Camping spots near Schell City, Missouri range from primitive to fully developed options across a 30-mile radius. Located in west-central Missouri at approximately 850 feet elevation, the area experiences distinct seasons with spring and fall offering ideal camping conditions when temperatures average 60-75°F. Winter camping is limited as most conservation areas close during hunting season, while summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity.
What to do
Wildlife photography opportunities: Montrose Missouri Conservation Area's shallow lake attracts diverse wildlife throughout the day. "We got to campsite pretty late, so when everyone was unpacked we went straight to bed. Shortly after we all passed out from the long and beautiful 16 hour drive, we started hearing all the wildlife and I will never forget waking up in the most beautiful place," notes one camper at Montrose Missouri Conservation Area.
Fishing at multiple lakes: Several campgrounds offer fishing access with varying conditions. At Stockton State Park Campground, "There are pontoons, kayaks and canoes for rent at the marina. There is also a swim beach nearby," according to one visitor. The park features marked kayak trails on the lake for guided exploration.
Arrowhead hunting: Some conservation areas have historical significance with artifacts occasionally found. "One of the locals stopped by my site to look for arrowheads. Apparently, she has found a lot in the area so that's a good activity if the kids are bored," shares a camper from Montrose Missouri Conservation Area.
Night sky viewing: The rural setting offers excellent stargazing conditions. "The stars were beautiful, the 'sites' were spacious and well spread out, and there is lots of shade. You could definitely get a big rig in and out of here on the looped gravel roads," explains a Montrose Missouri Conservation Area visitor.
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: Many established campgrounds receive positive feedback for upkeep. At Osceola RV Park & Campground, "The park was clean and we felt safe. It was not noisy. There are large trees that make nice shade," according to a recent visitor who paid just $22 for a full-hookup site.
Spacious campsites: Conservation areas typically offer more room between sites than commercial campgrounds. At Sparrowfoot, "Sites were spacious with 50 Amp hook ups. Some sites had been receantly redone, new grass, rock pads and elec pedestals," notes one reviewer who appreciated the updates.
Budget-friendly options: Several campgrounds offer excellent value. "Paid $10 with interagency senior discount. Stayed in the B Loop. We were one of 5 campers here," shares a Sparrowfoot visitor who appreciated the clean facilities and reasonable pricing during a September stay.
Lake access: Water activities remain a major draw. "This campsite is beautiful. Loop B is much quieter with fewer guests. Loop A is a little more busy. Loop A: 2 smaller loops of campsites. A17,18,19 are very close to a little walkway that goes down to the lake," explains a detailed review of Sparrowfoot.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Hunting seasons significantly impact camping availability. "There is no camping allowed after October 15 due to hunting season. This was not on the website and was not seeable in dust when arriving late on a small sign in the bushes," warns a Montrose Missouri Conservation Area visitor.
Toilet conditions vary widely: Facilities range from well-maintained to primitive. "The pit toilet was really gross, but there was toilet paper," notes one Montrose Missouri Conservation Area camper, while another at Kimmys At Caplinger praised the "beautiful, peaceful & lots of things to do" environment including well-maintained amenities.
Cell service considerations: Reception varies dramatically between locations. At Sparrowfoot, "I had excellent T-Mobile 5G service," reports a recent camper, while some conservation areas have minimal connectivity. Other campgrounds report "No T-Mobile service" entirely.
Weather impacts: Summer rains can create challenging conditions. "Large grassy area with plenty of room to set up a tent or camper. Right off the road, so no dirt roads to traverse. Signs were confusing as to whether it is ok to camp, but they didn't explicitly say no camping. The lake is really just a mud bog," notes a Montrose Missouri Conservation Area visitor from May.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated recreation areas. At Sparrowfoot, "Loop B also has the playground which is right behind site B47. It's a newer playground and all equipment was nicely maintained. There are no swings. Only complaint is that there are no benches or picnic tables at the playground so bring your camping chair if you plan to stay awhile."
Swimming options: Water quality varies significantly between locations. "When we were here (July) the lake was pretty muddy but I'm not sure if it's always that way or not. It was also pretty low, but still had plenty of fun and kayaked through all the little coves," notes a Sparrowfoot visitor describing the swimming areas.
Pet-friendly considerations: Most campgrounds welcome pets, though rules differ. At Arrowhead Point RV Park & Cabins Campground, a visitor noted being "Greeted by the owner and directed to our site. Once parked and hooked up, we were visited once more by the owner to see if anything else was need. Pleasant, quiet, and friendly experience."
Beginner-friendly walk-in sites: Some parks offer accessible primitive camping. "We did check out the walk in sites here, but were not able to stay in them. They looked awesome and were a short 5 minute walk from the parking. A great beginner site for walk in camping and there were carts at the start of the trail for your gear," explains a Stockton State Park Campground visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Experienced RVers recommend specific locations at each campground. At Arrowhead Point RV Park & Cabins Campground, "We had reserved a spot that would have been too small for our rig. Owner had already caught my mistake on check in and moved us to a better spot. Shady spots, #22 is best. Full hookups. Cheap laundry at $2.50."
Seasonal considerations: Off-peak camping offers advantages. At Stockton State Park, campers can find exceptional value: "Real nice park Especially for what we paid. $8.00 for electric only per night. Senior rate off season, $2.00 discount. Two loops East & West. We stayed in the east on a fairly level site, all nicely spaced."
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited in the region. A camper at Show-Me Rest RV Park noted they are "Very friendly and accommodating owners. Low rates!" while highlighting the full hookups available for longer stays with "Weekly and monthly rates are available."
Leveling requirements: Site conditions vary significantly. At Osceola RV Park & Campground, "needed two blocks to level, some mature trees, some short sites, some longer, make sure to ask for longer," advises an RV camper highlighting the importance of confirming site dimensions when making reservations.
