Arrow Rock camping options span from established campgrounds to rustic dispersed sites along the Missouri River. Located in central Missouri at approximately 700 feet elevation, the area features gently rolling terrain with oak-hickory forests interspersed with prairie remnants. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-90°F during the day while dropping to 65-70°F at night, with occasional thunderstorms between May and September. Spring and fall camping provide milder temperatures and fewer mosquitoes than summer months.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The area surrounding Robert's Bluff Access provides river fishing access with a boat ramp. "Small, quiet and out of the way. A few spots for camping," notes one visitor, adding that the area is primarily used as "a quiet place to fish."
Historic site exploration: Visit nearby towns with historical significance. A camper at Katy Roundhouse Campground shared, "We used this as a stop on a longer trip and it worked beautifully for that. There are plenty of birds, rabbits, deer and other critters around, but really nothing else."
Hiking and nature trails: Van Meter State Park offers several short hiking options. "Several short hikes in the park that are appropriate for kids and dogs," writes one reviewer. Another adds, "I hiked on most of the trails in one day. I missed the memorial trail and boardwalk. Home that I walked on will maintained. Some of them are more difficult than others but none of them too strenuous."
What campers like
Quiet, private sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing between sites at campgrounds near Arrow Rock. At Arrow Rock State Historic Site Campground, one camper noted, "We stayed on site 13 for one night in October 2020. It's about 15-20 minutes from I70. Electric and water hookups, clean showers, very nice campground host."
Paddling opportunities: Finger Lakes State Park offers unique kayaking experiences just over an hour from Arrow Rock. A visitor describes, "This park is one of my favorite nearby spots to take the kayak out and just float. Paddling through these channels is such a dreamy experience. Kayaks and canoes are available to rent as well."
Star visibility: Campsites away from major light pollution sources provide excellent night sky viewing. At Arrow Rock State Historic Site Campground, the natural darkness allows for "Beautiful Stargazing views" according to one camper who visited in August 2020.
What you should know
Seasonal amenities: Facilities availability changes throughout the year at campgrounds near Arrow Rock. A visitor to Robert's Bluff found it "Nice free camping to overnight if you are travelling on your RV, close to the highway but without noise. No toillets. Verizon signal works good."
Bugs and wildlife: The area's proximity to water means insect preparation is essential. A camper at Van Meter State Park advises, "Clean, well cared for campground. The even numbered sites are really big and back up to big open grassy area with shade trees. Bring plenty of bug spray. The campground is right by a marsh and it is REALLY buggy."
Cell reception variability: Mobile coverage differs significantly between carriers and locations. At Arrow Rock State Historic Site Campground, one visitor reported, "We occasionally got 1 bar on T-mobile," while another campground visitor noted "No cell phone service really."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated children's play areas. At Van Meter State Park Campground, a camper mentions, "It had a nice playground for small kids including a little play area and some swing sets."
Educational opportunities: Historical sites provide learning experiences for children. A visitor to Arrow Rock State Historic Site Campground appreciated that "this campsite has it all if you are liking those camping comforts. showes, facilities, fire pit and lets not forget the hiking trails to include that the Santa Fe Trail crosses the MO river close to this sight. there is even a one room Jail and the george Caleb Bingham's house."
Kid-friendly campsite selection: When reserving sites, consider proximity to bathrooms and open play spaces. "The largest camp area of Arrow Rock is definitely geared towards RVs, but there is a 'basic loop' with twelve basic campsites for tent camping. There is a bathroom/shower house very close to the basic loop and the basic loop is well away from the RV area," reports one camper.
Tips from RVers
Overnight stops: Several campgrounds work well for single-night stays while traveling. A visitor to Robert's Bluff described it as a "Great free spot right off I-70" and mentioned "Parked 30ft travel trailer with no problems! Level ground for the most part!"
Hookup availability: For RVers requiring full hookups, Katy Roundhouse Campground provides complete services. "Great campground for short visit along Katy Trail. All sites are full hookup & pull-through. Most sites shaded with trees," notes one RVer.
Off-season considerations: Winter camping requires preparation due to limited services. A visitor to Arrow Rock State Historic Site Campground in early March found "No bath house until April 1 and no cell coverage (T-Mobile) but wonderful walking, hiking and biking areas, quaint MO town nearby."
