Campsites near Camdenton, Missouri cluster around Lake of the Ozarks, created in 1931 when Bagnell Dam impounded the Osage River, forming a 92-mile-long reservoir with over 1,150 miles of shoreline. Elevations in the area range from approximately 660 feet at the lake level to 800-1,000 feet in the surrounding hills. The region experiences humid continental climate with hot summers frequently reaching 90°F and mild winters with occasional snowfall, factors that affect camping conditions throughout the year.
What to do
Fishing from shore or kayak: Lake of the Ozarks State Park Campground provides multiple fishing access points from shorelines and docks. "Huge beautiful park. A lot of hiking and biking trails. Boat ramp and store in the park. We saw about 20 deer each day," notes a visitor at Lake of the Ozarks State Park Campground.
Trail exploration: Bennett Spring State Park features over 20 miles of hiking trails across 3,216 acres, ranging from easy stream-side paths to challenging mountain routes. A camper reports, "Great place to take the family. The roads are all paved so it made biking for our kids easy and enjoyable. The campsite was spacious and shaded. The kids loved playing in the creek and hiking the trails," according to a review from Bennett Spring State Park Campground.
Water recreation: Visitors can rent boats, jet skis and other watercraft at Military Park Fort Leonard Wood Lake of the Ozarks Recreation Area. "You can launch your own kayak or rent a motor boat to explore this gigantic lake. Free laundry facilities. Lean restrooms with nice shower," states a recent camper.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Some campgrounds offer more seclusion than others. "Sites were spread apart, lots of shade, close to the lake. Plenty of trails, fishing, and swimming," mentions a visitor at Lake of the Ozarks State Park Campground.
Ease of access for families: Osage Beach RV Park provides convenient access to town amenities. "Location is close to the town, restaurants, and the state park. Friendly hosts," notes a camper. Another mentions, "This was a very nice, clean campground in the city of Osage Beach. We needed a campsite to be able to work and school remotely from and this fit the bill with excellent WiFi that had boosters all throughout the campground."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Fiery Fork Conservation Area offers frequent wildlife encounters. "Armadillos, deer, and a few different bird types could be found easily. Overall it was exactly what we wanted since it was free and not crowded down close to Lake of the Ozarks," reports a visitor.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Mobile coverage varies significantly based on carrier and location. "We have AT&T for our cell service and there was absolutely NO service there which was good to get away, but bad in an emergency," notes a camper at Fiery Fork Conservation Area.
Site terrain considerations: Many campgrounds feature uneven surfaces that require planning. At Lake of the Ozarks State Park Campground, a visitor observed, "Our site was kinda tricky to get into, especially if you have a longer trailer. Seemed like quite a few were that way, so do your research."
Off-season utilities: Some campground amenities close during winter months. "I was just there during spring break. I was the only tent camper. The water was off until the end of March but luckily the pump near the registration kiosk was on. It was just a bit of a drive to get it. And the bathrooms/shower houses are locked as well. Vault toilets were open."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible biking options: Bennett Spring State Park Campground offers paved roads ideal for children learning to ride. "The roads are all paved so it made biking for our kids easy and enjoyable. The campsite was spacious and shaded. The kids loved playing in the creek and hiking the trails."
Beach areas for safe swimming: Little Niangua Campground provides water play areas appropriate for younger children. "Loved camping there and floating down the river! Will continue to camp here in the future!" reports a recent visitor.
Insect preparation: Ticks can be prevalent, especially in conservation areas and during warmer months. A visitor to Fiery Fork Conservation Area advises: "Unfortunately there was some spots with trash, especially around the fire. There is no dumpster so be prepared to take your trash with you. Other downside..ticks galore!"
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Many campgrounds require additional leveling equipment. A visitor to Lake of the Ozarks State Park Campground observed: "Nice campground for a state park the rv sites do not have water and are not real leval but are paved."
Road condition awareness: Access roads to some campgrounds present challenges for larger rigs. At Fiery Fork Conservation Area, a camper noted: "I don't recommend taking it until it gets some maintenance. It is overgrown and HIGH tick contact probability. I recommend smaller RVs due to the 2 miles of gravel and high water areas you go through to get there."
WiFi connectivity: Linn Creek KOA provides reliable internet access for work-from-road travelers. "Great place for a place to stay near the lake of the ozarks attractions. Super close to big surf and not a bad drive from all the lake has to offer," though the reviewer added that the campground is "very hilly" with "all roads through are gravel and rutted so not the easiest."
