Lewistown sits in northeastern Missouri with access to both state park and conservation area camping options. Nestled between the Mississippi River floodplain to the east and rolling farmland to the west, campgrounds in this area typically range from 600-700 feet in elevation. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 85°F with high humidity from June through September.
What to do
Fishing from shoreline steps: At Wakonda Lake Campground, concrete steps lead directly from campsites to the water. "Our pad was close to the lake so a two minute walk and we're fishing!" notes Kaye R. The campground provides easy access to six small lakes where only small motors (under 9hp) are permitted.
Explore lock and dam: Canton City River Park offers a unique opportunity to watch river traffic. "Just up the road a short walk is the lock and dam that you can visit with interpretive signs and nice benches to sit on while you watch the barges go through the locks," writes Annie C. The Mississippi River provides a dramatic backdrop for camping with continuous barge traffic.
Free canoe and rowboat usage: Hunnewell Lake Conservation Area provides complimentary watercraft. "They had rowboats and canoes you could paddle around in. You just needed your own life jacket. The boats were free," explains Patti M. The conservation area also features a fish hatchery worth exploring during operating hours.
What campers like
Well-maintained trails: Boulder Lake Campground offers multiple hiking options. "Great trails too, ranging from half a mile to 3 miles. Nice lakes, kayaking rentals available, and a swimming beach too," shares Mary N., who describes herself as a "constant returner" to the park. The trails connect multiple lakes throughout the property.
Spacious concrete pads: Campers appreciate the solid foundations at Wakonda State Park's campgrounds. "The concrete slab was large enough for our camper and rug along with the picnic table! A lot of room!" reports Kaye R. Most sites include a built-in grill on the fire pit along with a separate BBQ unit.
Free primitive camping: Henry Sever Lake Conservation Area offers no-cost camping options. "Henry Sever is a well kept area! The lake is beautiful, the camp sites are well taken care of, and the trails are mowed down and good. A nice quiet place to relax," notes Mary N. The conservation area provides tables and fire pits with vault toilets.
What you should know
Seasonal flooding impacts: Canton City River Park occasionally closes due to high water. Annie C. reports, "I tried to camp here, but it was closed temporarily due to high water on the Mississippi River. In fact, part of the campground road was under water." Check with local authorities before planning river camping during spring.
Traffic patterns at river parks: Some river campgrounds experience unexpected traffic. Andrew S. observed at Canton City River Park: "For a dead end loop campground there is a bunch of traffic. I think about everyone that lives in this tiny town must make a lap around the campground on their way home. About every 7-10 mins a vehicle drives by."
Fee increases: Campground rates have increased at some locations. "The price has jumped from 20 dollars a night to 30. We did not know this until we arrived," reports Andrew S. about Canton City River Park. Always confirm current rates when making reservations.
Tips for camping with families
Walk-in tent sites for privacy: At Boulder Lake, walk-in sites offer more seclusion. "After night 1 we were the only people in the walk-in sites, so that was nice. They back up to a lake and site 3 has perfect access," shares Kate P. The campground provides wagons to help transport gear from parking to walk-in sites.
Best tent sites for hammocks: Site selection matters for tent campers. "The tent part is a loop with sites in the middle (37-50) having the best trees for hammocks and the sites on the outside of the loop having the most level places for pitching a tent," advises Annie C. regarding Indian Creek Campground. Site 44 is particularly recommended as "the best site in the campground."
Prepare for insects: Bug protection is essential during summer months. "I had a great time here... Only issue I had was the amount of bugs that were everywhere. When I stepped out it felt like I was walking through a thousand spider webs everywhere," reports Declan W.M. about Indian Creek. Tick prevention is particularly important throughout the region.
Tips from RVers
Local service access: RVers should note the distance to supplies and services. Amie M. provides a helpful breakdown from Indian Creek: "25 min from Walgreens, 45 min from Walmart, 40 min from laundromat, 2 hours from Target and CVS." Stock up before arrival at more remote dog friendly campgrounds near Lewistown.
Quiet season advantages: Off-peak camping offers more solitude. "It amazes me that there are only a few campsites full in the middle of summer," notes Paul M. about Indian Creek. For a more peaceful experience at pet-friendly camping options near Lewistown, consider weekday stays even during peak season.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Driftwood Campground provides access to conservation areas. "Clean bathrooms, friendly staff, nice park across street for walking dog," shares Roger M. The campground's location next to a conservation site makes it ideal for wildlife observation with pets.
