Knob Noster State Park sits in Johnson County, Missouri at approximately 850 feet elevation. The area experiences distinct seasons with humid summers reaching 90°F and winter lows dropping to the 20s. Camping in this region offers proximity to Whiteman Air Force Base, with several campgrounds positioned within a 30-mile radius providing alternatives when the state park reaches capacity.
What to do
Fishing at multiple lakes: Harry S Truman State Park offers fishing opportunities at its large lake. "Nice park. Pretty quiet. Has a decent beach. Shady spots with or without water and electric," notes Cindy K. about Raccoon Ridge campground. The park also includes a boat launch exclusive to campground guests.
Kayaking and canoeing: Several water bodies near Knob Noster support paddle sports. "The large lake offers beaches, swimming, kayaking, and of course fishing and skiing," writes Jeremiah K. about Harry S Truman State Park. Some locations rent equipment seasonally.
Hiking on maintained trails: Explore the network of trails throughout the region. "The hiking opportunities are plentiful," states Jeremiah K. about trails at Raccoon Ridge. Knob Noster State Park Campground offers hiking trails through woodland areas with moderate difficulty ratings.
What campers like
Level, concrete camping pads: Many campers appreciate stable, even surfaces for setting up equipment. "Well maintained campground with nice, level concrete pads. Sites are spacious," reports Maggie C. about Knob Noster State Park.
Clean facilities: Restroom cleanliness ranks high in camper satisfaction. "Bath houses (there are at least 2) have 4 unisex shower pods that are clean and have good pressure," explains Maggie C. Blue Springs Lake Campground receives similar praise: "The bathhouse was newer and in good condition, and there's a laundry in one of the restroom buildings," notes MickandKarla W.
Safe camping environments: Security measures enhance the camping experience. "We felt very safe here since they require an access code to get into the gate," shares Jessica C. about Blue Springs Lake Campground. Campground hosts typically patrol regularly to maintain safety standards.
What you should know
Wildlife management issues: Be prepared for potential wildlife encounters. "Raccoon have taken over the park. And the state workers have done nothing," warns Angela D. about Knob Noster State Park. Store food securely in vehicles or hard-sided containers.
Reservation requirements vary: Some campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "If you require electrical hookups, it is getting to be more common to plan ahead and submit a reservation in state parks as more and more young people are catching on to the camping experience," advises John J. from Knob Noster State Park.
Site positioning considerations: Campsite selection impacts your experience. "If I came again I would choose another site," Maggie C. comments about site 13 at Knob Noster, which was "adjacent to a fenced off sewer lagoon which did emit slight odor." Country Gardens RV Park (now Owl Creek Market and RV Park) has limitations too: "Sites are very close but each has a grass strip," notes Jan S.
Tips for camping with families
Bike-friendly campgrounds: Select campgrounds with safe cycling roads. "Knob Noster State Park is a great park for the grandkids to ride their new bikes on the level smooth campground road in safety," shares John J. Road surfaces in some campgrounds allow easier biking for children.
Access to swimming areas: During warm months, water access provides recreation. "The campground has its own beach and its own boat launch that are only for campground guests," explains Jason C. about Raccoon Ridge. "We had the whole beach to ourselves for awhile, the most we seen was probably 5 or 6 families at the beach at once."
Shade availability: Green Acres at Red Brick Farmhouse offers comfortable outdoor spaces for families. "There was plenty of space for all of us and even a wonderful tire swing for the kids," reports Heather M. When temperatures rise, shade becomes essential for comfortable family camping.
Tips from RVers
Pull-through site availability: RVers appreciate accessible sites. "Easy access to Interstate and pull through sites were long enough for our truck and 32' trailer without having to unhitch," notes Roy T. about Kansas City East-Oak Grove KOA. For overnight stays, pull-through sites save significant setup time.
Dog-friendly campground features: The region offers several dog friendly campgrounds near Knob Noster with dedicated pet areas. "Great Escape RV Park & Campground provides a dog park with bench and shade," reports Maggie C. Kansas City East-Oak Grove KOA receives similar praise: "Two good fenced dog parks," states Roy T.
Hookup positioning: Check utilities placement when selecting sites. "The utilities were located mid-to-rear on the site," explains MickandKarla W. about Blue Springs Lake Campground. This positioning may require extension cords or longer hoses depending on your RV configuration.
