Missouri's Ozark region offers extensive glamping near Long Lane, positioned in the north-central portion at approximately 1,350 feet elevation. Seasonal temperature variations are notable, with summer highs averaging 85°F and winter lows often below freezing. Most campgrounds experience higher occupancy during trout season opening (March 1) through Labor Day when water recreation becomes the primary attraction.
What to do
Trout fishing competitions: Bennett Spring State Park Campground hosts regular angler events from March through October. The daily whistle signals fishing hours, with zone restrictions based on fishing method. "This is one of Missouri's 'trout parks' with a hatchery and release sites so fishing (which actually becomes catching) is a big draw. Bennett Spring is so serious about their fishing they even have a trout cam so you can watch other anglers testing their skills," notes a visitor.
Hiking trail systems: Pomme de Terre State Park offers trail networks connecting the Pittsburgh and Hermitage areas, ranging from shoreline paths to wooded routes. "Lots of hiking activities here on the lake. Only one real hiking trail on Pittsburgh loop but it was filled with bluff views and lots of wildlife as well as a public beach," shares a camper.
Swimming options: Bennett Spring State Park Campground maintains an Olympic-size swimming pool open Memorial Day to Labor Day. "The park has a pool open from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Wonderful hiking trails, a restaurant, and the above mentioned pool keep everyone entertained," a visitor mentions.
Private water access: Pittsburg Area Campground offers shoreline spots with personal water access paths. "Each site in the electric loop has a private path to the waters edge. Sites viewable by map next to water," explains a reviewer.
What campers like
Multi-loop campground layouts: Bennett Spring features five distinct camping loops with varying privacy levels and amenities. "The park has 143 campsites comprised of five loops so there are a wide variety of camping options, from basic to sewer/electric/water sites with some being reserveable to first come, first serve," explains a visitor.
Fall season camping: Many campers prefer September-October visits when crowds thin but amenities remain operational. "We went in early April, the park's campgrounds were pretty empty and quiet and while we really liked that we also liked that there was a lot to do," notes one reviewer.
Historical structures: Hermitage State Park Campground preserves several Civilian Conservation Corps structures from the 1930s. "Great place for camping with the family and dogs! Everyone is very pleasant and I felt comfortable letting the kids ride their bikes around, a great presence from the park rangers!" a camper shares.
Off-season pricing: Winter season rates drop significantly, with Hermitage State Park offering $8 senior rates on standard non-electric sites. "We picked a standard non electric site as it was level and not crowded. $8 for seniors so not bad. Lots of fishing activities here on the lake," notes a visitor.
What you should know
Winter operations: Lebanon - Bennett Spring KOA remains open year-round, but Bennett Spring State Park restricts camping to Campground One only during winter months. "We stayed in campground one because it is the only one open during the off season. You can make reservations online before going to ensure you have the spot you want," explains a visitor.
Bathroom facilities: Campground facilities vary widely, with some offering limited access during off-season. "One negative is we only found one toilet for the entire campground. It wasn't a problem at this time because there was hardly anybody there, but I imagine if you wanted to use the toilet during the regular season you would find yourself with a line or going somewhere else."
Train noise considerations: Several campgrounds, particularly the Springfield Route 66 KOA, experience regular train traffic. "If it wasn't for the trains coming by blowing their horns, this would easily be a favorite spot," mentions one visitor.
Site spacing variations: Expect significant differences in site spacing between campgrounds. "The sites on the lake are awesome and large," notes a Pittsburg Area Campground visitor, while another camper at a different location noted, "sites were extremely close together."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly biking paths: Military Park Fort Leonard Wood offers paved campground roads suitable for children's bikes. "Great Park! Friendly Staff! They have an awesome Halloween Spooktacular!" notes one military family.
Tent location selection: Choose tent sites with caution, especially at Pittsburg Area Campground where rocky terrain can damage equipment. "Lots of rocks in the tent areas. Lot of vegetation around making some bugs prominent," warns one visitor.
Glamping with children: For luxury glamping in Long Lane, Missouri with children, several options include family-friendly cabin options. "Great place to take the family. The roads are all paved so it made biking for our kids easy and enjoyable. The campsite was spacious and shaded. The kids loved playing in the creek and hiking the trails," shares a camper.
Water safety: During high water periods, floating services may be suspended. "The Niangua River is right there, but up too high while we were there," notes a Gasconade Hills Resort visitor.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup considerations: Springfield - Route 66 KOA offers premium patio sites with cement pads, tables, and fire pits. "It was a KOA Patio site (a cement patio area with a table, chairs, and fire pit) that had city water, sewer, and electric. The lot was well cared for and my spot was incredibly flat/level. It's always a nice feeling to pull in and set up with minimal effort," a traveler reports.
Road conditions: RV Express 66 provides easy interstate access with concrete pads ideal for larger rigs. "Easy access, next to hwy and lots of eating establishments close by. Full water, electric and sewer connections. Level concrete pads," notes an overnight camper.
Satellite reception: Some wooded campgrounds require positioning adjustments to maintain satellite signal. "The only downside was that we had to pull ahead in our site to get satellite signal. So we had to back up to dump."
