Knob Noster State Park offers convenient access for tent campers, RVers, and those seeking glamping near Nelson, Missouri. The park provides both basic and electric campsites with level concrete pads suitable for various camping styles. Primitive tent sites can be found without advance reservations even during busy periods. The campground features multiple unisex shower facilities with good water pressure, though some sites near the sewage lagoon may experience occasional odors.
What to do
Kayaking on Lake Buteo: Visitors can rent kayaks by the hour to explore Lake Buteo and enjoy the surrounding walking paths. According to one camper, "Kayak rentals were available for Lake Buteo - kayakers were out on the lake, and the lake has a trail all around it. Nice trail."
Fishing opportunities: Knob Noster State Park Campground offers productive fishing areas. One visitor noted, "The other lake, Clearfork Lake, was great for fishing for us!"
Biking along Katy Trail: Cooper's Landing Campgrounds and Marina provides direct access to the Katy Trail for cyclists. A camper observed, "Next time we'll bring bikes and hop on the trail... Katy trail is easy biking beautiful views, shaded. Blue birds, cardinals and also an indigo bunting were seen our first trip out."
Live entertainment: Cooper's Landing features regular performances on their riverside stage. One reviewer mentioned, "We were in a small trailer, fit the spot perfectly... looking to trying again when the music starts up."
What campers like
Missouri River views: The riverfront camping at Cooper's Landing offers striking views. According to a visitor, "Campsites were right on the Missouri River. Had great views and a stunning sunset. Staff was super friendly and helpful."
Wildlife watching: Campers can observe various bird species in their natural habitat. One camper shared, "Blue birds, cardinals and also an indigo bunting were seen our first trip out. Watched the sunset by the river and it was beautiful."
Well-maintained facilities: Lincoln Lake RV Park receives positive feedback for its upkeep. A recent visitor noted, "Beautiful spot on the lake. Clean campground, full hook-ups. Tent and RV friendly."
Food options: Some glamping destinations near Nelson include onsite food services. One Cooper's Landing visitor commented, "Food truck set up and beer was being sold. Gorgeous lookout onto the Missouri River."
What you should know
Wildlife encounters: Some campgrounds report significant wildlife activity. One Knob Noster visitor warned, "We did have a problem with Raccoons, but with our site being on the very edge of the sites I think that may be inevitable."
Weekend crowds: Expect busier conditions during weekends, though noise levels remain reasonable. A camper observed, "The campground filled up on the weekend but it was very quiet."
Site limitations: Some camping areas have restricted space or challenging layouts. A Cooper's Landing camper noted, "Spots are tight and the party is next door... We were in a small trailer, fit the spot perfectly, but had to park in the glamping spot due to no other room on our spot."
Trash services: Knob Noster State Park Campground sometimes faces waste management challenges. One camper reported, "The only dumpster the campgrounds had and centered in the campground was already full beyond capacity when we checked out on Sunday - we were forced to carry our trash back home to disposes of it properly."
Tips for camping with families
Bike-friendly areas: Several campgrounds feature safe cycling spaces for children. A Knob Noster visitor shared, "Knob Noster State Park is a great park for the grandkids to ride their new bikes on the level smooth campground road in safety."
Program participation: Take advantage of educational activities offered at parks. One camper noted, "Nature programs were fun and informative, and the campground was relatively quiet."
Safety considerations: River access points require parental supervision. A Cooper's Landing visitor cautioned, "The river is wide and deep here. Current and undertows make it definitely not suitable for swimming. You can see the water swirling and churning."
Tips from RVers
Level sites available: Most campgrounds offer concrete pads that require minimal leveling. A visitor to Knob Noster remarked, "Well maintained campground with nice, level concrete pads. Sites are spacious."
Utility management: Prepare for limited hookup options at some locations. One Knob Noster camper advised, "If you require electrical hookups, it is getting to be more common to plan ahead and submit a reservation in state parks as more and more young people are catching on to the camping experience."
Waste disposal planning: Not all glamping sites near Nelson offer sewer connections. A Cooper's Landing visitor noted, "You will have water and electric but no sewer and no dump station on site. Plan your length of stay accordingly."
