Table Rock Lake spans 43,000 acres of water with over 800 miles of shoreline near Kimberling City, Missouri. Elevations in the surrounding Ozark Mountains range from 700 to 1,500 feet, creating distinctive bluff views and lakeside camping opportunities. Glamping options near Kimberling City feature cabins with modern amenities while preserving the natural lake setting typical of the region.
What to do
Fishing access: Table Rock State Park Campground offers shoreline fishing with multiple convenient locations. "The marina is well stocked, great lake for fishing, relaxing or just cruising in the canoe," notes Kent B. Sites positioned near boat docks allow easy water entry without hauling equipment far.
Trail exploration: A paved walking path connects boat docks to the dam at Table Rock State Park Campground. "Nice campground with a paved walking/cycling trail from boat docks to the dam. Nice showers, fairly level campsites," reports Dale H. The 2-mile paved trail follows the lakeshore with minimal elevation change.
Water activities: Aunts Creek provides multiple water access points with a swimming beach. "Has its own beach area but no lifeguards. You'll also want to pack water shoes as the beach is gravel," advises David G. The designated swimming area maintains shallow entry points suitable for younger swimmers.
What campers like
Natural shade: Most sites at Aunts Creek feature significant tree cover for temperature management. "Lots of shade, some campsites have built-in benches and railings," reports Natalie C. The mature trees provide cooling during summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F.
Convenient shuttles: Tall Pines Campground runs regular transportation to Silver Dollar City theme park. "We chose this campground due to the shuttle that ran from the campground to Silver Dollar City, as that was our main reason for this trip," explains Deb L. Shuttles operate every 30-60 minutes during park hours, eliminating parking concerns.
Private facilities: Indian Point campground offers upgraded bathroom facilities with individual units. "We like the bathrooms with the private toilet and shower. No issues with crowding or waiting for one to open up," states Natalie C. Each shower room contains a toilet, sink, and shower for complete privacy.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Site dimensions vary significantly at Indian Point with limited parking at some locations. "My advice is to definitely look and book online before coming to the park before any trip to ensure your spacing. For those not doing so, additional parking is located throughout the park," recommends Crystal C. Corner sites typically provide more space than interior sites.
Weather impacts: Lake levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting beach access and marina facilities. "The swimming beach was completely under water and thus the facilities near it were not able to be used. The marina was very busy despite many of the walkways being underwater slightly," notes one camper. Water levels peak in late spring and early summer.
Reservation timing: Premium sites and cabin accommodations at Kimberling City fill months in advance during peak season. Most campgrounds allow bookings 6-12 months ahead, with holiday weekends requiring the earliest planning. Weekday stays typically offer more availability even with shorter booking windows.
Tips for camping with families
Playground amenities: Branson Musicland Kampground provides multiple recreation options despite its urban location. "Pool was nice for family to cool off in," notes Dary R. The campground maintains dedicated children's play areas separate from RV traffic patterns.
Beach preparation: Table Rock Lake swimming areas feature gravel rather than sand shorelines. Pack water shoes, particularly for children, as the lake bottom contains small rocks and occasional submerged branches near shore. Swimming areas typically have gradual depth changes for safer wading.
Rainy day alternatives: Many glamping accommodations near Kimberling City include covered porches and indoor entertainment options. When afternoon thunderstorms arrive, which occur frequently in summer months, cabins provide shelter while maintaining lake views.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: The terrain around Kimberling City features significant hills, affecting campsite grading. "Campground is on the side of a hill, very little grass with lots of rocks," notes one Aunts Creek camper. Many sites require leveling blocks, particularly for larger rigs.
Navigation planning: Port Of Kimberling Resort & Campground accommodates large vehicles but requires careful positioning. "There are a few pull-through, but most sites are back-in and long enough for almost any rig," shares Larry F. Upper sections typically offer electric hookups while lower sections near the marina provide full hookups with more limited shade.
Access considerations: Roads leading to lakeside campgrounds often feature curves and elevation changes. RVers should verify their route can accommodate their vehicle length and height, particularly when approaching from the north where some roads have steeper grades.
