Located in north-central Missouri, Higbee sits at approximately 810 feet above sea level in the rolling hills of Randolph County. This area experiences hot summers with temperatures often reaching into the 90s and cold winters that can drop below freezing. Most dog friendly campgrounds near Higbee feature level terrain within deciduous forests, with summer camping requiring tick prevention measures due to the region's abundant wildlife.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: At Finger Lakes State Park Campground, the interconnected waterways provide excellent kayaking and canoeing. "This park is one of my favorite nearby spots to take the kayak out and just float. Paddling through these channels is such a dreamy experience. Kayaks and canoes are available to rent as well," notes Ashley F.
Fishing spots: Thomas Hill Reservoir offers multiple fishing areas with uncrowded conditions. "Great non electric sites on Thomas Hill Lake. Please leave as you found it or better, it's basically in my back yard," suggests Sheena B. The reservoir is known for bass, crappie, and catfish fishing.
Historic exploration: Arrow Rock State Historic Site Campground connects campers with Missouri's past. "The campground is neat and tidy and well maintained. The main appeal is the nearby town of Arrow Rock with its many historic buildings and an excellent interpretation center," explains Marimba N.
Motocross and ATV trails: For those seeking more active pursuits, Finger Lakes has dedicated trails. "I'm not motocross guy, but this sport apparently has a huge draw to Finger Lakes State Park. There are special trails for atvs and motocross if you are into that thing," says Matt S.
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: Rudolf Bennitt Conservation Area provides a peaceful setting. "Heavily forested with a lake. Trails and camping areas in woods are setup for equestrian with good trails for hikers, bikers and horses," writes Linda H.
Lakeside camping: Multiple reviewers praise the waterfront sites at Long Branch State Park Campground. "I reserved a walk in site and it was totally worth it. It's a very short walk into the site, it's even visible from the parking lot. The site is right on the water with beach access so there's no need to drive to the crowded beach area to swim!" reports Adriana W.
Stargazing opportunities: The low light pollution around Arrow Rock makes for excellent night sky viewing. "Beautiful Stargazing views. Photos don't capture the true essence!" writes Christy.
Level camping pads: Many campers note the concrete pads at Long Branch. "Found this little gem as we were traveling through to get back home to Ohio and needed a place to camp. Great campsites with concrete pads, friendly staff and a decent shower house for a state park," explains Tammy M.
What you should know
Pet policies: Most campgrounds near Higbee welcome dogs but have specific rules. Thomas Hill Reservoir Conservation Area is particularly pet-friendly. "Might not have showers but is a nice free campground. It's pet friendly and you are not on top of your neighbors," states Emily G.
Seasonal considerations: Summer brings ticks and mosquitoes to the area. "Use spray to keep the buggers off!" warns Robert R. about Finger Lakes State Park. Spring and fall offer more comfortable temperatures.
Cell service limitations: Some campgrounds have limited connectivity. Katy Roundhouse campers note spotty service: "This is a nice quiet little campground nestled in some farm fields. The facilities are well maintained and it was very quiet when we were there," reports Luke L.
Uneven terrain: Some sites require leveling equipment. "The ground is really uneven," notes Kirstie M. about Finger Lakes, while Arrow Rock campers mention the need for levelers.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Salisbury City Park offers family-friendly water access. "City Park that is right outside of town. 17 spots that are first come first serve, roughly 4 people seem to be full time residents, but kept the park clean. Nice walking trail partially around the lake," says Never Sitting S.
Playground facilities: Cottonwoods RV Park features kid-friendly amenities. "Great playground. Several large rigs in our row, we still fit. Decorated wonderfully for Halloween. Kids are happy!" shares Brittany W.
Beach access: Long Branch State Park has sandy beach areas perfect for children. "Great lake. Wonderful swim beach with sand. Campsites are at slants so be prepared to level. Nice hiking trail. Clean shower house," states Jolie C.
Educational opportunities: Arrow Rock offers historical learning experiences suitable for school-age children. "Fell into this place on accident and loved it. There is a historic town you can tour for free that is within walking distance from the campsites," explains Dina L.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Cottonwoods RV Park & Campground offers full amenities for larger rigs. "Check-in was quick and easy and we proceeded to pull through site 83 with FHUs. The gravel pad was very long and we had plenty of room for our 40' rig and F450," notes MickandKarla W.
Site spacing considerations: Some RV parks have tight spacing between sites. "The only negative thing I would say is the spaces were very close to each other. Our slide nearly went over the patio of the next site over," mentions David E. about Cottonwoods.
Accessibility for large rigs: Sites vary in accommodating bigger RVs. "Nice big rig friendly campground. One row of full timers while the majority of the park is for shorter stays. Large level gravel spots that can accommodate any size," reports Never Sitting S.
Dump station locations: Many pet-friendly campgrounds near Higbee offer sanitary dump facilities. Long Branch campers note convenient dump stations, though water hookups aren't available at all sites.