De Kalb, Missouri sits at approximately 850 feet elevation in the rolling hills of northwestern Missouri. The region features thick deciduous forests interspersed with open farmland, creating diverse camping environments within a 30-mile radius. Camping options near De Kalb range from basic primitive sites to full-service campgrounds, with the majority open from April through October when average temperatures range from 50-85°F.
What to do
Fishing access points: Multiple campgrounds provide fishing opportunities without requiring a boat. Warnock Lake Park offers bank fishing with "lots of fish to catch and picnic tables everywhere," according to one visitor. The lake allows small kayaks and paddle boats for recreation, though you must bring your own.
Hiking trails: Wooded paths offer exercise opportunities across several campgrounds. At Weston Bend State Park Campground, campers appreciate the "amazing hiking trail system within the park! Even one paved trail!" One visitor mentioned, "The trails were the best feature of this park," making it ideal for day hikes.
Water recreation: Beyond fishing, some camping areas offer additional water activities. Riverfront Park Campground features sites that sit "right on the river and has a nice view of the bridge," making it popular for boaters. A recent visitor noted the lakeside spots at this campground are "definitely the way to go," highlighting the appeal of waterfront camping.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campers prioritize well-maintained bathrooms and showers. Lewis and Clark State Park Campground receives positive reviews for its cleanliness: "Bathrooms have AC and are cleaned with disinfectant daily. Very clean campground and has a playground." Another camper mentioned the campground is "always quiet here."
Privacy levels: Campsite spacing varies significantly between locations. At Weston Bend, site #26 is highlighted as "one of the few basic sites. While some of the other sites were very close to each other, this one is relatively isolated. It's big too." The same campground has "very good" site spacing according to another review.
Seasonal activities: Different times of year offer varied experiences. Bluffwoods Conservation Area provides "lovely, quiet camping" and is described as "well maintained" with "lots of grass for the dogs to play," making it an excellent choice for off-peak season visits when crowds are minimal.
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Some campgrounds have nearby train tracks that affect noise levels. Riverfront Park Campground sits close to active tracks, with one camper reporting: "The train came through 3 times through the night and 5 more times while making breakfast. So just be prepared it might be loud depending on what you're sleeping in."
Limited shade: Tree cover varies between sites. At Crow's Creek Campground, a camper noted the "lack of trees—there's maybe one tree per tent site and even fewer around the RV spots. Shade is minimal, and there's really no sense of being in the woods." This can significantly impact summer camping comfort.
Seasonal closures: Not all campgrounds operate year-round. Some facilities close for winter, like Riverfront Park which "Closes for the season on 10/31." Water access may be shut off during cold months, with one camper reporting that at Crow's Creek "they shut off water with no notice and halfway through our stay" during an unseasonably cold October visit.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. Lewis and Clark State Park features a central playground that allows parents to keep an eye on kids from most campsites. One camper observed kids "playing with each other going from group to group getting more kids to play. You can see them from anywhere in the camp ground."
Biking opportunities: Paved roads within campgrounds provide safe biking areas for children. At Crow's Creek, "Trails and roads within the campsite are paved, so it's great for bikes and scooters. Grounds are well maintained and grassy areas feel fine to walk through and play in."
Swimming options: Water access points suitable for families exist at select locations. Basswood Country RV Resort provides "a swimming pool and splash park, two playgrounds, a basketball goal, and fishing." One family noted, "This campground is a must for anyone with children."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many campgrounds feature level sites requiring minimal setup. At AOK Campground, "The sites appear mostly all level and gravel. We had a pull through and it was perfect for overnight." Another visitor mentioned the "sites are nice, level gravel sites."
Electric hookup availability: Power options vary by campground. Lewis and Clark State Park offers electric hookups at most sites for $25 per night, while some conservation areas provide no hookups. One RVer at Weston Bend noted: "All sites but #3 and 26" have electric hookups.
Construction awareness: Some campgrounds undergo periodic improvements. At Weston Bend, a visitor reported, "As of early September 1/2 of the campground is closed for construction. I understand that some sites will be upgraded to full hookups." This highlights the importance of checking campground status before arrival.
