Oak Grove's camping options extend from 700-800 feet above sea level in Missouri's western region, creating varied terrain for different camping experiences. The area experiences warm summers with average July highs of 88°F and cooler spring and fall camping seasons when temperatures moderate to 65-75°F. Most campgrounds offer mixed shade coverage that becomes important during peak summer months.
What to do
Trail access: Blue Springs Lake Campground connects to multiple hiking paths around the lake. "27 hiking trails, you can kayak, rent a pontoon, lots of sailboats on the lake, fishing. 30 minutes from downtown Kansas City," notes Amy S., highlighting the range of outdoor activities.
Historical exploration: Within a short drive of Lake Jacomo - Fleming Park, visitors can explore regional landmarks. "Rainy weather for the most part but did take time to go to the Fort Osage National Historic Landmark and Missouri Town which is part of the Jackson County Parks & Rec. Nice way to spend a rainy kind of day," shares Shirley M.
Water recreation: Lake Paradise Resort provides direct lake access for various water activities. "The pool is renovated and very nice. It is very large, zero entry, up to mostly around 5 ft deep with a small area that was 9ft; there is a children's area with a sprinkler," explains Julie B., describing one of the water features.
What campers like
Security features: Many campers appreciate the controlled access at area campgrounds. Jessica C. from Blue Springs Lake Campground mentions, "We felt very safe here since they require an access code to get into the gate."
Site spacing: Campgrounds vary in how much separation exists between sites. "The sites were well situated such that you felt you had plenty of privacy," notes Shirley M. about Blue Springs Lake Campground, while another camper at the same location appreciated that "the sites were far apart enough that you didn't feel like your neighbors were on top of you."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms consistently rank high in camper feedback. At Watkins Mill State Park Campground, campers find "clean facilities include plenty of stalls and sinks, separate showers and laundry. Well lit and accessible," according to Anita M.
What you should know
Site selection considerations: Many campgrounds in the region have uneven terrain. At Watkins Mill State Park Campground, campers should know that "several of the sites are at the bottom of a hill which get water logged when it rains. Call ahead and make sure you aren't in one of those sites," advises Amanda M.
Reservation timing: During peak season (May-September), advance booking becomes essential. The most popular campgrounds fill quickly, particularly for weekend stays and holiday periods. Some campgrounds like Blue Springs operate seasonally from mid-May through early September.
Noise factors: Proximity to highways affects some locations. At Trailside RV Park, a camper notes: "Noise. Mostly from the highway, but also trains and air traffic. Situated between two neighborhoods, the highway, and an RV dealership. Did I mention noise?"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: When camping with children, sites near play areas provide convenience. Chris W. from Blue Springs Lake Campground shares, "the sites were well kept up, with many prime locations near the playground for our kids."
Swimming options: Green Acres at Red Brick Farmhouse offers a more intimate setting than larger campgrounds. "We came in with our small trailer, two kids and a dog. There was plenty of space for all of us and even a wonderful tire swing for the kids," reports Heather M.
Biking opportunities: Some of the best places to camp near Oak Grove, Missouri offer dedicated bike trails. At Watkins Mill State Park, one reviewer shares a childhood memory: "We would go out extra early to set up then spend our time on the bike trails until lunch."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling needs: Many RVers report challenges with uneven sites in the area. At Blue Springs Lake Campground, MickandKarla W. note, "The site slopes to the passenger side and downhill toward the road, so we used a few levelers. Many sites here are sloped. The premium cement pads seemed to be more level than gravel sites."
Easy access options: Campus RV Park provides convenient access to both urban and outdoor attractions. "Just 30 minutes to downtown Kansas City and maybe 15 minutes to arrowhead stadium, this campground is ideal for being close to everything that Kansas City offers. Full hook ups, concrete pads, showers and laundry," explains Wendy T.
Connectivity considerations: Cell service varies by location and provider. At Blue Springs Lake Campground, one RVer reports, "We got 3 bars on both Verizon and T-Mobile," while others note that service can diminish in more wooded areas or those further from main roads.
