Smithville Lake offers several glamping options near Randolph, Missouri, with most sites open April through October. The lake spans over 7,200 acres with 175 miles of shoreline and sits at an elevation of approximately 864 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F with higher humidity levels, while spring and fall provide more moderate conditions for glamping activities.
What to do
Biking and scooting trails: Crow's Creek Campground provides paved paths ideal for wheeled activities. "The roads and trails are nice for scooters and bikes. Fairly close to the water and playground; within walking distance," notes Brittnie T., who visited in May 2025.
Fishing access year-round: Smiths Fork Recreation Area Camping offers easy lake access for anglers. Lawrence W. shares, "Close to Kansas City so it makes a great quick getaway. Clean, friendly, and right next to Smithville Lake. Our pick for a short trip."
Historical site exploration: Beyond glamping in Randolph, Missouri, visitors can explore regional history. Josh P. recommends, "If you like history, take a tour of the woolen mill part. Very cool," when referencing activities near Watkins Mill State Park Campground.
What campers like
Clean bathroom facilities: Camp Branch Campground maintains exceptionally clean facilities. Charlotte B. confirms, "During the camping season this campground has nice large shower houses and clean bathrooms. They sell ice and firewood at gates."
Secluded tent sites: For those seeking privacy beyond traditional glamping near Randolph, Weston Bend State Park Campground offers more isolated options. Barbie G. recommends, "Both times, we had site 26, one of the few basic sites. While some of the other sites were very close to each other, this one is relatively isolated. It's big too."
Lakeside camping spots: Crow's Creek Campground features premium waterfront sites. Julie B. explains, "We had a nice RV site with electric. The best part is the view of and access to the lake! So beautiful and relaxing. We could walk right down a grassy hill to the trail along the lake."
What you should know
Seasonal water shutoffs: Camp Branch can have unexpected utility changes in shoulder seasons. Bridget U. warns, "We stayed in October and due to unseasonably cold weather they shut off water with no notice and halfway through our stay. Ended up leaving early since we had no water."
Train noise considerations: The Kansas City West-Lawrence KOA experiences frequent train activity. LauraJane B. cautions, "This is a lovely campsite but we'll sadly never stay here again - because trains passed by really loudly all night long - it finally stopped at about 5am."
Peak season crowds: Glamping accommodations near Randolph fill quickly during summer. Robin R. from Lake Jacomo - Fleming Park advises, "It's a good camp ground if you are looking to get out of the city. The only draw back to this site is that you are close to your neighbors."
Tips for camping with families
Quieter camping periods: For family glamping near Randolph, Missouri, timing matters. Robin R. suggests, "We have stayed in this campground too many times to count. We love it when it is still kind of off season like Easter weekend and after labor day. We have small children and it can get pretty rowdy during the summer."
Playground proximity: Select sites near recreational amenities. Billy S. from Crow's Creek notes, "This place is great, nice big camp cites. Some are on water great walking or bike trail!"
Family-friendly campground selection: Camp Branch Campground offers a quieter experience for families. Robin R. confirms, "We have started staying here last couple of years. Nice big spots with electric only. It is quite a ways to shower house but much quieter than other campgrounds on Smithville lake. More family friendly."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: When glamping with an RV near Randolph, choose strategically. Julie B. advises, "The full hookup sites don't have a view of the lake. This is why we chose an electric only site and used a spigot in the campsite to fill our tank."
Full hookup availability: Smiths Fork Recreation Area offers complete utility connections. Don M. notes, "We don't stray very far from the KC Metro (50 mile radius). Of everywhere Smith's Fork is the only one (so far) that offers Electric (30 & 50 amp), Water (2) and Sewer at every campsite. At just $30 per day it is a steal!"
Campground layout considerations: RV glamping requires attention to site positioning. Roy T. from Kansas City East-Oak Grove KOA shares, "Easy access to Interstate and pull through sites were long enough for our truck and 32' trailer without having to unhitch. Only negatives were our hookups were literally in the next site next to their table, and their fire ring was very close to our trailer."
