Smithville Lake offers multiple horse-friendly camping options near Raytown, Missouri, just 30 minutes north of the city. The area features rolling hills and hardwood forests surrounding a 7,200-acre reservoir with 175 miles of shoreline. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F with humidity levels that can make insect protection necessary for both riders and horses.
What to Do
Trail riding from camp: At Crow's Creek Campground, riders can access paved walking and biking trails that surround the water. "The roads and trails are nice for scooters and bikes. Fairly close to the water and playground; within walking distance," notes Brittnie T.
Fishing excursions: Watkins Mill State Park Campground offers good fishing options away from the busier Smithville Lake. "Great place to fish.kayak. Bike ride. Clean campsites and bathrooms," writes Will E., making it a good alternative when the main lake is crowded.
Seasonal lake activities: When summer heats up, lakeside camping provides relief. "We had a nice RV site with electric. The best part is the view of and access to the lake! So beautiful and relaxing. We had a nice gravel site with fire ring and picnic table. We could walk right down a grassy hill to the trail along the lake," shares Julie B. about her June visit to Crow's Creek.
What Campers Like
Private tent camping areas: The primitive camping areas at Weston Bend State Park Campground provide more seclusion than Crow's Creek. "While some of the other sites were very close to each other, this one is relatively isolated. It's big too. There's a vault toilet close by. It was clean and roomy," reports Barbie G. about site 26.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the well-maintained restrooms. "This is a very clean campground. The staff is very nice and helpful. I will definitely come back," states Darlene N. about Lake Jacomo - Fleming Park, another option for equestrians seeking proximity to Kansas City.
Easy access campsites: "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," says Mike D. about Camp Branch Campground, noting the convenience for those bringing horses or camping equipment.
What You Should Know
Seasonal water shutoffs: Be aware that facilities may close earlier than expected. "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," cautions Bridget U. about Crow's Creek.
Site levelness varies: Some campsites require significant adjustment. "One of the 3 Jackson County campgrounds, but the most in level sites in any of the parks. Sits on top a hill, the sites are cut into the hillside so vary from small tent sites, to RV sites. We camped in our 39' diesel pusher, had to use lots of wood to level everything up," explains Susan J.
