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Best Campgrounds near Columbia, MO

289 Reviews

Central Missouri has a surprise for outdoor enthusiasts: It’s home to some of the best camping in the state. Near Columbia, MO, there are a number of conservation areas along the Missouri River. Rock Bridge Memorial State Park is minutes from the city and offers a fun and educational experience for children and adults. There are plenty of scenic trails to hike, bike, or explore on horseback. The park is home to fascinating natural features, including a cave system, and is one of the many opportunities to explore the outdoors near Columbia. A number of campgrounds are located around the city with amenities and campsites to accommodate the type of camping you're looking for, whether you want to stay closer or farther from the city lights.

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Best Camping Sites Near Columbia, Missouri (71)

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Recent Reviews near Columbia, MO

289 Reviews of 71 Columbia Campgrounds

Guide to Columbia

Camping near Columbia, Missouri, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful getaway or an adventure-filled trip, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Exploring: Many campgrounds, like Lake of the Ozarks State Park Campground, have great hiking trails. One visitor mentioned, "Beautiful campgrounds. Hiking trails. Super showers & toilets. Clean. Friendly staff."
  • Fishing and Boating: Long Branch State Park Campground is perfect for fishing and boating. A camper shared, "We really enjoyed our time here and we'll definitely be coming back in the warmer months to enjoy some swimming and boating."
  • Visiting Historic Sites: Arrow Rock State Historic Site Campground is close to historic attractions. One reviewer noted, "The town of Arrow Rock is awesome, adds a great element to staying here."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Lazy Day Campground said, "Bathhouse was clean and well kept. Would recommend!"
  • Friendly Staff: Many campers mention the helpfulness of the staff. A reviewer at Graham Cave State Park Campground remarked, "The camp host was helpful and friendly."
  • Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy having enough space between sites. One camper at Ray Behrens mentioned, "Each site included a wooden picnic table and a fire pit. There was a large grass area between us and the next camper."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Finger Lakes State Park Campground, may have fewer amenities. A camper noted, "The bathrooms and showers were clean, but some sites looked level, but some are a bit wacky."
  • Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife, especially raccoons. A visitor at Indian Creek Campground advised, "Raccoons visited nightly so secure your food supply and trash."
  • Road Noise: Some campgrounds may have noise from nearby roads. A camper at Ray Behrens mentioned, "Some road noise in the distance."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. One family at Cottonwoods RV Park & Campground said, "Great place to stay. Nice pool clean bathrooms and a really nice laundry."
  • Plan for Outdoor Fun: Many campgrounds have playgrounds or trails. A visitor at Cooper’s Landing Campgrounds and Marina shared, "The Katy trail runs through the edge of the property, offering quick access to trail walking, hiking, and bicycling."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having food on hand can save trips to the store. A camper at Lazy Day Campground mentioned, "The little details make it very homey."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Cottonwoods RV Park & Campground noted, "The utilities were in the middle of the pad and water pressure was decent."
  • Look for Full Hookups: Many RVers prefer sites with full hookups. A camper at Long Branch State Park Campground said, "The sites are each very spacious with flat areas."
  • Be Prepared for Limited Dump Stations: Some campgrounds may not have dump stations. A visitor at Cooper’s Landing Campgrounds and Marina mentioned, "You will have water and electric but no sewer and no dump station on site."

Camping around Columbia, MO, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to check the campground details and reviews to find the best fit for your trip!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Columbia, MO?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Columbia, MO offers a wide range of camping options, with 71 campgrounds and RV parks near Columbia, MO and 5 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Columbia, MO?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Columbia, MO is Finger Lakes State Park Campground with a 3.6-star rating from 23 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Columbia, MO?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 free dispersed camping spots near Columbia, MO.

  • What parks are near Columbia, MO?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 9 parks near Columbia, MO that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.

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