Camping options in the Lone Jack, Missouri area include both primitive and developed sites situated in the rolling Ozark foothills at elevations ranging from 800-1,000 feet. The region experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and mild winters, making spring and fall ideal camping seasons. Most campgrounds within a 50-mile radius of Lone Jack require advanced booking during summer weekends when capacity often reaches 80-90%.
What to do
Fishing access: Lake Jacomo at Fleming Park offers good fishing opportunities just west of Lone Jack. "The campground is huge, with several loops and tons of sites. It was easy to get to, beautiful overlooking the lake, and was clean," notes Jeramie, though they mention "hiking trails were overgrown and no longer accessible."
Mountain biking: Smithville Lake trails provide multiple loop options ranging from beginner to intermediate difficulty. "The bike trail is about 3 steps away from our site," writes Savannah T. about Camp Branch Campground, adding that "the view is fantastic!!!"
Kayaking and canoeing: Lake LaCygne spans 2,600 acres and restricts motorized activities. "No swimming or skiing allowed, only fishing boats," explains Bran P. about Linn County Park, noting its location on a "cooling reservoir for KCPL coal-fired power plant."
Primitive camping: Conservation areas provide basic facilities for those seeking more remote horse camping near Lone Jack. "Large grass area available for tents or campers. No specific camp locations. No fire rings or picnic tables. Pit toilets are as expected," reports Mark D. about his stay at Montrose.
What campers like
Private bathroom facilities: Knob Noster State Park Campground offers uncommon bathroom privacy. "Bath houses (there are at least 2) have 4 unisex shower pods that are clean and have good pressure. There are no sinks or mirrors, just shower and bench," according to Maggie C., who gave the park 4 stars.
Lakefront camping sites: Many campers appreciate water access directly from their sites. "It is a great place to bike and fish. It also has excellent public hunting areas," writes Jason W. about Hillsdale State Park, noting "Full-hookup sites don't have any tree coverage, but the electric/water sites near the lake are very cozy."
Full hook-up options: For RVers seeking all utilities, Smith's Fork stands out. "Of everywhere Smith's Fork is the only one (so far) that offers Electric (30 & 50 amp), Water (2) and Sewer at every campsite. At just $30 per day it is a steal!" writes Don M.
Wildlife observation opportunities: Several campgrounds offer excellent wildlife viewing. "We had deer walk right through the campground when we were there," shares Ryan R. about Linn County Park, though he warns cell service is limited, which means "the kids probably will be very bored lol."
What you should know
Limited equestrian-specific facilities: While several campgrounds allow horses, dedicated equestrian campgrounds near Lone Jack, Missouri are scarce. Montrose Missouri Conservation Area allows primitive camping with horses. "The 'sites' were spacious and well spread out, and there is lots of shade. You could definitely get a big rig in and out of here on the looped gravel roads," notes camper Sav.
Reservation recommendations: Many campgrounds fill quickly in peak season. "It is getting to be more common to plan ahead and submit a reservation in state parks as more and more young people are catching on to the camping experience," warns John J. about Knob Noster, where they "didn't reserve a spot and had to take one of the last 5 'non-electric back in sites."
Seasonal facility changes: Services may vary by season. "After going around for almost 1.5 hrs from Smithville due to all the road closures, we finally got to the lake but all the campsites were out of commission," reports James about Smith's Fork during the off-season.
Toilet facility quality varies widely: Bathroom facilities range from excellent to basic. "The sign says NO FISHING after Oct.14 because of duck season. Open for camping. Mowed, TP stocked," notes T.N. about Montrose, while others mention that at some campgrounds, "pit toilets were absolutely disgusting."
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with playgrounds: Some sites offer play areas within walking distance of campsites. "The roads and trails are nice for scooters and bikes. Fairly close to the water and playground; within walking distance," reports Brittnie T. about Crow's Creek Campground.
Consider noise levels: Family-friendly campgrounds tend to be quieter. "We have started staying here last couple of years. Nice big spots with electric only. It is quite a ways to shower house but much quieter than other campgrounds on Smithville lake. More family friendly," shares Robin R. about Camp Branch.
Look for educational opportunities: Several parks offer interpretive programs. "Nature programs were fun and informative, and the campground was relatively quiet," notes Jim S. about Knob Noster State Park, where they "stopped late without reserving when our original plan fell through."
Pack activities for kids: Limited cell service means children need alternative entertainment. "If you have kids that go camping with you chances are your cell phones will not work so the kids probably will be very bored," warns Ryan R. about Linn County Park.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness varies significantly: Bring leveling equipment as many sites require adjustment. "The only downside is that my site (13) was adjacent to a fenced off sewer lagoon which did emit slight odor. If I came again I would choose another site," advises Maggie C. about Knob Noster.
Reserve full hookup sites early: Sites with full hookups book quickly at most campgrounds. "This is full hook up. They have both 30 and 50 amp. Close to 169 hwy. Perfect for families with young children," writes Robin R. about Smith's Fork Recreation Area.
Watch for seasonal road closures: Access to some campgrounds can change seasonally. "One downside is that some sites are right on the road, so kids can dart out at any time...just be careful!" warns Steve C. about Lake Jacomo at Fleming Park.
Check for dump station availability: Not all sites offer sewer hookups. "Nice dump station located in the back of the park along with a few rustic cabins," notes Bran P. about Linn County Park, which offers some full hookup sites though "I imagine they are all taken by the residents."
