Bennett Spring State Park Campground has expanded its offerings beyond just trout fishing. Located in the Ozark hills about 12 miles west of Lebanon, Missouri, the park sits at approximately 920 feet elevation with average summer temperatures reaching 85°F. Winter camping is available with temperatures typically ranging from 20-40°F during December through February, allowing year-round access to the springs that maintain a constant 57°F water temperature.
What to do
Hiking through natural features: Bennett Spring State Park offers over twenty miles of hiking trails through its 3,216 acres. "The park has over twenty miles of hiking trails meandering through its 3,216 acres. Trails range from a leisurely walk along the stream to that of rigorous mountain trails that reward hikers with great picturesque views of the Ozark Mountains," according to Bennett Spring State Park Campground reviewer Nancy W.
Winter camping: For a more secluded experience, visit during the off-season. "This time wife and I took our small camper just to get away for the weekend. We stayed in campground one because it is the only one open during the off season. You can make reservations online before going to ensure you have the spot you want," reports Nathan P. about his winter stay at Bennett Spring.
Bike friendly routes: Many campgrounds offer paved paths ideal for family biking. "The roads are all paved so it made biking for our kids easy and enjoyable. The campsite was spacious and shaded," notes Amanda R. about her experience at Bennett Spring State Park Campground.
What campers like
Secluded camping loops: At Pittsburg Area Campground, campers appreciate the layout. "We chose the 400 loop of Pittsburgh for its secluded spots. Spaces are not stacked on top of each other. You're in the woods so take bug spray. Level paved lots to choose from. Fire rings and covered picnic tables. Lots of shade," writes Cindy K.
Clean facilities: Hermitage State Park earns praise for maintenance. "We picked a standard non electric site as it was level and not crowded. $8 for seniors so not bad. Lots of fishing activities here on the lake," shares Luckybreak R. about their stay at Hermitage State Park Campground.
Lakeside views: Many sites offer direct water access. "Site 47 right on the water great for kayaking and swimming. Water in the lake is high this time of year but fun is still to be had via fishing. Biking. Boating and kayaking," explains Will E. about their experience at Long Shoal Park.
What you should know
Off-season amenities: Winter camping offers reduced crowds but limited facilities. "You can make reservations online before going to ensure you have the spot you want. Campground one is in a flat spot down by the water and it is actually rather open and built for large rigs to fit in. We were surprised when we found that there was Wi-Fi available for free at the campground," notes Nathan P. about Bennett Spring State Park.
Site selection matters: Some campgrounds have significant variation between sites. "Sites vary from 100% sun to 100% shade so you have a lot to choose from," explains Joe G. from COE Harry S Truman Reservoir Long Shoal Park.
Tent site challenges: Not all sites are tent-friendly. "Not close to water. No actual place for a tent. And we could not use the down dead wood for firewood. I wouldn't stay again," warns Whitney M. about their Pittsburg Area Campground experience.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Multiple water recreation opportunities exist. "Great place to take the family. The kids loved playing in the creek and hiking the trails. It's a good spot to go trout fishing as well!" shares Amanda R. about Bennett Spring State Park Campground.
Family-friendly facilities: Niangua River Oasis offers organized activities. "Everyone was nice that worked there. Didn't have any problems with the people around us but we were in the family area. Now camping is free if you float with them and it does get crowded on the weekends," explains Kris S.
Alternative glamping options: For families wanting more comfort near Camdenton, Missouri, cabins provide a middle ground. "We had a cabin along with a RV site. The cabins were great. Campsites were nice too. There was a large pool kind of hidden in the woods," notes Ginny B. about her stay at Gasconade Hills Resort.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: At Linn Creek KOA, sites can be challenging. "Spacious and mostly level sites, which is outstanding as this park is on face of a hill. We stayed in march so leaves are off the trees and could hear road noise," advises Charles A. about glamping near Camdenton at Linn Creek KOA.
Full hookup considerations: Military Park Fort Leonard Wood Lake of the Ozarks Recreation Area offers diverse site types. "Beautiful campground, though Full hookup sites are on an unappealing parking lot. Sites with electric and water only are in nice oak woods overlooking Lake of the Ozarks," reports kate B., noting the trade-offs between amenities and aesthetics.
Road conditions: Access can be problematic at some locations. "The gravel roads around the campsite were very washed out from rain, unlevel, and I was nervous we'd bust up the camper pulling it," warns Sarah L. about her experience at Linn Creek KOA.
