Dispersed camping opportunities near Calhoun, Missouri offer direct lake access with few amenities. The region sits at approximately 850 feet elevation with summer temperatures frequently exceeding 95°F in July and August. Late spring camping can be especially challenging due to high tick populations and mayflies that emerge from area lakes and reservoirs.
What to do
Kayaking on shallow lakes: At Montrose Missouri Conservation Area, campers can paddle in relatively shallow waters. "The water is very shallow most the time it's only chest deep out in the middle. There is loads of wildlife to see an aren't much scared of humans, racoons, beavers, crane, squirrels, dear, owls an much more," notes a visitor to Montrose Missouri Conservation Area.
Biking on paved roads: The campground roads at Knob Noster State Park provide safe cycling options for families. "Knob Noster State Park is a great park for the grandkids to ride their new bikes on the level smooth campground road in safety," mentions one camper at Knob Noster State Park Campground.
Stargazing in secluded areas: The clear night skies away from city lights create excellent stargazing conditions. "The stars were beautiful, the 'sites' were spacious and well spread out, and there is lots of shade," reports a camper about their experience at Montrose Missouri Conservation Area.
What campers like
Affordability and value: Many campgrounds offer reasonable rates. One visitor to Knob Noster noted, "The park honored our disability rating and gave us a discount - $22.00 for 3 days & 2 nights." Free camping is also available at Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping, where a camper mentioned it has "paved roads, boat access for 2 areas."
Clean facilities: Regular maintenance makes a difference in camper satisfaction. At Buck Ridge Campground, a visitor commented, "The sites were nice and well maintained. The restrooms were clean, stocked and nice to use."
Spacious campsites: Many campgrounds offer ample space between sites. A camper at Sparrowfoot observed, "Truman Lake was flooded three years ago, since then Sparrowfoot has been completely updated with new water and 110V/30A/50A hook-ups."
What you should know
Wildlife encounters: Raccoons are particularly active at many area campgrounds. A camper at Knob Noster reported, "RRaccoon have taken over the park. And the state workers have done nothing. I had my 2025 subaru crosstrek there and they put scratches all over my car and tore the window seal out on one of the windows."
Cell service variations: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the region. At Long Shoal Park, one camper found "Poor Verizon coverage, TMobile a little better," while another visitor noted, "No problems with AT&T cell service."
Seasonal limitations: Some areas close during hunting seasons. A visitor to Montrose Conservation Area warned, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds for children: Several campgrounds offer play areas. At Sparrowfoot, a camper observed, "Loop B also has the playground which is right behind site B47. It's a newer playground and all equipment was nicely maintained. There are no swings."
Beach access considerations: Lake access varies by campground location. A visitor to Raccoon Ridge — Harry S Truman State Park shared, "The campground has its own beach and its own boat launch that are only for campground guests. There is also a public beach and boat launch in the park that is separate."
Educational opportunities: Some parks offer nature programs for children. At Knob Noster State Park, a camper mentioned, "Nature programs were fun and informative, and the campground was relatively quiet."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for shade: Choose sites carefully based on sun exposure. At Sparrowfoot, a camper advised, "Loop A: 2 smaller loops of campsites. A17,18,19 are very close to a little walkway that goes down to the lake. These spots are very hot and sunny in the morning, but shaded in the afternoon."
Electrical options vary: Most campgrounds offer electrical hookups with varying amperage. At Bucksaw, a camper noted, "Most sites are shaded and offer electric... most in the B loop have water and there are some full hook ups around."
Water access challenges: Water hookups aren't universal at all sites. A Long Shoal Park visitor explained, "The only service is electrical. A dump is provided, along with trash bins at the entrance. Potable water facets are scattered around. Some are close enough to sites to connect directly but that may not be allowed."
