Best Campgrounds near Kansas City, KS
Camping near Kansas City, Kansas includes a mix of state parks, county facilities, and private RV parks spanning both Kansas and Missouri. Most campgrounds are situated around area lakes and reservoirs within a 30-60 minute drive from the city center. Notable options include Weston Bend State Park Campground to the northwest, Blue Springs Lake Campground to the east, and Walnut Grove RV Park in Merriam for those seeking proximity to urban amenities. Watkins Mill State Park, approximately 40 minutes northeast of Kansas City, offers year-round camping with multiple recreation areas. As one camper noted, "It's a short drive from Kansas City and one of my favorite weekenders when the weather is nice."
The Kansas City region experiences four distinct seasons, with hot, humid summers where temperatures regularly exceed 90°F and cold winters with occasional snow and ice. Most campgrounds operate year-round, though some like Blue Springs Lake Campground (open May 16-September 3) and Worlds of Fun Village (March 1-October 30) have seasonal limitations. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the area, with campers reporting strong signals for major carriers at most locations. Reservations are strongly recommended during summer weekends and holiday periods. Many state parks in both Kansas and Missouri require entrance permits in addition to camping fees, with day-use and annual options available.
Camping options range from primitive tent sites to full-service RV parks with 50-amp hookups. State parks typically offer more natural settings with hiking trails, fishing, and boating opportunities, while providing basic amenities like showers and electric hookups. Private RV parks closer to the city provide more extensive hookups and urban conveniences. Basswood Country RV Resort, located 20 miles north of Kansas City, combines natural surroundings with family-friendly amenities including fishing lakes, playgrounds, and a swimming pool. Lake-based campgrounds such as Smithville Lake's Crow's Creek and Camp Branch provide water recreation opportunities with boat-in access available at several locations. Most campgrounds accommodate both tents and RVs, with a few offering cabin rentals for those without camping equipment.
