Cabin camping options near Smithville, Missouri offer access to recreational lakes and historical attractions within 30 miles of Kansas City. Situated in the rolling hills of northwest Missouri, these accommodations provide year-round options with temperatures ranging from winter lows in the 20s to summer highs in the 90s. The terrain features wooded areas surrounding small lakes with elevations averaging 800-900 feet above sea level.
What to do
Fishing access nearby: Several campgrounds provide easy fishing access without requiring extensive travel. Lewis and Clark State Park Campground has a small lake suitable for beginning anglers. According to Jason C., "Lake not much. Good for small kids. Sites are level mostly shaded." The park offers shoreline fishing areas for visitors without boats.
Biking trails: The paved trails at Watkins Mill State Park create safe cycling routes for all skill levels. Josh P. noted, "Great camping facilities, paved walking/biking trail, fishing, swimming and even history lessons. If you like history, take a tour of the woolen mill part. Very cool." The trail encircles the lake and connects directly to the campground area.
Paddle sports: Many camping areas near Smithville allow non-motorized boats on their lakes. Jason C. describes Lewis and Clark State Park as having a "small lake for fishing and kayaking. Bike trail and playgrounds." Several of these lakes have rental options for those without their own equipment.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Green Acres at Red Brick Farmhouse receives consistently high ratings for cleanliness. Frank H. said, "Small, secluded camp sites on picturesque lawn surrounding 3-story red brick farmhouse near Higginsville, MO. Two tent sites. Two or three small RV sites and one parked RV trailer available as a nightly rental. Bathroom with shower available." The property maintains both grounds and facilities to high standards.
Family activities: Basswood Country RV Resort organizes regular events for children. Robin R. mentioned, "This campground is a must for anyone with children. Awesome sites with full hook ups. They have several ponds you can fish from. My kids love that. Nice play area for kids as well as themed weekends with lots of activities planned that kids can do." These organized activities run primarily during summer months.
Swimming options: Multiple cabin rental locations feature pools or swimming access. Basswood provides both fishing and swimming amenities according to Abbie G.: "This place is very nice. Very clean bathhouses and property, friendly staff, nice pool, great fishing, fun family activities, nice camp store/pizza kitchen." Most pools operate seasonally from late May through early September.
What you should know
Airport proximity: Some campgrounds experience air traffic noise. Dave M. wrote about Basswood Country RV Resort: "Nice accommodations from camping spots, motel rooms, cabins and houses. Well ran. Golf carts, a pool, activities for the kids. Only drawback is the airplanes overhead going to and from the airport."
Reservation requirements: Most cabin accommodations require advance booking, particularly during summer months. Availability can be limited on weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Many locations require minimum stays of 2 nights for cabins during peak season.
Private vs. public options: State parks offer more affordable cabin rates but fewer amenities, while private campgrounds provide more services at higher cost. State park cabins typically start at $60-85 per night while private facilities range from $85-150 depending on amenities.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas specifically designed for children. At Watkins Mill State Park, Janelle M. recalls: "This campground was always a family favorite when we were kids. We would go out extra early to set up then spend our time on the bike trails until lunch. We always brought our own grill but theirs were nice as well." Most playgrounds are centrally located within the campgrounds.
Consider rental accommodations: Some locations offer equipment rentals to reduce what families need to transport. At Basswood, rentals include fishing equipment and recreational items like golf carts, allowing families to try activities without purchasing gear.
Space between sites: Cabin locations vary in their spacing and privacy. Jason C. noted about Lewis and Clark State Park: "Camp ground is great. There are 2 shower houses, 1 new one towards the front and one in the farthest loop. The trail wraps the lake and connects to the edge of the campground." Sites at state parks typically provide more distance between accommodations.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions: Kansas City East-Oak Grove KOA offers cabins with varying pad sizes. Roy T. observed: "Easy access to Interstate and pull through sites were long enough for our truck and 32' trailer without having to unhitch. Stayed just one night as we passed through. Looked like it would be a good place to stay for multiple nights."
Utility access varies: Not all cabins offer the same hookups. Some locations provide only electricity while others include water access. Frank H. described Green Acres: "Water and electric available. Friendly and helpful hosts reside in the big house. There are places to eat nearby." Always confirm exactly what utilities come with your specific cabin.
Seasonal availability: Operating seasons differ between locations. Some private campgrounds remain open year-round while others close during winter. Public facilities like Worlds of Fun Village operate on limited schedules, with John L. noting: "The theme park offered discounted tickets when staying at the campground and parking for the parks was included. Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun are internally connected, making it easy to walk between the two."
