The La Russell area offers camping options within 30 miles of town, situated in the rolling Ozark foothills of southwestern Missouri at approximately 1,000 feet elevation. Campgrounds in this region experience temperature ranges from summer highs averaging 90°F to winter lows around 20°F. Weather patterns include typical Midwestern thunderstorms during spring and summer months, with occasional snow in winter.
What to do
Explore local fishing spots: The area's small ponds and lakes provide decent fishing opportunities. At Beagle Bay RV Haven Campground, campers can enjoy fishing in their small lake, as one visitor noted, "We are in a tent on the back lawn by a small fishing lake" and the campground provides a "pond to fish."
Visit historic Route 66 sites: Camp Mi Casa on the Route RV Park in Carthage gives travelers convenient access to Route 66 attractions. A camper mentioned, "Near enough to town to enjoy the museum and pop in for lunch, far enough away to feel detached. There's also an old Drive in movie next door! Makes you want to get an airstream and cruise down Route 66."
Attend seasonal entertainment events: Some campgrounds host special events during peak season. One Beagle Bay visitor was pleasantly surprised: "I have just been informed they have a Willie Nelson impersonator doing a show here tonight, this place would get 6 stars if I could."
What campers like
Clean, modern facilities: Beagle Bay RV Haven Campground receives praise for its bathhouse amenities. A camper detailed, "Bathrooms are beautiful and clean, 2 toilets, 2 showers and a sauna in each. Free on-site laundry which I took advantage of when I needed to wash and dry my blanket on a cold night."
Kid-friendly features: Several campgrounds offer children's activities beyond standard playgrounds. As one visitor to Beagle Bay noted, "Kim came by and took my son and 2 other kids on a golf cart ride on the trail behind the lake and they had a blast."
Holiday celebrations: Big Red Barn RV Park organizes special events for holidays. A camper shared, "We stayed 2 nights on the 4th of July weekend and had a great time. They had a 4th of July celebration for the guests!"
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Springfield-Route 66 KOA's proximity to train tracks affects some campers. As one reviewer warned, "I did wake up several times in the night to the sound of trains or planes passing by. The train tracks are right next to the campground."
Highway proximity effects: Several campgrounds are located near major highways. A Beagle Bay visitor explained, "Great spot that most people might pass up because its right next to the highway, but honestly you can barely tell aside from the hum of trucks."
Site availability challenges: Coachlight Campground has policies that might affect reservations. One visitor shared a positive experience with flexible check-in: "We called on our way and the woman said they had plenty of space and since we were arriving after hours to just come in and pick any available spot and pay in the morning."
Conservation area access issues: Robert E. Talbot Conservation Area has had gate access problems for some visitors. A camper reported, "When we got there we found a locked gate across the entrance to the conservation area!" However, another visitor clarified, "There is NO locked gate nice little spot cows across the street."
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Austin H. at Beagle Bay RV Haven Campground mentions, "They have everything you could want! Arcade, swimming pool, kids playground and a pond to fish." These amenities provide essential entertainment options for families with children of varying ages.
Campground celebrations: Some campgrounds go above and beyond with special activities. At Big Red Barn RV Park, one camper noted, "The camp host made cinnamon rolls for us on Sunday!" These small touches can create memorable experiences for families.
Breakfast delivery service: Springfield-Route 66 KOA offers unique morning options. One visitor shared, "You can order fresh made mini donuts in the morning. A nice treat for the family or with coffee on your way out!"
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Many campgrounds in the area offer level sites that minimize setup time. At Coachlight Campground, a reviewer shared, "The pull-through sites are great for our 40' home, and level enough that it required about 2 minutes to setup."
Long-term stay options: Several parks accommodate extended stays. At Big Red Barn RV Park, a visitor observed, "The park is very well maintained and level sites, lots of trees. There were about a dozen other campers - most appeared to be long termers."
Pizza delivery service: Springfield-Route 66 KOA provides a unique convenience. "One of the best KOA's I've stayed! They even delivered pizza right to our site," a camper reported. This service is particularly appealing after a long day of travel.
