Most RV parks near Mission, Kansas offer year-round service, though many travelers visit between March and October. The region has hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and mild winters where overnight temperatures can drop below freezing. Sites in the area range from basic gravel pads to concrete slabs with most campgrounds located within 20-30 minutes of downtown Kansas City.
What to do
Historic exploration: Visit Fort Osage in Independence, about 25 minutes from Mission. "We camped here in September 2020. There are nice spots right by the lakes with big trees for shade. Roads going up higher past us were a little rough but made for great walks with kids," notes a reviewer at Lake Paradise Resort.
Amusement parks: Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun are directly connected to camping options. "Located on the property there are RV sites and rental cabins. All RV sites were concrete with 50/30/20 amp, water and sewer. Back-in sites on rows 1 and 3 and pull through sites on row 2. The theme park offered discounted tickets when staying at the campground and parking for the parks was included," reports a camper at Worlds of Fun Village.
Fishing: Several campgrounds offer fishing ponds or lakes. "You could fish in the lakes and didn't even need a license. We watched kids get excited as they caught fish after fish," shares a visitor at Basswood Country RV Resort.
What campers like
Convenience to attractions: Many RV parks Mission, Kansas visitors appreciate the central location. "Just 30 minutes to downtown Kansas City and maybe 15 minutes to arrowhead stadium, this campground is ideal for being close to everything that Kansas City offers. Full hook ups, concrete pads, showers and laundry," writes a reviewer about Campus RV Park.
Friendly staff: Campground operators receive consistent praise. "Great place for a somewhat long stay. Staff are very nice and sweet, there's free WiFi, lots of pull through spots, has a dump station and allows pets. Overall very family friendly," notes a camper at Walnut Grove RV Park.
Camp stores: On-site shopping options are valued. "Nice camp store with selections of sausage and cheese. Also, small selection of wine," mentions a visitor to Owl Creek Market and RV Park.
What you should know
Site spacing varies: Many reviews mention tight spaces. "The sites were on gravel and very close to each other. Walnut Grove was both short and long term campers. There were no tent sites. We had full hook-ups, cell service, and free wifi."
Seasonal considerations: Summer is peak season with higher rates. "We camped here in July 2020 and had a great time! It is under new ownership and they are working to remodel and renovate all areas. I got to meet one of the owners and one of the owner's kids who works there and they were very nice and very helpful."
Urban noise: Given the metropolitan location, expect some traffic sounds. "High on a Hill. Many back in sites with 4 pull through sites. We stayed in pull through site #3. Community fire ring! Lots to view! Only issue was trains blowing their horns during the night."
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Several campgrounds have swimming pools with various policies. "The pool is renovated and very nice. It is very large, zero entry, up to mostly around 5 ft deep with a small area that was 9ft; there is a children's area with a sprinkler. Note: Included in your camp fee you get 2 free daily passes per night of camping to the pool and a discounted rate for any other swimmers."
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with scheduled events. "Every weekend there are organized activities such as arts and crafts, fishing contests, duck races and frozen t-shirt contests in the pool, and a Saturday evening outdoor movie."
Wildlife encounters: Children may enjoy local creatures. "Kids found tons of frogs and snails to play with. Too late in the year for the pool to be open but looked nice. Would camp again."
Tips from RVers
Leveling blocks: Bring leveling equipment for gravel sites. "We did pay for the premium pull through site, so we had more room. Everything worked great, the spot was on a slight hill- but wasn't terrible to level out. Would stay here again."
Propane availability: Trailside RV Park offers on-site propane. "Good: New management seems friendly and helpful. Laundry facilities acceptable. ($1.25 to wash) Propane fill on site."
Site selection: Request specific site types based on needs. "I would recommend staying at the premium pull through sites the other back-in sites are rather small. I like the location it's close to where I was working and close to downtown so lots of things to do in the area. The Wi-Fi is working well as I am working online from this location."