Camping options near Diamond, Missouri include established campgrounds located along river corridors and lakeshores in the Ozarks region. The terrain features rolling hills with elevations ranging from 800-1,200 feet, creating valleys and waterways that campgrounds typically follow. Summer temperatures average 75-95°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions with nighttime temperatures that can drop significantly.
What to do
Trout fishing access: Roaring River State Park Campground offers dedicated trout fishing with stocked waters. "Several spots near the river most are basic sites. They have three loops each with there own shower houses. Loop one is out away frin the river tucked in a narrow cannon really cool fealing," notes Jason C. about the Roaring River State Park Campground.
Explore fish hatcheries: Visit the working trout hatchery where you can observe the fish raising process. "You can walk the holding tanks and feed the trout from baby to ready to be released into the river. There is also a cave you can walk in where you'll find a pool of water that goes for miles underground," explains Wendy M.
Water recreation: Table Rock Lake provides boating and swimming opportunities at Big M campground. "Anything you would want to do. Hiking, kayaking, swim beach, boating. Some of the best fishing around! Nice marina with a restaurant that you won't leave hungry," reports Cathy S.
What campers like
Loop variety: Roaring River's different campground loops each offer distinct experiences. "Campground 1 is very shady, lots of trees and spacious sites. Trout fishing is awesome. Lots of trails and fish hatcheries," shares Maureen L.
Water proximity: Many campers appreciate the riverside locations. "We spent a weekend in early May in campground 1 backing right up to one of the creeks. The sound of running water alone would have me back," writes Jennifer O. about her stay at Roaring River State Park Campground.
Lakeside amenities: The marina at Big M provides convenient services. "Marina has a great restaurant that you will not be leaving hungry. Nice marina store. Boat rentals as well as slips. The swim area was very clean and accessible," describes Cathy S.
What you should know
Limited equestrian facilities: Horse campgrounds near Diamond, Missouri are scarce, with no dedicated equestrian sites or corrals at nearby campgrounds. While nearby parks offer camping, dedicated horse facilities require traveling further from Diamond.
Seasonal considerations: Big M Campground operates seasonally. "This is a COE facility. Pads are generally good and pretty level. Sites are spaced out nicely. There is a marina here with a restaurant that is open during the season. It had just closed on Labor Day when we were here," reports Jeremy C. about Big M.
Varying shade coverage: Campsite shade varies significantly between loops and campgrounds. "We were turned off by the sirens at the park alerting fishermen you can fish. The campground is okay. Very open and not a lot of shade," notes Tom K.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds specifically cater to families with children. "Our girls had a blast there! For first timers, this place is great! Quiet, relaxing, and a nice hatchery/hiking area!" shares Miles H. about Roaring River State Park Campground.
Swimming options: While horseback riding facilities near Diamond are limited, swimming areas provide alternative recreation. "There are few deep swimming holes in the park although their are plenty of area's to wade and catch crawdads... Fishing is good for all ages and day fishing licenses are available and hiking trails are great," explains Sandi C.
Playground access: Dedicated play areas provide entertainment for younger campers. "Lots of semi secluded sites and a nice swimming area. There is a play area for children as well as volleyball. Both tent and rv/camper sites. Beautiful wooded area with hiking near by," notes Sandi C. about Big M.
Tips from RVers
Utility connections: Hookup availability varies by campground and loop. "At site, 20,30, & 50 amp service. No water nor sewer at site, but dump and fill stations are readily available. New this year is free wifi, although spotty and very slow during busy hours. Verizon cell is ok, ATT non existent," explains Gary P. about Roaring River.
Site leveling: Pay attention to campsite terrain when reserving. "The campsite had a lot of privacy on 3 sides and had a small creek running through a ways behind it, downhill... And the drive for the spot was at a pretty decent incline so a camper would definitely need to be leveled," warns Hayley G. about her experience at Big M.
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds present challenges. "It's a little tricky getting there. Lot of curves and turns. A real nail biter! This campground has large grassy full hookup sites," cautions Cathy S.
