Camping near Green Ridge, Missouri offers access to multiple campgrounds with varying amenities within Truman Lake's extensive shoreline. The area sits at approximately 850 feet elevation in the northern Ozark Highland region, characterized by rolling hills, oak-hickory forests, and limestone outcroppings. Summer temperatures routinely exceed 95°F with high humidity, while spring and fall provide more moderate camping conditions in the 60-80°F range.
What to do
Kayaking access points: At Knob Noster State Park Campground, visitors can rent kayaks for exploring Lake Buteo. According to one camper, "There are a couple of small lakes, one of which has kayak rentals. Several hiking trails. I have stayed here before and never encountered any problems. If you want a quiet relaxing campground, this may be for you."
Wildlife spotting: Early mornings provide opportunities to see white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and numerous bird species. One visitor at Raccoon Ridge — Harry S Truman State Park observed, "The wildlife was very abundant everywhere you looked."
Biking trails: The paved roads throughout Truman State Park offer family-friendly biking routes with minimal traffic. "The roads in the area are prime for bike riding, and there's a nice view of the lake from the nearby boat loading bay," notes a visitor.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Sparrowfoot campground maintains well-kept shower facilities. A camper reported, "Showers were clean and water was hot. Showers had good water pressure. Loop B also has the playground which is right behind site B47. It's a newer playground and all equipment was nicely maintained."
Lakeside camping: COE Harry S Truman Reservoir Long Shoal Park offers direct waterfront sites with easy water access. "Site 47 right on the water great for kayaking and swimming," notes one reviewer, adding that "Water in the lake is high this time of year but fun is still to be had via fishing, biking, boating and kayaking."
Quiet environment: Many campgrounds near Green Ridge maintain peaceful atmospheres, especially during weekdays. One visitor at Thibaut Point - Harry S. Truman Lake shared, "This campground was very nice, well kept, clean, quiet and beautiful. We had a wonderful time here and will go back."
What you should know
Bug preparedness: Night insects can be loud during summer months. A visitor to Sparrowfoot warned, "In the A and B loops, very minimal cell service and very little opportunity to stream on the TVs. I also couldn't get any over the air channels but we weren't there to watch TV!"
Wildlife encounters: Raccoons are active in several area campgrounds. One camper at Knob Noster State Park reported, "Raccoon have taken over the park. And the state workers have done nothing. I had my 2025 subaru crosstrek there and they put scratches all over my car and tore the window seal out on one of the windows."
Reservation planning: During peak summer weekends, waterfront sites book quickly. A visitor to Long Shoal Park advised, "Flat level gravel site with plenty of space to spread out with an amazing view of Truman Lake and Long Shoal Marina. With America the Beautiful Senior pass, cost of site was $10 per night."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Sparrowfoot's Loop B contains a playground suitable for younger children. One visitor noted, "There are no benches or picnic tables at the playground so bring your camping chair if you plan to stay awhile."
Swimming areas: Accessible swimming spots can be found at several campgrounds, with varying conditions. A camper at Sparrowfoot shared, "Further past Loop B the road turns to gravel and there is a parking lot with a walkway to the lake. This offers some small bluffs with deep water for jumping off. If you walk further around the corner to the right, it turns into a nicer 'beach' style area with few rocks."
Cycling opportunities: Lazy Liz Katy Trail Horse and RV Campground provides access to the Katy Trail for family bike rides. A recent visitor noted, "We stayed in our rv while riding the Katy trail easy check in process. Free use of washer and dryer. Shower was great. Felt super safe here."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose level, well-maintained sites for easier setup. At Knob Noster State Park, a camper mentioned, "Well maintained campground with nice, level concrete pads. Sites are spacious."
Electric hookups: Most campgrounds offer 30-amp service, with limited 50-amp availability. A visitor to Sparrowfoot reported, "Sites were spacious with 50 Amp hook ups. Some sites had been receantly redone, new grass, rock pads and elec pedestals."
Dump station access: Plan for convenient waste disposal on departure day. One Long Shoal Park visitor mentioned, "Dump station and fresh water fill station at camp ground entrance."
