Knob Noster, Missouri sits in the western portion of the state at an elevation of approximately 820 feet, creating moderate terrain ideal for both casual and experienced trail riders. The area experiences hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 85°F and cold winters that can drop below freezing, making spring and fall particularly popular for equestrian camping trips. Nearby conservation areas and state parks offer over 35 miles of multi-use trails suitable for horseback riding.
What to do
Horseback riding on the Katy Trail: The historic Katy Trail provides extensive riding opportunities with a dedicated horse-friendly section near Knob Noster. At Lazy Liz Katy Trail Horse and RV Campground, riders appreciate direct trail access. As one visitor noted, "We stayed in our rv while riding the Katy trail easy check in process. Free use of washer and dryer. Shower was great. Felt super safe here."
Fishing at Truman Lake: Several lakes within 30 miles of Knob Noster offer excellent fishing opportunities. At Berry Bend, campers can access prime fishing spots. One camper shared, "Great fishing, lake is accessible from many sites." The area supports various fish species including bass, crappie, and catfish.
Wildlife viewing: The conservation areas around Knob Noster provide opportunities to observe Missouri wildlife. At Montrose Missouri Conservation Area, one visitor reported, "Theres loads of wildlife to see an arent much scared of humans, racoons, beavers, crane, squirrels, dear, owls an much more. Theres also blackberries in the fall."
What campers like
Quiet, secluded settings: Many campgrounds near Knob Noster offer peaceful environments away from busy areas. At Knob Noster State Park Campground, a visitor mentioned, "Spent 5 nights. The campground filled up on the weekend but it was very quiet. There are a couple of small lakes, one of which has kayak rentals. Several hiking trails."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the area maintain well-kept bathhouses and amenities. At Long Shoal, one reviewer praised, "They had the cleanest facilities I have ever seen." Another camper at Knob Noster State Park noted, "Bath houses (there are at least 2) have 4 unisex shower pods that are clean and have good pressure."
Spacious sites: Many equestrian campgrounds provide ample space for horse trailers and equipment. A visitor to Berry Bend commented, "Nice spacious spots, lake views, friendly campers. Great Hosts! Clean and well maintained." Sites typically include space for portable corrals and tethering areas.
What you should know
Wildlife encounters: Be prepared for local wildlife interactions at campgrounds. At Lake Jacomo - Fleming Park, sites are situated "in a Grove of trees atop a hill," creating habitat for various animals. At Knob Noster State Park, one camper warned about raccoons: "Raccoon have taken over the park. And the state workers have done nothing... About 40 in my camp the whole week making us scared."
Seasonal considerations: Some campgrounds have restricted access during certain times. At Montrose Conservation Area, a camper noted, "There is no camping allowed after October 15 due to hunting season. This was not on the website and was not seeable in dust when arriving late on a small sign in the bushes."
Bathroom facilities vary: Toilet facilities range from modern to rustic across area campgrounds. A visitor to Montrose Conservation Area remarked, "The pit toilet was really gross, but there was toilet paper." Plan accordingly by bringing your own supplies.
Tips for camping with families
Lake activities for children: Several campgrounds offer lake access for swimming and water play. At Knob Noster State Park, one visitor shared, "Kayak rentals were available for Lake Buteo - kayakers were out on the lake, and the lake has a trail all around it. Nice trail. The other lake, Clearfork Lake, was great for fishing for us!"
Biking opportunities: Paved roads and trails provide safe biking for children. A camper at Knob Noster State Park mentioned it's "a great park for the grandkids to ride their new bikes on the level smooth campground road in safety."
Archaeological activities: Some areas have historical significance with artifacts. At Montrose Conservation Area, a visitor shared an interesting experience: "One of the locals stopped by my site to look for arrowheads. Apparently, she has found a lot in the area so that's a good activity if the kids are bored."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Choose sites based on specific needs and preferences. At Knob Noster State Park, one RVer advised, "If I came again I would choose another site," after experiencing a site "adjacent to a fenced off sewer lagoon which did emit slight odor."
Level sites available: Many campgrounds offer concrete or gravel pads for easy setup. A visitor noted Knob Noster State Park has "nice, level concrete pads. Sites are spacious."
Water and hookup access: While equestrian campgrounds prioritize horse facilities, RV amenities may vary. At Berry Bend, campers can find "electric hookups" with "sanitary dump" facilities available. Some sites like Montrose offer free camping but fewer amenities, with one camper noting, "No picnic tables or fire pits."
