Crow's Creek Campground sits near Smithville Lake in northern Missouri, approximately 15 miles northwest of Agency. The area features rolling grasslands interspersed with stands of hardwood forest and elevations ranging from 800 to 900 feet. Many camping areas in this region benefit from the lake's 175 miles of shoreline with sites that vary from lakefront to wooded settings.
What to do
Hiking and biking trails: Weston Bend State Park offers multiple trail systems for outdoor exploration. "The park has an amazing hiking trail system within the park! Even one paved trail! We greatly enjoyed our visit and can't wait to go again!" notes Danielle H. The park maintains both paved and natural surface trails through wooded areas.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds provide lake access for fishing enthusiasts. At Mozingo Lake County RV Park, campers appreciate the easy water access. "Lake access if you want," mentions Rick K., while others note concrete pads with power and water at each site make it convenient for anglers to set up basecamp.
Swimming and beach access: Public beaches complement the equestrian camping near Agency, Missouri. At Crow's Creek Park, Julie B. shares, "The best part is the view of and access to the lake! So beautiful and relaxing. We could walk right down a grassy hill to the trail along the lake. Nearby area beaches to play at, a playground, and a short drive to stores to get anything we forgot!"
What campers like
Private, secluded sites: Campers seeking privacy appreciate certain areas. At Wallace State Park Campground, reviewers highlight the sense of seclusion. "The basic sites feature a level framed pad that could accommodate a large tent. The sites are heavily wooded and provide a perfect spot to hang your hammock," notes Chad K., offering an alternative to the more open equestrian sites found elsewhere.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses receive consistent praise. "These are the cleanest bathrooms and facilities that I have been to I think maybe ever. The camp hosts were super nice, stopped by to make sure that I was all set up and didn't need any help," shares Lauri J. about Weston Bend State Park.
Level camping pads: The region offers well-constructed sites at most campgrounds. "The campground is hilly, sites are level, gravel pads. Lots of space between sites," reports Renee H., noting the practical design that accommodates various camping setups.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Water access may change throughout the year. "We stayed in October and due to unseasonably cold weather they shut off water with no notice and halfway through our stay. Ended up leaving early since we had no water and also no sewer at site," cautions Bridget U. about her experience at Crow's Creek Park.
Reservation requirements: Many popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "Usage during visit: Very full during weekends. Plenty of free sites during the week," advises Roger W. about Weston Bend State Park, giving campers planning information about timing their visits.
Site selection strategy: For horse camping near Agency, Missouri, some campgrounds offer specialized areas. At Smith's Fork Recreation Area, Robin R. explains, "This is full hook up. They have both 30 and 50 amp. Close to 169 hwy. Perfect for families with young children. Smaller park, very friendly hosts."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas. "The roads and trails are nice for scooters and bikes. Fairly close to the water and playground; within walking distance," mentions Brittnie T. about Crow's Creek Park, highlighting amenities that keep children entertained.
Swimming options: Camp Branch Campground offers water recreation. "During the camping season this campground has nice large shower houses and clean bathrooms. They sell ice and firewood at gates. Pleasant campground, very nice lake. I camp with kids from infant through 18 and hot showers and decent bathrooms are a must for us," says Charlotte B.
Multi-activity sites: Families appreciate campgrounds with diverse recreation options. "Trails starting directly from campsites accommodate both riders and hikers, with miles of paved walking and biking paths circling the lake," states a reviewer, noting how horseback riding can be combined with other family activities.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric service varies between parks. "We had a nice RV site with electric. The best part is the view of and access to the lake! So beautiful and relaxing," shares Julie B. about Crow's Creek Park, adding "The full hookup sites don't have a view of the lake. This is why we chose an electric only site and used a spigot in the campsite to fill our tank."
Site spacing: RV campers should consider the proximity of sites. "Of everywhere, Smith's Fork is the only one (so far) that offers Electric (30 & 50 amp), Water (2) and Sewer at every campsite. At just $30 per day it is a steal!" reports Don M., highlighting value for those seeking full hookups near Agency, Missouri.
