Knob Noster State Park offers equestrian facilities approximately 75 miles northwest of Windsor, Missouri. The park features multiple trail systems suitable for riders of various experience levels across 3,934 acres of diverse terrain. Winter temperatures average 32°F with summer highs reaching 90°F, affecting water availability and trail conditions throughout the year.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Berry Bend Campground on Harry S. Truman Lake, anglers can access multiple shore fishing spots with varying water depths. "The lake was great, the sites were level and not too close together, shaded and beautiful. I saw my first armadillo too!" reports Leslie H.
Kayak rentals: Knob Noster State Park provides seasonal kayak rentals at Lake Buteo from April through October. "Kayak rentals were available for Lake Buteo - kayakers were out on the lake, and the lake has a trail all around it. Nice trail," writes Kelsie L.
Bicycling access: Lazy Liz Katy Trail Horse and RV Campground connects directly to the Katy Trail, allowing for extended rides on the converted rail-trail. "We stayed in our rv while riding the Katy trail easy check in process. Free use of washer and dryer. Shower was great," notes Berk G.
Hunting seasons: Montrose Conservation Area permits seasonal hunting with restrictions affecting camping access. "There is no camping allowed after October 15 due to hunting season. This was not on the website and was not seeable in dust when arriving late on a small sign in the bushes," cautions Leni K.
What campers like
Quiet environment: Long Shoal Campground at Harry S. Truman Lake offers peaceful lakeside camping with minimal crowds. "Enjoyable stay at this COE campground with plenty of lake views and access. Sites are level, electric only with easy access to fresh water and dump station as you enter the facility," reports Dan F.
Wildlife viewing: Berry Bend provides opportunities to observe local wildlife including armadillos, raccoons, and waterfowl. "Great fishing, lake is accessible from many sites," notes Carol R.
No cell service: Some campgrounds in the Windsor area provide a true disconnect from technology. "What a nice getaway. No internet, no cell, no problem. Great beach with a beautiful view," writes Lauri C.
Free dispersed camping: Montrose Conservation Area offers no-cost camping with basic amenities. "Large grassy area with plenty of room to set up a tent or camper. Right off the road, so no dirt roads to traverse," explains Lee F.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Several campgrounds have limited operations during hunting seasons. "The sign says NO FISHING after Oct.14 because of duck season. Open for camping. Mowed, TP stocked, plenty of firewood and room for dogs to run," reports T N.
Toilet conditions: Bathroom facilities vary widely across campgrounds. "Bathrooms were fine. It's free camping so it was great that there were bathrooms at all," notes Andi P. at Montrose, while others report less favorable conditions.
Wildlife encounters: Knob Noster State Park Campground can have raccoon activity affecting campsites. "We did have a problem with Raccoons, but with our site being on the very edge of the sites I think that may be inevitable," writes Kelsie L.
Water access: Many campgrounds feature shallow water levels that change seasonally. "The water is very shallow most the time its only chest deep out in the middle," explains Sarah at Montrose Conservation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Bike-friendly areas: Knob Noster State Park offers safe paved areas for children learning to ride. "Knob Noster State Park is a great park for the grandkids to ride their new bikes on the level smooth campground road in safety," recommends John J.
Educational programs: Some parks offer nature programs for families. "Nature programs were fun and informative, and the campground was relatively quiet," notes Jim S. at Knob Noster State Park.
Archaeological activities: Local sites may yield historical artifacts. "One of the locals stopped by my site to look for arrowheads. Apparently, she has found a lot in the area so that's a good activity if the kids are bored," shares Andi P. at Montrose Conservation Area.
Weather preparation: Summer heat can be intense, with temperatures frequently exceeding 90°F. "We enjoyed a weekend there and can't wait to go back. Hopefully for longer than a weekend," writes Leslie H. about Berry Bend.
Tips from RVers
Electric-only hookups: Many campgrounds provide electric but require water fills and dump station use. "Sites are level, electric only with easy access to fresh water and dump station as you enter the facility," explains Dan F. about Long Shoal.
Off-season availability: Less crowded camping experiences can be found during weekdays and non-summer months. "This is a great family campground!!! It's not nearly as busy as the state park which is awesome!!" reports Kendall K. about Berry Bend.
Level sites: Most established campgrounds in the area feature level pads. "Well maintained campground with nice, level concrete pads. Sites are spacious," notes Maggie C. about Knob Noster State Park.
Accessibility considerations: When seeking equestrian-friendly campgrounds near Windsor, Missouri, check trail access points. "The only reason I took off a star is because my site (13) was adjacent to a fenced off sewer lagoon which did emit slight odor. If I came again I would choose another site," advises Maggie C.
