Dispersed camping near Harry S. Truman Lake offers multiple lakefront options within the Army Corps of Engineers properties surrounding the reservoir. At 55,600 acres, this central Missouri lake sits at approximately 706 feet above sea level with moderate humidity during summer months. Winter temperatures typically range from 20-40°F while summer averages 75-95°F with occasional thunderstorms from May through September.
What to do
Kayaking at Long Shoal Park: Access Truman Lake directly from waterside sites for paddling expeditions. Campers can launch from sites with immediate lake proximity. "Sites are spaced a good distance apart, nice clean lots with fire ring, picnic table and 30 amp. I picked site 69 which overlooks the lake and was less than 30 yards from water edge," notes Joe G. about COE Harry S Truman Reservoir Long Shoal Park.
Lake swimming from designated areas: Most campgrounds maintain swimming access points during summer months when water levels permit. "Loop B also has the playground which is right behind site B47. It's a newer playground and all equipment was nicely maintained. 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," reports Devin M. about Sparrowfoot.
Cycling on paved roads: Several campgrounds feature paved roads suitable for family bike rides. "The park is well laid out with ample space between sites. Most will accommodate the largest rigs. Nice level area great for bike riding. They only have one hiking trail but it was well marked," shares Steve W. about Bucksaw Campground.
What campers like
Shade coverage for summer camping: Many sites feature mature trees providing relief from summer heat. "This site is narrow, so much so that we can't use our awning, but man, do we have shade!" states Miranda C. at Long Shoal Park. Campers consistently note appreciation for tree coverage during peak summer months.
Budget-friendly rates: The Corps of Engineers campgrounds offer reasonable rates compared to private alternatives. "With America the Beautiful Senior pass, cost of site was $10 per night," notes Dan & Penny F. about Osage Bluff, while other sites range from $12-22 per night for standard sites.
Lakeside site selection: Waterfront sites remain popular for direct lake access. "Site 47 right on the water great for kayaking and swimming. Water in the lake is high this time of year but fun is still to be had via fishing, biking, boating and kayaking," explains Will E. from Long Shoal. Sites with lake views typically book first during peak season.
What you should know
Cell coverage limitations: Service varies significantly between carriers and campground locations. "Poor Verizon coverage, TMobile a little better," reports Dan & Penny F. at Long Shoal. Marshall W. notes, "T-Mobile and Verizon in places. Hard to get in a camper. Several sites that can take advantage of Starlink."
Shower facility conditions: Shower buildings vary in maintenance levels between campgrounds. "Showers aren't great. Cobwebs and mold. First door didn't even lock. Wide gaps with no curtain. No soap in bathrooms," observes one camper about Long Shoal Park facilities.
Water level fluctuations: Lake levels can change significantly between seasons, affecting swimming and boat launch access. "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," mentions Devin M. about Sparrowfoot.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access considerations: Select sites near recreational facilities for convenient child entertainment. "Loop B also has the playground which is right behind site B47. It's a newer playground and all equipment was nicely maintained. There are no swings. Only complaint is that there are no benches or picnic tables at the playground so bring your camping chair," advises Devin M. at Sparrowfoot.
Beach swimming options: Several campgrounds maintain designated swimming beaches more suitable for children than rocky shorelines. At Pittsburg Area Campground, "The swimming beach was amazing and the bathrooms well-kept," according to Rebecca R., making it a popular choice for family outings.
Wildlife awareness: Prepare for active wildlife, particularly raccoons. "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," warns Angela D. about Knob Noster State Park.
Tips from RVers
Electrical hookup options: Most developed sites provide 30-50 amp service but water connections require planning. "The only service is electrical. A dump is provided, along with trash bins at the entrance. Potable water facets are scattered around. Some are close enough to sites to connect directly but that may not be allowed," notes James J. at Knob Noster State Park Campground.
Level site selection: Concrete pads provide stability in certain campgrounds. "Well maintained campground with nice, level concrete pads. Sites are spacious," reports Maggie C. about Knob Noster State Park, making it suitable for larger rigs.
Hookup variations: Utility access differs significantly between campgrounds in the area. "They have electric only sites and primitive. Shower house is always clean and well maintained. They recently have replaced all wood picnic tables with aluminum and are working on redoing all the restrooms," explains Kelly S. about Long Shoal Park.
