Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Jefferson City, MO has a lot to offer. Jefferson City is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.
$13 - $50 / night
Lake of the Ozarks State Park campground is located in Kaiser Missouri about 5 miles down highway 134 off of highway 42.
$10 - $60 / night
Built in the 70’s on the banks of the Missouri River I had an amazing time.
Close to Jefferson City and plenty of river activities. Check them out. You won’t be disappointed.
This park has everything you’d expect from a major state park and is a hidden gem in central Missouri.
$45 - $52 / night
I've passed through Missouri numerous times, and their parks are always top notch. Clean and well maintained.
LegendThe Pine Ridge Campground a few miles down the road was full, so we ended up at 1 of the 8 sites here. This is an equestrian campground that allows non-horse campers, but prefers you check Pine Ridge first. We had a fine one-night stay while traveling through, but encountered A LOT of ticks on the overgrown trail. BEWARE of ticks and check yourselves and your pets if staying here. No cell service.
LegendThe campground (CG) was easy to find, located just 5 miles off I-70 with clear signage along the way. We parked at the designated registration area, and check-in was quick for our one-night stay. We were then escorted to pull-through site 17 with full hookups. The gravel pad was fairly level, and although the utilities were toward the back of the site, we had no trouble connecting. There were two sewer hookups—a nice touch. Water is shared, but the pressure was solid at about 50 psi. Sites are decently spaced, though some are closer together; ours was relatively close to the next site on the driver side. Our site had a nice yard, picnic table, and fire pit, but if someone had been in the site next to us, we would have been sharing that area. We got 2 bars on Verizon and 3 bars on T-Mobile, and our T-Mobile Home Internet worked very well. The CG WiFi was fine for email and web browsing. While the grounds have mature trees, most sites—including 17—are satellite-friendly. The 1/2-acre dog park was especially impressive. There was a mix of permanent, seasonal, and short-term guests. The park was clean, well-maintained, and featured fun wood carvings. The setting includes a pond and a trail to a small lake. A small camp store, ice, and propane are also available. Overall, this is a solid CG for overnight or extended stays. Out of the 325+ campgrounds we've visited, this one has the best rules sheet—hands down. It's hilarious, and you’ll instantly get their vibe!
GuideSpent two weeks totally submersed in nature. Had to scope out the area to find a suitable spot to set up camp. Found a spot previously used, but you might prefer finding a spot and starting from the ground up. Only draw back is the Columbia Regional Airport is about 4-5 miles from this location. There is air traffic overhead. Columbia airport is rather small so other than rotary wing aircraft (helicopters) from the hospital, it's not to bad.
GuideI arrived at the site in April of 2025, and was greeted with a locked gate and signage stating rates are $15 per night. Envelopes and lock box are in place. Beautiful campground with plenty of freshly cut firewood. Excellent spot for overnight or weekends with the family.
GuideGood area only a mile off the highway so it made a great night stopping point. Had great access for our starlink. They have a little dog park, kids park, and it was all clean and well maintained. Easy access and some nice pull through spots. Water, sewer, and electric hook ups. Fire pit and picnic table at site. Since it’s close the highway it was a little loud with traffic. 57$ a night for premium spots, 42$ a night for non premium
TravelerSuper well maintained conservation area, 5 camp sites with fire pits and picnic tables. Several ponds and a larger lake but it was currently being repaired so it’s very low.
TravelerVery small parking lot that is supposed to be a designated camping area, not ideal unless car camping. Has nice lakes with boat ramps but that’s about it.
GuidePark was closed but had parking in the lot outside of the gate. Good enough to crash over night. Did a daylight walk through and discovered a well maintained camp site. Talked with park staff who was cleaning and cutting up downed trees. He was friendly and knowledgeable. Bad timing for me, and I was looking for free camp sites. Otherwise this would be a great go to location for me.
ScoutI stayed for week then extended stayed for month. Thinking it's starts day you paid no. No signs saying other wise either. Also sudden fees for amex after using first time no issues. When got charged again on 1st thought i would bring check day or no sorry I get paid on Fridays no Wednesday didn't even know due. Couldn't get her to give me wifi password until then either. Hot water heater at main showers is always out too.
Camping near Jefferson City, Missouri, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor lovers. From scenic views to family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region.
Camping near Jefferson City, Missouri, offers a mix of adventure and relaxation, making it a great spot for your next outdoor getaway!
Frequently Asked Questions
According to TheDyrt.com, Jefferson City, MO offers a wide range of camping options, with 102 campgrounds and RV parks near Jefferson City, MO and 5 free dispersed camping spots.
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Jefferson City, MO is Lake of the Ozarks State Park Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 49 reviews.
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 free dispersed camping spots near Jefferson City, MO.
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 13 parks near Jefferson City, MO that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.
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