Equestrian camping near Blue Springs Lake presents challenges for horse owners seeking overnight accommodations. Located in western Missouri at approximately 800 feet elevation, the region features rolling hills with deciduous forest cover and moderate humidity throughout the camping season. Most campsites around the lake remain open from April through October, with temperatures typically ranging from 45°F to 85°F during peak usage months.
What to do
Fishing access points: Smithville Lake provides year-round fishing opportunities with multiple access locations. At Crow's Creek Campground, "We had a nice RV site with electric. The best part is the view of and access to the lake! So beautiful and relaxing... We could walk right down a grassy hill to the trail along the lake," explains Julie B.
Biking trails: Several campgrounds connect to paved pathways suitable for cycling. In Smith's Fork Recreation Area, "There is a really nice walking/riding trail that goes all through the park!" notes Steven N., while Camp Branch trails offer similar access with "the bike trail about 3 steps away from our site," according to Savannah T.
Historical sites: Watkins Mill State Park combines natural settings with educational opportunities. Josh P. shares, "Great camping facilities, paved walking/biking trail, fishing, swimming and even history lessons. If you like history, take a tour of the woolen mill part. Very cool."
What campers like
Shower facilities: Watkins Mill State Park Campground receives praise for its modern amenities. Anita M. notes, "Clean facilities include plenty of stalls and sinks, separate showers and laundry. Well lit and accessible."
Lake access: Proximity to water ranks highly among camper priorities. At Camp Branch Campground, Robin R. appreciates that "it is quite a ways to shower house but much quieter than other campgrounds on Smithville lake. More family friendly."
Shade coverage: Lake Jacomo - Fleming Park offers relief from summer heat. "It's a very nice setting in a Grove of trees atop a hill," Fawn W. observes, though she adds that "some sites are right on the road, so kids can dart out at any time...just be careful!"
What you should know
Limited equestrian options: While horse camping is restricted near Blue Springs Lake, Bonanza Conservation Area offers primitive camping suitable for horse trailers. Lloyd W. describes it as "Awesome free camping in Northern Missouri... Multiple campsites available along the highway, but the marked site is one of the best, right by a great fishing lake."
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. Regarding Watkins Mill, Janelle M. advises, "We would go out extra early to set up then spend our time on the bike trails until lunch," suggesting early arrival is necessary to secure preferred sites.
Seasonal water shutoffs: Water systems often close early at some locations. At Crow's Creek, Bridget U. explains, "We stayed in October and due to unseasonably cold weather they shut off water with no notice and halfway through our stay. Ended up leaving early since we had no water."
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Wallace State Park Campground offers facilities that appeal to younger campers. "The shower house is new and they have a updated playground for the kids," reports Chad K., while Danielle H. appreciates that it "doesn't seem over crowded at all."
Swimming options: Beach access varies by location and season. At Watkins Mill, Jason C. cautions that "The swim beach has been closed because of excessive vegetation growth," suggesting families should check beach status before planning water activities.
Site selection for privacy: Some campgrounds offer more secluded options for families needing space. At Weston Bend State Park, Barbie G. recommends "site 26, one of the few basic sites. While some of the other sites were very close to each other, this one is relatively isolated. It's big too."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full-service sites remain limited in the region. According to Don M., Smith's Fork Recreation Area stands out because it's "the only one (so far) that offers Electric (30 & 50 amp), Water (2) and Sewer at every campsite. At just $30 per day it is a steal!"
Leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require extra equipment for comfortable setup. Caitlin R. notes at Crow's Creek that "our spot was 13" unlevel. Luckily we had several blocks of wood to help level our camp out."
Dump station access: Most parks provide sanitary disposal even when full hookups aren't available. At Wallace State Park, facilities are clean and well-maintained, though Roger W. specifies only "sites #3 and # 26 are non-electric," with most others offering at least electric service.
