Smithville Lake serves as the focal point for camping near Pleasant Hill, Missouri. This 7,200-acre reservoir provides ample outdoor recreation opportunities with over 175 miles of shoreline. The area maintains a humid continental climate with hot summers reaching 90°F and cool winters. Campsites throughout the region typically open from April through October, with several parks offering year-round access during favorable weather.
What to do
Boating and fishing access: Camp Branch Campground offers excellent lake access with electric-only sites. "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. The campground maintains clean facilities and sells ice and firewood at the entrance gates.
Hiking and biking: Watkins Mill State Park Campground features a paved trail system circling the lake. "Great place to fish.kayak. Bike ride. Clean campsites and bathrooms," writes Will E. The park offers diverse camping options including tent sites, RV spots, and cabins with shower facilities available.
Wildlife viewing: Montrose Missouri Conservation Area provides free dispersed camping with opportunities to spot local wildlife. "There is loads of wildlife to see an arent much scared of humans, racoons, beavers, crane, squirrels, deer, owls an much more," reports Sarah. The area also features blackberry picking in fall and basic amenities including pit toilets.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Knob Noster State Park Campground earns praise for its well-maintained amenities. "Bathhouse was very clean. Would come back," notes Nicole B. The park offers level concrete pads with spacious sites and multiple unisex shower facilities.
Family-friendly atmosphere: Smiths Fork Recreation Area maintains a welcoming environment for families with children. "Perfect for families with young children. Smaller park, very friendly hosts," shares Robin R. The campground provides full hookups with both 30 and 50 amp service, located conveniently close to Highway 169.
Proximity to water: Campers appreciate sites with direct lake access at Lake Jacomo - Fleming Park. "The staff of this park were just as fun as our stay! Just a walk away from a beautiful lake and your stay here is a perfect get away from the city lights!" remarks Rylan B. The park offers various site types including electric and primitive options.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require preparation for uneven terrain. At Lake Jacomo, Nicholas G. notes, "Not a great spot for tent camping. Ton of road noise and most grassy areas are sloped." Bringing leveling blocks for RVs or selecting tent sites carefully helps ensure a comfortable stay.
Seasonal considerations: Many facilities close or reduce services during off-peak times. "After going around for almost 1.5 hrs from Smithville due to all the road closures, we finally got to the lake but all the campsites were out of commission," reports James about Smiths Fork. Always check current status before traveling, especially in early spring or late fall.
Wildlife management: Prepare for wildlife encounters at certain campgrounds. At Knob Noster State Park, Angela D. warns, "Raccoon have taken over the park... About 40 in my camp the whole week making us scared." Store food securely and follow proper waste disposal protocols to avoid attracting animals.
Tips for camping with families
Private bathroom options: Crow's Creek Campground features individual bathroom facilities. "The bathrooms are the nicest campground bathrooms I've ever used - large, clean, and not communal, so you get a sink, toilet, and shower all to yourself," recommends Fawn W. from a nearby campground with similar amenities.
Paved paths for kids: Camp Branch provides safe recreation areas for children. "The trails and roads are nice for scooters and bikes. Fairly close to the water and playground; within walking distance," notes Brittnie T. Paved surfaces throughout the campground allow for easy navigation with strollers and children's bikes.
Site spacing awareness: Choose your location based on privacy needs. At Crows Creek, Julie B. advises, "We had lots of grassy space around us to set up and play yard games. Trails and roads within the campsite are paved, so it's great for bikes and scooters." The well-maintained grounds provide comfortable play areas for children.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Saddle Ridge Campground — Hillsdale State Park offers comprehensive services for larger rigs. "Sites are plentiful. Lots of riding trail miles and lake," notes Bill M. This equestrian-friendly campground provides a convenient option for those traveling with horses near Pleasant Hill, Missouri.
Shade considerations: RV campers should note varied sun exposure across campgrounds. At Smith's Fork Recreation Area, Steven N. shares, "These RV spots have great shade, are spaced nicely apart, and are a quick walk to the lake!" Site selection impacts comfort during summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 85°F.
Utility configurations: Pay attention to hookup types when reserving sites. At Lake Jacomo, Steve C. advises, "Only negative is that some sites are right on the road, so kids can dart out at any time...just be careful!" Some campgrounds offer full hookups, while others provide only electric connections, requiring water tank filling at communal spigots.
