Best Campgrounds near St. Joseph, MO

Camping near St. Joseph, Missouri, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor lovers. From serene lakeside spots to family-friendly campgrounds, there’s something for everyone.

What to do:

• Hiking and Nature Walks: Many campgrounds, like Watkins Mill State Park Campground, have beautiful trails. One visitor mentioned, "New asphalt roads throughout the park; nice for walking, biking, etc."
• Fishing and Boating: Campgrounds near Smithville Lake, such as Crow's Creek Campground, are great for fishing. A camper shared, "We’ve stayed here several times without any problems. The hosts are great too."
• Playgrounds and Family Activities: Blue Springs Lake Campground has playgrounds for kids. One family noted, "We had a full hookup site located right by the playground and it was perfect for our family."

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Wallace State Park Campground said, "The bathrooms are pristine—nicer than some restaurants or hotels I’ve been to."
• Friendly Hosts: Many campgrounds have welcoming staff. A visitor at Watkins Mill State Park Campground mentioned, "The hosts are very nice."
• Scenic Views: Campers enjoy the beautiful surroundings. One reviewer at Camp Branch Campground said, "Stayed on the A loop and had a beautiful view of the lake!"

What you should know:

• Reservations: Some campgrounds, like Lake Jacomo - Fleming Park, can fill up quickly. A camper noted, "It is full yet it says open on the site."
• Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full hookups. A visitor at Crow's Creek Campground mentioned, "While some amenities are lacking, it’s the dispersed nature that makes it special."
• Wildlife: Be prepared for wildlife encounters. One camper at Hackberry Hollow Campground shared, "A giant raccoon tried to get into my cooler 10 minutes after we turned out our lights for the night."

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Campgrounds with Play Areas: Look for spots like Blue Springs Lake Campground that have playgrounds. A family mentioned, "It was perfect for our family."
• Plan for Activities: Bring games and outdoor toys. One camper at Watkins Mill State Park Campground enjoyed the peaceful environment, saying, "We stayed Sunday-Wednesday and it was very peaceful."
• Pack Snacks and Drinks: Keep everyone happy with snacks. A visitor at Camp Branch Campground noted, "The camp store sells wood and everyone was extremely friendly."

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Walnut Grove RV Park said, "I would recommend staying at the premium pull-through sites."
• Bring Leveling Blocks: Some sites can be uneven. A camper at Lake Jacomo - Fleming Park mentioned, "Some sites are not very level so bring blocks."
• Use Local Resources: Don’t hesitate to ask campground staff for tips on local attractions. A visitor at Walnut Grove RV Park appreciated the help, saying, "Very friendly and helpful about area things to do."

Camping around St. Joseph, Missouri, has its perks and quirks. With the right preparation, you can enjoy a fantastic outdoor experience!