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Thomas Hill Reservoir Conservation Area

7 ReviewsAdd Review
SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Free to use and drive-in accessible, Thomas Hill Reservoir Conservation Area sits along Thomas Hill Lake in Excello, Missouri, with sites configured in two distinct zones. The lower loop has picnic tables and fire rings at each site, placed directly on the water. A more primitive area sits further back from the lake for those who want more separation from other campers.

Water access is the defining feature here. Reviewers consistently mention the lake, and the campground includes a swimming area and boat ramps. Anglers and boaters make up a large share of the visitors. Sites are first-come, first-served, and one reviewer noted the grounds are "well kept" with "an awesome lake," while also flagging that there are no showers or electric hookups. Cell service is listed as available, and trash service is provided on-site.

Campers who have stayed over the Fourth of July report seeing fireworks from multiple directions across the water, a byproduct of the reservoir's open sightlines. Crowd levels have historically stayed manageable, though a recent report of a vehicle break-in is worth noting for those leaving valuables unattended. Pets are allowed. For those exploring campgrounds around Macon, this conservation area is one of the few free options with established amenities in the region. Nearby alternatives with hookups include Shoemaker RV Park and Love's RV Hookup-Bevier MO 621 to the north.

Bring your own water and plan for a self-sufficient stay.

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Map & DirectionsThomas Hill Reservoir Conservation Area is located in Missouri near Macon

Detail location of campground
RV Park

Directions

From Macon, take Highway 36 west 5.25 miles, then Route C south 10 miles to College Mound, then Route T west 2.40 miles to the main entrance.

Coordinates

39.62338076 N
92.61753475 W

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Connectivity

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    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
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    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Phone Service
  • Toilets
  • Pets
  • Fires

Contact

General Info

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Reviews7 Camper Reviews - Thomas Hill Reservoir Conservation Area

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5 Stars

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1 Star

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14%

4.0

out of 5

7 Reviews

Many campers appreciated this free lakeside campground for its clean, well-maintained sites and quiet atmosphere with good spacing between neighbors. While basic facilities lack showers and electric hookups, visitors found excellent value with picnic tables, fire rings, and lake access.

SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile
Reviewed Aug. 1, 2025

would not recommend

Free camping but i left my rv there for two nights and it was broken into and ransacked.   they stole numerous items

Reviewed Apr. 25, 2025

Nice place to unplug

Had a great time spent a 4th of July here as well as many other days,over the years. You can see fireworks 🎆🎇 for Miles all around .

SiteB3
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Thomas Hill Reservoir Conservation Area by Patric H., April 25, 2025
  • Review photo of Thomas Hill Reservoir Conservation Area by Patric H., April 25, 2025
  • Review photo of Thomas Hill Reservoir Conservation Area by Patric H., April 25, 2025
  • (16) View All
Reviewed Apr. 10, 2022

Like A State Park but free

This is my favorite free camp ground. No showers or electric sites, however, the grounds are well kept, its quiet and has an awsome lake. Picknick table and fire ring at each site on lower loop. First come-first serve.

Site9 I think
Month of VisitApril
Reviewed Dec. 10, 2019

Free Spot

Great non electric sites on Thomas Hill Lake. Please leave as you found it or better, it’s basically in my back yard.

Reviewed Oct. 25, 2018

Great free camping

Might not have showers but is a nice free campground. It’s pet friendly and you are not on top of your neighbors. Definitely going to come back here.

Showing results 1-7 of 7 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What recreational activities can I enjoy at Thomas Hill Conservation Area?

Thomas Hill Conservation Area offers a variety of recreational activities centered around its beautiful lake. Swimming is available in a designated swimming area, making it perfect for cooling off during hot summer days. The reservoir features multiple boat ramps for fishing and boating enthusiasts. Many visitors enjoy the peaceful waterfront setting for relaxation and family gatherings. The area is particularly special during holidays, with the Fourth of July offering spectacular views of fireworks displays visible for miles around the lake. The uncrowded nature of this conservation area makes it ideal for those seeking a quiet outdoor experience.

Are there cabins available at Thomas Hill Lake?

No, Thomas Hill Lake does not offer cabins for rent. The camping options are limited to primitive tent and car camping sites. Visitors should come prepared for rustic camping, as the area provides basic amenities such as picnic tables and fire rings but no permanent structures like cabins. For those seeking more comfortable accommodations, it would be best to look at nearby towns or other state parks in the region that may offer cabin rentals.

What camping facilities are available at Thomas Hill Reservoir?

Thomas Hill Reservoir offers free primitive camping with no electric hookups or shower facilities. The campground features well-maintained sites that include picnic tables and fire rings, particularly in the lower loop area. Some sites have covered shelters, and there are both waterfront spots and more secluded options further from the lake. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations required. Sites are generously spaced, providing privacy between neighbors. The grounds are kept clean and tidy, with pet-friendly policies. While amenities are basic, the natural setting and lake access compensate for the lack of modern facilities.

Where is Thomas Hill Reservoir Campground located and how do I get there?

Thomas Hill Reservoir Campground is located in north-central Missouri on Thomas Hill Lake. The campground features easy access for visitors, with well-marked routes leading to the camping area. The location provides a peaceful lakeside setting that's somewhat off the beaten path, contributing to its uncrowded atmosphere. For specific directions, it's recommended to use GPS coordinates or contact the Missouri Department of Conservation for the most current route information, as the campground is managed as a conservation area.

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