Private camping areas near Bennett Springs, Missouri offer varied lodging options beyond the state park's boundaries. The area sits at approximately 850 feet elevation with moderate humidity levels typical of the Ozarks region. Most campgrounds remain open from March through November, though several RV parks in the area operate year-round with varying seasonal amenities.
What to do
Fishing at private lakes: Cross Creek RV Park features an 8-acre stocked lake with boat rentals and paddle boats. "Our site was maybe 30 yards from the water," notes Martin J., who appreciated the easy lake access despite the campground's steep gravel entrance road.
Mini golf and recreation: Many campgrounds offer on-site activities beyond the state park. At Cross Creek RV Park, "Kids love the mini golf, shuffleboard, and basketball. Huge private lake great for fishing and watching duck families swim by and come up to you on the grass!" according to camper Keidra P.
Visit nearby attractions: The area offers historical sites within driving distance. "We stayed overnight here because our dog was sick and this was close to the animal hospital we visited... this campground offered so much more and was closer to town so we could walk to restaurants," shared Tom B. about his stay at Osage Beach RV Park.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campground bathrooms and common areas receive consistently positive feedback. At Cooks RV Motor Park, Tom H. noted, "Showers/restrooms/laundry are all in one building, and very clean and well kept. The park is adjacent to a large field where my dog was able to run to her heart's content."
Responsive staff: Campground hosts often go beyond expectations. "The staff is very friendly and helpful. The sites are well spaced and there is plenty of shade. Full hookups and excellent WiFi," reported Bill P. about his stay at Cooks RV Motor Park.
Pool amenities: Many campgrounds feature swimming pools for summer visits. At Riveria Villas & RV Resort, "The pool area sits on top of a bluff overlooking the lake. It's absolutely beautiful. The pool area also has a very nice cabana, firepit, and bathrooms," according to TJ G.
What you should know
Site spacing varies: Some campgrounds have more densely packed sites than others. Shannon G. observed about Osage Beach RV Park: "Very nice RV park near grocery store and food. Also near the Lake Of the Ozarks State Park. This RV park has everything you'd need... The reason I took a star off was that the sites were closer together than I like."
Reservation policies differ: Some campgrounds require minimum stays or have specific booking systems. At Riveria Villas & RV Resort, "Only downside of this campsite is the website seems sketchy and is hard to use. The campground itself can only be booked through the campsite and there is a 3 night minimum stay," notes TJ G.
Highway noise: Many RV parks near Bennett Springs are conveniently located near major roads, but this brings traffic noise. Dennis R. commented about Rustic Trails RV Park: "The name says it all. It is a very rustic campground. Gravel roads and sites that aren't very level. It has WiFi, but you have to be close to the main office to utilize it. I-44 is very close and loud."
Tips for camping with families
Look for seasonal activities: Many campgrounds offer special events during peak seasons. A visitor to Majestic Oaks RV Park & Campground noted, "The events around halloween are always so fun for kids and adults alike. They truly put so much work into making it the best experience for their guests."
Consider island camping options: For a unique experience with children, Barrett C. recommends Cross Creek RV Park: "We tent camped on the island for 2 nights. It was awesome, you can fish right off the bank of your own private island within minutes of waking up... Had a restroom on the island, big plus for a family with 5 little ones."
Check playground availability: Several campgrounds feature dedicated children's areas. Majestic Oaks RV Park & Campground offers "hiking trails on site" and "good amenities on site and very close to everything the Lake has to offer," according to Russ G.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Many RV parks require some adjustment. Alex W. noted about Rustic Trails RV Park, "The roads are a bit tricky to navigate and the sites are very unleveled. The staff is difficult to get ahold of and is not around a lot."
Wi-Fi reliability: Internet access varies significantly between campgrounds near Bennett Springs. "This was a very nice, clean campground in the city of Osage Beach. We needed a campsite to be able to work and school remotely from and this fit the bill with excellent WiFi that had boosters all throughout the campground," shared Melissa H. about Osage Beach RV Park.
Full hookup availability: Most RV parks offer complete services. At Laura Ingalls Wilder RV Park, "Great pull through site. Good spaces between campers on the pull throughs. Clean and quiet. Owners were extremely nice," according to Kyle R.
