Crow's Creek Campground provides dedicated equestrian facilities near Riverside, Missouri. Located on the shores of Smithville Lake, the park offers access for horse owners about 20 miles north of Kansas City. Several campground loops contain designated horse areas with both primitive sites and utility hookups. The campground connects to multiple trail systems accommodating riders of all skill levels.
What to do
Hiking at multiple skill levels: Wallace State Park offers well-marked trails at three different difficulty levels. "The trails around Wallace are fantastic. From a casual stroll around the lake to a more vigorous hike up the hill this park provides it all," notes Chad K. from Wallace State Park Campground.
Lakeside recreation: Fishing and boating are primary activities at nearby campgrounds. At Camp Branch Campground, "We had a short walk to the lake for fishing, and the loop had a restroom. We were able to enter the swim beach without having to pay extra," shares Nikki S. Smithville Lake provides multiple water access points for anglers and boaters.
Bicycle-friendly trails: Paved paths around Smithville Lake support both casual and serious cyclists. "The roads and trails are nice for scooters and bikes. Fairly close to the water and playground; within walking distance," explains Brittnie T. about Crow's Creek Park. Several interconnected trail systems allow for rides of various lengths.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the maintenance of bathroom facilities. At Weston Bend State Park, "These are the cleanest bathrooms and facilities that I have been to I think Mabye ever. The camp hosts were super nice stop by to make sure that I was all set up and didn't need any help," reports Lauri J. from Weston Bend State Park Campground.
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer sites with adequate spacing between neighbors. At Smiths Fork Recreation Area, "These RV spots have great shade, are spaced nicely apart, and are a quick walk to the lake! Amazing sunsets!" according to Steven N. from Smiths Fork Recreation Area Camping.
Proximity to Kansas City: The location provides a quick escape from urban areas. Campers appreciate the balance of nature and accessibility. "This is a very clean campground. The staff is very nice and helpful," says Darlene N. about Lake Jacomo, highlighting its convenience to city residents.
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Some campground facilities close during colder months. At Camp Branch, "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," warns Bridget U. from Camp Branch Campground.
Site characteristics vary significantly: Terrain differs substantially between loops at most campgrounds. "The full hookup sites don't have a view of the lake. This is why we chose an electric only site and used a spigot in the campsite to fill our tank," explains Julie B. regarding Crow's Creek, suggesting researching specific sites before booking.
Weekend crowds: Popularity impacts the camping experience during peak times. "We love it when it is still kind of off season like Easter weekend and after labor day. We have small children and it can get pretty rowdy during the summer," notes Robin R. about busy summer periods at Crow's Creek Park.
Tips for camping with families
Consider camping season: School vacation periods impact the atmosphere. "We have chosen to go to other campgrounds during peak season," mentions Robin R. about Crow's Creek when discussing family visits. Families seeking quieter environments should target weekdays or shoulder seasons.
Recreational variety: Multiple activity options keep children engaged. At Watkins Mill State Park Campground, "Great place to make memories. We grew up minutes from here. Great camping facilities, paved walking/biking trail, fishing, swimming and even history lessons," recommends Josh P. The combination of water and land activities supports longer stays.
Playground access: Several campgrounds maintain play areas for children. "Trails and roads within the campsite are paved, so it's great for bikes and scooters. Grounds are well maintained and grassy areas feel fine to walk through and play in," notes Julie B. about the family-friendly infrastructure at Crow's Creek.
Tips for RVers
Electric-only considerations: Many sites lack full hookups despite having electricity. "It is only electrical hookup (which wasn't a big deal since we were in hose length of the drinking water so we could refill our tanks)," explains Caitlin R. about Camp Branch. RVers should plan water usage accordingly when staying at electric-only sites.
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven pads requiring additional equipment. "One big downside for me was the lack of trees—there's maybe one tree per tent site and even fewer around the RV spots. Shade is minimal," notes Sayler O. about Crow's Creek Park, adding details about the open exposure at RV sites.
Dump station access: While full hookups are limited, dump stations are typically available. At Crow's Creek and surrounding parks, most RVers rely on centralized dump facilities. Watkins Mill provides "power hookup no water or sewer at site but both are available in the campground," according to Terry, who appreciated the $21 senior rate per night.
