Camping sites near Hollister, Missouri offer both Corps of Engineers and private options situated among the Ozark hills. The region's limestone karst topography creates natural cold springs that moderate temperatures around Lake Taneycomo compared to Table Rock Lake. Water temperatures in Taneycomo stay consistently cold year-round due to bottom-release from Table Rock Dam, making camping locations around each lake noticeably different in climate despite their close proximity.
What to do
Trout fishing access: Near the dam, Lake Taneycomo provides excellent cold-water fishing. Cooper Creek Resort offers waterfront camping with direct lake access. According to a visitor, "Right on Cooper Creek 'lake/river.' Shaded campsites, options for full hookup and very friendly staff. Great fishing and the opportunity to rent boats for an affordable rate" at Cooper Creek Resort.
Winter camping options: Branson attractions year-round. While many campgrounds close seasonally, America's Best Campground operates throughout winter. One December visitor noted, "Quiet in December. Good shower and laundry facilities" at America's Best Campground.
Walking trails: Paved options for all abilities. Mill Creek Campground provides accessible waterfront recreation. A camper reports, "Most of the sites are right on the water. It is well maintained and clean. It can be hard to get in, but worth the effort!!!"
What campers like
Spacious sites: Corps of Engineers campgrounds offer better spacing. Old Highway 86 Park provides roomier sites than many private parks. A reviewer mentioned, "The campground is on a peninsula with waterfront sites all the way around. Every waterfront site has great views! The interior sites are ok. Some still have nice views but they are a little too close together for my taste" at Old Highway 86 Table Rock Lake.
Quiet camping options: Escape the busier areas. Mill Creek offers a peaceful alternative to busier Branson campgrounds. According to one visitor, "Most sites have shade and are right on Table Rock lake!" at Mill Creek.
Pool access: Cooling off in summer heat. Branson Musicland Kampground provides swimming options despite its urban location. A camper reported, "Nice Location but very noisy with helicopter rides coming and going near by. Campground was nice and clean. Pool was nice for family to cool off in."
What you should know
Winter conditions: Colder than forecast around lakes. Winter camping requires extra preparation, especially with lake-effect cooling.
Seasonal closures: Most campgrounds operate April-October. Corps of Engineers parks like Indian Point have limited seasons. A camper advises, "This is a favorite campground and swimming hole! It is close to Silver Dollar City and other Branson activities" at Indian Point.
Site selection: Research carefully before booking. Many campgrounds have significant variation between sites. One visitor warned, "Choose your site wisely though, i reserved a site unseen and ended up only having enough space for my popup and parked at the bathrooms. Otherwise very shady and great picnic tables."
Water levels: Impact camping areas and facilities. Spring camping often means dealing with higher water levels affecting beaches and dock access.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple options for different ages. The Wilderness at Silver Dollar City offers dedicated kid areas. A visitor noted, "We try to be right by the playground and our kids always make lots of friends at The Wilderness. Clean bathrooms, nice store, great pool and shuttle to SDC are all nice amenities" at Tall Pines Campground.
Swimming beaches: Corps parks offer lake swimming areas. Indian Point provides designated swimming with safety features. A camper mentioned, "The swim beach is nice and has picnic tables for use. We kayaked around the cove while others swam. No alcohol or pets allowed in the beach area which I appreciated. Family friendly!"
Theme park access: Convenience options. The Wilderness at Silver Dollar City provides special transportation. A visitor explained, "The campground buses you to and from the theme park, so you don't have to worry about parking and the long walk to and from the park!"
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Consider approach angles. Branson Lakeside RV Park offers paved sites but tight spacing. A visitor observed, "All sites have concrete pads and all looked to be full hookups. The premium spots are upfront by the water. And all have their own fire pits" at Branson Lakeside RV Park.
Off-season advantages: Better availability and spacing. Musicland Kampground provides improved experiences outside peak season. One RVer shared, "We've been staying here for the last five years with no issues. Has a pedestrian gate that dumps out on the strip right between titanic and a steakhouse."
Reservation timing: Plan months ahead for summer weekends. Most waterfront sites fill quickly, especially Corps parks. A visitor at Old Highway 86 advised, "The only downside is that if you want a weekend site you have to book it months in advance or take a gamble and hope your one of the first for their few first come first serve sites."
