RV parks near Strafford, Missouri sit within the Ozark Plateau's northern region at approximately 1,400 feet elevation. The area features rolling hills with deciduous forests dominated by oak and hickory trees. Summer temperatures typically range 75-95°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder camping weather in the 50-75°F range.
What to do
Creek exploration: 10 minutes from Branson. At Bull Creek RV Park, families can enjoy 400 feet of creek access where kids can splash and play. "Amazing creek access for kids to swim (knee deep at most). Feels like you're in the country while being very close to the hustle and bustle of Branson and SDC," notes a visitor.
Visit historic sites: 5-minute walk. The Laura Ingalls Wilder Home and Museum is directly across from Laura Ingalls Wilder RV Park, making it convenient for literary history enthusiasts. "Convenient location across from Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum. We walked the dog around a little and she enjoyed that," shares one camper.
Fishing: Lake Taneycomo access. Serious anglers can base themselves at lakefront sites with dedicated amenities. "The boat dock is very nice and well kept. The fish cleaning station is very nice. We love the view of the lake," according to a regular visitor who stays multiple times yearly.
What campers like
Spacious sites with privacy features: Campers appreciate the thoughtful layout at some rv parks Strafford, Missouri area campgrounds. "The campsites were very nice loved the privacy fence between the sites for extra privacy. Very nice fire pits," notes one reviewer about the lakefront options.
Clean facilities: Quality bathrooms rank high on camper priority lists. "Clean bath/shower house" was specifically highlighted by a Bull Creek RV Park visitor, while another camper at Cooks RV Motor Park noted "Showers/restrooms/laundry are all in one building, and very clean and well kept."
Helpful staff: Many campgrounds receive praise for their hospitality. "The hosts make this place amazing. We've stayed here twice now. The first time they welcomed us after we had a blow out and we were able to stay as long as it took to get repaired. They helped with recommending repair people, tools and parts," shares a grateful Laura Ingalls Wilder RV Park visitor.
What you should know
Site conditions vary significantly: Level sites aren't guaranteed at all parks. "The park is on a hillside that is terraced at each site. Nice & quiet for the most part," explains a visitor to Laura Ingalls Wilder RV Park, while another camper noted about a different location, "Gravel pads made leveling easy."
Seasonal noise factors: Some RV parks near highway access points experience noise issues. "The CG is in an industrial area and you do have some noise. I-44 is very close and loud," mentions a reviewer about one location, though they added it wasn't too bothersome with air conditioning running.
Long-term vs. overnight considerations: Hide-A-Way Campground & RV Retreat recently experienced management changes affecting the guest mix. "The new owners have really cleaned up the park and gotten rid of so many of the problems that were bringing this once loved park down. They have since cleaned up the park, gotten rid of the long term campers who were not friendly and were frankly scary."
Tips for camping with families
Community activities: Weekend gatherings. Some rv parks in the Strafford area organize social events. "They've implemented security and rules and hired a fantastic manager. They have brought in new facility, renovated the office and community room and are adding new pads. Added a new community fire pit and bbq area and have cook outs with the guests on weekends."
Playground access: Multiple options. Parks near water typically offer additional recreation amenities. "Edgewater has all the amenities you could want; great views, a lake to fish, swim, or boat in, a pool and a playground," shares a satisfied visitor to Edgewater Beach Resort.
Dog-friendly areas: Dedicated spaces. Many campgrounds accommodate four-legged family members with specific areas. "The park is adjacent to a large field where my dog was able to run to her heart's content, which was very welcome after being in other campgrounds where I had to keep her on a leash at all times," notes a Cooks RV Motor Park camper. Another reviewer mentioned "Fenced in dog area for fur babies to release energy" at Bull Creek RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Food options: On-site and nearby. Some parks feature food service or nearby dining. "Barbeque food truck is very very good...huge proportions. Many attractions in Branson close to RV park(10 miles or less)." At RV Express 66, one visitor noted its proximity to "lots of eating establishments close by."
Site selection: Request specific areas. Different sections of campgrounds offer varied experiences. "We had camping site A, which is right on Lake Taneycomo. Sites are very large with full hookups," explains a visitor who stayed 21 nights, adding "We were in a 33 foot motorhome with a boat trailer and a truck also on the site and there was plenty of room."
Seasonal booking: Plan for varied weather. Missouri's changeable weather affects camping comfort. "This was the last stop of a 5 week outing for me, and I booked a single night the day before arrival, looking for a full hookup place to dump my tanks and winterize on my way home to northern IL, where the temps were below freezing."
