Camping near Kirksville, Missouri offers visitors access to the rolling hills and prairie landscapes of northeastern Missouri at elevations between 800-1,000 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with particularly colorful fall foliage from mid-October through early November. Winter camping remains available at most locations though water systems may be winterized from November through March.
What to do
Fishing at Long Branch Lake: Long Branch State Park Campground offers excellent fishing opportunities in its 2,450-acre lake. "They have a great lake, and quite campground. The lake has a nice beach next to the marina. Marina store has icecream and other small items if you need something," notes Jason C.
Hiking varied terrain: Thousand Hills State Park Campground features multiple trail options for different skill levels. "Thousand Hills has a variety of trail lengths, giving options to the inexperienced and the backpacking adventurers," explains Mark B. The park's trails showcase northeast Missouri's woodland and lake environments.
Farm animal experiences: Papa's Alpacas Campsites provides unique agricultural tourism opportunities not found at other area campgrounds. "Randy is your host, and would love to take you on a tour on his farm. There are 4 sites in total, all with stunning 360 rolling hill views," shares Ashley F.
What campers like
Direct lake access: Several campsites at Long Branch State Park offer immediate water access. "I reserved a walk in site and it was totally worth it. It's a very short walk into the site, it's even visible from the parking lot. The site is right on the water with beach access so there's no need to drive to the crowded beach area to swim!" reports Adriana W.
Private shower facilities: Thousand Hills State Park Campground provides well-maintained bathroom buildings. "The shower houses had individual, private, large, and very clean facilities. It was not crowded at all," notes Keri B. This feature stands out compared to other regional parks with communal facilities.
Solitude in conservation areas: Union Ridge Conservation Area offers primitive camping with minimal development. "It is quiet, beautiful, and one of our favorite primitive places to visit! Highly recommend if you truly want to get away from it all," says Karen J. The area spans over 8,000 acres of public land.
What you should know
Tent site considerations: Not all campgrounds offer ideal tent setups. "Campground #2 was the smaller of the two campgrounds. The spots seemed more fitting for RV's vs tent but there were a couple of tents," observes Keri B. at Thousand Hills State Park.
Limited amenities at conservation areas: Indian Hills Conservation Area provides basic facilities only. "Conservation Areas in Missouri are enjoyable if you're looking for lovely scenery, and can get by with few or no amenities. Unless you're a hunter, I'd avoid camping there during the November deer season or spring or fall turkey seasons," advises John S.
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts the Kirksville camping experience. "We were too early in the year. The swimming beach looks very nice, although it was too cold to use when we were there," reports Carissa H. about Long Branch State Park in early spring.
Tips for camping with families
Beach activities: Long Branch State Park features family-friendly water recreation. "The beach was very clean, the campsite was well shaded and bathrooms conveniently located throughout. Absolutely beautiful! Lots of ticks though so check yourself often!" warns Heather S.
Kid-friendly amenities: Long Branch State Park Campground offers multiple features for children. "Great lake. Wonderful swim beach with sand. Campsites are at slants so be prepared to level. Nice hiking trail. Clean shower house," shares Jolie C.
Recreation options: Thousand Hills State Park provides diverse activities for families. "Huge swim beach, lots of trails, pavilions, playground equipment and beautiful views. Park has a full service marina where you can rent kayaks or fill your boat with gas," explains Jon L.
Tips from RVers
Concrete pads available: Long Branch State Park accommodates RVs with developed sites. "Great campsites with concrete pads, friendly staff and a decent shower house for a state park. The only negative was no water at the campsites, but for what you get for the price, including a nice lake to enjoy, you can't beat this sweet spot!" mentions Tammy M.
Full hookup options: Eagle Lodge RV Park offers complete services for travelers. "The owners we very nice. Campground is clean and all sites are full hookups," notes Israel M. This park provides 40 sites with both 30 and 50 amp electrical service.
Site positioning challenges: Some RV sites require leveling equipment. "Campsites are at slants so be prepared to level," advises Jolie C. about Long Branch State Park. Many campsites throughout the region follow natural terrain contours rather than being completely level.
