Lebanon, Missouri serves as a base for several established campgrounds including Bennett Spring State Park Campground and Hidden Valley Outfitters. The area supports multiple accommodation types with tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals available at most locations. Bennett Spring State Park features five separate campground loops offering various levels of amenities from basic tent sites to full hookup RV sites. Several private campgrounds like Riverfront Campground and Canoe, and Lebanon-Bennett Spring KOA complement the state park options with additional amenities and year-round availability.
Most campgrounds in the region remain open throughout the year, though seasonal considerations affect services and availability. Bennett Spring State Park maintains limited winter camping with only Campground 1 operating during off-season months, while private establishments like Hidden Valley Outfitters typically operate from March through October. Full hookup sites with electric, water and sewer connections are common in the area, especially at private campgrounds. Water service in some state park loops is seasonally restricted, with one camper noting, "The water is not turned on in Loop 1 until April 15th."
Trout fishing represents the primary draw for many visitors to the Lebanon area campgrounds, with Bennett Spring State Park featuring an on-site hatchery and designated fishing areas. Campgrounds along the Niangua River provide water recreation opportunities beyond fishing. The state park includes over twenty miles of hiking trails ranging from easy streamside paths to more challenging routes through the Ozark Mountains. Amenities vary by location, with most established campgrounds offering showers, restrooms, and picnic tables. Recent renovations have improved facilities at some locations. As one visitor noted, "Bennett Spring is so serious about their fishing they even have a trout cam so you can watch other anglers testing their skills." Campers frequently mention the historical character of CCC-built structures in Bennett Spring State Park, including the stone dining lodge, cabins, and arched bridge.
$15 - $48 / night
"This state park is one worth a stop when near Springfield. I drove north toward this park to enjoy something a bit different and found it to be very peaceful during a weekday. "
"A trout fisher dream, as one of Missouri’s 5 hacherys are here. Fun for this kids to see the amazing amount of fish."
"One of my top 3 campsites to visit in Missouri. Through the warm season visit at least once a month. Good clean facilities, great staff who are friendly, respectful and fun to laugh with."
"We live 45 minutes away from this campground but love spending time here. No shade in the campground because it's still relatively new but has many great aspects and continues to add more."
$250 / night
"It offers direct access to the Niangua River, and it is only a short drive from Bennett Springs State Park, where you can fly fish and pull trout from the river from dawn until dusk. "
$40 - $48 / night
"Right off the highway so yo do have some noise. Friendly staff who will shuttle you to the local craft brewery up the road. We walked to the brewery and stayed here again on our return route."
"Walking trails."
"Close to Bennett Springs!"
$14 - $50 / night
"Lake of the Ozarks State Park campground is located in Kaiser Missouri about 5 miles down highway 134 off of highway 42. This campground is about 1.5 hour from Columbia and Springfield Missouri."
"We stayed close to the river in the primitive area and the deer were all over. These deer were super friendly and didn't move at all as we walked right past them. "
$5 - $100 / night
"Nothing but icadas, crickets and quiet laughter from the camp next to us."
"I was right next to the river, and the sounds of the water made everything tranquil. There is a ton of space for tents and RVs, and the road in is well paved."
$25 - $48 / night
"It’s still very family friendly and even during the COVID outbreak, they remained positive and helpful."
"The cabins don’t look like much from the outside, but inside they are wonderful. Showers were hot and the campground is clean and quiet. Perfect for families."
$7 - $48 / night
"Driving through Missouri needed a quiet place to stay. We stayed at Honey Berry Hideout, it has metal fire ring and grill."
"Brendan and Teresa are an adotable young couple who are transforming a large area in the midst of Missouri farm country into a small black- and blueberry farm that includes a small RV camp."
ScoutMy brother and I stayed here for a guys getaway, it’s a remote area with a restroom and fire pits. Accessible via most vehicles as all roads are rocked. You will not need 4x4 to get out here.
GuideUnfortunately we did not get to stay as our batteries were dead and we had to abort. However, this is an excellent spot and we would happily go back!
LegendIts a free place to chill for up to 2 weeks. Donations only, I have stayed here 2 times, both times it was quiet, clean, empty and well taken care of, there are bathrooms and its on the creek.
ScoutClean spot, electric and water. Not bad. I'm in my car travelling. It's super cold tonight ❄️
RangerWe stayed here several times in our 42’ 5th wheel. Full hookups. Nice pond. Walking trails.
Guideverry clean showers ok your right nexted to the hwy. so alittle loud but other than that verry nice place
GuideQuiet, secluded Missouri Department of Conservation Area with free, designated camping near the road. The Little Niangua River is part of the conservation area with fishing and hunting allowed during appropriate seasons.
GuideA gravel parking lot at a conservation area. The parking lot is large enough for 3-4 vans. Not very level. I had two bars of Verizon signal.
ScoutNice , clean, quiet, campground. Not many amenities
Camping near Lebanon, Missouri centers around multiple river systems with the Niangua River and several spring-fed waterways providing year-round recreation options. The area sits in the northern Ozarks at elevations between 1,100 and 1,300 feet, creating varied terrain suitable for diverse camping styles. Winter temperatures often dip below freezing while summer can bring humid conditions with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F.
Trout fishing beyond Bennett Spring: The area's fishing extends beyond just Bennett Spring. Mountain Creek Campground offers river access with multiple float trip options. "You can rent tubes, canoes, or rafts, and float down the river. You can float as long as 10 miles, or as few as 4," reports one camper.
Hiking trails with scenic views: Several parks offer hiking opportunities with varying difficulty levels. Lake of the Ozarks State Park Campground features numerous trails. One visitor noted, "The park has a lot of hiking and biking trails. We saw about 20 deer each day."
Berry picking opportunities: For a unique camping activity, some sites offer agricultural experiences. At B Berry Farms & Co., campers can pick seasonal berries. "We enjoyed picking black berries right next to our campsite to have with breakfast in the morning," mentioned one visitor.
Natural swimming areas: Many campgrounds feature river access for swimming. One camper at Hidden Valley Outfitters said, "Water is chilly year around so if you like bathwater warmth, not the place for you. For us it's perfect."
Rustic but comfortable facilities: Campers appreciate the balance between natural settings and necessary amenities. A visitor to Froggys River Resort observed, "Shower house was clean and efficient," while mentioning unique features like "a fire pit in the middle of the river which was so cool."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The area supports diverse wildlife. At Lake of the Ozarks State Park Campground, campers frequently mention wildlife sightings: "Huge beautiful park. A lot of hiking and biking trails. We saw about 20 deer each day."
Water availability varies seasonally: Some campgrounds have limited water availability during certain months. At Bennett Spring State Park Campground, one camper noted, "We stayed in campground one because it is the only one open during the off season."
Site privacy varies significantly: Site spacing and privacy differ between campgrounds and areas. A camper at Riverfront Campground and Canoe mentioned, "The sites are fairly large so you're not on top of your neighbor. It has a playground and a large area in the middle of the loop for playing."
Highway noise at some locations: Campgrounds closer to major roads may experience traffic noise. One visitor to Rustic Trails RV Park stated, "The highway noise was loud but earplugs worked," while noting the "sites were large and easy to set up."
Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas: Some campgrounds offer child-friendly recreation spaces. A reviewer at Hidden Valley Outfitters mentioned, "Great campground for family and friends! Close access to the river and Bennett Springs."
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Lebanon, MO?
According to TheDyrt.com, Lebanon, MO offers a wide range of camping options, with 139 campgrounds and RV parks near Lebanon, MO and 3 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Lebanon, MO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Lebanon, MO is Bennett Spring State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 40 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Lebanon, MO?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 free dispersed camping spots near Lebanon, MO.
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