Campsites near Liberty, Missouri offer diverse terrain options within an hour's drive from Kansas City. The region features oak-hickory forests, rolling hills, and multiple lakes including Smithville Lake, Wallace Mill Lake, and Lake Jacomo. Most campgrounds maintain operating seasons from April through October, with limited winter access at select sites.
What to do
Biking trails: The paved trails around Crow's Creek Campground connect directly to the lake and are ideal for family cycling. "The roads and trails are nice for scooters and bikes. Fairly close to the water and playground; within walking distance," notes Brittnie T.
Horseback riding: For horse enthusiasts beyond the Liberty area, Smiths Fork Recreation Area provides access to multiple riding paths. "Close to Kansas City so it makes a great quick getaway. Clean, friendly, and right next to Smithville Lake. Our pick for a short trip," according to Lawrence W.
Fishing spots: The lakes surrounding Liberty offer multiple shoreline fishing options. "We have stayed in this campground too many times to count. 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," explains Robin R. at Crow's Creek.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Watkins Mill State Park consistently receives praise for maintenance. "Beautifully layed out with paved access, trees spots and a nice lake. Clean facilities include plenty of stalls and sinks, separate showers and laundry. Well lit and accessible," reports Anita M.
Spacious sites: Campers appreciate the room to spread out at nearby campgrounds. "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. We had lots of grassy space around us to set up and play yard games," describes Julie B. about her stay at Crow's Creek.
Lake proximity: Many campers value the direct water access. "Trails at Smithville Lake connect directly to camping areas, and the trail system includes both wooded and lakeside routes. "Camp ground is great. There are 2 shower houses, 1 new one towards the front and one in the farthest loop. There is a small lake great for kayaking and fishing boats," notes Jason C. about Watkins Mill State Park.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Camp Branch Campground and other facilities have specific operating schedules. "During the camping season this campground has nice large shower houses and clean bathrooms. They sell ice and firewood at gates. Pleasant campground, very nice lake," Charlotte B. explains.
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds require advance bookings, especially for equestrian facilities. "We recently stayed 4 nights/5 days and enjoyed it. The lake is big with a sand beach for the kiddos. We enjoyed all the covers on the lake so we could anchor out and swim," shares Caitlin R.
Site leveling: Check site descriptions carefully before booking. "Some downfalls were our spot was 13" unlevel. Luckily we had several blocks of wood to help level our camp out," warns Caitlin R. about her stay at Camp Branch Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Wallace State Park offers child-friendly amenities near campsites. "For entertainment, there was a bustling playground, winding nature trails, horseshoes, lake swimming, and fishing. There was also a well kept laundry house with a dishwashing sink attached," notes Sarah H.
Lake activities: Several parks offer water recreation options beyond equestrian camping near Liberty, Missouri. "This campground was always a family favorite when we were kids. We would go out extra early to set up then spend our time on the bike trails until lunch," remembers Janelle M. about Watkins Mill.
Timing considerations: Family visits work best during specific seasons. "We have started staying here last couple of years. Nice big spots with electric only. It is quite a ways to shower house but much quieter than other campgrounds on Smithville lake. More family friendly," explains Robin R. about Camp Branch.
Tips for RVers
Hookup options: Weston Bend State Park provides various site types. "Campground is hilly, sites are level, gravel pads. Lots of space between sites. Electric sites, no water, but water spigots were scattered around the campground. Majority of sites had shade," reports Renee H.
Site selection: Choose sites based on specific needs. "Full hookup sites don't have any 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. about her experience at Crow's Creek.
Dump station access: Plan for waste management at facilities. "Campground host was really friendly in greeting us and accommodating our request to change sites. Sparkling clean showers and lovely grounds," Kevin S. shares about Wallace State Park.
