Truman Lake is a key feature near Calhoun, Missouri, spanning over 55,000 acres with approximately 958 miles of shoreline. The area offers year-round camping opportunities with most campgrounds operating March through November. Equestrian camping opportunities extend along the Katy Trail corridor with multiple access points for riders near Calhoun.
What to do
Trail riding access points: At Lazy Liz Katy Trail Horse and RV Campground, riders have direct trail connections. "We stayed in our rv while riding the Katy trail easy check in process. Free use of washer and dryer. Shower was great," reports Berk G.
Lake activities: Berry Bend - Harry S. Truman Lake provides water recreation options within 30 minutes of Calhoun. "The lake was great, the sites were level and not too close together, shaded and beautiful. I saw my first armadillo too!" notes Leslie H.
Fishing opportunities: Local fishing spots around Truman Lake include multiple access points. Carol R. from Berry Bend says, "Great fishing, lake is accessible from many sites."
What campers like
Peaceful atmosphere: Equestrian campers appreciate the quiet settings. At Knob Noster State Park Campground, JoAnn P. found that "the campground filled up on the weekend but it was very quiet. There are a couple of small lakes, one of which has kayak rentals."
Well-maintained facilities: Camps near Calhoun feature clean amenities. "Very clean and nice campground. Steps from the lake. Staff was friendly," writes Brandon C. about Long Shoal campground.
Wildlife viewing: The rural setting offers opportunities to spot local wildlife. Kelsie L. mentions, "Beautiful secluded campsite - amenities were clean. Kayak rentals were available for Lake Buteo - kayakers were out on the lake, and the lake has a trail all around it."
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Some conservation areas have specific hunting season restrictions. At Montrose Missouri Conservation Area, Leni K. warns, "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."
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies across the region. Lauri C. notes about Berry Bend, "No internet, no cell, no problem. Great beach with a beautiful view."
Weather considerations: The area experiences significant seasonal changes with hot summers and cold winters. Mark D. observed at Montrose, "Large grass area available for tents or campers. No specific camp locations. No fire rings or picnic tables. Pit toilets are as expected."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer bicycle-friendly paths. John J. shares about Knob Noster, "Knob Noster State Park is a great park for the grandkids to ride their new bikes on the level smooth campground road in safety."
Beach options: Long Shoal - Harry S. Truman Lake offers swimming areas. Angela F. reports, "We had our first trip to Long Shoal last week even with the extreme heat it was a nice spot. We always camp in a tent and the spots were nicely wooded and spaced."
Accessibility: Equestrian camping near Calhoun includes options for various mobility needs. John J. mentions, "The park honored our disability rating and gave us a discount - $22.00 for 3 days & 2 nights."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary between campgrounds. Dan F. describes Long Shoal as an "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."
Site sizing: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. At Montrose, one camper observed, "you could definitely get a big rig in and out of here on the looped gravel roads."
Amenities for horse trailers: When bringing horses near Calhoun, parking considerations are important. Will E. notes about Berry Bend, "This was our go to campground for years. But the last few times have been subpar. Dirty campsites. Old flood debris in some site next to water."