2 campgrounds with availability this weekend
Big Lake State Park Campground permits pets across its lakeside tent sites, RV spaces, and cabins with level gravel campsites that include fire pits and picnic tables. Mozingo Lake County RV Park also welcomes pets throughout its accommodations, offering electric hookups, showers, and trash service. Most campsites in the region maintain standard leash requirements, though specific pet restrictions vary by campground. The family-friendly atmosphere at Big Lake State Park makes it popular for campers with children and pets, with sites that are well-maintained if somewhat close together. Some campgrounds charge pet fees while others like Honey Creek Conservation Area offer free camping with pets allowed.
Hiking trails around Mozingo Lake provide exercise opportunities for dogs, with walking paths near the campgrounds and access to the water for pets that enjoy swimming. Campers report quiet surroundings at Honey Creek Conservation Area, making it suitable for pets that may be disturbed by noise. Big Lake State Park features flat roads good for walking dogs, though limited hiking options exist beyond the campground. During summer months, bugs can be prevalent at lakeside sites, so bringing pet-safe insect repellent is advisable. The area experiences seasonal flooding which can affect campground availability, especially at Big Lake where flooding has been reported. Nearby Maryville offers veterinary services and pet supplies for campers needing resources during their stay.
"Just car tent camped here with my fiancé and dog over the weekend. We had many camp sites to choose from because it’s back to school time in NE (timing, timing, timing)!"
"I saw that their hiking trails were challenging. I got two dogs and love a challenge. The views the scenory made you feel like you got away from civilization."
from $20 - $25 / night
"The Missouri River is right there, you can take trails to get there or drink be. The Indian Cave is along the river. Not my belief it’s a real cave but there is a historical aspect to it."
"The camping spots that are the walk up sites are amazing - you can do sites surrounded by trees and private, or ones near the playground. All great sizes and partially shaded."
from $25 / night
"A Missouri conservation area, a mile off the road. a gravel road gives you access to many multi use trails. see map attached. there were 5 or so nice camping spots with picnic tables and fire rings along"
"It was a little close to the highway so got a little highway noise, but not bad. No trains😊 Only one other camper so plenty of room.
Pit toilet, no water."
"Lake Mozingo is near the College Town of Maryville, Missouri. My experience is limited, but I’d say it’s pretty nice here. And inexpensive."
"Nice sites close to the lake with electricity water and wifi."
"Great view, large spot, dog friendly and owners were great"
from $39 / night
"There is a lake/ river at the edge of the property with fish, plenty of frogs and I even saw a beaver or otter swimming across it. You can fish but it is catch and release."
"Our dog enjoyed the fenced in dog park with is on the property. The campground has ponds. Other campers were friendly and respectful."
"Great location close to the main road with easy access to town. There are about four gravel, graded spots to choose from."
"But 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, there are a few around there also."
"Loved that the tent camping sites were actually surrounded by trees, I see way to many tent campsites that are basically just in the middle of a grass field."
from $15 / night
from $35 / night
"The easy access to the beach there is incredibly helpful and the fishing was great. As a Rockhound, I found so many beautiful and unique minerals and made a lot of jewelry from it."
"There is a bathroom and is close to the river."
LegendWe had zero issues staying for the night. It isn’t an unpack your rig and set up camp type of spot. But for a quiet overnight peaceful sleep it is that!! Couldn’t get down to the water, to overgrown and the shore level in down far and sinking mud.
GuideWater, sewer and electricity worked fine. Very basic store
TravelerGreat campground with lots of activities, roller skating, mini golf fishing pond & streams, splash pad & slide also has sports courts, basketball, tennis, pickle ball & a petting zoo our favorite campground to go to
ScoutWe like traveling highway 36 going and coming from Indiana to Colorado and back. Brandon and Family are great host and will greet you when you arrive. Brandon has been building this campsite for over a year now, and has made it very nice for pull through's. The lots are level and all hook ups are in new condition. Very easy! Have been there twice and will be going back.
TravelerThe owner was very nice but we weren’t aware of the lack of any sort of bathroom. The lack of shower wasn’t a problem but make sure you have an RV with a bathroom. Tent camping is not recommended here. The campsites were clean and spacious. Mosquitos did come out after dark but it’s by water so we didn’t expect there to not be any bugs.
ScoutNice and inexpensive campground with amenities at the town's recreation facility. Water and electricity at each site and dump station near entrance. Use their reservation system to pay.
TravelerWe stopped at this campground for 1 night as we traveled thru. The park was immaculately mowed and the sites were spacious and we'll maintained. It looked like a perfect place to have a picnic as well. Plenty of parking. The lake is narrow and long, so plenty of space to boat. I didn't see a designated swimming areas, so can't say if they're was one or not. I would definitely stay here again.
ScoutIt’s a great campsite, clean bathrooms, great scenery, easy-going camp host and overall I do it again for us
TravelerSmall lake with a paved trail, you camp in large parking space with fhu.
Camping options near Maitland, Missouri stretch across the border into Nebraska, offering access to both prairie landscapes and forested terrain alongside rivers and lakes. The region sits at approximately 900 feet elevation with seasonal temperature swings typical of the Midwest. Local camping areas frequently experience heavy spring rains that can cause access issues, while summer temperatures commonly reach 90°F with high humidity.
Explore historical sites: At Indian Cave State Park, campers can discover ancient petroglyphs and historical remnants. "There are a number of first come sites along with reserved sites. The showers are clean and there are camp hosts to help out," notes Chris C. The park features "a trail that's really steep but the view from the top of the river and the valley is worth it," according to G&R D.
Fishing opportunities: Big Lake State Park Campground offers fishing access directly from lakeside sites. "Nice lake, campground was good, there are basic sites up against the lake and the rest are electric. Basic sites are large and some of the electric are also," explains Jason C. The park provides boat ramps for those bringing watercraft.
Kayaking and paddling: Several lakes provide water recreation options. At Big Lake State Park, "kayak rental is available but if fishing isn't your thing this might not be the park for you," advises Carissa H. The shallow lakes in the region are suitable for beginners, with Mozingo Lake offering rentals during summer months.
Spacious lakeside sites: Turtle Cove Campground provides "great view of water and wildlife," according to Kristina K. The campground features "30/50/20 amp power at every spot including water and sewer," making it convenient for extended stays.
Quiet surroundings: Many campers appreciate the peaceful settings. At Honey Creek Conservation Area, visitors note its secluded nature. "A good spot if you are not interested in a busy campground. This is a beautiful wooded conservation area," writes Sayler O. Another camper mentions it was "a little close to the highway so got a little highway noise, but not bad. No trains."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain varying levels of amenities. "The shower house was very clean. The tent area was nice with lots of room between them," notes Shannon G. about AOK Campground. At Indian Cave State Park, "the grounds are kept very clean. The only downfall is finding water hydrants," according to Rylan B.
Seasonal flooding impacts: Several campgrounds experience regular flooding. "So, decent state park (when it's not flooded), on a small (not that big) oxbow lake, which about 3/4 of is privately owned… so there are boats," explains Grant M. about Big Lake State Park.
Limited hiking at some sites: While Indian Cave offers extensive trails, other campgrounds have fewer options. "Not much hiking options around this park but the camp host was very friendly," says Chad K. about Big Lake State Park. Most locations offer flat walking paths rather than challenging hikes.
Insects during summer months: AOK Campground and lakeside sites require preparation for bugs. "Bring your bug spray in the summer," advises Sam C. Sites near water typically experience higher mosquito activity from June through September.
Camping availability: H.F. Thurnau Conservation Area offers free dispersed camping with "about four gravel, graded spots to choose from," according to Nicholas. These sites lack amenities but provide "great location close to the main road with easy access to town."
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas for children. At AOK Campground, "there was a pool, a playground, a sand volleyball area, and a basketball area," reports Shannon G. These facilities provide recreation options during hot summer days.
Kid-friendly activities: Mozingo Lake County Tent Campground offers diverse recreation options. "There are walking paths and a couple of playgrounds around the lake close enough to walk to but far enough away they won't ever be a bother. Also if you like disc golf then this is the place to go, there is a brand new 18 hole course right next to the camp!" explains Sayler O.
Special seasonal events: Indian Cave State Park hosts family activities throughout the year. "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," shares Shannon G.
Level sites available: Most dog friendly campgrounds near Maitland feature level camping pads. "Sites are pretty level," notes Jolie C. At Turtle Cove, "pull thru lots, very level, convenient hook-ups" are available according to Angela M.
Multiple pet-friendly options: The region offers numerous accommodations for pets. AOK Campground provides "so much lush green grass to explore and walk was a plus for us," according to Brenda L. Many campgrounds in the area welcome pets with minimal restrictions.
Dump station considerations: Plan for departure timing at busier parks. "Only downside, with 134 RV sites there is only one dump station, just don't get in a hurry leaving if you have to dump your RV," advises Steve W. about Indian Cave State Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Maitland, MO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Maitland, MO is Hackberry Hollow Campground — Indian Cave State Park with a 4.6-star rating from 25 reviews.
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Maitland, MO?
TheDyrt.com has all 54 dog-friendly camping locations near Maitland, MO, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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