Camping in Platte City, Missouri offers a mix of waterfront and wooded sites within 20 miles of Kansas City. The area sits at approximately 850 feet elevation with seasonal temperatures ranging from winter lows around 20°F to summer highs in the 90s. Many campgrounds stay open year-round despite Missouri's variable weather patterns, though water services at some locations close during winter months.
What to do
Hiking diverse trails: At Weston Bend State Park Campground, visitors can explore trails beyond the paved options. "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!" writes Danielle H.
Lake access activities: Crow's Creek Campground features direct water access for boating and fishing. "We have a section with just electric where you are right on water and can leave boat right on lake. They have water and electricity on hill no lake view but nice to have water hookup," notes Robin R.
Explore historic sites: Watkins Mill State Park Campground offers both natural and cultural attractions. "If you like history, take a tour of the woolen mill part. Very cool," shares Josh P. The park combines outdoor recreation with educational opportunities about local heritage.
What campers like
Level, well-maintained sites: Campers appreciate the site quality at Camp Branch Campground. "Nice level camping spots both all electric, water, and sewer and minimal utilities. Some sites close to water. Great fishing, hiking, and 18 hole golf course close by," explains Mike D.
Privacy between spots: "We were in site 26, one of the few basic sites. While some of the other sites were very close to each other, this one is relatively isolated. It's big too," writes Barbie G. about her experience at Weston Bend State Park.
Clean facilities: Smithville area campgrounds maintain excellent amenities. "The shower houses and outhouses were probably some of the cleanest I've ever seen and fully restocked and cleaned daily," reports Caitlin R. about Smiths Fork Recreation Area.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Not all glamping close to Platte City, Missouri operates year-round. "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 and also no sewer at site," warns Bridget U. about Crow's Creek Campground.
Site variations: Even within the same campground, accommodations vary significantly. "Camp Branch has nice big spots with electric only. It is quite a ways to shower house but much quieter than other campgrounds on Smithville lake. More family friendly," notes Robin R.
Reservation requirements: Many premium glamping sites require advance planning. "Smithville Lake has both 30 and 50 amp. Close to 169 hwy. Perfect for families with young children. Smaller park, very friendly hosts," shares Robin R. about Smith's Fork.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access for kids: Kansas City East-Oak Grove KOA provides amenities specifically for families. "Friendly staff and clean bath/shower facilities. Close proximity to the interstate does come with some traffic noise. Many retail options within a short drive," mentions Renee H.
Playgrounds within walking distance: Crow's Creek provides convenient recreation options. "The roads and trails are nice for scooters and bikes. Fairly close to the water and playground; within walking distance," notes Brittnie T.
Budget-friendly activities: Camp Branch offers affordable recreation. "We reserved 3 sites for a family camping trip. The camp hosts were very polite. We had a short walk to the lake for fishing, and the loop had a restroom. We were able to enter the swim beach without having to pay extra," shares Nikki S.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup locations: AOK Campground & RV Park provides complete services. "The sites were nice, level gravel sites. The dogs enjoyed all the extra room, grassy areas, and small trail to explore," reports Soren B.
Site leveling challenges: Be prepared with leveling equipment at some campgrounds. "Some downfalls were our spot was 13" unlevel. Luckily we had several blocks of wood to help level our camp out. The grass wasn't mowed," warns Caitlin R. about her stay at Crow's Creek.
Hookup placement considerations: Check site layouts before booking. "Only negatives were our hookups were literally in the next site next to their table, and their fire ring was very close to our trailer," notes Roy T. about Kansas City East-Oak Grove KOA.
