Truman Lake and its surrounding waterways form the natural backdrop for camping near Harrisonville, Missouri, with elevations ranging from 700-850 feet across the region. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F while spring and fall offer milder 60-75°F conditions. Most campgrounds in this area provide direct water access with concrete boat ramps available at larger facilities like Sparrowfoot and Lake Jacomo.
What to do
Fishing at Sparrowfoot: Access excellent fishing spots on Truman Lake where campers catch crappie, bass, and catfish. "When we were here (July) the lake was pretty muddy but I'm not sure if it's always that way or not. It was also pretty low, but still had plenty of fun and kayaked through all the little coves," reports a visitor to Sparrowfoot.
Hiking near Clinton: Explore moderate trails with lake views and wildlife watching opportunities. A camper at Sparrowfoot noted, "There is a path to the lake at the back end of the loop. There is nothing special about this campground, but it is a good, clean, quiet location for an overnight stay."
Kayaking at Knob Noster: Rent kayaks by the hour, half-day, or full day at Knob Noster State Park Campground. "The park is well shaded and includes primitive and electric sites with water pumps within easy access to all sites. You can rent kayaks either hourly or by the half or full day, and there are lots of great trails for hiking," according to a camper.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Lake Jacomo at Fleming Park offers generous campsites set back from busy areas. "The sites were nice and spacious and relatively level. Made for easy set up and break down. Like the other Jackson county campgrounds the convenience of being close to home was nice," shared a camper at Lake Jacomo - Fleming Park.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathrooms and shower houses. At Knob Noster, a camper observed, "The bathhouse has been newly renovated. The people in the park are some of the friendliest we have come across."
Lake access: Hillsdale State Park provides convenient water access for fishing and boating. A visitor commented, "It has beautiful, tree-covered campsites that offer direct access to the lake. The sites and facilities are well kept and clean. Full-hookup sites don't have any tree coverage, but the electric/water sites near the lake are very cozy."
What you should know
Reservation recommendations: Most campgrounds require advance booking for weekend stays during peak season (May-September). A camper at Deer Run RV Park & Campground advised, "When I was there, had called ahead to reserve a spot. When I got there, there was no one to help me, one of the campers came and directed me to a campsite."
Wildlife considerations: Raccoons and other wildlife are common in the area. At Knob Noster State Park, one camper warned, "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."
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds have spotty coverage. A Sparrowfoot camper mentioned, "I had excellent T-Mobile 5G service," while at Lake Jacomo, another noted, "Cell service on AT&T and Verizon are great."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Kansas City East-Oak Grove KOA offers family-friendly amenities including a pool and play areas. "The free pancake breakfast was great and they had fun kids activities. Nice doggie playground with grass," shared a visitor.
Biking opportunities: Flat, paved roads at several campgrounds make for kid-friendly cycling. At Sparrowfoot, a visitor noted, "Nice level area great for bike riding. They only have one hiking trail but it was well marked."
Swimming areas: While not all lakes permit swimming, some designated areas are available. A Hillsdale State Park camper suggested, "If you walk further around the corner to the right, it turns into a nicer 'beach' style area with few rocks, although the mud can be a little thick after it rains."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some sites require significant adjustments. At Lake Jacomo, an RVer noted, "We camped in our 39' diesel pusher, had to use lots of wood to level everything up, including extending one of our jacks to the maximum and causing it to throw an error message."
Hookup locations: Check site layouts before booking as utility placement varies. At Kansas City East-Oak Grove KOA, a camper observed, "Only negatives were our hookups were literally in the next site next to their table, and their fire ring was very close to our trailer."
Site selection for larger rigs: Request pull-through sites when available. "Easy access to Interstate and pull through sites were long enough for our truck and 32' trailer without having to unhitch. Stayed just one night as we passed through," shared an RVer at Kansas City East-Oak Grove KOA.
