Knob Noster State Park offers several established camping options near Holden, Missouri, with full amenities about 20 miles northwest of town. The area around Holden sits in west-central Missouri at approximately 850 feet elevation with moderate humidity and distinct four seasons. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-90°F while winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that can drop below freezing.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Montrose Missouri Conservation Area, visitors can fish in the shallow water areas that attract wildlife. "The water is very shallow most the time its only chest deep out in the middle. There is loads of wildlife to see an arent much scared of humans, racoons, beavers, crane, squirrels, dear, owls an much more," according to Sarah.
Kayaking excursions: Watkins Mill State Park provides lake access for paddlers. "There is a small lake great for kayaking and fishing boats," reports Jason C. The lake surrounds a historic woolen mill that offers educational tours.
Trail riding: Horse riders visiting the Holden area can access the Katy Trail from Lazy Liz Katy Trail Horse and RV Campground. The trail's converted rail-trail design creates level terrain suitable for riders of various experience levels. Berk G. noted that the campground offers "free use of washer and dryer" and that on rainy nights, the owners allowed "bicycle tent campers to set up tent in barn to stay dry."
Wildlife observation: Many conservation areas around Holden feature excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. "The stars were beautiful, the 'sites' were spacious and well spread out, and there is lots of shade," reports a camper at Montrose Conservation Area. The protected wetlands attract numerous bird species year-round.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Knob Noster State Park Campground maintains well-kept restrooms and shower houses. "Bath houses (there are at least 2) have 4 unisex shower pods that are clean and have good pressure," confirms Maggie C. The park also features "brand new shower house this year" according to John J.
Spacious sites: Campers appreciate the room to spread out at many Holden-area campgrounds. At Montrose Conservation Area, one camper noted "Large grass area available for tents or campers. No specific camp locations. No fire rings or picnic tables. Pit toilets are as expected."
Quiet atmosphere: Berry Bend - Harry S. Truman Lake provides peaceful camping environments. "The sites were level and not too close together, shaded and beautiful. I saw my first armadillo too!" shared Leslie H. This campground sits on Truman Lake approximately 35 miles south of Holden.
Water access: Multiple campgrounds provide boat launches, fishing docks, or lake access. At Long Shoal, a camper mentioned it's a "Nice COE Campground on Truman Lake with plenty of lake views and access. Sites are level, electric only with easy access to fresh water and dump station as you enter the facility."
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Some conservation areas restrict camping during hunting season. At Montrose, "There is no camping allowed after October 15 due to hunting season. This was not on the website and was not seeable in dust when arriving late on a small sign in the bushes," warns Leni K.
Wildlife encounters: Lake Jacomo - Fleming Park and other campgrounds report frequent wildlife sightings. "Raccoon have taken over the park. And the state workers have done nothing," reports one camper at Knob Noster, indicating more challenging encounters are possible.
Reservation requirements: Many established campgrounds near Holden require advance booking, especially for electric sites. "If you require electrical hookups, it is getting to be more common to plan ahead and submit a reservation in state parks as more and more young people are catching on to the camping experience," advises John J.
Cell service limitations: Several campgrounds report limited connectivity. Berry Bend offers a "weekend there and can't wait to go back. Hopefully for longer than a weekend. The lake was great, the sites were level and not too close together, shaded and beautiful." Another camper noted "No internet, no cell, no problem. Great beach with a beautiful view."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Fleming Park offers family-friendly amenities. "Both electric and primitive sites are available. The bathrooms are the nicest campground bathrooms I've ever used - large, clean, and not communal, so you get a sink, toilet, and shower all to yourself," reports Fawn W.
Bike-friendly areas: Families appreciate safe cycling areas at several parks. "Knob Noster State Park is a great park for the grandkids to ride their new bikes on the level smooth campground road in safety, and for the adults to catch up over some cold beverages," shares John J.
Collecting opportunities: Some campsites offer unique collecting activities for children. A visitor to Montrose Conservation Area mentioned: "One of the locals stopped by my site to look for arrowheads. Apparently, she has found a lot in the area so that's a good activity if the kids are bored."
Beach access: Several lakes feature swimming beaches during summer months. At Berry Bend, a camper noted: "Great family campground! It's not nearly as busy as the state park which is awesome!" The less crowded atmosphere makes it suitable for families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Site access: Horse campgrounds near Holden, Missouri often provide good RV access. At Lazy Liz Katy Trail Horse and RV Campground, one camper mentioned "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."
Dump station availability: RVers should note that dump stations can get busy during peak periods. "The only downer was that the only trash dumpster the campgrounds had and centered in the campground was already full beyond capacity when we checked out on Sunday - we were forced to carry our trash back home to dispose of it properly," reported one camper at Knob Noster.
Electric site considerations: When traveling without reservations, be prepared for non-electric sites. "We didn't reserve a spot and had to take one of the last 5 'non-electric back in sites as all the many electric sites were already reserved and filled up fast. But, we were ok, as we had onboard water, sewer and DC power for lights, radio, awning, and jacks, we just switched our refrigerator to LP," shared John J.
