Table Rock Lake and Lake Taneycomo offer diverse camping options near Kirbyville, Missouri, with elevations ranging from 700 to 1,200 feet above sea level. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures frequently reaching 90°F, while spring and fall provide milder conditions for outdoor activities. Winter camping is available at select locations with temperatures occasionally dropping below freezing.
What to do
Fishing at multiple lakes: Table Rock Lake at COE Table Rock Lake Old Highway 86 Park offers excellent trout and bass fishing opportunities. "Old Highway 86 is a very nice campground conveniently located to Branson. All of the lots are nicely paved and level along with many waterfront sites! Kick back, relax and watch the boats go by!" notes camper b K.
Kayaking in protected coves: The calm waters at Cooper Creek Resort provide ideal conditions for paddling. "This is an amazing campground in Branson. Once you get there does not feel like Branson at all. Tucked back on Lake Taneycomo. Love this campground," shares Robin R., highlighting the peaceful setting away from busier areas.
Swimming at designated beaches: Indian Point offers supervised swimming areas that provide safer alternatives to open lake swimming. "This is a favorite campground and swimming hole! It is close to Silver Dollar City and other Branson activities," explains Natalie C., who appreciated the family-friendly atmosphere.
What campers like
Waterfront access: Camping directly on the water's edge at Mill Creek remains a top feature. "One of my favorite campgrounds. 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!!!" remarks Sue M. about the popularity of these premium sites.
Proximity to attractions: America's Best Campground provides convenient access to Branson's entertainment while maintaining a relaxed atmosphere. "ABC is just on the edge of Branson, but still within a few minutes of the Strip and all the town's locations. We've stayed here numerous times and it's our go-to spot when we go to Branson 2-3 times a year," explains Jason B.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds throughout the region maintain high standards for restrooms and common areas. "The shower house was a bit far but right across the street was a compost toilet shed that was convenient and kept very clean," notes Kathy P. from COE Table Rock Lake Old Highway 86 Park, highlighting the attention to cleanliness even in remote facilities.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, particularly during summer and holiday periods. "It usually takes some planning because it fills up fast! The campground is on a peninsula with waterfront sites all the way around. Every waterfront site has great views!" advises Natalie C. about Old Highway 86 campground.
Site spacing varies significantly: Tall Pines Campground and others have notable differences in site size and privacy. "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. We stayed in site 131. They pack them in tight on the back row," explains Andrew S., providing specific insight about site arrangement.
Weather considerations: The area experiences significant seasonal changes requiring different camping preparations. "Summer months require working remotely was no issue as cell service was good," reports Kathy P., noting connectivity remains reliable despite the rural setting.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas that provide safe recreation options. "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," recommends Sarah C.
Swimming safety: KOA Campground Branson provides controlled swimming environments appropriate for children. "The water front is beautiful and a great view to wake up to! The campground has nice bathrooms and showers that are well kept," notes Sara W., highlighting the well-maintained facilities.
Educational opportunities: Take advantage of nature programs offered at several area campgrounds during summer months. "Overall a great experience! My only complaint was how close sites were to each other, but the location made up for it!" shares Aaron S., who found the location's benefits outweighed any space limitations.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: The hilly terrain throughout the region requires careful site selection. "We enjoyed visiting Branson off-season and our time at this campground made it even better! Our site had unobstructed views of the lake and was easy to level," reports Kathy P., noting the advantage of visiting during less crowded periods.
Utility reliability: Most RV sites offer stable 30-50 amp service, but quality varies by location. "Great full hookup site and easy to get into. Big rig friendly," confirms Tracy B. at Branson Lakeside RV Park, providing reassurance about accessibility for larger vehicles.
Noise considerations: Sites close to main roads experience more traffic noise than interior locations. "Our experience has been good. We are located within walking distance to the Branson Landings. The sites are close but not bad this time of the year," observes Shelly O., highlighting how timing affects the camping experience.
