Cabins near Carthage, Missouri provide access to varied elevations, with the region sitting approximately 941 feet above sea level amid rolling Ozark foothills. The area experiences humid continental climate patterns with hot summers and moderate winters, making cabin rentals a year-round option for visitors. Winter temperatures typically range from 25-45°F while summer months average 70-90°F.
What to do
Trout fishing access: Roaring River State Park Campground offers designated trout fishing zones with stocked waters. "Several spots near the river most are basic sites. They have three loops each with there own shower houses. Loop one is out away from the river tucked in a narrow cannon really cool fealing," notes a camper at Roaring River State Park Campground.
Mountain biking trails: Trail systems connect to several cabin areas around Bella Vista. "This is your basic parking lot campground. Your site is all cement with full hook ups and a picnic table. No green areas to call your own, BUT you have incredible instant access to the trailhead of many singletrack bike and hiking trails," explains a visitor at Blowing Springs RV Park & Campsites.
Swimming areas: Multiple campgrounds offer swimming access during warmer months. "Great state park. Cleanest restrooms I've seen. Great trails. Bring the kayaks. They have some pretty cool kayak marked trails on the lake. Beautiful sail boats to see as well," reports a camper at Stockton State Park.
What campers like
Water recreation options: Local lakes and rivers provide multiple water activity choices. At Stockton State Park Campground, visitors appreciate the accessibility: "The grounds are nice and clean. The restrooms and showers are decent for a public area. The shop on the marina is not over priced like you would think. There are pontoons, kayaks and canoes for rent at the marina."
Diverse accommodation types: Cabin sizes and styles vary widely throughout the region. "Woody Trail Campground has lots of options. From walking tent sites with or with out electricity, RV site with hook-ups and even cabins, this campground has something for everyone. All sites are nicely distanced from each other," according to a review of Woody Trail - Twin Bridges.
River float options: Several cabin areas provide direct access to floating opportunities. "Have camped here several times over the years and we have a large party that camps and floats together every year. This place is definitely a party camp. There is a general store on site that also sells food and ice cream," notes a visitor to Shady Beach Camp & Canoe.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many cabin sites require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. "We were at the Sentry loop. We liked site 71 in that loop. It offered the most space and was a full hook up. That is one of the best things about this campground. Several full hookups," shares a camper at Indian Creek Campground.
Bathroom facilities: Quality and accessibility of restrooms vary significantly between properties. One visitor to Camp Mi Casa noted that some bathrooms can be basic, while others like Stockton State Park receive praise for cleanliness.
Seasonal considerations: Cabins operate under different seasonal schedules, with varying availability. "We spent a weekend in early May in campground 1 backing right up to one of the creeks. The sound of running water alone would have me back. Electric only and not very level site but loved it," explains a Roaring River camper.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. "There are a variety of hookup options for tent or camper/RV guests. There are shower houses with hot water, I have seen the crews regularly cleaning the bathroom/shower houses. On Saturday nights there is a couple from the Corps of Engineers that do free activities for kids and families that we really enjoy," reports a visitor at Indian Creek.
Swimming beaches: Multiple locations feature designated swimming areas with varying amenities. A Stockton State Park visitor notes, "The grounds are nice and clean. I had never even heard of this lake. There is also a swim beach nearby."
Kid-friendly hiking: Trail systems with varying difficulty levels accommodate young hikers. "We spent a weekend in early May in campground 1 backing right up to one of the creeks. Lots to do and see at the hatchery and play in the river. Hikes were overgrown but beautiful," mentions a Roaring River State Park visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Some cabin and RV areas require additional leveling equipment. At Joplin KOA, a visitor notes: "Clean and well maintained KOA. Friendly personnel. Shaded, pull thru sites as well as back-ins, cabins, and tent sites. Sites are very level with crushed stone pads. Good water pressure."
Wi-Fi connectivity: Internet access varies significantly between properties. "Internet is poor, as typical of most RV parks. Cable tv with about 30 channels. Good stopover park," adds a Joplin KOA camper about connectivity expectations.
Hook-up availability: Different sites offer varying levels of service connections. At Shady Beach Camp & Canoe, "Once arriving the owners/staff were friendly and helpful. The convenience shop had everything you could possibly forget at home and plus! They have thought of everything you might need while camping."
