Best Campgrounds near Smithville, MO
Smithville Lake serves as a focal point for camping options in northern Missouri, approximately 30 minutes north of Kansas City. The area features several established campgrounds including Crow's Creek Campground, Smiths Fork Recreation Area Camping, and Camp Branch Campground. These facilities primarily accommodate tent and RV camping, with some locations offering cabins and glamping options. Most campgrounds provide basic amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and access to drinking water, while several offer electrical hookups and shower facilities for those seeking more comfortable accommodations.
Reservations are highly recommended for most campgrounds in the Smithville area, especially during peak season from April through October. Many sites offer full hookups with water, electric (30 and 50 amp service), and sewer connections, though availability varies by location. Crow's Creek provides both basic and improved sites with water and electric hookups spread across multiple loops, while Smiths Fork Recreation Area features full hookup sites that operate seasonally from April 15 to October 15. Weather conditions can affect camping experiences, with summer humidity and occasional storms being typical. "We stayed a week here it was nice and quiet...close to a lake. Shaded sites in some areas," noted one camper about Smiths Fork Recreation Area.
Lakefront access represents a significant draw for campers visiting the Smithville area. Several campgrounds offer sites with direct views of Smithville Lake and convenient water access for boating, fishing, and swimming. Campers particularly appreciate the extensive trail system around the lake, with paved walking and biking paths connecting many camping areas. One visitor mentioned, "There are many spacious tent sites with great views of the lake. Miles of paved walking/biking trails around the water offer for a nice activity!" Weekends during summer months tend to see higher occupancy rates and more activity, while shoulder seasons provide a quieter experience. Sites with shade are particularly valued during hot summer months, though tree coverage varies significantly between camping loops and facilities.
