RV sites near Joplin, Missouri offer a variety of camping options set amid the rolling terrain of the Ozark Highlands. The area sits at approximately 1,000 feet elevation with summer temperatures averaging in the mid-80s and relatively mild winters. The region has numerous parks with both wooded and open sites, many located along local waterways for fishing and water recreation opportunities.
What to do
River recreation opportunities: Zans Creekside RV Park provides direct access to Shoal Creek with tubing and kayaking options. One visitor noted, "Tubing from the falls was a blast!" while another mentioned that "The river is pretty, seems like great fishing opportunity."
Outdoor trails access: Blowing Springs RV Park connects directly to extensive mountain biking trails. A camper explained, "Easy to access and nestled in a valley of beautiful trees. It's also close to hiking and biking trails." Another visitor called it a "Bikers paradise" with "incredible instant access to the trailhead of many singletrack bike and hiking trails."
Route 66 attractions: Camp Mi Casa on the Route RV Park offers nearby historic Route 66 attractions. A camper mentioned, "There's also an old Drive in movie next door! Makes you want to get an airstream and cruise down Route 66." The campground is "Near enough to town to enjoy the museum and pop in for lunch, far enough away to feel detached."
What campers like
Shaded, spacious sites: Big Red Barn RV Park features level sites with ample shade. Campers appreciate that it's "very well maintained and level sites, lots of trees" and note the "large trees and green grass and spacious sites."
Pet-friendly facilities: Many campgrounds around Joplin welcome pets with dedicated areas. One camper at Big Red Barn RV Park mentioned, "They have an off-leash dog park area which our dogs loved and used it 3-4 times the nite we were there." At Beagle Bay RV Haven Campground, visitors appreciate the "lawn is fairly level, bathrooms and showers are only a short walk away" making it convenient for pet owners.
Casino proximity: Whispering Woods RV Park offers convenience for those interested in gaming. A visitor mentioned, "Easy walk to casino. WiFi good if you are closer" while another noted the "Free shuttle to the casino if desired."
What you should know
Reservation systems: Some parks have limited online booking capabilities. At Ballard's Campground, a camper noted issues with reservations: "After reviewing the camp map, I found C1 shown as a pull thru site available for the week we would be staying... Until 2 days before we are set to show up, I get an email and we have been moved to a back in site."
Site spacing: Site proximity varies considerably between parks. At Zans Creekside RV Park, "Camp sites are divided by the road with RVs on one side and tents on the other. A person can easily walk under the bridge to get from one side to the other without having to walk on the road."
Bathroom facilities: Quality ranges widely across campgrounds. At Beagle Bay RV Haven Campground, "Bathrooms are beautiful and clean, 2 toilets, 2 showers and a sauna in each" while at Zans Creekside one visitor noted "The shower and bathrooms left a lot to be desired. Only one shower and indoor toilet on the side we stayed on."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Several parks offer swimming facilities for children. At Beagle Bay RV Haven Campground, they "have everything you could want! Arcade, swimming pool, kids playground and a pond to fish."
Playgrounds and recreation: Camp Mi Casa on the Route RV Park offers family-friendly amenities including "a pool and pavilion" and is near an "old time outdoor movie drive in" just "a couple of blocks down the road."
Staff interaction: Many parks have staff who go above and beyond for children. At Beagle Bay, one visitor shared: "Kim came by and took my son and 2 other kids on a golf cart ride on the trail behind the lake and they had a blast."
Tips from RVers
Overnight specials: Some parks offer discounted or free stays. At Downstream RV Park, "Stay is free with a membership card from casino. Got card then went to gift shop to get space" and another noted it's a "Passport America stop, 17.50 per night."
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at some parks. At Ballard's Campground, sites are "not level at all" according to one visitor, while others recommend Big Red Barn RV Park specifically because sites are "very level with crushed stone pads."
Utility connections: Full hookups and reliability vary by park. Near Joplin, RVers note that Grand Lake O' the Cherokees RV Resort provides "Full hookups, nice common area.. easy access to launch ramps" while at Downstream RV Park visitors appreciate "Good water pressure and reliable electric."
