Camping sites near Chula, Missouri provide a range of outdoor experiences within the rolling landscape of north-central Missouri. The region sits at approximately 800 feet above sea level and experiences four distinct seasons with humid summers and cold winters. Camping options include several conservation areas and state parks located within a 40-mile radius, with most campgrounds offering seasonal availability from April through October.
What to do
Hiking trails: Wallace State Park features multiple hiking paths for all skill levels. "Trails are well marked. There are three levels to choose from based on distance," explains one visitor. The park includes a small lake for additional recreation activities.
Fishing opportunities: Crowder State Park offers an 18-acre lake stocked with various fish species. "The lake for its size, had some nice fish," notes one camper at Wallace State Park Campground. The park maintains this fishing area year-round, with some seasonal restrictions.
Swimming: Several parks in the region have designated swimming areas during summer months. "There is also a small lake to fish or swim in," mentions a reviewer at Wallace State Park. At Crowder State Park Campground, visitors can "kayak, canoe, fish and swim if you don't mind a pond."
Wildlife viewing: The wooded areas around campgrounds support diverse wildlife. "The pileated and red headed woodpeckers are in abundance," notes a visitor at Pershing State Park Campground. Morning and evening hours provide the best wildlife spotting opportunities.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept restrooms and showers. At Wallace State Park, "Showers were clean and in their own stalls with locking doors, shelves and ample hooks. The water got nice and hot and the shower heads were even and held good pressure."
Shade coverage: Most established campgrounds feature wooded sites. "All sites are shaded," notes a camper at Crowder State Park, making summer camping more comfortable. At Dockery Park, visitors appreciate "places for tents under a nice shade tree."
Quiet atmosphere: Several campgrounds receive praise for their peaceful setting. "We really enjoyed our stay here. It was quiet and clean," reports a visitor at Crowder State Park. Another notes that Pershing State Park "often has fewer than five campers."
Site spacing: Many campsites offer reasonable separation from neighbors. "The campsites are shaded and pretty secluded," writes a reviewer about Wallace State Park. Another mentions, "I love how many of the basic sites are secluded or at least mostly separate from other sites. Many have treeline surrounding so your site is closed off from others, ensuring some privacy."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds have limited services during winter months. At Crowder State Park, "Bathrooms were closed for the season, but the building looked pretty new," notes a visitor during off-season travel. Check ahead for winter camping availability.
Site leveling challenges: Some campsites require adjustment for level setup. "Pad is asphalt but not necessarily level," mentions a camper at Crowder State Park. Bringing leveling blocks for RVs is recommended at most area campgrounds.
Water access varies: Not all campgrounds offer water hookups year-round. At Pershing State Park, "$19 Electric off season. Off season starts Nov 1. Water is turned off," reports a camper. Fountain Grove Conservation Area offers primitive camping with no water hookups available.
Reservation requirements: Many established campgrounds require advance booking during peak season. Wallace State Park "fills up quickly on the weekends so plan accordingly," advises a regular visitor. Free camping areas like Fountain Grove operate on a first-come basis.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play equipment for children. Wallace State Park offers "a bustling playground, winding nature trails, horseshoes, lake swimming, and fishing," making it suitable for families with various age groups.
Educational opportunities: Some parks provide nature programs. "There were 2 nature hikes scheduled for the weekend, I imagine activities will ramp up further into the season," notes a spring visitor to Crowder State Park.
Swimming options: During summer months, designated swimming areas provide family recreation. At A Country Charm RV Park, "City pool and playground across the street" offers additional swimming options beyond natural water features.
Spacious sites: Look for campgrounds with room for family activities. "The site was nice and large, lots of kids to play, but quite. Nice hiking trails," reports a Crowder State Park visitor, indicating good options for families who need space to spread out.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric service varies between campgrounds. "They have around 10 sites with full hookups," notes a visitor to Crowder State Park, while others like Pershing offer "only 30 amp electric service" without water or sewer at individual sites.
Cell service considerations: Mobile coverage is generally available but varies by location. "Cell phone service is 4g," reports a Crowder State Park camper, providing adequate connectivity for most needs while camping.
Accessibility for large rigs: Site dimensions affect RV compatibility. "This worked great as an overnight stop on our way to MN. We were there midweek during the off-season, so our nice pull-thru site was fine. Some sites were small and open," explains a Crowder State Park visitor.
Dump station access: Most established campgrounds provide dump stations, though smaller parks may not. "Sanitary dump" facilities are available at both Crowder and Wallace State Parks for RVers needing this service at departure.
