Campgrounds near Lowry City, Missouri offer diverse options from primitive lake sites to full-service facilities. Spring conditions can affect access, with Truman Lake water levels typically 5-15 feet higher during May-June than summer months. The surrounding prairies and oak forests create distinct seasonal camping environments across the area's Corps of Engineers and conservation lands.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At COE Harry S Truman Reservoir Long Shoal Park, campers enjoy direct lake access. "Just got back after 2 days there. Sites are spaced a good distance apart, nice clean lots with fire ring, picnic table and 30 amp. I picked site 69 which overlooks the lake and was less than 30 yards from water edge," shares one visitor.
Beach activities: The warm-season swimming areas provide family recreation between May and September. "There is a very nice beach and a short walking trail. I wish the trail went down to the lake," reports a camper at Bucksaw, highlighting the separate beach and boat launch areas available.
Wildlife observation: Dawn and dusk offer peak viewing times across the region. "The area is surrounded by trees but the area is clean, nice soft grass, there are pecan and walnut trees. There is loads of wildlife to see and aren't much scared of humans, raccoons, beavers, crane, squirrels, deer, owls and much more," notes a visitor at Montrose Conservation Area.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Many locations offer significant distance between sites. At Raccoon Ridge — Harry S Truman State Park, campers appreciate the layout: "Was perfect, there are several campgrounds to choose from. We picked one that overlooked the lake and we could walk to from the campsite. The campground has its own beach and its own boat launch that are only for campground guests."
Quiet atmosphere: Weekday camping provides a more secluded experience at most locations. "Nice camp host. Was quiet. Was less than half full. Clean shower house and vaulted facilities," reports a camper at Sparrowfoot about a summer weekend.
Affordable rates: Several campgrounds offer discounts with national passes. "Paid $10 with interagency senior discount. Stayed in the B Loop. We were one of 5 campers here; camped in a camper van," notes a reviewer at Long Shoal Park, mentioning the good value during September visits.
What you should know
Facilities vary widely: Bathroom quality differs significantly between locations. "Loop B: this is where the shower house and flushable toilets are. Showers were clean and water was hot. Showers had good water pressure," explains a reviewer at Sparrowfoot, adding details about the playground which "is right behind site B47. It's a newer playground and all equipment was nicely maintained."
Weather preparedness: The region experiences frequent storms during camping season. "This park is privately owned. It has a very nice in ground pool along with a storm shelter which gives piece of mind in crazy Missouri weather," notes a camper at Cozy Corner RV Park.
Connectivity limitations: Cell service varies significantly by location and carrier. "Outstanding park! Huge sites, brand new power poles, shaded, and well patrolled for an extra feeling of safety. We had a great weekend! In the A and B loops, very minimal cell service and very little opportunity to stream on the TVs," explains a Sparrowfoot visitor, highlighting the connectivity challenges.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access planning: The campground-specific beaches often offer more privacy than public areas. "The campground has its own beach and its own boat launch that are only for campground guests. There is also a public beach and boat launch in the park that is separate. We had the whole beach to ourselves for awhile, the most we seen was probably 5 or 6 families at the beach at once," shares a visitor at Raccoon Ridge.
Playground options: Some campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. "Loop B also has the playground which is right behind site B47. It's a newer playground and all equipment was nicely maintained. There are no swings. Only complaint is that there are no benches or picnic tables at the playground so bring your camping chair if you plan to stay awhile," advises a Sparrowfoot camper.
Wildlife education: The conservation areas offer opportunities to learn about local species. "One of the locals stopped by my site to look for arrowheads. Apparently, she has found a lot in the area so that's a good activity if the kids are bored," reports a visitor at Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping.
Tips from RVers
Site selection advice: Choose locations based on both amenities and terrain. "Flat level gravel site with plenty of space to spread out with an amazing view of Truman Lake and Long Shoal Marina. Lakeside site with view of the open sky," notes one RVer at Long Shoal Park.
Hookup availability: Water and electric options differ between loops at many campgrounds. "Nice park that has flat/level sites with 50/30 full hookups. Salt water pool, playground, camp store with onsite storage available for campers or boats, this is a great place to be if you want to do some fishing or hunting at Truman Lake," mentions a visitor at Cozy Corner RV Park.
Road conditions: Some access roads present challenges for larger rigs. "Nice campground run by the corp of engineers. Camp sites are far apart with plenty of shade trees. They only have one shower house for about 150 sites, but plenty of restrooms. Nice level area great for bike riding," reports a camper at COE Harry S Truman Reservoir Bucksaw Campground.
