Smithville Lake camping options offer convenient access to the water with varied site configurations depending on your needs. Most campgrounds are open from spring through fall, with some limited year-round accommodations available within 30 minutes of North Kansas City. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F, while spring and fall overnight temperatures can drop to 40-50°F with occasional rain.
What to do
Bike on paved paths: Smithville Lake provides extensive paved trails ideal for cycling. At Crow's Creek Campground, one camper noted, "Trails and roads within the campsite are paved, so it's great for bikes and scooters." The surrounding area features additional biking opportunities accessible directly from campsites.
Fish from shoreline access: Multiple campgrounds offer direct lake access for fishing. At Crow's Creek Campground, "We could walk right down a grassy hill to the trail along the lake," according to one visitor. Fishing for bass, crappie, and catfish is popular year-round.
Paddle sports: Rental kayaks and canoes are available at several parks. A camper at Hillsdale State Park mentioned, "There are kayaks and canoes to rent, there is a great marina, fishing, and tons of water access opportunities for private kayaks." Rental rates typically run $10-15/hour.
What campers like
Proximity to Kansas City: For weekend getaways, locations like Smith's Fork Recreation Area provide easy access to the city while maintaining a natural setting. As one camper shared, "Close to Kansas City so it makes a great quick getaway. Clean, friendly, and right next to Smithville Lake. Our pick for a short trip."
Private bathrooms: Lake Jacomo - Fleming Park offers superior bathroom facilities. One camper described them as "large, clean, and not communal, so you get a sink, toilet, and shower all to yourself." This feature is particularly appreciated by families with small children.
Yurt camping options: For those interested in yurt camping near North Kansas City, Missouri, multiple alternatives exist. Hillsdale State Park offers yurt accommodations with basic amenities. One visitor mentioned, "Lots of glamping" options available throughout the park, making it accessible for those seeking yurt camping in North Kansas City without needing extensive gear.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require significant effort to level RVs. At Lake Jacomo, a reviewer warned, "We camped in our 39' diesel pusher, had to use lots of wood to level everything up, including extending one of our jacks to the maximum and causing it to throw an error message." Bring extra leveling blocks if using larger rigs.
Train noise: Certain campgrounds experience significant railroad disruption. At Kansas City West-Lawrence KOA, multiple reviewers mentioned trains passing frequently throughout the night: "There was a train passing through...ALL NIGHT LONG! Every thirty minutes or so a train passed by. It wouldn't be so bad, but it was LOUD!"
Seasonal water availability: Campgrounds may shut off water without notice during unseasonable weather. At Crow's Creek Park, one camper reported, "We stayed in October and due to unseasonably cold weather they shut off water with no notice and halfway through our stay. Ended up leaving early since we had no water."
Tips for camping with families
Off-peak timing: Crow's Creek Campground experiences significant seasonal differences. A regular visitor advised, "We love it when it is still kind of off season like Easter weekend and after labor day. We have small children and it can get pretty rowdy during the summer."
Playground access: Many campgrounds feature play areas near campsites. At Watkins Mill State Park Campground, families appreciate the combination of activities: "Great place to fish, kayak, bike ride. Clean campsites and bathrooms." Plan for morning playground visits when temperatures are cooler in summer months.
Swimming alternatives: While some beaches close periodically due to vegetation, alternatives exist. At Watkins Mill, a camper noted, "The swim beach has been closed because of excessive vegetation growth," but suggested exploring the surrounding trails instead. Several campgrounds offer non-beach water access points for wading.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup locations: For extended stays, Smith's Fork Recreation Area Camping offers complete amenities. A reviewer highlighted, "Of everywhere Smith's Fork is the only one (so far) that offers Electric (30 & 50 amp), Water (2) and Sewer at every campsite. At just $30 per day it is a steal!"
Lake view priorities: At Weston Bend State Park Campground, site selection impacts your experience. A recent visitor explained, "The full hookup sites don't have a view of the lake. This is why we chose an electric only site and used a spigot in the campsite to fill our tank." Consider your priorities when selecting between hookups and views.
Electrical options: Most campgrounds offer electrical hookups, but amperage varies. At Weston Bend, "All sites but #3 and 26 are electric" according to a recent camper, with #26 described as "one of the few basic sites... relatively isolated" - making it ideal for those seeking more privacy.
