Fort Leonard Wood sits in the Ozark highlands of Missouri where elevations range from 800-1,400 feet. The area features a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Campgrounds near the military installation offer access to the Gasconade and Niangua Rivers, which provide recreational opportunities beyond standard camping activities.
What to do
River activities along the Gasconade: Froggys River Resort offers direct access to the Gasconade River for floating, fishing, and swimming. One camper noted, "The six mile float on the gasconade was lovely. The river moves slow, so if you're used to floating 16 miles on the spring fed Jacks Fork or Current, halfing that will be plenty."
Trout fishing opportunities: Riverfront Campground and Canoe provides convenient access to Bennett Springs State Park, known for trout fishing. As one visitor mentioned, "It offers direct access to the Niangua River, and it is only a short drive from Bennett Springs State Park, where you can fly fish and pull trout from the river from dawn until dusk."
Hiking on nearby trails: Paddy Creek Recreation Area connects to hiking trails in Mark Twain National Forest. A camper shared: "Access to swimming, fishing, and hiking trails. We were surprised with how many sites were taken up, but there were still quite a few available."
Bluff jumping for adventurous visitors: Flying W Store & Campground offers access to unique natural features. One visitor enthusiastically reported, "At the very back where it connects to the current river are some amazing bluffs to jump off of."
What campers like
Secluded atmosphere: Paddy Creek Recreation Area offers quiet camping with minimal crowds. A camper noted, "We've been camping here for 3-4 years now and we are still amazed at how quiet and secluded it is. We love being able to have an escape from the world and forced to not have our electronics since there is no service."
Well-maintained facilities: Froggys River Resort receives praise for its upkeep and staff. One camper mentioned, "The camp hosts were amazing. Perfect river access." Another stated, "The crew is so friendly and you can tell they love running the CG and caring for guests."
Spacious campsites: Echo Bluff State Park offers well-designed camping spaces. A visitor observed, "Campsites are all well manicured and offer everything from basic sites to full RV hook ups." While another added, "This campground has full amenities. Clean bathrooms and showers. Firewood available for purchase and even WiFi."
Water access: Many campgrounds prioritize water recreation. At Riverfront Campground, a visitor mentioned, "The river has a couple nice gravel bars for swimming." Another camper at Flying W noted, "Great views, close to fishing and off roading."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Echo Bluff State Park requires advance planning. One camper advised, "The only negative is that we have experienced are that you need to reserve your side months in advance because this campground is so popular."
Limited or no cell service: Paddy Creek Recreation Area has minimal connectivity. A camper mentioned, "No cell service at cg. Had to drive up the hill to get a signal."
Campsite selection tips: At Paddy Creek, one visitor recommended, "Arrive early for a good spot (We stayed in spot 20 which had its own path to the river)." Another specified, "Stayed at site 22. Most sites are well shaded and spacious. Good privacy between sites."
Size limitations for vehicles: While some campgrounds accommodate larger RVs, Paddy Creek has restrictions. A camper noted, "Parking pads are short and lined with huge boulders. Worked fine for our 16ft TT big rigs probably not so much."
Limited equestrian facilities: For those seeking horse campgrounds near Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, options directly at campgrounds are scarce. Pinecrest Campground and Cabins provides general camping but doesn't advertise horse-specific amenities.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Echo Bluff State Park offers amenities specifically for families. A camper shared, "It was a great place to take our kids! This campground has full amenities. Clean bathrooms and showers. Firewood available for purchase and even WiFi."
Playground access: Riverfront Campground includes recreational facilities. A visitor mentioned, "It has a playground and a large area in the middle of the loop for playing."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Some campgrounds offer chances to see native animals. At Echo Bluff, one camper reported, "Was able to see wild horses as well. Water, electric, and even wifi."
River safety considerations: When camping with children near water, supervision is essential. At Froggys River Resort, a visitor recommended, "Go when it's not busy," suggesting that crowded river conditions might be challenging for families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Riverfront Campground and Canoe offers various hookup options. A camper noted, "Easy parking with convenient hookups. Primitive camping would be awesome because you're closer to the river."
RV site characteristics: At Echo Bluff, a visitor cautioned, "The only other negative is that all of the campsites are out in the open with no shade."
Dump station logistics: Some campgrounds require using central facilities. One RVer at Riverfront mentioned, "All the RV sites are electric/water so you have to use the on site dump station."
Pad conditions and size: Concrete pads make leveling easier at select locations. A visitor to Riverfront noted, "Level concrete pads on most sites. The sites are fairly large so you're not on top of your neighbor."
