Tent camping near Alexandria, Missouri provides access to primitive sites across the tri-state region where Missouri, Iowa, and Illinois converge. The area experiences typical Midwestern seasonal variations with hot, humid summers and cold winters, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons. Temperatures can range from below freezing in winter to above 90°F with high humidity during summer months.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Hunnewell Lake Conservation Area offers free rowboats and canoes for anglers. As one camper noted, "They had rowboats and canoes you could paddle around in. You just needed your own life jacket. The boats were free."
Family recreation: Spring Lake Campground provides multiple water activities in one location. A reviewer mentioned, "I've stayed here every summer great place lots todo with the kids had a lake to fish, kayak, canoe. Has and outdoor skating rink next to the lake very neat."
Wildlife viewing: Watch for waterfowl at conservation areas throughout the region. At Hunnewell Lake, one camper observed "Lots of ducks on the lake" while exploring the conservation area's shoreline.
Photography spots: Visit in early morning or evening for best lighting conditions along water access points. Several camping areas provide shelter houses with picnic tables near lakes, creating convenient bases for photography excursions.
Seasonal activities: Winter camping is possible with proper preparation. One visitor at Hunnewell Lake shared, "Stayed for two nights. Beautiful lake and being it was the end of February I was the only one there."
What campers like
Free camping options: Budget-conscious campers appreciate no-fee sites at conservation areas. One reviewer stated, "Can't beat the price - FREE!" while camping at Hunnewell Lake Conservation Area.
Maintained facilities: Regular groundskeeping makes primitive sites more comfortable. A camper at Hunnewell Lake Conservation Area commented, "Vault toilets, dump station with potable water, always mowed. Give it a try!"
Basic amenities: Despite being primitive, some sites provide essential services. As one camper noted, "Free potable water and dump station behind ranger station. Generators are ok just make sure they are not too loud and try to if possible running them only when needed."
Convenience for travelers: Sites positioned along major routes serve as practical stopovers. Hunnewell Lake was described as a "Good place to camp while traveling on US 36" by one reviewer.
Water access: Many tent camping sites near Alexandria offer lake or river frontage. At Spring Lake Campground, a visitor mentioned it "has a lake to fish, kayak, canoe" making it popular with water sports enthusiasts.
What you should know
Variable site quality: Terrain challenges can affect comfort levels. At Hunnewell Lake, one camper reported, "The campground slopes toward the lake, so finding level ground is a challenge."
Limited privacy: Open layouts mean close quarters with other campers. A visitor observed, "Sites are open and close together. Other campers were loud into the night."
Seasonal insects: Be prepared for mosquitoes and other biting insects. One camper at Hunnewell Lake Conservation Area complained, "I came away with a ton of bug bites."
Site availability: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. A Spring Lake visitor advised, "Get there early or make reservations fills fast!"
Facility closures: Ranger stations and fish hatcheries may have limited hours. One camper noted, "Looked like there was a ranger station there and fish hatchery but it was closed the two days we were there."
Tips for camping with families
Reservation planning: Book sites in advance during summer months. A Spring Lake Campground visitor recommended, "Nice place for kids and adults! Would highly recommend. Get there early or make reservations fills fast!"
Recreation options: Select campgrounds with multiple activities to keep children engaged. According to one Spring Lake Campground visitor, it's a "great place lots todo with the kids had a lake to fish, kayak, canoe."
Shelter considerations: Some sites offer limited shade protection. A Hunnewell Lake camper observed, "Sites are close together. Some spots more shaded than others," which can be important when camping with children during hot months.
Water safety equipment: Bring personal flotation devices for water activities. One camper at Hunnewell Lake explained that free boats were available but "You just needed your own life jacket."
Noise awareness: Set expectations for variable sound levels. One camper reported, "The rules about quiet time are not enforced and some idjit ran his loud generator until 1 am."
Tips from RVers
Level terrain challenges: Prepare leveling equipment for sloped sites. A visitor to Hunnewell Lake Conservation Area warned, "The campground slopes toward the lake, so finding level ground is a challenge."
Generator etiquette: Use generators responsibly in primitive areas. A camper advised, "Generators are ok just make sure they are not too loud and try to if possible running them only when needed."
Site selection: Arrive early for better positioning. One reviewer mentioned, "We stayed Saturday night and there were several open spots," but others noted having to relocate due to noise from inconsiderate neighbors.
Water and waste facilities: Note locations of dump stations and potable water. A camper explained that Hunnewell Lake offers "Free potable water and dump station behind ranger station."
Surface conditions: Prepare for grassy parking areas rather than gravel or paved sites. A visitor described Hunnewell as having "Grass sites, fire pit and picnic tables," which can present challenges during wet weather.
