Cabin camping near Lathrop, Missouri offers year-round options in a region characterized by rolling hills and seasonal weather patterns. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F, while winter months can drop below freezing with occasional snowfall. Most campgrounds in the area sit at elevations between 800-1,000 feet above sea level, providing modest terrain variations for hiking and outdoor activities.
What to do
Bike trails around the lake: At Lewis and Clark State Park Campground, visitors can access paved paths ideal for family cycling. "The roads to, around, and within the campground are paved and great for a family walk or bike-riding," notes reviewer Tori G. The trail system loops around the small lake, providing scenic views and easy riding for all skill levels.
Kayaking and fishing: Watkins Mill State Park Campground offers multiple water activities on its lake. "Great place to fish.kayak. Bike ride. Clean campsites and bathrooms," says Will E. The lake supports various fish species and has calm waters suitable for beginners.
Historical exploration: Take time to visit the historical sites near the cabin areas. "If you like history, take a tour of the woolen mill part. Very cool," recommends Josh P. The Watkins Mill historic area provides educational opportunities about the region's industrial past, with guided tours available during summer months.
Swimming and water play: Basswood Country RV Resort features a swimming pool and splash park for hot summer days. "There was a nice playground, pavilion and courts," notes Angela C. The pool area includes organized activities during peak season such as "duck races and frozen t-shirt contests," according to Tori G.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacious layout at several area campgrounds. "We stayed Sunday-Wednesday and it was very peaceful. Sites are not right on top of each other," according to a visitor. At AOK Campground, campers note the strategic placement of sites: "Appreciate the back to back campsites so your neighbors sewer isn't in your area," writes Joseph S.
Clean facilities: Bathhouses and common areas receive consistent praise for cleanliness. "Clean facilities include plenty of stalls and sinks, separate showers and laundry. Well lit and accessible," reports Anita M. about Watkins Mill. Another camper notes, "Bathrooms have AC and are cleaned with disinfectant daily. Very clean campground."
Family-friendly atmosphere: Lewis and Clark State Park Campground creates a safe environment for children to play freely. "Kids playing with each other going from group to group getting more kids to play. You can see them from anywhere in the camp ground," explains Jason C. The centrally located playground provides visibility from most cabin and camping areas.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple small lakes throughout the area offer fishing without requiring a boat. "There is a small lake great for kayaking and fishing boats," says Jason C. Many cabins are situated within walking distance to fishing spots, making it convenient for impromptu angling sessions.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabins require advance booking, especially between May and September. "The campground is all paved and perfect for scooters and bikes for the kids," mentions Jennifer H. about Worlds of Fun Village, which fills quickly during peak season.
Airport proximity: Worlds of Fun Village is located near Kansas City International Airport, which affects noise levels. "Row 1 (sites 1-20) is along a busy highway with semi truck noise 24 hours a day," advises John L. Consider requesting sites farther from roadways when booking.
Seasonal closures: Some amenities close during off-season months. "The swim beach has been closed because of excessive vegetation growth," reports Jason C., highlighting the importance of checking current facility status before arrival.
Variable site quality: Not all cabins and sites offer the same amenities or privacy. "What is weird is that this is almost two parks - the front is the 'resort' or old-fashioned campground, but where we were placed was in the back with what looked like a lot of long-term, single male residents," explains Angela C. about Basswood Country RV Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Choose cabin locations near play areas for convenience. "This campground was always a family favorite when we were kids. We would go out extra early to set up then spend our time on the bike trails until lunch," shares Janelle M. Most family-oriented sites have playgrounds visible from cabin porches.
Water activities for children: Pony Express RV and other nearby campgrounds offer swimming options during summer. "The camp ground pool is huge and fun for the kids on non park days," states Jennifer H. Many cabin locations provide easy access to both swimming and fishing areas.
Weekend activity planning: Family-oriented events often occur on weekends. "Every weekend there are organized activities such as arts and crafts, fishing contests, duck races and frozen t-shirt contests in the pool, and a Saturday evening outdoor movie," explains Tori G. Check with campground offices for current activity schedules.
Multiple cabin options: When traveling with extended family, consider campgrounds with varied accommodation types. "Located on the property there are RV sites and rental cabins. All RV sites were concrete with 50/30/20 amp, water and sewer," notes John L., describing options that allow different family groups to camp together while maintaining comfort preferences.
Tips from RVers
Level site selection: RV campers recommend checking site specifications before booking cabins with RV parking. "The sites were a little close together and you could hear some highway noise, but in all the campground was pretty," observes Shannon G. Most cabins with RV access have gravel or concrete pads.
Utility connections: Green Acres at Red Brick Farmhouse and similar properties offer varying levels of hookups. "Small, secluded camp sites on picturesque lawn surrounding 3story red brick farmhouse. Two tent sites. Two or three small RV sites and one parked RV trailer available as a nightly rental," details Frank H., showing options for different camping styles.
Off-season advantages: Consider cabin camping during shoulder seasons for better availability and rates. "Stopped here on our way south for spring break. The amusement park was not open yet, so the campground area was relatively quiet and the price for full hookups was not bad," shares Deb M. about Worlds of Fun Village, highlighting the benefits of visiting during less crowded periods.
