegetarian and they accommodated his meals perfectly. The lodge itself is over a hundred years old and filled with eclectic furniture, books, and an old piano. It's kind of the perfect blend of old country charm and modern flare. They have quality wines, farm to table vegetables, good coffee and juices, but all with this kind of homey, family feeling. Our cabin was a short walk from an empty beach on the river. Our kids had a blast tubing and swimming and building forts. They also enjoyed the mini golf and game room. We plan on making this place a yearly destination for our families!
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Date of stay: July 2021
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Room Tip: The River Cabin was large and quiet
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
gansett91 wrote a review Jul 2021
Jonesburg, Missouri
1.0 of 5 bubbles
To be fair, I want to say up front that we were given a full refund with no hassle.

We stayed here many years ago and loved it, so we were very excited to return. Unfortunately, from the moment we opened the door of our cabin, we were disappointed.

The cabin was not well cleaned. There were 10 mousetraps lined up on the mantle, The smoke detector was disassembled and laying on a shelf, the air conditioner had mold all over the vents, and the couches and cushions were badly stained and dirty. The room was very dark...only a few dim lamps, so it was hard to read or do anything requiring light. The bathroom had NO shelf, counter, or any place to set even a couple of things, not even a small counter top around the sink. The screened-in porch was especially dirty, the chairs were covered with grit, and a cute votive lamp but no votive. There was a coffee maker, but no coffee, just empty wrappers in the cabinet. They finally brought us some coffee and sugar, but nothing to stir with.

When we got ready to go to bed, we discovered that there was no bottom sheet on the bed. We tried to call the front desk, but it just went to voicemail so we dressed and drove down to the office but couldn't find anyone in any building. We went back to the room, and an hour and a half later, someone knocked on our door with a wadded up sheet. When we tried to put it on the bed, it was the wrong size. We called back and they brought a second one (a half hour later), which was also the wrong size. Finally on the third try we got a sheet (also all wadded up in a ball) for our bed at 11:00 at night.

The food for dinner was mediocre. The appetizers were pimento cheese spread and crab dip with slices of bread and saltine crackers. The salad was iceberg lettuce with ONE cherry tomato and heavily overdressed. The portions were very small! At breakfast the next morning, we were offered a fruit cup, two dollar pancakes and two burned strips of bacon. the fruit cup consisted of 4 bite-sized cubes of watermelon - all 4 were white because they had been cut from the rind. The pancakes were cold and hard, and we didn't have butter or syrup....the waitress finally brought them 10 minutes after the cold pancakes. We had to get our own water, silverware, juice, and napkins, but we were told a 20% gratuity would be charged for the wait staff.

We left after breakfast after just the one night. The river would have been nice, and they had other activities like a pool and minigolf, but we weren't there long enough to try them. This place has so much potential, but it has really gone downhill from our first visit. If you are willing to pay $220 a night for a couple, and are looking for something just a couple steps above camping and are ok with mediocre food, then this might be ok for you. For us it was a disaster. Such a shame!
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Date of stay: July 2021
1.0 of 5 bubblesValue
2.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
3.0 of 5 bubblesService
Room Tip: We stayed in a hilltop cabin...no cell service!! No view - just trees.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Becca B wrote a review Jun 2022
5.0 of 5 bubbles
When I tell you I just spent the most amazing 4 days at the best vacation/retreat spot near by I've ever been to I'm am for REAL. The Wilderness Lodge is only 2 hours from St.
Louis on The Black River.

The entire place is small enough to easily walk around yet you have so many things to do. Mini golf, zip lines, pool, hot tub, play ground, rec room, bar, library, and a ton of stuff we didn't even get to. Laying on the hill at night and looking up at the stars was so so cool.

All of our meals were provided. Everything was homemade and DELICIOUS. We brought our own snacks, beer, and soda for during the day and after dinner. We also had light appetizers like crackers and cheese or hummus and pita before dinner every night which was lovely. Sack lunches were an additional fee but well worth it. And they packed gourmet sandwiches and snacks each day. Better than I would have done for sure.

The waitstaff was incredible. Accommodated every single dietary need and had meals prepared as needed for those specifics. I have been on a couple cruises and have stayed in some nice resorts and I would choose the food we had at this lodge over any of those other places. Without a doubt.

They set us up for our float trip with the near by float company. You have free access to a beautiful swimming area on the Black River at the campground 30 seconds away. Our cabin was cleaner and cuter than any hotel. Our wrap around screened in porch even had adorable day beds and David slept out there a couple nights and loved it. I enjoyed the AC in our cabin and there was a fireplace that would have been so cozy in the winter.

We spent most of our time in and around the main lodge area. They have a cash bar. The pool and deck area were perfect for a bunch of kids to play while the parents hang out. The center of the resort has the pool, lodge, mini golf, volleyball, fire pit, play ground, hot tub, rec room etc. We felt totally fine letting our 8yr old and up age kids roam around without supervision.

The only wifi was in the lodge area and it wasn't great but after the first 24 hours I didn't really miss it.

They housed 60 people, each in their own family cabin, and we didn't feel at all crowded.

You MUST go check this place out. We are already planning a trip back for another float trip.
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Date of stay: June 2022Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Becky S, Other at Wilderness Lodge
Responded 30 Jun 2022
So glad you all were able to get together! It was a long time in the works, but you made it :) Hope to see you guys again in the future (and I LOVE that you took advantage of the outdoor daybeds!! He embraced glamping for sure!)
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jarah314 wrote a review Jun 2022
Saint Louis, Missouri
3.0 of 5 bubbles
This lodge was cool. Pretty much exactly what to expect when taking a trip like this. The beds were very comfortable and everyone was very nice.
On the other hand I am appalled by the god that was served. As you can see we were served baked chicken, string beans and mashed potatoes. Oh and for appetizers there were crackers and some kind of questionable dip that looked like cottage cheese. Any way back to this “baked chicken”. It was RAW. Period. Nothing baked about it. MAYBE boiled but as you can see this chicken was not baked. The smell it’s self when i lifted the skin made me want to vomit. I thought it was a joke! The meat was slimy. The mashed potatoes had onions in them too much butter. Making my son gag and the other saying Im going to puke. The green beans were hard, could have at least steamed them. I’ve never had chicken like this in my life. All I could do was laugh. Someone could be sick. But it won’t be me bc I did not eat it. The cook should be fired immediately, and the manager for that fact. I still can’t believe it I’m glad I took a pic no one would believe me. Oh and no you don’t have a choice for dinner. You eat whatever they serve. Thankfully we packed snacks and left the next day.
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Date of stay: June 2022Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Becky S, Other at Wilderness Lodge
Responded 30 Jun 2022
We are sorry to hear that you did not enjoy dinner during your stay. The meal you are referring to Friday night was homemade pimento cheese and crackers as appetizers, a wedge salad with sliced farmers market tomatoes, and a vintage recipe of Ms. Hullings spring dressing, roasted chicken thighs with green beans, whipped potatoes and Black River sheet cake with ice cream. In reference to the chicken, the only way to be sure chicken is safe to eat is to cook it to an internal temperature of 165 degrees, which we do. Color does not indicate doneness. Chicken bones and skin, particularly in younger birds, are more permeable which can allow the bone marrow to leak into the meat, producing a pinkish color. As the food is made from scratch, we can guarantee that there are no onions in our whipped potatoes. During dinner service several staff members, including myself, checked in to see how you were doing, at which time you stated everything was going well. Had our staff been alerted to your concerns we could have responded to them in person to better your meal experience. At checkout you explained your early departure was due to your 10 month old having trouble sleeping, and expressed your desire to return when your 10 month old was older and sleeping better. Having little ones ourselves, we happily waived any early departure charges, and we will stand by that. We did find the left behind children's blankets you contacted us about, and, for your trouble, will pay the shipping to return those to you. We wish you well in your future travels, and hope they one day bring you back to the Ozarks.
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Cheesehead608 wrote a review Jul 2021
Madison, Wisconsin
5.0 of 5 bubbles
WOW! SO IMPRESSED! A lodge established at the turn of the century but so well kept up since. They work very hard to keep 18 buildings clean and looking so nice. They strive to have the food as natural and fresh as possible. They employ locally to help give back to and strengthen the community. Homemade food for breakfast and dinner included with your stay that is SO GOOD!!! The grounds are beautiful and spacious with kid friendly game room and outside activities to keep them busy and do family games. The staff is so wonderful and genuinely care that you are having a good time! They notice if you didn't make it to breakfast/dinner! At Wilderness Lodge, you are not just another guest, you're treated like family...even by some of the regular guests who come every year at that time! We felt so special and taken care of every step of the way! We had such a great time! Sightseeing is within 20min-90min or so depending on what you want to see, if you even decide to leave the lodge!
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Date of stay: July 2021
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Room Tip: Many have private screened in porches
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Janer552019 wrote a review Jun 2022
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Our family had such a wonderful stay at the Wilderness Lodge. We will be making this an annual trip!
The cabins were very comfortable and so homey with all the antique furniture and wonderful decor. The rafting and kayak trips on the Black River were so much fun. There were so many great available activities for kids and adults alike. And lots of hiking options near-by.
The breakfast and dinner that was included was amazing. Was not expecting that level of cooking.
But the best part was how friendly everyone was making you feel a part of the "family". Such a wonderful trip!
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Date of stay: June 2022
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Becky S, Other at Wilderness Lodge
Responded 30 Jun 2022
Thank you so much for the kind words- we hope your future travels bring you back to visit with us again!
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kmo225 wrote a review Nov 2020
Nashville, Tennessee
5.0 of 5 bubbles
I came with a group of friends to celebrate a birthday and had an amazing trip. Dee and Jenny were amazing hosts and took care of everything we needed. The lodge is right next to the Black River, which was clear, cold, and beautiful. I’d love to visit in the summer as well and kayak or float the river. The main house with the bar and dining area was so cozy, and we had several roaring fires over the weekend. There were definitely times I felt like we were at the lodge in Dirty Dancing. The rooms were warm, clean and quiet, with enough room for all of us to spread out. I’m so looking forward to returning some day!
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Date of stay: November 2020Trip type: Travelled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Patti K wrote a review Oct 2022
Saint Louis, Missouri
5.0 of 5 bubbles
My husband and I rented a king hillside cabin for a long weekend. The cabin was rustic and comfortable, with a king bed, sitting area and screened porch. Breakfast and dinner are included at the lodge and the food is very good. They made sure I had gluten free options at every meal. The lounge and dining room are so inviting, with sofas, chairs and an outside deck. Blaine manned the office and the bar and did a great job at both places. Our server (sorry I didn't get her name) took great care of us at every meal. Also, the lodge is dog friendly so we were able to bring our dog, Luna. She had a great time too!. This is a wonderful place to unwind and enjoy nature.
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Date of stay: October 2022
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Room Tip: The cabins have mini-fridges so you can store your drinks and snacks.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Cindy H asked a question Mar 2020
Ellington, Missouri37 contributions7 helpful votes
Contact information for reservations, please? Phone, website and Facebook page?
Answer from Gail G
Boston, Massachusetts307 contributions133 helpful votes
Reservations: (573) 637-2295 Office: (573) 330-2466
Answer from EnjoyWilderness
Lesterville, MO17 contributions
Hello! We can certainly provide vegetarian meals for you at all of the meals. Our meals are made from scratch using many items from the local farmer's markets so the specific menu item will vary depending on what is in season. We can provide a modified children's option- usually mac n cheese, pasta, fresh veggies and dip, etc as well.
Patti K wrote a tip Oct 2022
Saint Louis, Missouri16 contributions9 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"The cabins have mini-fridges so you can store your drinks and snacks."
Read full review
AngieH81 wrote a tip Sept 2021
Alabama, New York3 contributions1 helpful vote
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"We loved the hilltop cabin for it’s screened porch in the trees"
Read full review
Diane R wrote a tip Aug 2021
2 contributions1 helpful vote
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"The River Cabin was large and quiet"
Read full review
gansett91 wrote a tip Jul 2021
Jonesburg, Missouri7 contributions9 helpful votes
1.0 of 5 bubbles
"We stayed in a hilltop cabin...no cell service!! No view - just trees."
Read full review
Cheesehead608 wrote a tip Jul 2021
Madison, Wisconsin18 contributions5 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Many have private screened in porches"
Read full review
Not the right property for you?
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PRICE RANGE
S$277 - S$322 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
ALSO KNOWN AS
wilderness hotel lesterville
LOCATION
United StatesMissouriLesterville
NUMBER OF ROOMS
26
Prices are the average nightly price provided by our partners and may not include all taxes and fees. Taxes and fees that are shown are estimates only. Please see our partners for more details.
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WILDERNESS LODGE: See 220 Reviews, Price Comparison and 171 Photos (Lesterville, MO)

Frequently Asked Questions about Wilderness Lodge
What are some of the property amenities at Wilderness Lodge?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include a pool, an on-site restaurant, and a lounge.
Which room amenities are available at Wilderness Lodge?
Top room amenities include air conditioning, a refrigerator, and a fireplace.
What food & drink options are available at Wilderness Lodge?
Guests can enjoy an on-site restaurant and a lounge during their stay.
Is parking available at Wilderness Lodge?
Yes, free parking is available to guests.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Wilderness Lodge?
Yes, guests have access to a pool during their stay.
Are pets allowed at Wilderness Lodge?
Yes, pets are typically allowed, but it's always best to call ahead to confirm.
Does Wilderness Lodge offer any business services?
Yes, guests have access to a banquet room and conference facilities during their stay.
Does Wilderness Lodge have any great views?
Yes, guests often enjoy the river view available here.