Camping sites near Richland, Missouri concentrate around the Gasconade River, with options ranging from established riverside facilities to primitive woodland sites. Seasonal water level changes affect accessibility, with campsites typically situated on rugged terrain at elevations between 700-1000 feet. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing, making most campgrounds operational primarily from spring through fall.
What to do
Wildlife watching along trails: Lake of the Ozarks State Park offers extensive hiking opportunities with abundant wildlife. "Huge beautiful park. A lot of hiking and biking trails. Boat ramp and store in the park. We saw about 20 deer each day," reports one visitor at Lake of the Ozarks State Park Campground.
Spring activities at Bennett Springs: Trout fishing dominates the recreational offerings at Bennett Spring State Park Campground, but options extend beyond angling. "Plenty of trails, fishing, and swimming," notes a camper. The park features "over twenty miles of hiking trails meandering through its 3,216 acres" with terrain ranging from leisurely streamside paths to challenging mountain trails.
Float trips on multiple rivers: The region offers varied floating experiences on both the Gasconade and Big Piney Rivers. "We did a 5 mile float which was the perfect length and very scenic," reports a visitor at Boiling Springs Campground, where you can "float the Piney and Gasconade and float back into your camp!"
What campers like
Riverfront access: Proximity to water consistently ranks as a top feature. At Froggys River Resort, campers appreciate the direct river connection: "I was right next to the river, and the sounds of the water made everything tranquil. There is a ton of space for tents and RVs, and the road in is well paved."
Natural springs: The region features several cold springs that add unique swimming opportunities. Boiling Springs Campground offers "a spring on the opposite side of the river that is fairly easy to swim to that is a thrill to swim through. It's ice cold!"
Quiet off-season camping: Many campers prefer visiting during shoulder seasons. At Toronto Springs Dispersed, approximately 25 miles northwest of Richland, campers enjoy "completely free clean and shaded" primitive sites. Winter camping provides solitude at Bennett Spring, where one visitor noted: "This time wife and I took our small camper just to get away for the weekend. We stayed in campground one because it is the only one open during the off season."
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Campground restroom quality ranges from modern facilities to rustic options. At Boiling Springs Campground, one camper noted "bathroom is very small. No showers. One toilet spot not very nice." Gasconade Hills Resort received mixed reviews with "spaces were a little small and crowded. No cell service and very limited wifi."
Limited connectivity: Cell reception is spotty throughout the camping areas, with Gasconade Hills Resort specifically mentioned for having "no cell service and very limited wifi." This affects not just communications but also navigation and emergency services access.
Reservation requirements: During peak season (May-September), advance bookings are essential. Bennett Spring State Park fills quickly: "Reserve early as it fills up fast!" Meanwhile, Toronto Springs offers free primitive camping without reservations for those seeking spontaneous trips.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds provide dedicated facilities for children. "They have a store and a bath house. Also a playground for the kids," notes a visitor about Ruby's Landing River Resort, though they caution the "RV spots are really close together."
Wildlife education opportunities: Families appreciate structured learning activities. Lake of the Ozarks provides numerous wildlife encounters, with one visitor reporting they "saw about 20 deer each day." Bennett Spring State Park offers "guided ranger-led tours are also available for those wanting a little more information on your walk."
Water safety considerations: River and spring swimming areas require parental supervision. The Gasconade River has variable depths and currents depending on recent rainfall. At Froggys River Resort, "the river moves slow," making it more manageable for families with young children compared to faster-flowing sections.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Most established campgrounds offer electric services, but water and sewer connections vary. At Lamplight Lane RV Resort at Glen Oaks, "the only draw back is that the roads and spots are all gravel and can be muddy at times." However, visitors appreciate that "the owners/operators are awesome."
Site leveling challenges: Uneven terrain affects many RV sites in the area. Bennett Spring State Park campers note "our site was kinda tricky to get into, especially if you have a longer trailer. Seemed like quite a few were that way, so do your research."
Winter camping options: Limited campgrounds remain open year-round. Roubidoux Springs Campground provides "full hook up! Flat with gravel pull through" sites with minimal seasonal closures, making it suitable for winter RV camping when most other facilities have closed for the season.
