Best Campgrounds in Missouri

Camping in Missouri offers a mix of beautiful landscapes, fun activities, and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there's something for everyone.

What to Do

• Hiking and Trails: Many campgrounds, like Lake of the Ozarks State Park Campground, have great hiking trails. One camper mentioned, “Beautiful campgrounds. Hiking trails. Super showers & toilets. Clean. Friendly staff.”
• Fishing: If you enjoy fishing, check out Bennett Spring State Park Campground. A reviewer said, “The Niangua River was gorgeous and so fun to swim in (clear all the way to the bottom).”
• Water Activities: Campgrounds near lakes, like Cooper’s Landing Campgrounds and Marina, are perfect for kayaking and swimming. One visitor noted, “You will have water and electric but no sewer and no dump station on site.”

What Campers Like

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Maramec Spring Park stated, “Great and clean shower house. Well taken care of.”
• Friendly Staff: Many visitors mention the helpfulness of campground staff. At B Berry Farms & Co., a camper said, “The whole B Berry family are great people. They helped us get in and told us all the fun & exciting things around the farm to do.”
• Scenic Views: Campgrounds like Raccoon Ridge offer stunning views. One camper shared, “Heavy wooded with shared paths to lake or cove. Marina is within 1 mile by water or 15 minutes by car.”

What You Should Know

• Reservation Policies: Some campgrounds have strict cancellation policies. A visitor at Cottonwoods RV Park & Campground expressed frustration, saying, “Their reservation process raised concerns with their non-industry standard policy of requiring a 10-day notice for cancellations.”
• Wildlife: Be prepared for wildlife encounters. A camper at Raccoon Ridge warned, “Keep food and bait inside as raccoons rule at night.”
• Ticks and Bugs: Some areas have ticks, so bring bug spray. A review for Pine Ridge Recreation Area mentioned, “Only bummer was lots of ticks.”

Tips for Camping with Families

• Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids. At Boiling Springs Campground, a camper noted, “This camp area is very clean and family friendly! The river was pretty!”
• Plan for Meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals or snacks. A family at Bennett Spring State Park Campground enjoyed cooking fresh food over the fire.
• Safety First: Always supervise kids near water. A reviewer at Lake of the Ozarks State Park Campground mentioned, “They have both showers and running water restrooms.”

Tips from RVers

• Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Cottonwoods RV Park & Campground said, “The utilities were in the middle of the pad and water pressure was decent.”
• Look for Amenities: Choose campgrounds with electric hookups. A visitor at Cooper’s Landing Campgrounds and Marina appreciated, “The general store has many options including a wide variety of food and drinks.”
• Be Prepared for Crowds: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially on weekends. A reviewer at Pittsburg Area Campground noted, “Really quiet during the week. However, fishing boat traffic increases through the week.”

Camping in Missouri has its perks and quirks, so be ready for a memorable experience!