Best Campgrounds near Chillicothe, MO

Camping near Chillicothe, Missouri encompasses a mix of state parks, conservation areas, and private RV facilities within a 30-mile radius. The region features several established campgrounds including Pershing State Park in nearby Laclede, which offers a unique wetland prairie environment with a 1.5-mile boardwalk trail through forest habitats. Shady Valley Court and RV Park provides in-town accommodations, while Wallace State Park and Watkins Mill State Park offer more extensive facilities within driving distance. Fountain Grove Conservation Area provides more primitive options for those seeking a less developed experience. As one camper noted, "Pershing State Park has nice treed sites that are not too close together, with wonderful trails nearby."

Most campgrounds in the Chillicothe area are accessible via paved or well-maintained gravel roads, with no 4WD requirements for standard sites. Several state parks operate year-round, though some conservation areas have seasonal closures or limited winter facilities. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions. Reservations are recommended for state park campgrounds, particularly during summer weekends and holidays. Fire restrictions may apply during dry periods, typically late summer through early fall. Most developed campgrounds provide potable water, though primitive sites in conservation areas generally do not.

The camping options around Chillicothe vary in amenities and setting. State parks like Pershing and Wallace feature shaded sites with electric hookups, shower facilities, and access to fishing lakes. According to reviews, Wallace State Park offers "exceptional primitive camping with private spaces and plenty of shade." Conservation areas provide more basic accommodations with pit toilets and limited amenities, but often at no cost. RV-specific parks cater to larger vehicles with full hookups. Family-friendly facilities are available at most state parks, with playgrounds, swimming areas, and interpretive programs during peak season. Pet policies vary by location, with most allowing leashed pets in camping areas but restricting them from certain facilities and beaches.

Best Camping Sites Near Chillicothe, Missouri (36)

    1. Pershing State Park Campground

    10 Reviews
    Laclede, MO
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (660) 963-2299

    "There features a wet land prairie that offers a diverse scene that you would not expect in Missouri."

    "Easy to get walk around. There are some wonderful trails nearby. Our favorite was the Boardwalk trail - 1 1/2 miles of boardwalk through forest. Just beautiful!"

    2. Crowder State Park Campground

    8 Reviews
    Trenton, MO
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (660) 359-6473

    "Even the vault bathroom next to our site wasn’t that nasty."

    "Nice, but small state park, has around 40 rv sites. Large newer shower house to service all 40 sites. All sites are shaded. They have around 10 sites with full hook ups."

    3. A Country Charm RV Park

    8 Reviews
    Cameron, MO
    24 miles
    Website

    "Small (15 Spaces) RV park located 1/2 mile from the Missouri Star Quilt Co. Most likely the reason why people come to Hamilton. Very clean and well kept."

    4. Fountain Grove Conservation Area

    1 Review
    Sumner, MO
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (660) 646-6122

    5. Wallace State Park Campground

    33 Reviews
    Cameron, MO
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (816) 632-3745

    "Great MO state park, close to the city with easy access to 35 N. Trails, lakes, camping, great spot! If you don’t want/need electric, try campground 1, the spots are tucked into the trees."

    "Not far off of RT 36 going East through Missouri. Cost only $13 with hot showers. Nice campsite with table and fire pit. The night of our stay the ranger did a naturalist talk about stream life."

    6. Shady Valley Court and RV Park

    Be the first to review!
    Chillicothe, MO
    1 mile
    +1 (660) 646-7801

    7. Dockery Park

    3 Reviews
    Jamesport, MO
    23 miles
    Website

    "Wonderful facility on the edge of Gallatin. Stores and gas just a mile away. A duck was the only full time resident of the park. We got several visits from the local residents."

    "They aren’t sheltered or hidden from the rest of the park though which was kinda weird when the kids from the baseball field nearby were staring at us putting up the tent."

    8. Bonanza Conservation Area

    3 Reviews
    Cowgill, MO
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (816) 675-2205

    "Multiple campsites available along the highway, but the marked site is one of the best, right by a great fishing lake. Very quite, no amenities."

    9. Watkins Mill State Park Campground

    34 Reviews
    Excelsior Springs, MO
    47 miles
    Website
    +1 (816) 580-3387

    $12 - $42 / night

    "Watkins mill SP is located a short distance from Kansas City off I-35 near Kearney. The park has a large lake that you can fish and boat as well as multiple hiking options."

    "This place offers peace and quiet outside of a small town with close by amenities. Clean and helpful staff"

    10. Bosworth City Park

    1 Review
    Triplett, MO
    25 miles
    Website

    "In the nearby town Bosworth there is a nice shop and take away for breakfast and great sandwich/wrap/pizza."

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Recent Reviews near Chillicothe, MO

143 Reviews of 36 Chillicothe Campgrounds



Guide to Chillicothe

Camping near Chillicothe, Missouri, offers a variety of beautiful spots for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Biking: Many campgrounds, like Watkins Mill State Park Campground, have paved roads perfect for walking and biking. One visitor mentioned, “New asphalt roads throughout the park; nice for walking, biking, etc.”
  • Fishing and Swimming: At Crow's Creek Campground, you can enjoy fishing and swimming. A reviewer noted, “Very nice campground and we’ve stayed here several times without any problems.”
  • Exploring Historic Sites: The Arrow Rock State Historic Site Campground is close to a historic town, making it a great spot for those interested in history. One camper shared, “The walk or drive to the historic town literally park of the park was a surprise.”

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Wallace State Park Campground said, “The bathrooms are pristine- nicer than some restaurants or hotels I’ve been to.”
  • Friendly Hosts: Many campgrounds have welcoming staff. A reviewer at Long Branch State Park Campground mentioned, “The camp host was helpful in providing firewood and was very attentive of the sites.”
  • Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy having room to spread out. One camper at Smiths Fork Recreation Area Camping noted, “Campground is great! Can’t wait until next year to see all of the events!”

What you should know:

  • Reservations Recommended: Some campgrounds fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A visitor at Kansas City East-Oak Grove KOA advised, “Good overnight stay, we wouldn’t stay longer than that, but definitely a good and convenient place for overnight.”
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full hookups or markets nearby. A camper at Camp Branch Campground mentioned, “The website for this park is ancient. Couldn't get anything booked online because the website wouldn't cooperate.”
  • Seasonal Access: Some campgrounds are only open during certain months. For example, Smiths Fork Recreation Area Camping operates from April 15 to October 15.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds or swimming areas. A family at Long Branch State Park Campground enjoyed, “Nice playground. Kind host. Fabulous showers!”
  • Plan for Meals: Some campgrounds have markets nearby, while others do not. A visitor at Owl Creek Market and RV Park said, “The market is a great touch.”
  • Bring Outdoor Games: Having games on hand can keep kids entertained. A camper at Watkins Mill State Park Campground suggested, “Be sure to get biscuits & gravy at ‘The General Store’ just down the road from the park entrance.”

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Kansas City East-Oak Grove KOA noted, “Sites are close together. Mine had shade.”
  • Look for Full Hookups: Some campgrounds offer only partial hookups. A camper at Crow's Creek Campground mentioned, “While some amenities are lacking, no full hookups, many with power only.”
  • Be Prepared for Noise: Campgrounds near highways can be noisy. A visitor at Kansas City East-Oak Grove KOA said, “Close proximity to the interstate does come with some traffic noise.”

Camping near Chillicothe, Missouri, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. With a bit of planning, you can enjoy the great outdoors and make lasting memories.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Chillicothe, MO?

According to TheDyrt.com, Chillicothe, MO offers a wide range of camping options, with 36 campgrounds and RV parks near Chillicothe, MO and 2 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Chillicothe, MO?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Chillicothe, MO is Pershing State Park Campground with a 4.1-star rating from 10 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Chillicothe, MO?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Chillicothe, MO.

What parks are near Chillicothe, MO?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 11 parks near Chillicothe, MO that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.