Best Campgrounds near Lawson, MO

Alaska offers a diverse range of camping experiences across its vast wilderness areas, with numerous established campgrounds and backcountry options. The state features developed facilities like Homer Spit Campground along the coastline and Eklutna Lake Campground in Chugach State Park, providing amenities for tent campers, RV travelers, and those seeking cabin accommodations. Many campgrounds offer scenic views of glaciers, mountains, and lakes, with sites that accommodate various camping styles from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV spaces.

Seasonal considerations significantly impact camping opportunities throughout Alaska, with most campgrounds operating from May through September. Winter camping is available at select locations like Riley Creek Campground in Denali National Park, which remains open year-round. Road conditions can vary dramatically, with some campgrounds requiring high-clearance vehicles to access. Weather patterns shift rapidly, making preparation essential even during summer months. Permits and reservations are recommended for popular destinations, especially during peak salmon fishing seasons when campgrounds fill quickly. A visitor noted, "This is a great, quiet campground very close to many popular areas in Alaska. It is very busy once the Red Salmon arrive, especially from mid-July to mid-August."

Waterfront camping receives consistently high ratings from visitors, with many campgrounds situated along lakes, rivers, and ocean shorelines. Several campgrounds in the Kenai Peninsula area provide access to prime fishing locations, making them particularly popular during salmon runs. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound near many camping areas, with bears, moose, and eagles commonly sighted. According to one camper, "Exit glacier is an amazing destination for all ages and capabilities. Although dogs are not welcome on the hike, it is short enough that you won't be missed long." Campgrounds with amenities like flush toilets and running water tend to receive higher ratings, though many visitors appreciate the more remote, primitive sites for their solitude and natural setting. Bug protection is frequently mentioned as essential equipment, particularly in forested or lakeside locations during summer months.

Best Camping Sites Near Lawson, Missouri (71)

    1. Watkins Mill State Park Campground

    34 Reviews
    Excelsior Springs, MO
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (816) 580-3387

    $12 - $42 / night

    "Watkins mill SP is located a short distance from Kansas City off I-35 near Kearney. The park has a large lake that you can fish and boat as well as multiple hiking options."

    "This place offers peace and quiet outside of a small town with close by amenities. Clean and helpful staff"

    2. Wallace State Park Campground

    33 Reviews
    Cameron, MO
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (816) 632-3745

    "Great MO state park, close to the city with easy access to 35 N. Trails, lakes, camping, great spot! If you don’t want/need electric, try campground 1, the spots are tucked into the trees."

    "Not far off of RT 36 going East through Missouri. Cost only $13 with hot showers. Nice campsite with table and fire pit. The night of our stay the ranger did a naturalist talk about stream life."

    3. Crow's Creek Campground

    28 Reviews
    Smithville, MO
    17 miles
    Website

    "The best part is the view of and access to the lake! So beautiful and relaxing.  We had a nice gravel site with fire ring and picnic table."

    "The roads and trails are nice for scooters and bikes. Fairly close to the water and playground; within walking distance."

    4. Camp Branch Campground

    15 Reviews
    Smithville, MO
    17 miles
    Website

    "Pleasant campground, very nice lake. I camp with kids from infant through 18 and hot showers and decent bathrooms are a must for us. Close to Smithville Missouri."

    "The bike trail is about 3 steps away from our site. only downside is it is only electric hookups. ( only a downside if you are a travel trailer/rv)"

    5. Smiths Fork Recreation Area Camping

    10 Reviews
    Smithville, MO
    19 miles
    Website

    "Close to Kansas City so it makes a great quick getaway. Clean, friendly, and right next to Smithville Lake. Our pick for a short trip."

    "These RV spots have great shade, are spaced nicely apart, and are a quick walk to the lake! Amazing sunsets!

    You can rent a boat for a half day or full day with advanced notice!"

    6. Blue Springs Lake Campground

    44 Reviews
    Blue Springs, MO
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (816) 503-4805

    $33 - $48 / night

    "The sites were well situated such that you felt you had plenty of privacy."

    "The original plan was to be in Blue Springs for an outdoor off-road RC event, camping in our pup with a generator at the track."

    7. Lakeview Campground and RV Park

    1 Review
    Lawson, MO
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (816) 848-4018

    $10 - $40 / night

    8. Crooked River Conservation Area

    1 Review
    Lawson, MO
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (660) 646-6122

    9. Campus RV Park

    14 Reviews
    Independence, MO
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (816) 254-1815

    $37 - $48 / night

    "The RV park is really close to downtown Independence, Missouri and has everything we needed for the night."

    "Trains nearby can be load with their horns but it's close to airport which was necessity for me."

    10. Weston Bend State Park Campground

    34 Reviews
    Weston, MO
    35 miles
    Website
    +1 (816) 640-5443

    $12 - $48 / night

    "The site is long but has a 1/4 moon turn so we had to pull back around to get better positioned on the pad so we could disconnect our 39’ 5th wheel and F450 for our 3-night stay."

    "We enjoy camping there to get away from routine and responsibilities and simply hang out at our camper. The campground is wooded, generally cool, and peaceful."

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Showing results 1-10 of 71 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Lawson, MO

442 Reviews of 71 Lawson Campgrounds



Guide to Lawson

Camping near Lawson, Missouri, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and family-friendly activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun-filled adventure, there are several campgrounds to explore.

What to do

  • Fishing and boating: Many campgrounds, like Crow's Creek Campground, are near Smithville Lake, making it easy to cast a line or take a boat out. One visitor mentioned, "We had a short walk to the lake for fishing, and the loop had a restroom."
  • Hiking: Trails are available at places like Watkins Mill State Park Campground, where you can enjoy the wooded areas. A camper noted, "New asphalt roads throughout the park; nice for walking, biking, etc."
  • Wildlife watching: The natural surroundings provide opportunities to see local wildlife. A reviewer at Wallace State Park Campground shared, "We woke up to a chorus of birds."

What campers like

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. One visitor at Blue Springs Lake Campground said, "The bathrooms were quite clean!"
  • Friendly staff: Many campgrounds have helpful hosts. A camper at Knob Noster State Park Campground mentioned, "The camp hosts were LOVELY, some of the friendliest I’ve met."
  • Spacious sites: Campers enjoy having room to spread out. A review for Watkins Mill State Park Campground noted, "Sites are not right on top of each other."

What you should know

  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Camp Branch Campground, may not have full hookups or showers. A visitor mentioned, "Tent sites are okay sized, and many are close to the water."
  • Road noise: Campgrounds near highways, such as Kansas City East-Oak Grove KOA, can be noisy. One camper said, "Close proximity to the interstate does come with some traffic noise."
  • Strict rules: Some parks have strict policies regarding passes and noise. A camper at Camp Branch Campground noted, "The rules are super strict when it comes to day passes."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose a family-friendly campground: Look for places with playgrounds and activities. A reviewer at Blue Springs Lake Campground mentioned, "We had a full hookup site located right by the playground."
  • Plan for outdoor fun: Bring games and outdoor toys to keep kids entertained. One camper at Watkins Mill State Park Campground suggested, "Be sure to get biscuits & gravy at 'The General Store' just down the road from the park entrance."
  • Pack insect repellent: Bugs can be a nuisance, especially in warmer months. A visitor at Wallace State Park Campground warned, "My only complaint were the ticks."

Tips from RVers

  • Check site amenities: Make sure your chosen campground has the hookups you need. A camper at Crow's Creek Campground said, "We’ve stayed at sites in Loop C improved which have water and 50amp service."
  • Bring leveling blocks: Some sites may not be perfectly level. A reviewer at Weston Bend State Park Campground noted, "You will need leveling blocks on the gravel."
  • Stay connected: Check cell service availability if you need to stay in touch. A camper at Knob Noster State Park Campground mentioned, "Both AT&T and Verizon worked great."

Camping near Lawson, Missouri, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Lawson, MO?

According to TheDyrt.com, Lawson, MO offers a wide range of camping options, with 71 campgrounds and RV parks near Lawson, MO and 1 free dispersed camping spot.

Which is the most popular campground near Lawson, MO?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Lawson, MO is Watkins Mill State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 34 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Lawson, MO?

According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Lawson, MO.