Bennett Spring State Park area offers year-round camping options with varying seasonal considerations. Located in the Ozark Mountains near Lebanon, Missouri, most campgrounds sit between 800-900 feet elevation with the Niangua River providing water recreation through multiple sites. Weather fluctuates significantly with summer temperatures often reaching 90°F while winter nights can drop below freezing, affecting campground availability.
What to do
Trout fishing hotspots: Fishing enthusiasts visiting Bennett Spring Campground & Float Trips can take advantage of prime locations directly on trout-stocked waters. "Great for Trout fishing, and hiking in the woods. Only con is that they pack in the sites," notes Jim K., highlighting the balance between convenience and site density.
Hiking through natural formations: The park and surrounding areas feature numerous trails winding through Ozark terrain. "The park has over twenty miles of hiking trails meandering through its 3,216 acres. Trails range from a leisurely walk along the stream to that of rigorous mountain trails that reward hikers with great picturesque views of the Ozark Mountains," explains Nancy W.
Water recreation options: Float trips on the Niangua River provide a different perspective of the area. Riverfront Campground and Canoe offers direct water access, with Jason W. noting, "The float trips on the Niangua are gorgeous. I recommend going on a weekday to avoid the crowds."
What campers like
Diverse camping environments: Sites range from riverside locations to wooded retreats across multiple properties. "Lower campground area is just a picture perfect as the campground winds along a section of the Niangua River. Campground supports any type of camping," describes Cathy S. about Riverfront Campground and Canoe.
Seasonal considerations: Fall and spring offer unique advantages for pet owners seeking less crowded conditions. "When we were there in early April the park's campgrounds were pretty empty and quiet and while we really liked that we also liked that there was a lot to do," shares Nancy W. about visiting during shoulder seasons.
Family-friendly amenities: Multiple campgrounds cater specifically to families with children and pets. At Mountain Creek Campground, Dasha D. found "This place is great for a family camping trip. Lots of activities. You can rent tubes, canoes, or rafts, and float down the river. There is a water slide that's so fun."
What you should know
Winter camping limitations: During off-season, services are reduced but still available. Nathan P. notes about winter stays, "We stayed in campground one because it is the only one open during the off season. You can make reservations online before going to ensure you have the spot you want."
Varying site privacy: Campground layouts differ significantly in terms of space between sites. At Hidden Valley Outfitters, Jon L. explains, "We stayed in the danceyard camp site with 30 amp electric only and plenty of trees. The newer RV sites have full hookups but no shade."
Weekday advantages: For those with flexible schedules, weekdays offer a significantly different experience. "I recommend going on a weekday to avoid the crowds," advises Jason W., a strategy particularly useful during summer months when the park and river are busiest.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water activities: Several campgrounds feature designated swimming areas with gentle entry points. "There is a great little 'beach' spot along the river so you can play in the water, with umbrellas already put in on the banks for shade," recommends Dasha D.
Biking opportunities: Paved roads in some campgrounds make cycling accessible for younger visitors. Amanda R. from Bennett Spring State Park Campground shares, "The roads are all paved so it made biking for our kids easy and enjoyable. The campsite was spacious and shaded."
Quiet hours enforcement: Parks maintain family-friendly environments through structured quiet times. Jon L. notes, "Quiet hours run 10pm-7am which was nice for my young daughters," providing predictable sleep schedules for families with younger children.
Tips from RVers
Concrete pad availability: Several campgrounds offer improved surfaces for easier leveling. Kent F. appreciated the Hidden Valley Outfitters setup, noting "RV full hookups are great, EZ in EZ setup and EZ out...." particularly valuable during wet weather.
Hookup variations: Services differ significantly between campgrounds and even between loops. Collette notes about Bennett Springs, "Campground 1... very nice with water, sewer, and electric. Water on April 15. Nice level spots, but very little shade in Campground 1. Reserve early as it fills up fast!"
Seasonal shade considerations: Tree coverage varies by location and impacts summer camping comfort. Sharon J. mentions of newer facilities, "Trees have been planted but currently no shade. Concrete pads. Nice store with pizza ovens," an important consideration for pet owners concerned about heat.
