Pershing State Park Campground offers traditional tent and RV camping just 15 miles northwest of Chillicothe, Missouri. The park sits along the Grand River in western Missouri with 39 campsites nestled within a mature oak-hickory forest. Sites feature hard-surfaced pads with 30-amp electrical hookups, though water and sewer connections aren't available at individual sites. Multiple trails including a distinctive 1.5-mile boardwalk wind through wetland areas characteristic of this region.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Pershing State Park provides multiple small lakes for anglers seeking a quiet fishing experience. "The park has a dated shower house, playground for the kids, and several little lakes that you can fish in," notes one visitor to Pershing State Park Campground.
Historical exploration: Visit General John J. Pershing's boyhood home in nearby LaClede for a glimpse into local history. A Pershing camper recommends, "We also visited nearby LaClede where John J. Pershing's boyhood home is. Very informative and interesting."
Paddling: The lake at Watkins Mill State Park accommodates kayakers looking for flat water paddling experiences. "Great place to fish, kayak, bike ride. Clean campsites and bathrooms," shares a visitor to Watkins Mill State Park Campground.
Biking: Paved trails at Watkins Mill State Park provide excellent cycling opportunities. One regular visitor mentions, "We would go out extra early to set up then spend our time on the bike trails until lunch."
What campers like
Peaceful atmosphere: Pershing State Park offers a quiet environment away from larger, busier campgrounds. "If you enjoy solitude this is a wonderful stop. Camp host is wonderful and willing to help at any time," reports a visitor to Pershing State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Lincoln Lake RV Park maintains well-kept grounds and utilities. "Beautiful spot on the lake. Clean campground, full hook-ups. Tent and RV friendly," notes a reviewer at Lincoln Lake RV Park.
Wildlife viewing: The oak/hickory forests support diverse bird populations including woodpeckers. According to one Pershing camper, "The pileated and red headed woodpeckers are in abundance and the trails including a long boardwalk make for interesting walks."
Accessibility: Most campgrounds in the area feature paved access roads and relatively level sites. "Beautifully layed out with paved access, tree spots and a nice lake. Clean facilities include plenty of stalls and sinks, separate showers and laundry," reports a Watkins Mill visitor.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Water services at some parks shut down during colder months. A Pershing camper notes, "$21 Electric on season, $19 Electric off season. Off season starts Nov 1. Water is turned off."
Site selection: For more privacy at Pershing State Park, choose strategically. "Take the last spot on the loop for extra privacy and to be close to the restrooms," advises one camper at Pony Express RV.
Yurt camping Chillicothe, Missouri options: While traditional yurt camping near Chillicothe is limited, glamping alternatives exist at The Sundance Ranch and Pony Express RV, providing cabin-style accommodations with varying levels of amenities.
Office hours: Check facility operating hours before arrival. "We arrived on Sunday at 3:30 pm & office closed. Booked online which stated campground would assign spot. No one around & placed 2 calls unanswered," warns one Pony Express RV visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play equipment for children. "There is a camp shower house, playground for the kids, and several little lakes that you can fish in," mentions a Pershing State Park camper.
Educational opportunities: Combine outdoor recreation with learning at historical sites. One visitor to The Sundance Ranch suggests exploring "the woolen mill part" at nearby Watkins Mill State Park, noting it's "very cool" for history-interested families.
Wildlife encounters: Children often enjoy observing local animals in their natural habitat. The abundance of woodpeckers at Pershing State Park provides opportunities for wildlife spotting along the trails.
Extended stay activities: For longer visits, combine camping with day trips to nearby attractions. "The trail wraps the lake and connects to the edge of the campground. There are a couple historic sites not far on the side of the lake, quick little drive," suggests a Watkins Mill camper.
Tips from RVers
Year-round availability: Some facilities offer extended season camping. "This is a 12-month open RV Park. Most sites offer 30 and 50 Amp, Water and Sewer. WiFi has improved," notes a full-time resident at Pony Express RV.
Electrical service: Verify amperage needs before booking, as not all sites provide 50-amp service. At Pershing State Park, a camper points out there are "no water or sewer hookups and only 30 amp electric service."
Dump station access: Facilities vary between campgrounds, with some offering on-site sanitary dumps while others require off-site disposal. Pershing State Park provides a dump station though individual sites lack sewer connections.
Site spacing: Some RV parks offer more separation between sites than others. At Pershing, "the pads are mostly level and hard surfaced, surrounded by a bounty of shade," and the campground doesn't feel crowded except on peak weekends.
