Best Campgrounds near Kansas City, MO

Some of the best camping in Missouri can be found on the state’s western border near Kansas City, MO. The city is famous for jazz and BBQ, but fishing and nature trails are close by. You can find campsites for tents and recreational vehicles in the woods, on the city's edge, or in the city with downtown views. Campgrounds in the area offer swimming, stores stocked with camping supplies, amenities needed for RVs, and comfortable cabins or lodges. And Kansas City is only a two and a half hour drive from Lake of the Ozarks in central Missouri.

Best Camping Sites Near Kansas City, Missouri (88)

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Recent Reviews near Kansas City, MO

553 Reviews of 88 Kansas City Campgrounds



Guide to Kansas City

Camping near Kansas City, Missouri, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and family-friendly activities. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Nature Walks: Many campgrounds, like Watkins Mill State Park Campground, have trails that let you enjoy the great outdoors. One visitor mentioned, “The area was clean and the bathrooms well maintained,” making it a great spot for a family hike.
  • Fishing and Boating: At Clinton State Park Campground, you can enjoy fishing or take a boat out on the water. A camper noted, “Access to modern toilets that flushed... plenty of wildlife,” which adds to the experience.
  • Wildlife Watching: Campgrounds like Crow's Creek Campground are great for spotting local wildlife. One happy camper shared, “We’ve stayed here several times without any problems. The hosts are great too.”

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review from Blue Springs Lake Campground said, “Clean and spaces not too close together. Well set up for either tent or RV.”
  • Friendly Hosts: Many campgrounds have welcoming staff. A visitor at Wallace State Park Campground remarked, “Camp hosts were always available and polite and friendly.”
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Campers enjoy the peacefulness of the sites. One reviewer at Knob Noster State Park Campground mentioned, “It was nice to hear the aircrafts from the base and next time we will bring our kids so they can experience it too.”

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Lake Jacomo - Fleming Park, may lack certain amenities. A camper noted, “Some sites are not very level so bring blocks.”
  • Seasonal Availability: Many campgrounds have specific seasons. For example, Bloomington East - Clinton Lake is open from early April to late September.
  • Wildlife Caution: While wildlife is a plus, be aware of ticks and other critters. A visitor at Watkins Mill State Park Campground mentioned, “My only complaint were the ticks, but it was a rough tick season this spring.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Sites: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and spacious sites. A family at Blue Springs Lake Campground enjoyed their stay, saying, “We had a full hookup site located right by the playground and it was perfect for our family.”
  • Plan for Activities: Bring games and outdoor gear to keep kids entertained. One camper at Clinton State Park Campground mentioned, “There were a few campers near to us that we could see but no one that was right next to us.”
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having food on hand makes family camping easier. A visitor at Lake Shawnee County Campground said, “Friendly staff, clean facilities. Perfect spot for our truck topper.”

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookups: Ensure your site has the necessary hookups. A camper at Crow's Creek Campground noted, “We have Verizon cell service and had no issues.”
  • Arrive Early: Popular sites can fill up quickly, so get there early. One reviewer at Weston Bend State Park Campground mentioned, “Campground is hilly, sites are level, gravel pads. Lots of space between sites.”
  • Be Prepared for Weather: Bring gear for rain or shine. A visitor at Knob Noster State Park Campground said, “Great trail network and very nice stock mo state park campground.”

Camping near Kansas City, Missouri, has something for everyone. With a bit of planning, you can enjoy a fantastic outdoor experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Kansas City, MO?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Kansas City, MO offers a wide range of camping options, with 88 campgrounds and RV parks near Kansas City, MO and 3 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Kansas City, MO?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Kansas City, MO is Blue Springs Lake Campground with a 4.2-star rating from 41 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Kansas City, MO?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 free dispersed camping spots near Kansas City, MO.

  • What parks are near Kansas City, MO?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 15 parks near Kansas City, MO that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.