Camping around Clinton, Missouri centers on Truman Lake, which spans over 55,000 acres with 950 miles of shoreline at normal elevation of 706 feet. The region experiences hot summers with temperatures averaging 85-90°F from June through August, making water activities popular but requiring adequate sun protection for campers. Winter camping is available at several locations with temperatures typically ranging from 20-40°F.
What to do
Fishing spots: The fishing at Truman Lake draws many campers, with both lake access and marina services. "Truly a beautiful campground with marina/store on site," notes one visitor who enjoyed the water access from multiple wide open spots.
Biking trails: Paved roads at Long Shoal Park provide excellent cycling opportunities along the water's edge. Reviewers mention "a nice bike ride from the campgrounds" with "paved road the entire ride lined with dense forest trees" that offers welcome shade during hot days.
Kayaking: Several campgrounds offer direct lake access for paddlers. One camper noted, "The park is beautiful and very clean! We were at B loop site 17 but would be better if water hookup was also at each site although public facet was close." Water conditions vary seasonally, with some campers noting the water can be muddy at times.
What campers like
Shaded sites: Campers frequently mention the tree cover at Sparrowfoot as a key benefit. "Nice shady spots with water and electric," writes one reviewer. Another notes, "Loop B is much quieter with fewer guests. Loop A is a little more busy."
Lake views: Many campsites offer direct lake visibility. "We are at A21 which is fine, but very close to the next site. However, A19 has a better lakeview," shared one visitor. Site selection matters for the best views, with some locations offering more privacy than others.
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness gets consistent positive mentions. "The shower house is clean and big! The toilets are clean and get cleaned often," writes one camper about Buck Ridge Campground. Another mentioned, "Clean bathrooms and showers. Dump station and fresh water fill station at camp ground entrance."
What you should know
Cell reception: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. One visitor notes, "In the A and B loops, very minimal cell service and very little opportunity to stream on the TVs." Another reported, "I had excellent T-Mobile 5G service" at their location.
Wildlife encounters: Montrose Missouri Conservation Area has abundant wildlife that campers frequently mention. "There is loads of wildlife to see and aren't much scared of humans, raccoons, beavers, crane, squirrels, deer, owls and much more," reported one camper. Others specifically mentioned friendly local cats that sometimes visit campsites.
Weather conditions: The region can experience significant seasonal flooding. One camper reported, "Had trouble getting here from the south because of extensive flooding from the April storms." Summer heat requires planning for shade and hydration.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. A reviewer mentioned one loop "also has the playground which is right behind site B47. It's a newer playground and all equipment was nicely maintained. There are no swings."
Swimming options: Multiple beaches are available for family swimming. "There is a 'Cozy Corner' RV Park just outside the entrance to supposedly get supplies; although sign said OPEN no one was there," noted one camper who instead enjoyed swimming at the nearby beach areas.
Biking for kids: Knob Noster State Park offers safe cycling options for children. "Knob Noster State Park is a great park for the grandkids to ride their new bikes on the level smooth campground road in safety," explained one grandparent who visited with family.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Most RV sites feature level gravel or concrete pads. "Flat level gravel site with plenty of space to spread out with an amazing view of Truman Lake and Long Shoal Marina," reported one RVer. Another noted, "We checked the showers and toilets, they were clean and had just been hosed down."
Hookup variations: Electric and water access differs between campgrounds and loops. One visitor mentioned, "Sites were spacious with 50 Amp hook ups. Some sites had been recently redone, new grass, rock pads and electric pedestals."
Weather protection: During storm season, campers appreciate facilities with storm shelters. "It has a very nice in ground pool along with a storm shelter which gives piece of mind in crazy Missouri weather," commented an RVer who stayed at one of the dog friendly campgrounds near Clinton.
