Horseback riding enthusiasts will find limited options for equestrian camping near Platte City, Missouri. The area sits within the rolling hills of western Missouri's Platte County, where the terrain ranges from 850 to 1,100 feet in elevation. While dedicated horse facilities are scarce, nearby parks offer traditional camping with trail access, though trail riders must typically organize day trips rather than overnight horse camping excursions.
What to do
Hiking trails with lake views: Weston Bend State Park Campground offers an impressive trail system that outdoor enthusiasts appreciate. "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!" reports Danielle H. The trails provide accessible options for different skill levels.
Fishing access: Smith's Fork Recreation Area offers fishing opportunities with convenient lake proximity. According to Chad Z., "This is a beautiful place close to town and wonder hiking trails." The campground provides easy access to Smithville Lake for anglers looking to spend time on the water.
Swimming and boating: Crow's Creek Campground provides water recreation options during summer months. Julie B. explains, "The best part is the view of and access to the lake! So beautiful and relaxing... We could walk right down a grassy hill to the trail along the lake." The campground offers rental equipment for those without their own watercraft.
Biking on paved paths: Camp Branch Campground features bike-friendly terrain with dedicated paths. "The bike trail is about 3 steps away from our site," shares Savannah T. These trails connect different areas of Smithville Lake, allowing cyclists to explore the surroundings without venturing onto roads.
What campers like
Privacy and spacing: For those seeking quieter camping near Platte City, certain sites offer more seclusion. At Weston Bend State Park Campground, Barbie G. notes: "This was our 2nd stay at Weston Bend SP. Both times, we had 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."
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness ranks high on visitor priorities. Regarding Watkins Mill State Park, Anita M. comments, "Clean facilities include plenty of stalls and sinks, separate showers and laundry. Well lit and accessible." Similarly, at Weston Bend, Roger W. points out the "Very clean showers. Clean and nice."
Easy lake access: Many campers appreciate sites with direct water views. At Crow's Creek Campground, Robin R. explains, "They 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."
Affordable rates: State parks in the region provide budget-friendly options. Wallace State Park offers reasonable pricing, with Terry noting, "$21 a night for seniors" for power hookup sites without water or sewer connections directly at the site.
What you should know
Seasonal water shutoffs: Some campgrounds near Platte City discontinue water service during cold weather. At Crow's Creek, Bridget U. shares, "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."
Limited horse facilities: For those searching for horse-friendly camping options near Platte City, dedicated equestrian facilities remain unavailable. None of the reviewed campgrounds advertise horse corrals, designated horse trails, or special accommodations for equestrian camping.
Site leveling challenges: Be prepared to level your camper at some locations. Caitlin R. reports about Camp Branch Campground: "Some downfalls were our spot was 13" unlevel. Luckily we had several blocks of wood to help level our camp out."
Strict regulations: Watkins Mill State Park Campground and other state parks maintain specific rules about quiet hours, fires, and pets. At Camp Branch, one camper notes, "The rules are super strict when it comes to day passes, boat passes, and having your pass visible in a window."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Wallace State Park Campground offers dedicated play areas for children. Sarah H. mentions, "For entertainment, there was a bustling playground, winding nature trails, horseshoes, lake swimming, and fishing." This variety of activities keeps children engaged throughout their stay.
Kid-friendly biking: Paved paths provide safe cycling for young riders. At Crow's Creek, Julie B. notes, "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."
Family-sized sites: Some campgrounds offer larger group sites. For Smith's Fork Recreation Area, Haley C. shares, "Camp hosts Janet and Chris went above and beyond making Halloween perfect for our family. Been here several times and they are more than accommodating."
Safety considerations: When selecting a family site, consider proximity to roads. At Lake Jacomo-Fleming Park, Justin C. cautions that "you are close to your neighbors," which might affect privacy for families with active children.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: For RVers requiring complete utilities, Smith's Fork Recreation Area provides comprehensive services. DAngelo W. reports, "The campground nice and clean with full hook ups at campsite, other campers were friendly, and the camp hosts were very nice and friendly."
Big rig accessibility: Smith's Fork Recreation Area accommodates larger RVs with appropriately sized sites. Jamie V. notes, "The only downside is that some of the campsites are close together/congested, but that's not necessarily a big negative. We have Verizon and service was good."
Electric-only options: Many campgrounds offer electric hookups without water or sewer connections. At Wallace State Park, Marimba N. describes "Exceptional primitive camping, private spaces with plenty of shade" while noting RV areas are "a bit more open."
Dump station locations: For those staying at electric-only sites, knowing dump station locations is essential. Renee H. at Weston Bend State Park mentions, "Dump station across from dumpsters and recycling," providing useful orientation information for new visitors.
