Long Branch State Park offers camping with concrete pads and waterfront sites, located 2 miles west of Macon, Missouri. The 24,000-acre lake provides recreation for campers throughout the northeast Missouri region. Camping options range from primitive conservation areas like Atlanta Conservation Area to full-service RV parks with established amenities depending on seasonal conditions.
What to do
Swimming and beach access: Long Branch State Park maintains a swimming beach near the marina for public use. According to one visitor, "The beach was very clean, the campsite was well shaded and bathrooms conveniently located throughout. Absolutely beautiful! Lots of ticks though so check yourself often!"
Hiking on diverse terrain: The Bee Trace Trail at Backpack Campsites - Long Branch State Park offers both day hiking and overnight options. "This was my first time out on Bee Trace Trail and I had a great time. Both the hike into the campsite and out the next morning were pretty easy," notes one backpacker who found it ideal for beginners.
Fishing opportunities: Mussel Fork Conservation Area provides creek-side fishing opportunities with basic facilities. "Each site at this CA features a small gravel lot with a fire ring. The areas that have grass were mowed (June 2022)," reports a visitor who found the area accessible for overnight camping.
What campers like
Lakefront camping: The walk-in sites at Long Branch State Park offer direct lake access that many campers prefer. As one camper explains, "I reserved a walk in site and it was totally worth it. It's a very short walk into the site, it's even visible from the parking lot. The site is right on the water with beach access."
Free camping options: Thomas Hill Reservoir Conservation Area provides no-cost sites with basic amenities. A regular visitor notes, "This is my favorite free camp ground. No showers or electric sites, however, the grounds are well kept, its quiet and has an awsome lake. Picknick table and fire ring at each site on lower loop."
Marina facilities: The marina at Long Branch State Park offers additional services beyond just boat access. "Marina store has icecream and other small items if you need something. We were there on what staff said was a busy weekend and to us the lake was empty there was so few boats and the beach not even half full," shares one satisfied guest.
What you should know
Seasonal water access: Water connections at Long Branch State Park have limitations depending on when you visit. One camper points out: "The only negative was no water at the campsites, but for what you get for the price, including a nice lake to enjoy, you can't beat this sweet spot!"
Level sites: Site conditions vary with location and terrain. "Great lake. Wonderful swim beach with sand. Campsites are at slants so be prepared to level. Nice hiking trail. Clean shower house," advises one camper about site preparation.
Security concerns: Be vigilant with belongings at some conservation areas. A camper at Mussel Fork Conservation Area had "a great stealth camping experience here. Road was gravelled all the way down and opened up to a big gravel lot," while another visitor at Thomas Hill reported: "Free camping but i left my rv there for two nights and it was broken into and ransacked. they stole numerous items."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly beaches: Long Branch State Park's beach area is designed with families in mind. "They have a great lake, and quite campground. The lake has a nice beach next to the marina," notes a visitor who found the beach uncrowded even during peak periods.
Campground amenities: Shoemaker RV Park offers facilities that can make family camping more comfortable. "Love this place. They have a great staff, full store for almost anything you do, and don't, need for your RV. 30/50 amp service throughout," reports a camper who appreciated the convenience.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Conservation areas provide nature observation chances for children. At Thomas Hill Reservoir, a visitor described it as "nice NorthEast MO boondocking by the lake" with "Area had car camping sites with covered shelters and picnic tables right by the water and some more primitive sites further from the water."
Tips from RVers
Concrete pads: Long Branch State Park accommodates larger rigs with solid foundations. "Found this little gem as we were traveling through to get back home to Ohio and needed a place to camp. Great campsites with concrete pads, friendly staff and a decent shower house for a state park," notes a passing RVer.
Future improvements: Plan ahead for upcoming upgrades. "Passing through the area, and just needed a place for the night, so we came here. There is a beautiful lake, very spacious campsites. We just have a 30 amp Svc no water or sewer available yet. Apparently they will upgrade the campground next year (2026), and improve campground and resurface the area."
Campsite selection: Atlanta Conservation Area offers different site types for various rigs. A visitor noted pros and cons: "Easy to get to, road well maintained, grass was mowed (6/3/2022), grassy area for dogs to play" but warned about "very little shade, lots of bugs and ticks, near gun range, noisy, lots of farmers coming/going on same roads (noise, smells etc.)"
