Big Lake State Park Campground provides a unique glamping experience on an oxbow lake surrounded by farmland. Located about 40 miles from Skidmore, Missouri, this park offers tent, RV, and cabin accommodations with sites directly on the water. During spring and early summer, winds off the lake can create cooler conditions than expected, requiring extra layers even on warmer days.
What to do
Kayaking and water exploration: Kayak rentals are available at Big Lake State Park Campground for exploring the shallow lake. "Nice lake, campground was good, there are basic sites up against the lake and the rest are electric. Its olny 30ft at the deepest point," notes Jason C.
Fishing from shoreline or jetties: Multiple access points allow bank fishing without a boat at Duck Creek Recreation Area. "Fishing is great right off the bank. NRD permit required. Lots of sites but majority are on top of the hill away from water," according to A.H.
Trail hiking with varied terrain: For those wanting land-based activities, trails at Waubonsie State Park Campground offer scenic views through the Loess Hills. "We took one of the more scenic trails and took us over the top of some of those beautiful Loess Hills," writes Tony B.
What campers like
Spacious lakeside sites: Many campers appreciate the larger waterfront camping areas. As Chad K. notes about Big Lake, "The campsites are spaced and right on the lake. Fair warning the wind blows off the lake and can be very chilly."
Clean, modern facilities: Lake of Three Fires State Park Campground maintains high standards for amenities. "Clean, quiet, and as beautiful as ever- that's our lake! All fire pits have an incredible grate system for cooking," mentions Isaac F.
Accessible outdoor options: Duck Creek offers facilities designed with accessibility in mind. "Paved trail and wide gravel slabs with raised fire pits should make this a great rustic getaway for handicapped campers. There is even a paved path to the end of a jetty of fishing in the lake," according to Charles C.
What you should know
Seasonal flooding concerns: Some riverside areas experience periodic flooding that affects facilities. "Unfortunately, the river has flooded it out as of June 28, 2024 and it will likely be unusable for at least the remainder of this season," warns John A. about Brownville Riverside Park.
Limited amenities at some sites: Not all camping areas offer full services. "The sites just are too close for me as a tent camper. They could almost use some of the day use picnic area as primitive sites," comments Tony B. about Waubonsie State Park.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare for interaction with local fauna. "There are signs in the bathrooms warning of the raccoons. These signs are not exaggerating. We had a raccoon at our campsite trying to steal our food while we were there, like the raccoon was less than 10 feet from humans during mid-day," cautions Danni A.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: AOK Campground & RV Park provides multiple recreation options. "There was a pool, a playground, a sand volleyball area, and a basketball area. The shower house was very clean," shares Shannon G.
Flat roads for beginner cyclists: Big Lake offers safe areas for children learning to ride. "Kids enjoyed riding bikes around the flat roads," notes Sarah H.
Swimming options for hot days: Lake of Three Fires includes a designated swimming area with sand. "It has a good sized lake for fishing and kayaking, but not too big for large speed boats. The beach is sandy and clean for a refreshing dip on a hot afternoon," according to Caralee D.
Tips from RVers
Easy access camping: Pony Express RV offers reliable facilities for larger vehicles. "Most sites offer 30 and 50 Amp, Water and Sewer. WiFi has improved. The owner is on site daily and is very attentive," mentions Rick K.
Level sites with good utilities: AOK Campground provides well-maintained spaces for overnight stays. "The sites appear mostly all level and gravel. We had a pull through and it was perfect for overnight. Full hook up and shade," reports Brenda L.
Dump station location considerations: Plan your departure timing carefully at some parks. "All roads are narrow one way with the dumpstation at the back end of park with trash dumpsters there. So on a sunday you will get stuck in the dumpstation line to drop off your trash even if you don't need to dump," advises Jolie C.