Missouri camping options near Plato include a range of RV parks within 30-40 miles of town. The region features rolling Ozark terrain with elevations averaging 1,200-1,400 feet and heavily wooded landscapes. Many campgrounds in this area remain open year-round, though seasonal amenities vary with Missouri's four distinct seasons.
What to do
Explore historic sites: Laura Ingalls Wilder RV Park in Mansfield sits directly across from the famous author's home and museum. "Great RV Park with shaded sites. Convenient to the Laura Ingalls Wilder museum," notes Haven in their review of Laura Ingalls Wilder RV Park.
Enjoy walking trails: Multiple campgrounds offer maintained walking paths through Ozark woodlands. "Beautiful yard, walking trails and playground with resident kitty. Convenient location across from Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum," shares Holly M. about their experience at Laura Ingalls Wilder RV Park.
Visit local breweries: Some RV parks near Plato provide convenient access to craft breweries. "Friendly staff who will shuttle you to the local craft brewery up the road. We walked to the brewery and stayed here again on our return route," mentions Michele W. about Rustic Trails RV Park.
What campers like
Quieter camping experiences: Many visitors appreciate the peaceful atmosphere at smaller parks. "Quiet and relaxing," writes Deborah C. about Haven Hollow RV Park, adding "This place is really awesome! One of our favorite stops all year. Full hookups, level pad, clean, and quiet."
Helpful hosts: Personal attention from campground owners consistently earns positive reviews. "Wonderful 'Ma & Pa' hosts! Very sweet people. This camp is on a hillside that is terraced at each site," shares Sheri K. about her stay at Laura Ingalls Wilder RV Park.
Property amenities beyond RV sites: Campers enjoy extra features like fishing ponds and farm experiences. "They also have a large chicken coop in the middle of the meadow and you are able to purchase a dozen eggs for $2," notes MickandKarla W. about Haven Hollow RV Park, which also features "walking trails over 200+ acres with a little pond."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. "WiFi wasn't very good and cell was spotty even with the booster," reports Deborah C. about Haven Hollow RV Park, which requires self-contained camping as there are "no showers or toilets on site."
Rural road conditions: Access to some RV sites near Plato, Missouri requires careful navigation. "Haven Hollow is well off the interstate and is very quiet. The campground is back about 3 miles off some very country roads, but we had no problem with our 39' 5th wheel and F-450, just take it slow," explains MickandKarla W.
Seasonal pest awareness: Ticks can be prevalent in warmer months. "We were here in late May and had to use bug spray as the ticks were out in mass," warns one Haven Hollow visitor, highlighting the importance of proper preparation for Ozark camping.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. "Super friendly people, very accommodating. The site was nice and shady. The bath house was excellent - very nice showers and bathrooms, very clean, very private. Such a family feel," shares Laur H. about Laura Ingalls Wilder RV Park.
Educational opportunities: The region offers unique learning experiences for kids. "We have spend the last two summers in a seasonal spot and would highly recommend this park. Minutes away from great food and the water," writes Mike L. about Osage Beach RV Park.
Open spaces for recreation: Look for campgrounds with room for kids to play. "They have trails for bike riding, a big open field for the kids to play ball and rabbits the kids loved feeding," explains Isaiah D. about Pheasant Acres RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Many RV sites in the region require some adjustment. "Gravel pads made leveling easy. Beautiful yard, walking trails and playground with resident kitty," notes Holly M. about Laura Ingalls Wilder RV Park.
Size restrictions: Check length limitations before booking. "The sites support about a 40' rig with some able to support up to 42' max. When you make your reservation they will confirm the length of your rig and put you in the appropriate site," advises MickandKarla W. about Haven Hollow RV Park.
Utility placement: Some parks have unique hookup arrangements. "We had to disconnect but there was convenient parking for our tow vehicle near the site. Utilities worked fine," mentions MickandKarla W., noting that at Haven Hollow "the picnic table and fire pit were across the little road from the site."
