Near Joplin, Missouri, campers can find pet-friendly campgrounds set within the four-state area where Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas converge. The region offers wooded areas, open fields, and water features with elevations ranging from 900 to 1,100 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically reach the 90s with high humidity, while spring and fall provide milder camping conditions in the 60-70°F range.
What to do
Disc golf courses nearby: Schifferdecker Park in Joplin features a disc golf course alongside other recreational options. According to Caleb J., "It is a nice park with aquatic center, golf course, skate park, basketball court, tennis court and a museum."
River activities: Several campgrounds offer access to waterways for recreation. Carl E. at Zans Creekside RV Park describes his site as a "Nice Shady spot overlooking the river. My spot was shaded by black walnut trees. With the sound of the river in the background. Totally relaxing."
Drive-in movies: Vintage entertainment options exist near dog-friendly campgrounds near Joplin. Mike C. notes that at Camp Mi Casa on the Route RV Park, "This place is a great place to sit back and relax. Want to watch a old time outdoor movie drive in. Its a couple of blocks down the road. They have a pool and pavilion."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Campers appreciate well-maintained grounds with room to spread out. Gregg L. at Big Red Barn RV Park notes, "The CG was VERY quiet - very peaceful. They have an off-leash dog park area which our dogs loved and used it 3-4 times the nite we were there. The bathrooms were toasty warm and VERY clean."
Community events: Special gatherings enhance the camping experience at pet-welcoming facilities. Dan M. shares that at Big Red Barn RV Park, "They had a 4th of July celebration for the guests!!! I will definitely stay here again in the future!! Great place."
Easy access: Level sites make setup quick at several Joplin area campgrounds. Pattie B. explains that at Coachlight Campground, "The pull-through sites are great for our 40' home, and level enough that it required about 2 minutes to setup."
What you should know
Shower facilities vary widely: Some campgrounds offer excellent washrooms while others have limited facilities. Justine S. notes about Zans Creekside RV Park: "The shower and bathrooms left a lot to be desired. Only one shower and indoor toilet on the side we stayed on and it was just kind of gross. We did find 2 outside stalls with toilets but not until the next morning so that helped."
Road noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds. Clayton W. mentions Zans has "Nice campground friendly staff. Tents and RVs, out house style toilets. Kinda loud being by the road but plenty of nearby places to visit."
Train activity: Rail lines run near some pet-friendly campgrounds around Joplin. According to Dexter I., at Neosho City Campground: "Train tracks adjoining the park and these are busy tracks with trains running day and night. Two sides of the park have a street and a highway alongside, but traffic is slow so it seems to be fairly quiet."
Tips for camping with families
Look for multi-generational activities: Some campgrounds offer features for all ages. Mychele B. says Camp Mi Casa is "Near enough to town to enjoy the museum and pop in for lunch, far enough away to feel detached. There's also an old Drive in movie next door! Makes you want to get an airstream and cruise down Route 66."
Swimming options: Several dog-accommodating campgrounds have pools or water access. Tamisha S. shares about Camp Mi Casa: "The swimming pool is a little small but my kids love it! My 2 year old was able to learn to swim better in it. Cute spot that's in a convenient location!"
Group facilities: For family gatherings, Jan S. reports that Big Red Barn offers good options: "Our group used the rally barn for meetings, and their fire pit for the evening, which were bonus features. The camp host made cinnamon rolls for us on Sunday!"
Tips from RVers
Casino campgrounds: RV campers can find unique deals near Joplin. Sommer J. reports that Downstream RV Park "Stay is free with a membership card from casino. Got card then went to gift shop to get space. Site had electric and water. Community sewer drop with washout. No wifi but cellular was good. No cable but pulled 32 channels from the antenna."
Overnight quick setups: For travelers passing through, some locations offer straightforward accommodations. Jennifer M. found Downstream "Clean. Safe. Great for an overnight on our way from Joplin to OK City. $30 for electricity and water. Easy check in and plenty of spots."
Off-season registration: City campgrounds may have limited registration hours. B H. warns about Neosho City Campground: "Registration to stay here has to be done at city hall so if you are planning to arrive in town after city hall closes or on the weekend you may be unable to stay here as there is no drop box for site payment."
