The Ozark region near Richland, Missouri sits at approximately 1,100 feet elevation with dense oak-hickory forests and limestone geology creating numerous springs and rivers. Summer temperatures average 85-90°F with high humidity, while winter temperatures can drop below freezing. The area receives about 43 inches of annual rainfall, creating ideal conditions for the region's water-based recreation opportunities.
What to Do
Trout fishing at Bennett Spring: The area features premier trout fishing with daily stockings from the on-site hatchery. "One of my fav state parks. Stayed for the weekend. Clean. Comfy. Fishing. Couldn't get any better. Relax and enjoy :)," shares a visitor at Bennett Spring State Park Campground. The park stocks the waters daily based on the number of fishing permits sold.
River floating options: Multiple outfitters provide kayak, canoe and raft rentals for exploring the Gasconade and Niangua Rivers. At Niangua River Oasis, visitors mention, "we did a 14 mile float trip would always get rafts and canoes and kayaks probably the most family friendly environment." The typical float trip ranges from 4-14 miles depending on water levels and desired duration.
Hiking trail networks: Explore multiple trail systems through oak-hickory forests with limestone outcroppings. "The park has over twenty miles of hiking trails meandering through its 3,216 acres. Trails range from a leisurely walk along the stream to that of rigorous mountain trails that reward hikers with great picturesque views of the Ozark Mountains," notes a visitor to Bennett Spring State Park Campground.
What Campers Like
Spacious sites with shade: Many campgrounds offer tree cover for summer comfort. "The campsite was spacious and shaded. The kids loved playing in the creek and hiking the trails," reports a visitor at Bennett Spring State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Most established campgrounds maintain well-kept bathhouses and amenities. "Very nice, clean and quiet. We are here in the middle of October waiting for the leaves to turn. Good access to the Lake of the Ozarks," notes a camper at Lake of the Ozarks Linn Creek KOA.
Riverside camping options: Several campgrounds offer sites along water features. One visitor to Lane Spring Recreation Area shares, "The campground is in the middle of a forest with a large creek running around it. It was springtime and everything was so green, there were wildflowers popping up all over the place. The sound of the creek running right behind my camp site felt so soothing."
What You Should Know
Seasonal operations: Many glamping sites and river-based campgrounds have limited seasons. "Campground one is in a flat spot down by the water and it is actually rather open and built for large rigs to fit in. If it was full I imagine it would be crowded and not much privacy but because we went in the winter there was only four other campsites taken," explains a winter visitor to Bennett Spring.
Reservation requirements: Most developed campgrounds require advance booking, especially during summer. A visitor to Montauk State Park Campground advises, "The campgrounds and cabins can be a bit difficult to book, if visiting on a Friday or Saturday, but the park is worth it."
Military-only access: Some glamping options have restricted eligibility. "Limited to active or retired military or vets with service related disability," notes a visitor to Military Park Fort Leonard Wood Lake of the Ozarks Recreation Area, adding "Beautiful campground, though Full hookup sites are on an unappealing parking lot. Sites with electric and water only are in nice oak woods overlooking Lake of the Ozarks."
Tips for Camping with Families
Water safety precautions: Rivers can fluctuate seasonally with varying conditions. "The Gasconade River is right there, but up too high while we were there," cautions a visitor to Gasconade Hills Resort, highlighting the importance of checking water conditions before planning water activities with children.
Campground amenities: Look for sites with family-focused facilities. "The roads are all paved so it made biking for our kids easy and enjoyable. The campsite was spacious and shaded. The kids loved playing in the creek and hiking the trails," shares a visitor to Bennett Spring State Park.
Off-site attractions: Consider day trips to regional destinations. At Doolittle Acres RV Park and Campground, a visitor notes, "The camp area looks new, cute playground, small fenced dog park type area, showers, laundry, fire pits and picnic tables. Very little trees or grass. Would love it if they played up the Route 66 theme they have going. Very convenient for our fishing trip!"
Tips from RVers
Site configurations: Research pad specifications and utilities. "Great access for our starlink. They have a little dog park, kids park, and it was all clean and well maintained. Easy access and some nice pull through spots. Water, sewer, and electric hook ups. Fire pit and picnic table at site," explains a visitor to Doolittle Acres RV Park.
Road conditions: Interior campground roads vary in quality. At one glamping location near Richland, Missouri, a visitor observed, "The bus ride down to the river is terrifying because most of the road is washed out with a huge rut down the middle."
Seasonal considerations: Proximity to highways may increase noise in off-season. "Lynn Creek KOA is a mediocre resort. The pool and the bathroom facilities are pros, and the sites have trees for added shade. But the cons outweigh those pros, as the sites are all gravel with very little grass, deferred maintenance is an issue for electric & water outlets, the noise from the freeway running in front of the resort is unbearable at all hours," reports a KOA visitor.
