Campgrounds within a 30-minute drive of Platte City offer varied terrain from lakeside sites to wooded settings. The region features rolling hills with elevations ranging from 750 to 900 feet above sea level. Campers can expect paved or gravel pads at most established sites, with many campgrounds operating seasonally due to winter temperatures that often dip below freezing from November through March.
What to do
Boating and water activities: Smithville Lake at Crow's Creek Campground provides excellent water recreation options. "The roads and trails are nice for scooters and bikes. Fairly close to the water and playground; within walking distance," notes camper Brittnie T. Water activities are typically available from April through October when water temperatures are comfortable.
Hiking trails: Weston Bend State Park Campground maintains an extensive trail system with varying difficulty levels. "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!" according to Danielle H. Trails range from 0.75 to 3 miles and are accessible year-round.
Historical sites: Watkins Mill State Park Campground offers unique historical learning opportunities. A camper mentions, "I grew up minutes from here. Great camping facilities, paved walking/biking trail, fishing, swimming and even history lessons. If you like history, take a tour of the woolen mill part. Very cool." The historic woolen mill is open for tours from 10am to 4pm daily during peak season.
What campers like
Lake access: Crow's Creek Campground offers direct water access that campers consistently praise. One reviewer noted, "We have small children and it can get pretty rowdy during the summer. We have chosen to go to other campgrounds during peak season. They have a section with just electric where you are right on water and can leave boat right on lake."
Privacy between sites: Camp Branch Campground gets high marks for site spacing. "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," writes Robin R. Most sites offer at least 30 feet between camping pads.
Well-maintained facilities: Basswood Country RV Resort maintains clean, functional amenities. "This place is very nice. Very clean bathhouses and property, friendly staff, nice pool, great fishing, fun family activities, nice camp store/pizza kitchen," according to Abbie G. The resort's five small lakes do not require fishing licenses, allowing convenient angling for all ages.
What you should know
Airport proximity: Several campgrounds are located near Kansas City International Airport flight paths. At Basswood Country RV Resort, a camper explains: "The campground is on the final approach for the airport, so you get to see a lot planes flying overhead, which you don't even notice cause they are quieter than they used to be, and I think they shut down flights around 10pm."
Water shutoff dates: Seasonal water availability affects camping comfort. At Crow's Creek Park, one camper reported: "We stayed in October and 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." Most campgrounds shut off water between late October and April.
Reservation requirements: Popular sites fill quickly during peak season. At Smiths Fork Recreation Area, campers appreciate the availability of full hookups, but competition for spots can be intense. A camper notes: "This is full hook up. They have both 30 and 50 amp. Close to 169 hwy. Perfect for families with young children. Smaller park, very friendly hosts."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Smiths Fork Recreation Area Camping offers family-friendly amenities. According to Steven N., "These RV spots have great shade, are spaced nicely apart, and are a quick walk to the lake! Amazing sunsets! You can rent a boat for a half day or full day with advanced notice! There is a really nice walking/riding trail that goes all through the park!"
Biking opportunities: Paved campground roads provide safe cycling for children. At Crow's Creek, Julie B. describes: "Trails and roads within the campsite are paved, so it's great for bikes and scooters. Grounds are well maintained and grassy areas feel fine to walk through and play in. Nearby area beaches to play at, a playground, and a short drive to stores to get anything we forgot!"
Weekend activities: Many campgrounds offer structured recreation. At Basswood Country RV Resort, one camper notes: "Every weekend there are organized activities such as arts and crafts, fishing contests, duck races and frozen t-shirt contests in the pool, and a Saturday evening outdoor movie." Most planned activities run from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Riverfront Park Campground provides level sites but requires attention to approach angles. "The campground is nice, small and has all the basics - picnic tables, fire pits, flush toilets and showers. It sits right on the river and has a nice view of the bridge," notes Jillian B., who also mentions nearby train tracks.
Hookup availability: When planning trips to the best places to camp near Platte City, Missouri, note that hookup options vary significantly between parks. At Weston Bend State Park, Roger W. provides detailed information: "Site #3 and #26 are non-electric. #26 is the most private...About $15 for non-electric sites. $25 for electric sites...Dump Station: Yes. Potable Water Available: Yes, at dump stations and some scattered spigots."
Site selection strategy: RVers recommend carefully reviewing site maps before booking. At Walnut Grove RV Park, a reviewer advises: "We did pay for the premium pull through site, so we had more room. Everything worked great, the spot was on a slight hill- but wasn't terrible to level out." Sites in most area campgrounds range from 30-50 feet in length with varying widths.
