RV campgrounds around Arcadia, Missouri offer varied terrain from gravel pads to level platforms. The region's elevation ranges from 500 to 1,000 feet above sea level with hot, humid summers where temperatures often exceed 90°F. Seasonal considerations affect campsite availability, with most RV parks in the Arcadia region operating year-round but experiencing peak crowds during summer months when water activities become popular.
What to do
Swimming at shut-ins: Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park features unique water features where the Black River flows through narrow channels of volcanic rock. "Our kids loved climbing all over the shut-ins. We have already planned to return in the summer to swim!" notes a visitor to Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park.
Fishing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer fishing access on nearby creeks or lakes. At Perryville RV Resort By Rjourney, campers can enjoy "a trail to a hike around lake. Lake for fishing" according to one visitor.
Horseback riding: Some campgrounds offer equestrian experiences. As one camper at Huzzah Valley reports, "They offer trail rides on their horses. Dog friendly. Connected to ozark trail."
Creek exploration: Big Creek and similar waterways provide cooling recreation. A reviewer notes about Big Creek RV Park, "The creek is nice for cooling down on a hot day, but there is a pool if you'd rather do that."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campers prioritize well-maintained bathrooms and showers. At Perryville RV Resort, reviewers consistently mention cleanliness: "Such a clean campground!! There are a ton of big trees and it is really shady."
Organized activities: Some parks offer structured recreation for guests. According to a Big Creek RV Park visitor, "Saturday is fun with different campground activities and an evening hayride."
Natural water features: Creeks running through campgrounds add recreational value. "Spring fed creek runs along side" one camper notes about Big Creek RV Park.
Privacy between sites: Some campgrounds offer more separation between campsites. At Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park, a reviewer appreciated that "each walk-in was spread apart from each other."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Reception varies significantly across the region. One camper at Big Creek RV Park reported, "Verizon worked ok. T-Mobile very poor."
Pet restrictions: While many parks allow pets, trail access may be limited. A Johnson's Shut-Ins visitor warns, "The shut-ins trail DOES NOT allow dogs so that's a bummer."
Supply availability: Some campgrounds have limited access to groceries and camping supplies. A Big Creek RV Park camper advises, "Be advised, not a lot of supplies nearby. Make sure you bring with you."
Site leveling challenges: Several RV parks require preparation for uneven sites. Little Sinkin Creek RV Resort & Campground is described as "Family operated and located in the Ozark Mountains with beautiful scenery nearby to explore."
Highway noise: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise due to proximity to interstates. A Perryville RV Resort visitor noted, "The highway is also extremely close and can be heard at all times."
Tips for camping with families
Check for kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with specific recreation areas for children. Perryville RV Resort offers "a pool, playgrounds, a pond, and some tiny home type cabins that look like fun."
Consider seasonal programming: Some parks host special activities during peak seasons. Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park visitors mentioned "neat programs going on while we were there including a smores contest and adult scavenger hunt."
Look for multi-generational appeal: Several campgrounds accommodate different age groups. One Huzzah Valley camper shared, "Now our children are married with children of their own, and our family tradition continues on through another generation."
Water safety awareness: When camping near natural water features, be prepared for varying conditions. "We loved this clean and beautiful campground! We stayed in the fall and the colors were amazing," noted a Johnson's Shut-Ins visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: Candy Cane RV Park & Campground receives praise for its spaciousness: "The sites are spacious, level, and offer up water and electricity. Most sites are back in, with a handful of pull-throughs available."
Electrical service options: Different parks offer varying electrical hookup capacities. At Patt's Place, LLC, campers appreciate "easy water and electric hook-up with both 30 and 50 amp."
Advance planning required: Many RV campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park is popular enough that "you usually need to book months in advance."
Consider road access: Some parks have easier entry for larger vehicles. One new RVer at Patt's Place appreciated that "Owners met us at the entrance and guided us in which was much appreciated."
