Campgrounds near Parkville, Missouri offer diverse outdoor experiences within a 35-mile radius. The region features rolling hills and hardwood forests surrounding both Smithville Lake and the Missouri River, with elevations ranging from 750 to 900 feet. Most campgrounds remain open year-round, though water access at some locations closes from late October through April due to potential freezing temperatures.
What to do
Fishing at Smithville Lake: Both Crow's Creek Campground and Camp Branch Campground provide access to Smithville Lake for fishing. "Our visit was perfect. It was quite and clean. Not very many campers when we went. Plenty of firewood to forage out of the timber line," notes one Crow's Creek visitor.
Explore historic attractions: The region has several historical sites within short driving distance. "The town of Weston is walkable from the park. I left before the shops opened, but the town was quaint and inviting," reports a camper from Weston Bend State Park.
Hiking and biking trails: Multiple paved trails connect campgrounds with natural areas. "Weston Bend State Park has an amazing hiking trail system within the park! Even one paved trail! We greatly enjoyed our visit and can't wait to go again," shares one visitor.
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: Campers consistently mention clean amenities. At Watkins Mill State Park Campground, visitors appreciate "clean campsites and bathrooms" with one noting it has "plenty of stalls and sinks, separate showers and laundry. Well lit and accessible."
Family-friendly environment: Many campgrounds offer activities for children. "The roads and trails are nice for scooters and bikes. Fairly close to the water and playground; within walking distance," reports a family that visited Crow's Creek.
Proximity to Kansas City: For luxury glamping close to Parkville, Missouri, several campgrounds provide convenient access to urban amenities. "Close to Kansas City but also really close to I-70," notes a visitor to Trailside RV Park, highlighting the region's accessibility.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer temperatures can reach into the 90s. "Some 90-100 degree days in late August," reports a visitor to Weston Bend State Park Campground, suggesting spring and fall visits may be more comfortable.
Site selection matters: Not all sites offer the same level of privacy or amenities. "While some of the other sites were very close to each other, this one is relatively isolated. It's big too," notes one camper about site 26 at Weston Bend State Park.
Seasonal water access: Water availability changes seasonally at some locations. One Crow's Creek visitor explained, "We stayed in October and due to unseasonably cold weather they shut off water with no notice and halfway through our stay."
Tips for camping with families
Campground selection: Choose locations with dedicated family areas. "Great place to camp! Close to Kansas City so it makes a quick getaway. Clean, friendly, and right next to Smithville Lake. Our pick for a short trip," notes a visitor to Smiths Fork Recreation Area.
Activity planning: Look for campgrounds with amenities for various ages. "The kids had so much fun here, we stayed in the cabins here, but we were hardly even there to enjoy them because there were so many kid and family friendly activities and events," shares a visitor to Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park.
Timing your visit: Consider weekday stays for a quieter experience. "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," advises a frequent Crow's Creek camper.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Check site descriptions for level surfaces. "Campground is hilly, sites are level, gravel pads. Lots of space between sites," reports a visitor to Watkins Mill State Park, which offers upscale glamping near Parkville, Missouri.
Hookup availability: Full hookups aren't universal across all campgrounds. "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," explains a Crow's Creek visitor.
Traffic noise: Some campgrounds experience more noise pollution than others. "Noise. Mostly from the highway, but also trains and air traffic. Situated between two neighborhoods, the highway, and an RV dealership," cautions a visitor to Trailside RV Park.
