Missouri's campgrounds near Fort Leonard Wood sit between 800-1,200 feet elevation in the northern Ozarks, characterized by spring-fed rivers and rolling forested terrain. Standard camping season runs April through October, with trout parks and riverfront campgrounds requiring reservations 3-6 months in advance for summer weekends. Winter camping options exist at select parks with reduced services and lower occupancy.
What to do
Fishing access points: Lane Spring Recreation Area offers smaller crowds and good fishing spots. "This is a great little spot for 'on your honor' camping with some electric sites for rvs, but mostly primitive sites," notes Jesse C., highlighting the undeveloped feel compared to larger parks.
Cave tours: Round Spring Campground features guided lantern tours of Round Spring Cave for $5 during summer months. "Tours of the cave are given daily June through August. The lantern tours show an amazing cave with many beautiful formations," explains Marty C., who recommends combining cave exploration with river activities.
Wildlife viewing: Echo Bluff State Park provides opportunities to observe native wildlife. "We were able to see wild horses as well," reports Sage W., mentioning this as a highlight alongside the park's amenities and river access.
Hiking trails: Lane Spring Recreation Area connects to multiple forest paths. "I didn't have a lot of time to explore Lane Springs Recreation Area, but it looked nice," shares Erin, who describes the peaceful camping experience with creek views.
What campers like
River proximity: Round Spring Campground offers direct river access for water activities. "We snagged a spot with a river view... There is an on/off-loading area for canoes and kayaks," writes Theresa H., noting wildlife sightings including "a bald eagle and a very curious little otter down by the river."
Spacious sites: Montauk State Park provides well-separated camping areas. "My site (206) was very level and was surrounded in trees like basically ever other site which made it comfortable to sit outside all day," describes Trevor S., emphasizing the shade coverage.
Camp amenities: Bennett Spring State Park maintains clean facilities with recent upgrades. "Park has a pool open from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Several different campgrounds offer a variety. Primarily a trout fisherman's paradise the park offers plenty for the family," explains jeremiah K., noting complete bathroom restoration.
Lodge dining: Several parks feature on-site dining options. "The lodge has a full restaurant, as well as a diner style counter. My son love's to go and sit at the counter to get ice cream," shares Kyle H. about Montauk, mentioning the option to "order a sack lunch to take out to the river bank."
What you should know
Seasonal restrictions: Pulltite Campground operates from April through mid-October. "Pulltite campground IS part of the National Park Service, so keep in mind all the regulations and quiet times and rules that come with staying in a National Park," advises Ellen F.
Shower availability: Campground facilities vary significantly. "There are two bathroom/shower houses with laundry facilities located in the campground, along with three campground hosts," explains Kyle H. about Montauk, while Round Spring offers "fantastic water pressure" in "three family style showers."
Site selection: Round Spring Campground requires careful site selection. "Test sites are hit or miss. Sites 1-18 are fairly small and not very level. Sites 19-29 have larger, more level areas," warns Lea B., noting that "many sites have steps up of down to the site from the road."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies by location. "There is no cell service available, so make sure you have made reservations before you get here. Closest cell service is up the road at Echo Bluff State Park," notes Lea B. about Round Spring.
Tips for camping with families
Scheduled activities: Echo Bluff State Park offers structured recreation for children. "Very relaxed reservation procedure. We called and were told to just show up. They would hold a spot for us," reports Kate B. about the military park, highlighting the family-friendly approach.
Swimming options: Bennett Spring State Park maintains a swimming pool. "The park offers plenty for the family. Wonderful hiking trails, a restaurant, and the above mentioned pool keep everyone entertained," says jeremiah K., making it suitable for non-fishing family members.
Proximity to amenities: Some campgrounds provide essentials within walking distance. "You can also rent modern hotel suite-style cabins and eat in the dining hall so you don't have to cook. Nice general store too," reports Dan N. about Montauk State Park, highlighting convenience for families.
Alternative glamping options: For families seeking upgraded accommodations near Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, Gasconade Hills Resort offers cabin options. "We booked a last minute trip here and had a cabin along with a RV site. The cabins were great," writes Ginny B., noting the swimming pool "kind of hidden in the woods."
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Military Park Fort Leonard Wood Lake of the Ozarks Recreation Area provides multiple camping options for eligible visitors. "They have four areas - tent, water and electric, full hook up and cabins! We have stayed here many times - typically with the full hook ups," explains Felicia H.
Campsite spacing: Site dimensions and privacy vary significantly between campgrounds. "Spots are kind of close together but still comfortable. Each site had a picnic table and fire ring," shares Leah H. about Montauk, contrasting with Echo Bluff where reviewers note that sites are "out in the open with no shade."
RV length restrictions: Not all parks accommodate larger vehicles. "The campground is broken down into 4 separate loops, with loop 1 being the only basic section, all the others have electricity," explains Kyle H., who recommends specific sites based on space needs.
