Bennett Spring State Park Campground offers glamping accommodations within 37 miles of Marshfield, Missouri. The park sits on 3,216 acres in the Ozark highlands at approximately 900 feet elevation. Water features include the spring that produces an average of 100 million gallons of water daily, creating ideal conditions for trout fishing and swimming opportunities throughout most of the year.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Bennett Spring State Park Campground has over twenty miles of hiking trails with varying difficulty levels. "The park has over twenty miles of hiking trails meandering through its 3,216 acres. Trails range from a leisurely walk along the stream to that of rigorous mountain trails that reward hikers with great picturesque views of the Ozark Mountains," notes Nancy W. from Bennett Spring State Park Campground.
Winter camping options: For off-season visitors, limited camping areas remain open. "We stayed in campground one because it is the only one open during the off season. Campground one is in a flat spot down by the water and it is actually rather open and built for large rigs to fit in," explains Nathan P. about his winter experience at Bennett Spring State Park.
Swimming activities: Beyond the fishing opportunities, natural water features provide swimming options. At Pittsburg Area Campground near Pomme de Terre State Park, "The swimming beach was amazing and the bathrooms well-kept," according to Rebecca R.
What campers like
Private water access: Some sites offer direct routes to water features. At Pomme de Terre State Park, Josh S. reports, "Each site in the electric loop has a private path to the waters edge. Sites viewable by map next to water."
Spacious campsites: Cedar Ridge Campground at Stockton Lake provides ample room between sites. "We were pleasantly surprised by the amount of space some of the sites have between them. Some spots are right on the lake water and some are off in the woods a little bit more, which does somewhat provide a dispersed camping experience," shares Josh S.
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain well-kept restrooms and shower facilities. At RV Express 66, Tom C. found "the bathrooms, showers and laundry were immaculate. A true gem."
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Several campers note that Springfield - Route 66 KOA has railroad tracks nearby. Steven N. advises, "If it wasn't for the trains coming by blowing their horns, this would easily be a favorite spot."
Site leveling challenges: Some tent sites may require extra preparation. At Pittsburg Area Campground, Jessica B. mentions, "The site was on quite an incline & there were lots of rocks under our tent. I would not recommend this site."
Seasonal availability: Facilities and site availability vary throughout the year. Nathan P. notes about Bennett Spring, "We were surprised when we found that there was Wi-Fi available for free at the campground."
Tips for camping with families
Bike-friendly roads: Look for campgrounds with paved pathways for children. "The roads are all paved so it made biking for our kids easy and enjoyable. The campsite was spacious and shaded. The kids loved playing in the creek and hiking the trails," shares Amanda R. about her experience at Bennett Spring State Park Campground.
Pool and organized activities: Great Escapes RV Resorts Branson offers structured entertainment for children. "They had crafts, bubble parties, pool, hay rides, and more. The staff was friendly, and beyond helpful when needed," according to Chris W.
Fishing for beginners: Bennett Spring is especially suited for introducing children to fishing. Josh P. notes, "It's got something for everyone. Trout fishing, hiking trails, nature center, swimming pool and there is floating just outside of the park."
Tips for RVers
Full hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer complete services. At Gasconade Hills Resort, Ginny B. reports, "We booked a last minute trip here and had a cabin along with a RV site. The cabins were great. Campsites were nice too."
Concrete pad benefits: RV Express 66 provides stable surfaces for larger vehicles. "Easy access, next to hwy and lots of eating establishments close by. Full water, electric and sewer connections. Level concrete pads," explains Jackie M.
Site spacing considerations: Some RV parks position sites close together. Ken K. notes about Gasconade Hills Resort, "Pretty nice campground although the spaces were a little small and crowded."
