Glamping near Kirksville, Missouri offers access to secluded spots within northeast Missouri's rolling countryside. The region features a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons and elevations ranging from 700-900 feet above sea level. Fall camping season typically extends from September through mid-November with daytime temperatures averaging 55-70°F.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Pershing State Park Campground, visitors can access multiple fishing spots throughout the 1,957-acre park. "This is a very small park and go for just an overnight stay," notes one camper, with another mentioning, "There is fishing and plenty of hiking."
Hiking trails: Island View Campground at Lake Rathbun offers extensive shoreline hiking with lake views. A visitor shares, "Pretty nice campground with showers/restrooms/dump stations spread throughout the campground. Tons a room between spots and lots of sites with a good view of the lake."
Geode hunting: The Catfish Place Campground provides access to nearby geode hunting locations. "Close to geode hunting locations!! Quiet. There is also a restaurant on site," according to one camper who appreciated these unique geological opportunities.
Bridge exploration: From Waubonsie Trail Park, take a short hike to local landmarks. "Waubonsie trail behind park is a short hike to the covered bridge and Dutchman's Store. Perfect Way to stretch your legs after a long day on the road," writes a visitor.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Island View Campground features well-spaced sites with natural boundaries. "Large, clean campsites with ample shade. Spectacular lake views especially for sunset. Very quiet during the week," reports one camper.
Wildlife viewing: At Pershing State Park, woodland areas attract diverse bird species. "The pileated and red headed woodpeckers are in abundance and the trails including a long boardwalk make for interesting walks," notes a frequent visitor.
Quiet atmosphere: The Catfish Place Campground offers a peaceful setting with water features. "My family stayed in our popup last September and it was great. Friendly staff, nice clean bathroom and showers. Spot on beautiful pond. It was great to be able to fish from our site," says one reviewer.
Nearby attractions: Beyond natural features, cultural attractions enhance the camping experience. "We also visited nearby LaClede where John J. Pershing's boyhood home is. Very informative and interesting," mentions a Pershing State Park visitor.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Fall camping at Pershing State Park means reduced rates but limited water access. "Electric off season. Off season starts Nov 1. Water is turned off. Showers, laundry, dump station, playground in park. Great hiking trails," advises a camper.
Site selection: At Pershing State Park, location within the campground affects experience. "Take the last spot on the loop for extra privacy and to be close to the restrooms," recommends one visitor, while another notes "Spots are small but all shaded."
Facility quality varies: Shoemaker RV Park receives mixed reviews on facilities. "The showers and bathrooms needed a good cleaning. There were also many barking dogs. On a good note the neighbors (cemetery) were quiet," reports one visitor.
Campground size: Pershing State Park offers a more intimate experience with limited sites. "This is a very small park," and "While the campground was small, (39 sites) the park packs a punch," note different reviewers about the compact but feature-rich park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Waubonsie Trail Park offers recreational facilities for children. "Horseshoe pit, playground and campfire swing area were nice surprises. All for under $20 for electric RV site! Great campground for a small group event," shares a visitor.
Water activities: Lake Rathbun provides multiple ways to enjoy the water. "Very nice campground with lake to fish and boat on. Has beach access also," mentions a camper who enjoyed the family-friendly amenities.
Wildlife education: The diverse ecosystems at Pershing State Park create learning opportunities. "The park features a wet land prairie that offers a diverse scene that you would not expect in Missouri," explains one visitor who appreciated the educational aspects.
Budget-friendly options: Families can find affordable glamping experiences, with some parks offering basic amenities at reasonable rates. "The park tends to be very busy. My stay was a week past labor day and still over half full," notes a Lake Rathbun visitor about the popularity of this value-oriented destination.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: Shoemaker RV Park offers comfortable spacing between sites. "30/50 amp service throughout. K row is preferential. Spread out fairly well. You're not on top of each other here," advises an RV camper who appreciated the layout.
Cell service: Lake Rathbun provides reliable connectivity for remote workers. "Campsites were spaced well apart with plenty of room on pad around campsites, cell service was four bars and air tv 30 channels," reports an RVer who maintained digital access.
Equestrian alternatives: For RVers seeking more secluded options, Waubonsie Trail Park offers specialized camping areas. "I camped in the equestrian campground and loved it with my popup. Outhouse type toilets are available there. I only drove past the RV campground and the campsites were close together. The equestrian area is the way to go in my opinion but I love the quiet," suggests a camper who preferred the less developed section.
