Camping options near Maitland, Missouri include equestrian facilities, primitive sites, and developed campgrounds within a 60-mile radius. The area sits at the western edge of the Dissected Till Plains, characterized by rolling hills and hardwood forests. Fall temperatures average 45-65°F, making September through November an ideal camping season with fewer insects and moderate humidity levels.
What to do
Trail riding with variety: Access 10 miles of marked bridle paths at Lake of Three Fires State Park Campground where equestrian sites include holding stalls and tie-outs. "There are miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The trails are nicely marked with 'you are here' maps so you don't get lost," notes Caralee D.
Fishing opportunities: Cast for multiple species at multiple access points within the region's lakes. "The lake is only 85 acres but has excellent fishing and is surrounded by 691 acres of beautiful trees with hiking and equestrian trails, fishing jetties and a sandy beach," explains Kimberly W. about Lake of Three Fires.
Wildlife observation: Spot local fauna at Honey Creek Conservation Area where free primitive camping provides access to wooded habitat. "It's a beautiful wooded conservation area. Some of the sites to the front of the property are pretty standard and more open with some metal fire pits and tables," reports Sayler O.
What campers like
Secluded camping experiences: Waubonsie State Park Campground offers tent sites away from crowds. "We camped in the area without hookups, so we pretty much had that area to ourselves. The area with hookups was somewhat crowded," shares Danni A.
Clean facilities: Many regional horse campgrounds near Maitland maintain well-kept amenities. "The bathrooms and showers were well kept. Was lucky and got a campsite under some shade," writes Kayla F. about Lake of Three Fires, adding that "the bathhouses are centrally located in the campground and offer clean bathroom and shower facilities for campers."
Seasonal events: Halloween celebrations attract equestrian campers to regional parks. "Everyone should experience Halloween here. 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," explains Shannon G.
What you should know
Water access limitations: Some campgrounds have restricted water sources. "One problem I did find was that GPS directions wanted us to take access roads through the conservation area to get to the spot but some of them were closed," explains Sayler O. about Honey Creek Conservation Area.
Site spacing considerations: At Hackberry Hollow Campground, sites vary in proximity. "We stayed in hollows creek. The rv sites are nice, clean and have a nice fire pit. They are a little close to each other, but I like how the bluff helped split them up a little," notes Meaghan S.
Firewood regulations: Availability differs between parks. "Firewood is not sold on the campground, so you can burn what's on the ground or head to Hyvee for some wood in town," advises Kayla F., adding that "there are no signs showing what numbers were in that area or to the beach area, bathrooms, or garbage so you just have to explore to find it."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Mozingo Lake County RV Park offers children's play areas near camping. "This is a great kid friendly place. We always have a blast when we go. Kids absolutely love it, easy access to the water, quiet, and very nice!!" shares Laci P.
Beach activities: Dedicated swimming areas provide controlled environments for children. "The beach area is perfect place to relax with a good book or play some games with friends. The best part is to get there from the campgrounds you take a beautiful short scenic walk," writes Kimberly W.
Wildlife awareness: Prepare for animal encounters at regional campgrounds. "There are signs in the bathrooms warning of the raccoons. These signs are not exaggerating. We had a raccoon at our campsite trying to steal our food while we were there, like the raccoon was less than 10 feet from humans during mid-day," warns Danni A.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Nodaway Valley County Park, choosing location affects convenience. "The camp sites are nice and large- easy to get into and each one had its own water and electric. There are 11 on what we call the upper circle and 4 on the lower circle. The bath house is located at the far end so if you are on the lower circle or at the end it can be a walk," advises Kimberly W.
Dump station access: Plan for waste disposal when departing. "There is a dump station centrally located that you can easily pull up to on your way out," notes Kimberly W., which helps RVers manage their final day efficiently.
Electric hookup options: Different amperage choices exist at multiple campgrounds. "There are 24 standard electric sites and 63 non-electric sites, plus 3 buddy sites. In addition, there are 23 equestrian sites (some electrical) and 1 equestrian buddy site," explains Kimberly W. about camping options for those requiring power.
