RV campgrounds near Mansfield, Missouri are situated in the eastern Ozark Highlands at approximately 1,490 feet elevation. This area experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers averaging 85-90°F and cold winters with temperatures frequently dropping below freezing. Most campgrounds remain open year-round, though winter camping requires additional preparation for possible snow and ice.
What to Do
Explore Historic Sites: Laura Ingalls Wilder RV Park provides convenient access to the author's historic home and museum, located directly across the street. "The campground is directly across the street from Laura Ingalls Wilder's home," notes Timothy F., making it an ideal base for literary history enthusiasts.
Fishing Access: Edgewater Beach Resort offers prime fishing on Lake Taneycomo, approximately 66 miles from Mansfield. "The fish cleaning station is very nice. We love the view of the lake. We stay here two or three times a year," shares Regina M., highlighting the resort's amenities for anglers.
Day Trips to Springfield: Campgrounds like Timbercrest Park in Springfield serve as affordable bases for exploring regional attractions. "Affordable and right on edge of town," explains kimella W., noting its convenient urban-adjacent location approximately 50 miles from Mansfield.
What Campers Like
Spacious Lakefront Sites: Bull Creek RV Park provides creek access and well-sized camping areas. "Nice size sites. A lot of activities are available free to campers... Fenced in dog area for fur babies to release energy," according to Felicia R., describing amenities not found at all regional campgrounds.
Clean Facilities: The attention to cleanliness at RV parks stands out in traveler reviews. "The bath house was excellent - very nice showers and bathrooms, very clean, very private," comments Laur H. about Laura Ingalls Wilder RV Park, emphasizing their well-maintained facilities.
Family Management: Family-operated campgrounds receive particular praise. "Wonderful 'Ma & Pa' hosts! Very sweet people. This camp is on a hillside that is terraced at each site," explains Sheri K. about her stay at Laura Ingalls Wilder RV Park, highlighting the personalized service often found at smaller RV campgrounds.
What You Should Know
Site Leveling Challenges: Many RV campgrounds in Mansfield and surrounding areas have uneven terrain. "The campground as a whole is not so bad, the neighbors are quiet and friendly, nice pond and dog walking areas. The roads are a bit tricky to navigate and the sites are very unleveled," explains alex W. about Rustic Trails RV Park.
Highway Noise: Several campgrounds near major roads experience traffic noise. "I-44 is very close and loud. We stayed 1 night and that was enough," reports Dennis R. about Rustic Trails RV Park, located approximately 60 miles from Mansfield.
Seasonal Crowds: Laura Ingalls Wilder RV Park experiences higher occupancy during summer months and special events. "There are several permanent residences here, some working on vehicles & such in the late afternoon & evening, sometimes a bit loud and/or noisy. After dark, everything was quiet," notes Sheri K.
Tips for Camping with Families
Creek Swimming Areas: For families with children, Bull Creek RV Park offers safe water play options. "Amazing creek access for kids to swim (knee deep at most). 10 minutes from Branson. Feels like you're in the country while being very close to the hustle and bustle," shares Ethan W.
Playground Access: Some regional campgrounds feature play areas for children. "Beautiful yard, walking trails and playground with resident kitty. Convenient location across from Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum," notes Holly M. about amenities at Laura Ingalls Wilder RV Park.
Pet-Friendly Options: Many families travel with pets, and regional campgrounds accommodate them. "We walked the dog around a little and she enjoyed that. Just across the street from Laura ingles wilder museum and home," shares Julie K., highlighting pet-friendly policies at Laura Ingalls Wilder RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Full Hook-up Availability: RV Express 66 in nearby Marshfield offers complete services with level pads. "Easy access, next to hwy and lots of eating establishments close by. Full water, electric and sewer connections. Level concrete pads," reports Jackie M. about this facility located 40 miles from Mansfield.
Big Rig Considerations: Access roads to some campgrounds may challenge larger motorhomes. "We had no problem in our 31' class A. Gravel pads made leveling easy," comments Holly M. about Laura Ingalls Wilder RV Park.
Seasonal Preparation: Winter camping requires additional planning. Most campgrounds remain open year-round, but some limit services during colder months. Some travelers report using winterization services at campgrounds like Cooks RV Motor Park, where one visitor noted it was "a full hookup place to dump my tanks and winterize on my way home."
