Camping spots near Carthage, Missouri provide diverse options in southwest Missouri, where the Ozark Plateau begins its gentle rise toward the south. At approximately 900-950 feet elevation, campers experience mild spring and fall seasons with hot summers where temperatures typically reach the mid-90s between June and August. Winter camping remains viable with temperatures rarely falling below 20°F, allowing year-round access to many facilities.
What to do
Fish at convenient locations: Beagle Bay RV Haven Campground in nearby Sarcoxie features a small fishing lake perfect for casual anglers. A visitor noted, "We are in a tent on the back lawn by a small fishing pond. Nice playground for younger kids and you can't beat the atmosphere and the birds."
Enjoy water recreation: Zans Creekside RV Park offers direct river access with opportunities for tubing. According to one camper, "The river is pretty, seems like great fishing opportunity. We were just passing through so we didn't fish." Another visitor shared their experience: "Tubing from the falls was a blast!"
Visit local attractions: Staying at Camp Mi Casa on the Route RV Park puts you near interesting local spots. A camper mentioned, "Near enough to town to enjoy the museum and pop in for lunch, far enough away to feel detached. There's also an old Drive in movie next door!"
What campers like
Quiet environment despite highway proximity: Many campgrounds maintain peaceful settings even when located near major roads. At Big Red Barn RV Park, a visitor reported, "Convenient to Interstate 49, but virtually no traffic noise and none while inside the van."
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention cleanliness as a standout feature. A guest at Big Red Barn noted, "The bathrooms were toasty warm and VERY clean. Lavatory hot water got warm quickly, plenty of soap and towels."
Pet amenities: Dog-friendly features receive high praise from pet owners. One camper shared, "They have an off-leash dog park area which our dogs loved and used it 3-4 times the nite we were there."
What you should know
Tent camping limitations: Not all campgrounds accommodate tent camping. At Neosho City Campground, a frustrated camper reported, "No tents allowed. I think it's stupid what campground says no tents?!"
Reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds have flexible check-in procedures. At Coachlight Campground, a visitor shared, "We called on our way and the woman said they had plenty of space and since we were arriving after hours to just come in and pick any available spot and pay in the morning."
Train noise affects some locations: Railroad tracks near certain campgrounds create periodic disturbances. A camper at Neosho City Campground mentioned, "Train tracks adjoining the park and these are busy tracks with trains running day and night."
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly amenities: Beagle Bay RV Haven Campground offers multiple activities for children. A visitor observed, "They have everything you could want! Arcade, swimming pool, kids playground and a pond to fish."
Consider swimming options: Several campgrounds feature pools for hot summer days. One camper at Camp Mi Casa shared, "The swimming pool is a little small but my kids love it! My 2 year old was able to learn to swim better in it."
Find campgrounds with staff who engage children: Some campground staff go above and beyond for younger guests. A camper at Beagle Bay noted, "Kim came by and took my son and 2 other kids on a golf cart ride on the trail behind the lake and they had a blast."
Tips from RVers
Casino campground benefits: Downstream RV Park offers unique perks for RVers who also enjoy gambling. A visitor explained, "Stay for free if you are a casino card holder. Pros: it's a free concrete parking lot with hookups. Clean, a little grass for pets. Did I mention the first night is free if you register at the Casino and get a players card."
Level sites save setup time: Well-maintained sites reduce the hassle of leveling RVs. A camper at Coachlight Campground shared, "The pull-through sites are great for our 40' home, and level enough that it required about 2 minutes to setup."
Discount programs available: Some campgrounds participate in discount networks. A visitor to Downstream RV Park noted, "Passport America stop, 17.50 per night. Highway noise but didn't bother us at all."
