Campgrounds near Camdenton, Missouri center around Lake of the Ozarks, with several state parks and private facilities offering diverse camping experiences. Lake of the Ozarks State Park Campground provides both developed sites with electrical hookups and primitive camping areas, while Bennett Spring State Park Campground offers tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals. The region includes multiple mixed-use campgrounds catering to various outdoor interests, from fishing and water recreation to hiking and wildlife viewing. Most established campgrounds feature picnic tables, fire rings, and access to restroom facilities, with varying levels of hookups for RVs.
Seasonal considerations impact camping availability throughout the region, particularly regarding water levels and weather conditions. A visitor commented, "If you come in the winter or spring the lake will be low and your lakeside campsite will be Lake view instead." Lake of the Ozarks State Park remains open year-round, though some amenities may be limited during off-seasons. Water levels can fluctuate significantly, affecting shoreline camping and boat launches. Many campgrounds require reservations, especially for premium waterfront sites during summer months. Cell service varies but is generally available at major campgrounds, with more remote conservation areas offering limited connectivity. Road access is generally good with paved routes leading to most established campgrounds.
Waterfront camping sites receive consistently high ratings from visitors, with Lake of the Ozarks State Park and Pomme de Terre State Park frequently mentioned for their lake views. A recent review noted, "Most spots are lakefront on an uncommercialized lake. I fish from a kayak and was never overwhelmed by boats and the fishing is fantastic." Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with several reviews mentioning deer sightings, particularly in Lake of the Ozarks State Park. The primitive camping areas tend to offer more seclusion and wildlife encounters than the developed RV sections. Conservation areas like Fiery Fork provide free camping with minimal amenities for those seeking a more rustic experience. Tent campers can find suitable sites at most campgrounds, though some areas have uneven terrain that may require careful site selection. Private campgrounds in the region often provide additional amenities like camp stores, marinas, and rental equipment.
$14 - $50 / night
"Lake of the Ozarks State Park campground is located in Kaiser Missouri about 5 miles down highway 134 off of highway 42. This campground is about 1.5 hour from Columbia and Springfield Missouri."
"We stayed close to the river in the primitive area and the deer were all over. These deer were super friendly and didn't move at all as we walked right past them. "
$15 - $48 / night
"This state park is one worth a stop when near Springfield. I drove north toward this park to enjoy something a bit different and found it to be very peaceful during a weekday. "
"A trout fisher dream, as one of Missouri’s 5 hacherys are here. Fun for this kids to see the amazing amount of fish."
"We stayed overnight here because our dog was sick and this was close to the animal hospital we visited. We wish would have stayed here originally (we stayed the. first night at the state park)."
"Minutes away from great food and the water."
"Most sites have been levels and graveled showers and restrooms newly remodeled easy access to byway some traffic noise if close to front is being upgraded and is a good getaway from overcrowded campgrounds"
"Good access to the Lake of the Ozarks."
"The area was mowed, had a rock fire place, concrete picnic tables (which were handy), a vault toilet, shade, grass for dogs to play frisbee, parking right beside your spot, trails, access to the river,"
"The river access also means many leave their trash from their boats/canoes in the latrine located at the campsite as well. The river access is really amazing though. "
"Sites with electric and water only are in nice oak woods overlooking Lake of the Ozarks. (Our site # J has a concrete stairway with 150 steps down to the water.)"
"Absolutely hidden gem on the lake available for military (active/retired/DAV)."
$15 - $120 / night
"Lake of the Ozarks is amazing lots to see and do place was clean and people were friendly"
"The Lake of the Ozarks Recreation Area (LORA) is a great destination for camping, boating, swimming, water skiing, fishing and other outdoor activities."
$11 - $100 / night
"A wonderful valley encloses this campground, with the lake of the Ozarks in view. Our family and many friends have camped here many times for the biblical feast and it is a pleasure to stay there."
ScoutMy brother and I stayed here for a guys getaway, it’s a remote area with a restroom and fire pits. Accessible via most vehicles as all roads are rocked. You will not need 4x4 to get out here.
GuideUnfortunately we did not get to stay as our batteries were dead and we had to abort. However, this is an excellent spot and we would happily go back!
LegendIts a free place to chill for up to 2 weeks. Donations only, I have stayed here 2 times, both times it was quiet, clean, empty and well taken care of, there are bathrooms and its on the creek.
ScoutClean spot, electric and water. Not bad. I'm in my car travelling. It's super cold tonight ❄️
RangerWe stayed here several times in our 42’ 5th wheel. Full hookups. Nice pond. Walking trails.
ScoutWe are definitely the traditional campers , ( tents, kiaks, volleyball, bbq, s’mores and more.) Bucksaw is a family friendly way to spend those summer vacations with the kids. Times were very different as a child for me growing up and Bucksaw gave some nostalgia to this old man makes me feel like a kid again. Walking trails, play grounds, sites with or without water, power. Short distance to the marina with its amenities restraint if you don’t feel like cooking, small shop, cabins on and off the water , fishing tournaments if that’s your thing. They pretty much have it all. So if you haven’t been here I suggest you add it to your list, we will be back 2026!!!!!!!
Guideverry clean showers ok your right nexted to the hwy. so alittle loud but other than that verry nice place
GuideQuiet, secluded Missouri Department of Conservation Area with free, designated camping near the road. The Little Niangua River is part of the conservation area with fishing and hunting allowed during appropriate seasons.
GuideOne shower and one bathroom working at the back of the campground. There's more up at the house but I didn't use those facilities. I was less than impressed with this campground. Especially for the price. It looks as though most campers actually live there and they got the shaded spots with plenty of trees. I was directed towards the back which is all gravel and not much else. Good for a quick stay over but there's nicer places close by for half the price.
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.
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.
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.
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."
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!"
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."
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Camdenton, MO?
According to TheDyrt.com, Camdenton, MO offers a wide range of camping options, with 160 campgrounds and RV parks near Camdenton, MO and 2 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Camdenton, MO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Camdenton, MO is Lake of the Ozarks State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 47 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Camdenton, MO?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Camdenton, MO.
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