Camping areas near Franklin, Missouri sit approximately 195 feet above sea level along the Missouri River's floodplain. Most camping locations in this region experience humidity above 70% during summer months with temperatures often exceeding 90°F. Cell signal strength varies dramatically between locations, with some conservation areas having no service while campgrounds closer to Columbia maintain consistent coverage.
What to do
Kayaking the finger lakes: At Finger Lakes State Park Campground, visitors can explore unique waterways formed from old strip mining operations. "This park is one of my favorite nearby spots to take the kayak out and just float. Paddling through these channels is such a dreamy experience. Kayaks and canoes are available to rent as well," notes one camper.
Explore historic sites: The region contains several significant landmarks within 15 miles of Franklin. "The small town of Arrow Rock is as beautiful as it is charming with all the things you could need," writes one visitor to Arrow Rock State Historic Site Campground.
Fish at conservation areas: Primitive camping spots at conservation access points provide direct river access. "There are 3 sites each with fire pits right on the water," reports a camper at Roberts Bluff Access, adding that the location is "only 2 miles off the interstate and very peaceful."
What campers like
Riverside views: Many campgrounds offer direct river access with unobstructed water views. "It was a great camping spot until. At least 10-15 cars drove in out of the area to see if available and then at around 9:30 pm pitch black someone decided to camped," writes one visitor about Robert's Bluff describing the popularity of the area.
Katy Trail access: Trail-adjacent campsites allow cyclists and hikers direct trail access. "Camping right alongside the Katy Trail is hard to find. This campground is one of two I know of. Full hookups at most sites and nearly all are tree covered," notes a cyclist at Katy Roundhouse Campground.
Entertainment options: Some riverside campgrounds feature regular entertainment. "This is a fun spot with a cool vibe. Right on the river, food truck, bar and drinks at the general store, nice people, fire pit and music. There is a nice biking/jogging trail along the river as well," describes a visitor at Cooper's Landing Campgrounds and Marina.
What you should know
Seasonal flooding impacts: River camping locations experience significant changes based on water levels. "The fire areas were flooded but the actual pull in spot was nice and dry!" reports a camper at Roberts Bluff Access, highlighting the need to check conditions.
Limited facilities at conservation sites: Most Missouri Department of Conservation camping areas have minimal infrastructure. "No restroom that we could find. No water or power. Camp is free. It has an old boat ramp so you can get down the the river easier, but water was way too low for a boat when I was there in September," notes a visitor.
Noise considerations: Between highway sounds, river traffic, and entertainment venues, noise levels vary. "For anyone wanting to stay be aware they have live music Thursday through Sunday. They wrap everything up by 10pm and it's very quiet late night," explains a Cooper's Landing visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom access: Look for campgrounds with maintained facilities when traveling with children. "The bathrooms/showers are clean, but maybe could use a few more given the number of sites," says a camper at Arrow Rock State Historic Site Campground.
Bug protection: The riverside location means insects are prevalent. "Lots of mosquitoes due to the site being right on the water," warns a Robert's Bluff camper about conditions during summer months.
Activities for children: Seek out campgrounds with dedicated recreation areas. "The campground has large campsites and is quiet. The bathrooms are clean and a short walk from most campsites. There is a dock close to the campground for canoeing and kayaking," explains a Finger Lakes visitor.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are concentrated at established campgrounds. "Check-in was quick and easy and we proceeded to pull through site 83 with FHUs. The gravel pad was very long and we had plenty of room for our 40' rig and F450," reports an RVer at Cottonwoods RV Park.
Site spacing: Privacy between sites varies considerably between locations. "Sites are close together, but unless it's a busy weekend you can spread out easily," notes a camper at Katy Roundhouse about site proximity.
