Camping sites near Alexandria, Missouri offer varied terrain with four seasons of access and a strong Mississippi River influence. At elevations ranging from 500-700 feet, these campgrounds experience hot, humid summers and moderate winters with occasional flooding in spring. Visitors can typically access boat ramps from March through November, though seasonal closures affect some facilities when river levels rise.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Wakonda State Park provides multiple lakes with bank fishing access directly from campsites. As one camper noted, "There are 6 lakes with swimming and fishing. Boat docks, and boat rentals and great hiking trails."
Water activities: Several Wakonda Lake Campground visitors mentioned water recreation beyond fishing. A reviewer explained, "There are also John boats and kayaks for rent. Finally, there is a sandy beach for swimming."
Historical exploration: The Nauvoo State Park Campground puts campers near significant historical sites. "Right across the street from the historic sites, if you're up for it it's just a little further to walk to main street," shares one visitor, highlighting the park's convenient location for exploring area attractions.
Hiking trails: The region offers interconnected trails of varying difficulties. One Wakonda visitor mentioned, "Had numerous interconnected hiking trails that follow the lakes in the area." Another camper at Nauvoo appreciated the "trail that was under two miles called Locust that my wife enjoyed for birding."
What campers like
Waterfront views: Many campers prioritize sites with direct water access. At Canton City River Park, "All spots are about 50 feet from the water and about 100 feet from the railroad tracks. Overall we would stay here again and the view of the river is very nice."
Concrete pads: Level, solid camping surfaces are frequently mentioned as a benefit. One Wilson Lake Park reviewer appreciated that "it is all concrete and has full hook ups," while another noted the campground features "nice concrete slabs and all hook ups."
Affordable rates: State parks and county facilities typically offer lower rates than private campgrounds. At Wakonda State Park, a camper mentioned "The rates are very cheap as it is a state park," while a Wilson Lake Park visitor paid "$20 a night but worth it we think."
Spacious sites: Campers consistently mention appreciating room between sites. At Wakonda Lake Campground, "Sites were spacious, clean, plenty of space between sites," and another noted "The concrete slab was large enough for our camper and rug along with the picnic table! A lot of room!"
What you should know
Water levels affect access: Spring flooding can limit campground availability. At Canton City River Park, a visitor noted, "I tried to camp here, but it was closed temporarily due to high water on the Mississippi River. In fact, part of the the campground road was under water."
Seasonal bathroom closures: Winter camping means limited facilities. A Hickory Haven Campground visitor explained their off-season experience: "We stayed here at Hickory Haven for 4 nights on our way to Alabama it is a very nice quite place. Owner was very nice and works hard to keep it clean. Open all year here which is very important to us!"
Traffic patterns: Some campgrounds experience unexpected vehicle traffic. A Canton City River Park camper observed, "For a dead end loop campground there is a bunch of traffic. I think about everyone that lives in this tiny town must make a lap around the campground on their way home. About every 7-10 mins a vehicle drives by."
Seasonal differences: Summer brings more activity while shoulder seasons offer more solitude. One camper at Nauvoo State Park found "Quiet night with only three other rigs in the A area," while another mentioned at Wakonda that "The park is very quiet. The sites are very large and our rv site has a cement pad."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play equipment for children. At Wildcat Springs Park, "Also on site is a very nice public pool and interesting Disc Golf course." Similarly, Hickory Haven provides "playground, pavilion for movies, dog area, frog pond, hiking trails and beautiful woods."
Swimming options: Multiple swimming areas accommodate different preferences. A Wakonda visitor mentioned, "There is a sandy beach for swimming," while Wildcat Springs Park offers "a very nice public pool" according to a reviewer.
Kid-friendly biking: Flat, low-traffic loops provide safe cycling for children. A Hickory Haven camper noted the campground is "Kid and dog friendly. Playground. Dog walk," and another visitor appreciated that it's a "Very quiet place, kids can ride their bikes."
Nearby attractions: Local businesses provide additional entertainment options. A Wilson Lake Park visitor advised, "Did go to the creamery nearby. If you stay here and don't visit the creamery, you're definitely missing out!"
Tips from RVers
RV site selection: Choose sites based on size requirements and hookup locations. A Canton City River Park camper noted, "All spots are about 50 feet from the water and about 100 feet from the railroad tracks. Overall we would stay here again and the view of the river is very nice."
Pull-through accessibility: Several campgrounds offer easy-access sites. At Camp Nauvoo, "The sites are sunny and all are pull-through but some have shade. The park streets are gravel with concrete pull-through sites."
Hookup positioning: Utility locations vary across campgrounds. One Camp Nauvoo visitor explained, "Utilities were located in different spots. 20A/30A/50A electric in the middle, water near the rear, and sewer near the front."
Entry road considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging access points. A Camp Nauvoo visitor warned, "If you are southbound on Illinois Hwy 96, the left turn off the highway is very sharp and steep. Might be easier to continue about a mile south and use the scenic turnout to turnaround."
