Tent campsites and RV sites near Nevada, Missouri range from well-maintained state parks to basic fairground camping. The region sits at approximately 850 feet elevation in western Missouri with rolling prairie landscapes and forested areas surrounding several lakes and streams. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F while spring and fall offer milder weather with occasional thunderstorms.
What to do
Hiking prairie trails: Prairie State Park Campground offers a rare opportunity to see native grasslands with multiple hiking options. "There are quite a few trails ranging from 1.5-4.5 miles—total of 14 miles of trails. The nature center is small but they have two bison, a coyote, and many other learning opportunities inside," notes Wendy M.
Wildlife viewing: Experience bison in their natural habitat at Prairie State Park Campground. "Prairie state park isn't very large but it is nice to see somewhere dedicated to preserving the native grassland that the Midwest used to be covered with. The main draw for me other than it being close to where I live is that you get to be around buffalo without fences," explains Luke B.
Fishing access: Multiple camping spots near Nevada, Missouri provide fishing opportunities. At Fort Scott Lake, campers appreciate the water proximity. "This is a great spot to camp if you're looking for fishing access and some shade. I stayed in a primitive site, which just had a pit toilet and water," shares Dani D.
Water activities: Stockton State Park Campground offers excellent lake recreation. "They have some pretty cool kayak marked trails on the lake. Beautiful sail boats to see as well!" mentions Katie R. Another camper notes, "Great park. Cleanest restrooms I've seen. Great trails. Bring the kayaks."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Primitive camping areas often provide more room between neighbors. At Prairie State Park, "There are 4 SPACIOUS sites and they are what I would call primitive. No hookups/no electricity/no running water. Good for star gazing," according to Wendy M.
Peaceful settings: Many camping locations near Nevada offer quiet environments. At Gunn Park, "We love the park beautiful and peaceful. It usually has few campers but a lot of activities and so close to town it feels very safe day or night," says The M.
Affordable options: Several campgrounds offer budget-friendly stays. Lamar City Park provides "1st night free, $20 donation after. register with Holly, 30 & 50 amp at only 3 poles, free water and dump on site," according to DAVE. For travelers on a budget, Stockton State Park also offers reasonable rates: "Real nice park Especially for what we paid. $8.00 for electric only per night. Senior rate off season, $2.00 discount."
Clean facilities: Campers repeatedly mention well-maintained areas. "Nicely maintained campground, great hiking trails, no privacy. This was a nice campground that was well maintained," reports Hayley G. about Stockton State Park Campground.
What you should know
Train noise: Some camping areas experience railroad disturbances. At Lamar City Park, "The only problem was train traffic 200' away 24/7," warns DAVE. Another camper confirms: "It is right by the train tracks, but we were able to sleep through once we fell asleep."
Highway sound: Traffic noise affects certain campgrounds. At Osage Prairie RV Park, one camper notes it's "Next to busy highway and trains" while rating the stay only 2 stars due to noise levels.
Primitive conditions: Several camping spots lack modern amenities. "This campsite is not for those who want amenities. There are 4 SPACIOUS sites and they are what I would call primitive. No hookups/no electricity/no running water," explains a Prairie State Park visitor.
Wildlife precautions: Campers should prepare for wildlife encounters. "Lots of ticks. Good clean campground. Bathroom. Bison roam the park. Ticks also roam the park," warns I W. about Prairie State Park Campground. Another visitor cautions, "Since it's pretty primitive you will likely have the place to yourself, but be prepared to have guests of the state park driving through all day to check it out."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds for kids: Several parks offer play equipment. "We camped in campground 1 right next to the play ground. Super clean, had a view of the lake. Within walking distance of the marina," shares a Stockton State Park visitor.
Educational opportunities: Oak Point Campground provides learning experiences alongside recreation. "What a gem! Amazing swimming beach, modern bath house and great restaurant. A handful of small campgrounds surround the lake. Almost every spot is on the water," writes Stephanie D.
Safety considerations: City parks often provide secure environments. At Gunn Park, "The park itself was beautiful, felt safe, and had lots of people recreating and enjoying themselves. There are 10 FCFS sites plus a tenting area," notes Meghan B.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas. "The city swimming pool is next door if you want to swim or possibly shower. The park is a 5 star park," mentions a Lamar City Park visitor. At Crawford State Park, campers appreciate the "Amazing swimming beach, modern bath house and great restaurant."
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Electric access differs between campgrounds. "[Stockton State Park offers] Great camping spot with easy access to the lake and marina however there isn't any water or sewer hookup on the camp site. Almost boondocking with electric hookup and a dump station," explains Joe J.
Site leveling: Some RV spots require adjustment. "Osage Prairie, Site #46 (46 total sites), long enough for tt and truck, gravel, full hookup, close, but not bad, on interstate service road, no major noise, wifi poor, $39 with mil discount, otherwise $44 per night, no cable tv, no OTA TV, needed two blocks to level," details James G.
Registration processes: Crossroads RVs and Cabins offers upgraded facilities for RV camping. "I know there are new pedestals and hookups for RVs and they have been working on the swimming pool for 2023. The A-frame cabin is being renovated for a new laundry facility and new showers/bathrooms too," reports Ryan H.
Dump station locations: Multiple campgrounds provide dumping facilities. "Dump & fresh water were near by," notes a Stockton State Park visitor. At Rock Creek Lake, the site offers "electric hookup and a dump station," making it convenient for extended stays.
