Camping options near New Franklin, Missouri include both established RV parks and dispersed sites along the Missouri River. The area sits at approximately 600 feet elevation with a humid continental climate featuring hot summers and mild winters. Annual rainfall averages 43 inches, with spring and early summer being the wettest seasons, creating lush vegetation along the Katy Trail that connects many camping destinations.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Cedar Creek Resort & RV Park, campers can access multiple fishing ponds throughout the 160-acre property. "Peaceful campsites. They have added the sites in 300's and 500's this year. The 100's and 200's have been established for 3 years or so," notes a visitor from Cedar Creek.
Biking the Katy Trail: Katy Roundhouse provides direct access to the Katy Trail, making it ideal for cyclists. "Camping right alongside the Katy Trail is hard to find. This campground is one of two I know of. Full hookups at most sites and nearly all are tree covered," reports one reviewer.
Historic site exploration: Visit Arrow Rock State Historic Site Campground to explore buildings with historical significance. "There is a nice biking/jogging trail along the river as well. Spaces are tight to get in and out, but otherwise no complaints," mentions a visitor who appreciated the historic town's accessibility.
What campers like
Riverside camping: Cooper's Landing Campgrounds offers sites directly on the Missouri River with exceptional sunset views. "Pulled into this cozy campground (probably no more than 50 sites) and had a great set up right on the river. We called around 8PM to inquire and then arrived around midnight and paid online," shares one camper.
Evening entertainment: Many campers appreciate the live music at Cooper's Landing on weekends. "Leaving this magical place today. For anyone wanting to stay be aware they have live music Thursday through Sunday. They wrap everything up by 10pm and it's very quiet late night," explains a visitor.
Convenient overnight stops: Robert's Bluff provides free dispersed camping close to I-70. "Good free camping to overnight if you are travelling on your RV, close to the highway but without noise. No toillets. Verizon signal works good," reports one traveler who appreciated the accessibility.
What you should know
Site spacing considerations: Site proximity varies widely between campgrounds. "The camp sites are very close to each other. But the campers around us were very nice. Only needed one night and it worked prayer for us," notes a Cottonwoods RV Park visitor.
Water availability restrictions: During winter months, some campgrounds limit water access. "No bath house until April 1 and no cell coverage (T-Mobile) but wonderful walking, hiking and biking areas, quaint MO town nearby," explains an Arrow Rock State Historic Site visitor.
Reservation requirements: Busy weekends often require advance planning. "This campground is one of two I know of. Full hookups at most sites and nearly all are tree covered. The sites were very close to each other but unless it's a busy weekend you can spread out easily," advises a Katy Roundhouse camper.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Cottonwoods RV Park provides kid-friendly amenities. "Great playground. Several large rigs in our row, we still fit. Decorated wonderfully for Halloween. Kids are happy!" shares one family's experience.
Water activities: Some campgrounds offer boat rentals for family outings. "The fishing was great, amenities were fantastic, and the hosts were amazing. Free rentals on pontoon boats, kayaks, and paddle boats," reports a Cedar Creek Resort visitor.
Beginner-friendly camping: Several campgrounds are well-suited for new campers. "Perfect place for us to learn the ins and outs as it had full hook-ups. Staff was really friendly, and had the cutest store!" notes a family new to RV camping.
Tips from RVers
RV site dimensions: For RV camping near New Franklin, Missouri, pay attention to site lengths. "Check-in was quick and easy and we proceeded to pull through site 83 with FHUs. The gravel pad was very long and we had plenty of room for our 40' rig and F450," explains a Cottonwoods RV visitor.
Leveling requirements: Some campgrounds require minimal leveling effort. "Our pull-through site was nice and level. Only had to level front to back," mentions an RVer at Cottonwoods RV Park & Campground.
Access road conditions: Approach roads vary in quality around New Franklin. "The only thing I didn't love was the gravel road all the way in. Our truck and camper was covered with gravel dust. So if you had anything exposed, it'll get a bit dusty," cautions a Cedar Creek Resort visitor.
