Camping opportunities near Lexington, Missouri extend beyond the Missouri River valley into surrounding prairie lands at elevations ranging from 700 to 850 feet. The region forms part of the transition zone between the Ozarks and Great Plains, with limestone outcroppings visible along some hiking routes. Winter camping remains available at several year-round facilities, though overnight temperatures from December through February can drop into the 20s.
What to do
Fishing at small lakes: Knob Noster State Park Campground features multiple fishing spots with Lake Buteo and Clearfork Lake offering different experiences. "Clearfork Lake was great for fishing for us!" notes camper Kelsie L., who visited the park's trail system that circles Lake Buteo.
Bicycle on paved trails: Fleming Park at Lake Jacomo provides family-friendly cycling terrain near camping areas. "The bathrooms are the nicest campground bathrooms I've ever used - large, clean, and not communal, so you get a sink, toilet, and shower all to yourself. This campground is in close proximity to the lake, trails, and many other outdoorsy diversions!" writes Fawn W.
Historic site exploration: Watkins Mill State Park Campground offers nearby historical attractions along with outdoor recreation. The park features "historic sites not far on the side of the lake, quick little drive," according to Jason C., making it ideal for educational day trips between camping activities.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Blue Springs Lake Campground receives consistent praise for its well-maintained grounds. "The sites were well kept up, with many prime locations near the playground for our kids. Campground staff were beyond friendly and accommodating," notes Chris W., highlighting the customer service aspect of this Jackson County facility.
Quiet environment: Many campers value the peaceful settings available at campsites around Lexington. At Green Acres at Red Brick Farmhouse, visitor Connor W. appreciated that "The spots have plenty of space and the surrounding fields are really beautiful as the sun starts to go down. It's a great spot for an overnight stop."
Affordability: Budget-conscious campers appreciate the region's reasonable pricing. Mayview RV Park offers exceptional value with full hookups for $20 per night. One camper noted it's "clean cut and straight forward park. Functions like a campsite with a registration box. Can't beat $20 a night for full hookup."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Several parks have limited operating seasons or reduced amenities in winter. Blue Springs Lake Campground operates from mid-May through early September, requiring advance planning for summer visits.
Road noise considerations: Some campgrounds have sites affected by highway proximity. At Owl Creek Market and RV Park, visitor Larry M. noted it's "not the prettiest spot but we got a spot under the trees. Laundry and bathrooms were clean. The road in camp was rough so drive slow."
Wildlife interactions: Raccoons are active in several area campgrounds. One Knob Noster visitor reported, "We did have a problem with Raccoons, but with our site being on the very edge of the sites I think that may be inevitable."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Select sites near play areas for convenient supervision. Chris W. at Blue Springs Lake Campground recommends securing "prime locations near the playground for our kids" when making reservations.
Swimming options: Lake Paradise Resort offers a zero-entry pool ideal for younger children. "The pool is renovated and very nice. It is very large, zero entry, up to mostly around 5 ft deep with a small area that was 9ft; there is a children's area with a sprinkler," writes Julie B., noting the pool access is partially included in camping fees.
Tire swing fun: Simple features can provide hours of entertainment. At Green Acres at Red Brick Farmhouse, Heather M. found "We came in with our small trailer, two kids and a dog. There was plenty of space for all of us and even a wonderful tire swing for the kids."
Tips from RVers
Big rig accessibility: Many parks accommodate larger vehicles with varying degrees of maneuvering space. At Kansas City East-Oak Grove KOA, Roy T. found "Easy access to Interstate and pull through sites were long enough for our truck and 32' trailer without having to unhitch."
Electric hookup variety: Check whether sites offer 30- or 50-amp service based on your RV needs. Several campgrounds provide both options, but availability varies. At Owl Creek Market and RV Park, Bridget U. noted they have "quite a few rules and sites are very close together but all in all good place to stay while passing through. Have laundry facilities, a dog run, bathrooms and access to dumpster."
Leveling requirements: Be prepared for uneven terrain at some facilities. At Blue Springs Lake Campground, Angie N. observed, "We were looking for something close to home to try out our new-to-us pop up. Our spot- 24 - was perfect. Nice afternoon shade. Very level."
