Missouri lakes and state parks offer diverse glamping in Blue Springs, Missouri and surrounding areas, with most sites located within 30-50 miles of the city. Campgrounds range from 400-500 feet in elevation with oak-hickory forests and prairie transitions typical of this region. Most campgrounds remain open April through October, with some facilities offering year-round camping for visitors looking to experience Missouri's changing seasons.
What to do
Fishing at Lake Jacomo: Lake Jacomo at Fleming Park provides excellent fishing opportunities minutes from Blue Springs. "The staff of this park were just as fun as our stay! Just a walk away from a beautiful lake and your stay here is a perfect get away from the city lights!" notes camper Rylan B.
Hiking trails around Smithville Lake: Several campgrounds near Smithville Lake feature extensive trail systems connecting camping areas to water access points. "The bike trail is about 3 steps away from our site," reports Savannah T. at Camp Branch Campground, making it ideal for quick recreation access.
Historical exploration: For glamping guests interested in local history, "If you like history, take a tour of the woolen mill part. Very cool," says Josh P. about Watkins Mill State Park, which combines outdoor recreation with educational opportunities.
Kayaking options: Multiple lakes in the region offer rentals for water recreation. "There are a couple of small lakes, one of which has kayak rentals. Several hiking trails," notes JoAnn P. about the quiet atmosphere at Knob Noster State Park, making it suitable for families seeking water activities.
What campers like
Private bathrooms: Campers frequently mention bathroom quality as a standout feature. "The bathrooms are the nicest campground bathrooms I've ever used - large, clean, and not communal, so you get a sink, toilet, and shower all to yourself," writes Fawn W. about facilities at Lake Jacomo.
Peaceful atmosphere: Many campers appreciate the balance between accessibility and seclusion. "Nice level camping spots both all electric, water, and sewer and minimal utilities. Some sites close to water. Great fishing, hiking, and 18 hole golf course close by," shares Mike D. about Camp Branch.
Family-friendly amenities: Campgrounds typically offer kid-focused features. "The roads and trails are nice for scooters and bikes. Fairly close to the water and playground; within walking distance," mentions Brittnie T. about Crow's Creek Campground, highlighting the practical layout for families with young children.
Clean facilities: Regularly maintained amenities receive consistent praise. "This is a very clean campground. The staff is very nice and helpful," notes Darlene N. from Lake Jacomo, with similar feedback common across most campgrounds in the region.
What you should know
Seasonal weather considerations: Summer heat can affect site comfort. "The sites were all sunny and since it was 100 degrees, it was hot. But the pool was nice," reports Joel R. about his stay at Kansas City East-Oak Grove KOA, highlighting the importance of planning for heat when booking.
Site leveling issues: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring preparation. "Hard to give an accurate account for our stay due to it raining basically the entire time. When it wasn't raining the sites were nice and spacious and relatively level," writes GW C. about Lake Jacomo.
Wildlife encounters: Visitors should prepare for local wildlife. "We had a problem with Raccoons, but with our site being on the very edge of the sites I think that may be inevitable," cautions Kelsie L. after staying at Knob Noster State Park.
Reservation needs: During peak times, securing spots can be challenging. "It was quite a ways to shower house but much quieter than other campgrounds on Smithville lake. More family friendly," explains Robin R. about Camp Branch Campground, noting the trade-offs between amenity proximity and peacefulness.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Crow's Creek Campground offers ideal features for children. "Trails and roads within the campsite are paved, so it's great for bikes and scooters. Grounds are well maintained and grassy areas feel fine to walk through and play in," reports Julie B., highlighting the family-friendly layout.
Safety considerations: Some campgrounds require extra vigilance with children. "Only negative is that some sites are right on the road, so kids can dart out at any time...just be careful!" warns Steve C. about Lake Jacomo, providing important safety information for families.
Swimming options: Beach access varies between locations. "The lake is big with a sand beach for the kiddos," notes Caitlin R. about Crow's Creek, though she mentions alcoholic beverages aren't permitted at the beach area, an important consideration for family planning.
Spacious campsites: Families appreciate room to spread out. "Nice big spots with electric only. It is quite a ways to shower house but much quieter than other campgrounds on Smithville lake. More family friendly," reports Robin R. about Camp Branch Campground.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Site layouts can affect RV camping experience at Weston Bend State Park. "Our hookups were literally in the next site next to their table, and their fire ring was very close to our trailer," notes Roy T., highlighting the importance of checking site maps when making reservations.
Pull-through availability: Limited pull-through sites exist in most area campgrounds. "Easy access to Interstate and pull through sites were long enough for our truck and 32' trailer without having to unhitch. Stayed just one night as we passed through," shares Roy T. about Kansas City East-Oak Grove KOA.
Pad materials and leveling: Concrete pads at some campgrounds make setup easier. "Well maintained campground with nice, level concrete pads. Sites are spacious," reports Maggie C. about Knob Noster State Park.
Full-hookup options: Complete utility access varies by location. "Smith's Fork is the only one that offers Electric (30 & 50 amp), Water and Sewer at every campsite. At just $30 per day it is a steal!" emphasizes Don M., providing helpful cost information for RV travelers seeking full hookups.
