Smithville Lake and surrounding areas offer recreational camping options within 30-50 miles of Grandview, Missouri. The region features a mix of oak-hickory forests and open grasslands with elevations typically ranging from 800 to 1,000 feet above sea level. Seasonal temperatures vary widely, with summer highs regularly reaching 90°F while spring and fall provide milder camping conditions in the 60-80°F range.
What to do
Fishing at Smith's Fork Recreation Area: Access multiple fishing spots with varying depths along Smithville Lake. One camper notes, "Just a walk away from a beautiful lake and your stay here is a perfect get away from the city lights!" at Lake Jacomo - Fleming Park.
Hiking on maintained trails: Follow the paved trails at Weston Bend State Park that connect to viewpoints overlooking the Missouri River. A visitor mentions, "The hiking trails were overgrown and no longer accessible" at Lake Jacomo, suggesting checking trail conditions before planning hike-centered trips.
Kayaking and canoeing: Rent equipment at Crow's Creek Campground where "There's kayaks and canoes to rent, there is a great marina, fishing, and tons of water access opportunities for private kayaks," according to a recent camper.
Wildlife observation: Dawn and dusk provide prime viewing times for deer, raccoons and various bird species. At Montrose Conservation Area, campers report diverse wildlife: "There is loads of wildlife to see an aren't much scared of humans, racoons, beavers, crane, squirrels, dear, owls an much more."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate campgrounds with adequate spacing. At Watkins Mill State Park Campground, visitors enjoy "Beautifully layed out with paved access, trees spots and a nice lake. Clean facilities include plenty of stalls and sinks, separate showers and laundry."
Clean bathroom facilities: Bathroom quality varies significantly across campgrounds. At Lake Jacomo, one camper mentioned "the bathrooms are the nicest campground bathrooms I've ever used - large, clean, and not communal, so you get a sink, toilet, and shower all to yourself."
Accessibility for various camping styles: The region accommodates different preferences from primitive to full-hookup camping. At Camp Branch Campground, "Nice big spots with electric only. It is quite a ways to shower house but much quieter than other campgrounds on Smithville lake. More family friendly."
Shade coverage: Tree cover becomes important during summer months. "Large grass area available for tents or campers. No specific camp locations. No fire rings or picnic tables," notes a visitor at Montrose Conservation Area, contrasting with more forested options elsewhere.
What you should know
Seasonal closures and limitations: Some areas restrict access during hunting seasons or winter months. At Montrose Conservation Area, "There is no camping allowed after October 15 due to hunting season. This was not on the website and was not seeable in dust when arriving late on a small sign in the bushes."
Cell service variability: Coverage differs significantly across camping areas. At Weston Bend State Park Campground, AT&T service shows "2 bars" while other locations may have limited or no service.
Water access restrictions: Not all lakes permit swimming. At Crow's Creek, "The water is very shallow most the time its only chest deep out in the middle," and some reviewers recommend "water shoes" for comfort and safety.
Site reservation systems: Most campgrounds require advance booking during peak seasons (April-October). For equestrian camping near Grandview, Missouri, call ahead as facilities with horse accommodations may fill quickly or require specific documentation.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Choose sites near recreational areas for convenience with children. At Crow's Creek, "Fairly close to the water and playground; within walking distance. The roads and trails are nice for scooters and bikes."
Safety considerations: Select campsites away from traffic patterns. At Lake Jacomo, one camper warns "some sites are right on the road, so kids can dart out at any time...just be careful!"
Entertainment planning: Limited cellular service affects kids' electronic entertainment options. One visitor to Linn County Park notes "if you have kids that go camping with you chances are your cell phones will not work so the kids probably will be very bored lol."
Seasonal crowd levels: Campers with children may prefer off-peak times. Camp Branch receives positive reviews because "We have started staying here last couple of years. Nice big spots with electric only... much quieter than other campgrounds on Smithville lake. More family friendly."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Bring adequate leveling blocks for uneven sites. At Lake Jacomo, visitors note "most sites are sloped" while at Crow's Creek, one RVer reported "our spot was 13" unlevel. Luckily we had several blocks of wood to help level our camp out."
Full hookup availability: For horseback riders with RVs near Grandview, Missouri, plan ahead for limited full-service sites. Smith's Fork Recreation Area offers "Electric (30 & 50 amp), Water and Sewer at every campsite. At just $30 per day it is a steal!"
Dump station locations: Note facilities if booking partial-hookup sites. At Watkins Mill, "You can even climb towers to practice shooting from 'tree-stand' elevations" near the main camping area, showing the diverse amenities available beyond standard hookups.