Camping near Maitland, Missouri encompasses options from secluded riverside conservation areas to developed lakeside recreation zones. The region sits at approximately 900 feet elevation with clay-dominant soils that can become problematic after heavy rainfall. Temperatures range from winter lows averaging 15°F to summer highs regularly exceeding 90°F with high humidity, making spring and fall the preferred camping seasons.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Big Lake State Park Campground offers multiple fishing options from shoreline locations to boat access points. One visitor noted, "Most campers were enjoying fishing in the small lake. Kayaks were available to rent for a small fee."
Disc golf courses: Mozingo Lake County Tent Campground provides recently developed recreation facilities. According to a camper, "There is a brand new 18 hole course right next to the camp!"
Wildlife observation: Hackberry Hollow Campground at Indian Cave State Park contains diverse ecosystems for nature watching. A visitor mentioned, "There are about 20 miles to hike in this park and there is a special camping area for folks who bring horses. I was here in the spring but was told fall is the best time because of the changes in the trees."
Historical exploration: Ash Grove Campground features remnants of early settlements. "Indian Cave State Park is full of history! Every path or trail you go down, you will find some sort of blast from the past. The trails are wonderful and the old school house, old well, cave and other buildings are so fun to go explore!"
What campers like
Shoreline camping access: Big Lake State Park Campground receives positive feedback for its lakefront sites. According to one camper, "There are basic sites up against the lake and the rest are electric. Basic sites are large and some of the electric are also. The majority are pull through sites."
Private tent sites: Mozingo Lake County Tent Campground provides tree-covered camping areas. A visitor shared, "Loved that the tent camping sites were actually surrounded by trees, I see way too many tent campsites that are basically just in the middle of a grass field."
Clean facilities: AOK Campground maintains high standards for amenities. As one camper reported, "Very, very clean bathrooms and laundry. Hosts present and helpful. Would stay again without hesitation."
Accessible hiking: Ash Grove Campground offers trails suitable for various skill levels. A review noted, "We loved the hiking trails through the trees and difficult terrain. This camping trip will be another one to complete...maybe in September or October next time."
What you should know
Seasonal flooding concerns: Water levels can impact camping options significantly throughout the area. A visitor to Hackberry Hollow Campground observed, "Due to all the flooding unfortunately had a couple large patches of garbage. Still a fun place to camp out and hike around a bit."
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies substantially between locations. At Honey Creek Conservation Area, "Verizon signal fluctuates, but averages two bars."
Site availability patterns: Many locations experience reduced crowds during certain times. A Mozingo Lake camper noted, "We stayed on a Friday night in October and the campground was not too busy at all.. maybe only 5 other groups there."
Diverse camping layouts: H.F. Thurnau Conservation Area provides multiple camping zones. According to a visitor, "There are actually two locations to camp there are multiple camp spots near the entrance, and also more if you drive down to the boat ramp."
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: AOK Campground offers multiple recreation areas. A visitor shared, "There was a pool, a playground, a sand volleyball area, and a basketball area."
Halloween festivities: Indian Cave State Park hosts special seasonal events. One family mentioned, "We even won the decorating contest last year-The prize is free camping, can't beat that. People come from all over to partake in this fun time. There is the decorating of the camp sites, pumpkin rolling, haunted hay rack rides, trick or treating for the young and old."
Kid-friendly environment: Big Lake State Park maintains a welcoming atmosphere. A reviewer noted, "Somewhat small but quaint.....very family friendly there are not a lot of 'party people' that frequent here. It is a well kept park and we love it!"
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Big Lakes Turtle Cove Campground provides well-graded camping spots. A visitor mentioned, "Pull thru lots, very level, convenient hook-ups."
Limited dump stations: Indian Cave State Park has constraints on waste disposal. One RVer warned, "With 134 RV sites there is only one dump station, just dont get in a hurry leaving if you have to dump your RV."
Site configuration: AOK Campground has a thoughtful layout design. According to a visitor, "Appreciate the back to back campsites so your neighbors sewer isn't in your area."
