The RV campgrounds around Clearwater Lake, Missouri sit within the Ozark Mountain region at elevations ranging from 500 to 900 feet above sea level. The area experiences four distinct seasons with hot, humid summers and mild winters, making most campgrounds accessible year-round. Fall camping brings color changes from late October through mid-November, when campground reservations become essential due to peak visitor traffic.
What to do
Creek exploration: Big Creek RV Park offers access to a spring-fed creek perfect for cooling off during summer months. "The creek is nice for cooling down on a hot day, but there is a pool if you'd rather do that," notes Mike T. The park also maintains a hiking/biking path along the creek.
Trail riding: Fourche Creek RV Park and Riding Trails provides private riding paths around a large lake. "We enjoyed their private trails that went around the big lake," reports Kelly M., who appreciated the convenient horse facilities. The park provides tack rooms and stall cleaning equipment for riders.
River floating: Weekend river float trips attract large groups looking for social gatherings. "Great to float, but gets a little rowdy at night," mentions Charlotte B. about Huzzah Valley. Sunday floats typically offer a more relaxed atmosphere compared to Saturday trips, which draw larger, louder crowds.
What campers like
Family activities: Saturday organized events keep families entertained at several parks. "Saturday is fun with different campground activities and an evening hayride," reports Mike T. about Big Creek RV Park. Some campgrounds organize regular activities like duck races, which one reviewer mentioned: "Duck races were fun."
Site spacing and layout: Some campers appreciate more spacious sites. "The campground is clean and inviting. Nice trees and roomy campsites," notes Mike T. about Big Creek. In contrast to parks with tighter spacing, Little Sinkin Creek RV Resort provides a more secluded setting, described as "a gem. Family operated and located in the Ozark Mountains with beautiful scenery nearby to explore."
Attentive staff: Personal service stands out at many Clearwater Lake rv campgrounds. At Camelot RV Campground, "They escorted us to our site, offered help getting parked and set up," writes Paul P., adding, "It's easy to recognize when people really care!" This hands-on approach extends to arrival procedures at multiple parks.
What you should know
Cell service variations: Connectivity differs significantly between campgrounds. "Verizon worked ok. T-Mobile very poor," reports Eric H. about one park. Others provide more reliable connections: "Cell service was good and wifi was iffy," notes a camper at Big Creek RV Park.
Supply availability: Many campgrounds sit away from major shopping areas. "Be advised, not a lot of supplies nearby. Make sure you bring with you," cautions Eric H. Camelot RV Campground offers a small store and propane sales, making it more convenient for resupplying.
Weekend noise levels: Weekends bring higher attendance and noise at many parks, especially during summer months. One camper noted about Huzzah Valley, "If you are just looking for a fun float and party atmosphere this is a great place," adding it works well "for large groups." Quieter experiences typically come during weekdays or off-season visits.
Tips for camping with families
Pool options: Several RV parks offer swimming pools as alternatives to creek or lake swimming. "Nice, clean, quiet campground. Spacious lots. Clean pool (on the small side)," writes one camper about their September stay. Pools typically operate from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Duck races and activities: Huzzah Valley offers structured activities for families looking for organized fun. "We've also stayed with a large group at Hiller House. Sleeps 20 with its own private, clean shower house," notes Carmen N., highlighting options for larger family gatherings.
Consider weekday visits: For families seeking quieter experiences, mid-week reservations provide a more relaxed atmosphere. "We went day after Labor Day and had no problem and she got us in early. Stayed 3 nights," mentions Eric H., describing a less crowded timeframe.
Tips from RVers
Big rig access: Most parks accommodate larger RVs, but entrance roads present challenges. Fourche Creek RV Park features "beautiful and full of nature" surroundings with "wonderful spacious sites, nicely groomed lawns," according to Reta G. The park sits only "8 min away" from town for supply runs.
Leveling expectations: Gravel sites predominate throughout the region with varying leveling requirements. "The spots are level clean and well kept," notes one camper about Big Creek RV Park, while another mentions, "Spots were clean and easy to back into or pull through."
Seasonal considerations: Spring brings occasional flooding concerns at riverside campgrounds. Fall offers optimal camping weather with moderate temperatures and changing foliage, but requires advance reservations. Winter camping remains available at several parks including Camelot RV Campground, which maintains "Full-Hookups, water, sewer, electric30/50amp, Cable TV and WiFi" year-round.
