Dispersed camping options near Clinton, Missouri include several Corps of Engineers campgrounds located around Harry S. Truman Lake and Pomme de Terre State Park. These sites typically offer water and electric hookups with rates between $10-22 per night depending on amenities and season. Most campgrounds in the area maintain shower facilities and boat launches for water access, though quality and maintenance varies by location.
What to do
Kayaking on Truman Lake: Sparrowfoot campground offers direct water access where campers can fish or paddle through numerous small coves. "I can hear the coyotes coming in. Water pressure is great, electrical is fine. Dump station is about 3 minutes away," notes one visitor describing the convenient amenities that support water activities.
Bike the campground roads: The paved roads at COE Harry S Truman Reservoir Long Shoal Park create a cycling-friendly environment. "It certainly was convenient to have a paved road the entire ride lined with dense forest trees," reports a camper who enjoyed the shaded bike paths that connect different areas of the park.
Fishing from shoreline sites: Sites at several campgrounds offer direct fishing access from your campsite. "Site 69 which overlooks the lake and was less than 30 yards from water edge," reports a Long Shoal visitor, describing the proximity that makes fishing convenient without needing a boat.
What campers like
Spacious, level sites: Campers consistently mention the well-designed campsite layouts. "Sites are spaced a good distance apart, nice clean lots with fire ring, picnic table and 30 amp," reports a visitor to Long Shoal Park, highlighting the adequate spacing between campsites that provides privacy.
Lake views from multiple sites: COE Harry S Truman Reservoir Bucksaw Campground and other area campgrounds feature numerous lakefront sites. "Nice campground run by the corp of engineers. Camp sites are far apart with plenty of shade trees," notes a Bucksaw visitor, emphasizing how the natural setting enhances the camping experience.
Clean facilities: Most campgrounds maintain their restrooms and shower houses regularly. "Clean bathrooms and showers. Quiet location," shares a visitor to Osage Bluff, reflecting the standard of maintenance found at many area campgrounds.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds have spotty coverage. "No T-Mobile service. Kinda backwoods and could definitely use some updating but pleasant all the same," notes a visitor to Deer Run RV Park & Campground, highlighting connectivity challenges common throughout the region.
Wildlife encounters: Raccoons and other wildlife are active at local campgrounds. "The sites are strategically positioned to maximize privacy while maintaining convenient access to modern shower facilities," according to visitors at several locations, though they warn to secure food as wildlife frequently visits campsites.
Shower availability varies: While some campgrounds have modern facilities, others have limited options. "They only have one shower house for about 150 sites, but plenty of restrooms," reports a Bucksaw visitor, noting facility limitations that affect high-traffic weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Knob Noster State Park Campground offers family-friendly amenities including play areas. "Loop B also has the playground which is right behind site B47. It's a newer playground and all equipment was nicely maintained," notes a visitor, though they mention there are no swings or seating areas for parents.
Beach swimming areas: Several campgrounds offer designated swimming spots that work well for children. "This offers some small bluffs with deep water for jumping off. If you walk further around the corner to the right, it turns into a nicer 'beach' style area with few rocks," describes a Sparrowfoot visitor detailing swimming options.
Fishing access for kids: Look for sites with gradual shoreline access. "Enjoyed lunch and breakfast at the restaurant in the marina," mentions a Long Shoal visitor, noting how convenient food options can supplement family camping meals when kids get tired of camp cooking.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Pittsburg Area Campground at Pomme de Terre State Park offers accommodations for various RV sizes. "Good room and nice level areas where we stayed in the 400 loop," reports an RVer who found the campground well-suited for their needs.
Hookup quality varies: Electric and water connections differ across campgrounds. "Truman Lake was flooded three years ago, since then Sparrowfoot has been completely updated with new water and 110V/30A/50A hook-ups," shares a camper, noting the recent infrastructure improvements that benefit RVers.
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds have sewer hookups, so note dump station locations. "Dump station and fresh water fill station at camp ground entrance," mentions a Long Shoal visitor, highlighting the convenience of these facilities for RV campers.
