Equestrian camping near St. Joseph, Missouri offers access to several conservation areas and parks within a 50-mile radius. The region's rolling hills and mixed forest terrain provide varied riding conditions from spring through fall, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 65-85°F. Primitive camping options accommodate horse trailers at designated areas, though riders should verify site accessibility before arrival as seasonal conditions can affect road quality.
What to do
Trail riding on service roads: At Honey Creek Conservation Area, riders can explore multiple route options throughout the 1,991-acre property. "Google Maps will take you on some gnarly gravel roads in a big loop if you take directions straight from Dyrt. Save yourself the time and search 'Honey Creek Conservation Area'," advises Kevin in his review.
Lake activities: Crow's Creek Campground provides access to Smithville Lake for fishing and boating. "The roads and trails are nice for scooters and bikes. Fairly close to the water and playground; within walking distance," notes Brittnie T. The campground maintains paved trails along the lakeshore suitable for family recreation after trail rides.
Historical exploration: Beyond riding, visit the nearby woolen mill at Watkins Mill State Park Campground. "If you like history, take a tour of the woolen mill part. Very cool," shares Josh P. The park offers a change of pace from riding with its historical exhibits and lake activities.
What campers like
Secluded camping areas: Riders appreciate the quiet locations for overnight stays. "A good spot if you are not interested in a busy campground. This is a beautiful wooded conservation area. Some of the sites to the front of the property are pretty standard and more open with some metal fire pits and tables," notes Sayler O. about Honey Creek.
Spacious sites for trailers: Wallace State Park Campground offers larger camping areas. "Exceptional primitive camping, private spaces with plenty of shade. Clean toilets and welcoming full time staff. Small swimming lake a short walk away and nice treks," writes Marimba N., noting the amenities that complement a horse camping trip.
Overnight access to natural areas: Many riders value the ability to camp directly in conservation areas rather than making day trips. "Quiet and relaxing. I love how many of the basic sites are secluded or at least mostly separate from other sites. Many have treeline surrounding so your site is closed off from others, ensuring some privacy," explains Erin P. about Wallace State Park.
What you should know
Variable bathroom facilities: Facility quality varies significantly between locations. "The campground is huge, with several loops and tons of sites. The RV loops were packed and felt really crowded, while the tent site loops were almost empty during our July visit," reports Sayler O. about Crows Creek Campground.
Trail conditions change seasonally: Spring often brings muddy trails and periodic flooding near the Missouri River. "We did have noise neighbors show up the second night of our stay, but our first night was very quiet," mentions Justin S. about Wallace State Park, highlighting the variable camping experience.
Reservation requirements: Most conservation areas operate on a first-come, first-served basis for equestrian camping. "GPS directions occasionally route visitors through closed access roads, so riders should obtain area maps before arrival," notes a reviewer, emphasizing the importance of planning ahead.
Tips for camping with families
Safety precautions: Keep children supervised near rivers and lake areas. "The lake is big with a sand beach (non alcoholic beverages allowed unfortunately for the adults) for the kiddos. We enjoyed all the covers on the lake so we could anchor out and swim! The shower houses and outhouses were probably some of the cleanest I've ever seen," reports Caitlin R. about Crow's Creek.
Choose developed campgrounds: Weston Bend State Park Campground offers better amenities for family camping. "Weston Bend was everything I could hope for. The camp site were small and compact but it was nice. I for sure recommend campsite 26 anyone who comes and utilizes," shares Spencer P.
Plan for weather changes: Spring and fall temperatures can vary significantly. "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," advises Robin R. about Crow's Creek.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Be prepared with leveling blocks at some locations. "Our spot was 13" unlevel. Luckily we had several blocks of wood to help level our camp out. The grass wasn't mowed. And it was 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)," shares Caitlin R.
Full hookup options: Smiths Fork Recreation Area Camping provides complete services for RVers. "We don't stray very far from the KC Metro (50 mile radius). Of everywhere Smith's Fork is the only one (so far) that offers Electric (30 & 50 amp), Water (2) and Sewer at every campsite. At just $30 per day it is a steal!" notes Don M.
Seasonal availability: Many campgrounds near St. Joseph reduce services in winter months. "We stayed a week here it was nice and quite..close to a lake. Shaded sites in some areas..redoing the campground..it was put in in the 70s..which is ok by me. Everything good here," reports Deborah about Smiths Fork Recreation Area.
