Cooper's Landing Campgrounds and Marina offers a convenient yurt camping location near Prairie Home, Missouri, situated along the Missouri River approximately 20 miles from town. The campground features a blend of natural riverside setting with social activities, including regular live music Thursday through Sunday evenings until 10pm. Campers access electric hookups and shower facilities while enjoying the proximity to the Katy Trail, which runs alongside the property. The river location creates opportunities for boating and fishing, with dedicated docks and access points.
What to do
Bike the Katy Trail: Access the trail directly from Cooper's Landing Campgrounds and Marina. "Katy trail is easy biking beautiful views, shaded. Blue birds, cardinals and also an indigo bunting were seen our first trip out," notes Brenda P.
Fishing spots: While the Missouri River has strong currents at Cooper's Landing, smaller nearby lakes provide better fishing options. "Lakeview Park has a 15 acre fishing lake," according to Mike W. at Lakeview Park.
Sunset viewing: Position your camp chairs facing west for optimal river sunset views. "We caught an AMAZING sunset from our site!" reports Miles H. The elevated riverbank position creates unobstructed views across the water.
Boat rentals: Military families can access boat rentals at Lake of the Ozarks. "Has a large array of boats you can rent," explains Paul S. about Military Park Fort Leonard Wood Lake of the Ozarks Recreation Area.
What campers like
Live entertainment: Cooper's Landing hosts regular music performances with a festive atmosphere. "This is a fun spot with a cool vibe. Right on the river, food truck, bar and drinks at the general store, nice people, fire pit and music," shares Douglas A.
Food options: Various food trucks visit regularly. "Great food and views! I suggest trying the Thai food, but if you aren't into that they also have BBQ. This is a very relaxing spot," recommends Charlotte B. at Cooper's Landing.
Convenience store access: The on-site general store stocks camping essentials. "General store with snacks, beer, ice cream and merchandise," a visitor notes. This reduces the need for grocery shopping during shorter stays.
Shaded sites: Many area campgrounds offer tree coverage. "Great site that had lots of trees, perfect for hammocks," mentions Cindi M. about Hanson Hills Campground.
What you should know
River safety precautions: The Missouri River current presents swimming hazards. "The river is wide and deep here. Current and undertows make it definitely not suitable for swimming. You can see the water swirling and churning," warns Brenda P.
Limited sewer hookups: Cooper's Landing lacks sewer connections and dump stations. "You will have water and electric but no sewer and no dump station on site. Plan your length of stay accordingly," advises Candy H.
Site layout challenges: Some fire pits at Cooper's Landing sit close to steep drops. "The fire pits nearest to the river are 30 inches from a 30ft drop off! Only 2 people can enjoy the campfire because of that," cautions Jeanne K.
Seasonal popularity: Weekend occupancy increases during warmer months. "Only downside is it's near MU, so throughout the day, you get a lot of kids hanging out until the 'quiet hours' set in," mentions Miles H.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Certain campgrounds offer dedicated children's programming. "We stayed over the labor day weekend and the campground was full of activities for the kids. There was a live band and karaoke," shares Misty F. about Hanson Hills.
Clean playgrounds: When choosing yurt camping near Prairie Home with children, consider sites with play equipment. "Play ground was very clean and pavilion had lots of outlets and picnic tables," notes a Lakeview Park visitor.
Fishing opportunities: Children often enjoy shoreline fishing at area lakes. "The pond was a great place to relax and watch the kids reel in fish after fish," reports a Hanson Hills camper.
Noise considerations: Music events end at reasonable hours. "They wrap everything up by 10pm and it's very quiet late night," explains Candy H., making evening bedtimes manageable for families.
Tips from RVers
RV size limitations: Approach narrow campground roads cautiously. "Rustic. You come down winding rolling roads then onto gravel to get here. Katy bike trail on one side Missouri River on other side site 2 completely level for our 31e RV," explains Brenda P.
Tight parking conditions: At Cooper's Landing, RV space can be limited. "Spots are tight and the party is next door, but looking to trying again when the music starts up. We were in a small trailer, fit the spot perfectly," notes Jim K.
Military discount options: Active and retired military personnel should consider special access sites. "Absolutely hidden gem on the lake available for military (active/retired/DAV). Has full hookups, big rig friendly," explains Paul S. about Lake of the Ozarks Recreation Area.
Full hookup locations: Some sites offer only electric with no sewer connections. "It worked perfectly for our needs," shares Bert R. about Lakeview Park's electric-only sites with nearby dump station and potable water.
