Campgrounds near La Grange, Missouri typically receive less traffic than more prominent Missouri destinations, creating opportunities for quieter outdoor experiences. The area's rolling terrain features elevations between 500-700 feet with deciduous forest cover that provides shade at many sites. Most campsites near La Grange experience temperature swings of 30-40 degrees between day and night in spring and fall months.
What to do
Fishing access: Wakonda State Park offers multiple lakes with bank fishing steps at RV sites. "Each parking site has steps down to the lake for bank fishing. There are also John boats and kayaks for rent," notes a visitor to Wakonda Lake Campground. The park restricts motors to under 9hp, creating quieter fishing conditions.
Cave exploration: Located 35 miles south of La Grange, Mark Twain Cave & Campground provides access to historic limestone caverns with guided tours. "The cave is fantastic with history galore and a reasonable price. The gift shop is also very very nice," reports one camper. Tours run hourly during peak season but cost $22-26 per adult.
Trail hiking: Multiple interconnected paths wind through Wakonda State Park. "Great trails too, ranging from half a mile to 3 miles," explains a regular visitor to Boulder Lake Campground. Trail conditions deteriorate after heavy rains, with mud persisting 2-3 days after storms.
What campers like
Concrete camping pads: Several campgrounds feature level, solid surfaces for setup. "The concrete slab was large enough for our camper and rug along with the picnic table! A lot of room!" remarks a Wakonda Lake visitor. These pads drain well during rain and prevent muddy conditions common at other regional campgrounds.
Swimming options: Designated beach areas provide water recreation beyond fishing. A Wakonda Lake visitor notes, "There is a sandy beach for swimming." Water quality varies seasonally, with clarity typically best in early summer before July algae blooms.
Waterfront proximity: Many sites offer direct water views. "We stayed by Wakonda Lake in an oversized site with steps leading down to a little beach," shares a camper at Wakonda Lake Campground. Sites closest to water typically cost $2-5 more per night but fill quickly during summer weekends.
What you should know
Highway noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds despite natural settings. One camper at Boulder Lake Campground mentioned, "My only complaint is the highway a little close and it can be loud." Sites furthest from main roads generally provide the quietest experience.
Mississippi River fluctuations: Water levels affect riverfront camping accessibility. "Looking for an overnight stay on a long road trip. Park is close to highway, fairly empty on a Monday night. Easy pull through site close to lake," notes a visitor to Wakonda Lake Campground. River sites may close with minimal notice during spring and early summer high water periods.
Limited cellular connectivity: Network coverage varies significantly by carrier throughout the region. Some campgrounds offer WiFi near central facilities, but bandwidth limitations make streaming difficult during peak usage hours.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks feature play equipment for children. At Driftwood Campground & RV Park, located 19 miles from La Grange, a visitor noted "Very cool old metal playground equipment." Parents should supervise younger children as some equipment predates current safety standards.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Morning and evening hours provide best animal sighting chances. The conservation site across from Driftwood Campground offers additional nature exploration with "a park across street for walking dog," according to a recent visitor.
Kid-friendly water features: Shallow swimming areas accommodate various ages. "A pool for the warm months, and a conservation site across the street. Plenty of fishing on the Mississippi river," mentions a Driftwood camper. Most swimming areas lack lifeguards, so parental supervision remains essential.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for large rigs: Most area campgrounds accommodate substantial vehicles, but specific loops work better. "The sites are very large and our rv site has a cement pad. It makes for an easy setup," explains a visitor to Wakonda Lake Campground. Call ahead for sites that can handle units over 35 feet.
Full hookup availability: Several parks offer complete utilities. At Hickory Haven Campground, located 33 miles from La Grange, "Our spot was very clean and level. The sites are pretty roomy with some shade. Full hookups, hiking wooded trails, nice pond for fishing, playground." Electric service ranges from 30-50 amp depending on site location.
Dump station logistics: Not all parks with hookups provide on-site waste disposal. "Easy access to dump station. Staff very friendly," notes one camper about Wakonda Lake Campground. Several campgrounds have limited dump station hours, typically 8am-8pm during summer months.
