Camping near Sumner, Missouri features numerous options within a 30-mile radius, with sites ranging from primitive lakeside spots to fully equipped state park campgrounds. The region sits at approximately 700 feet above sea level in Missouri's northern plains, characterized by gently rolling hills and grasslands interspersed with wooded areas. Summer temperatures typically reach the upper 80s, while spring and fall camping seasons offer milder conditions in the 60-70°F range with occasional rainfall.
What to do
Fishing at multiple lakes: Thomas Hill Reservoir Conservation Area offers multiple fishing spots with easy access. According to one visitor, "You can see fireworks for Miles all around" during Fourth of July celebrations at the reservoir. Another camper noted it has an "awesome lake" and well-maintained grounds despite being a free campground.
Hiking woodland trails: The boardwalk trail at Van Meter State Park provides a unique ecosystem experience. "Several short hikes in the park that are appropriate for kids and dogs," mentions a visitor. Another review highlights that the "trails through marsh on raised platform are awesome" and provide opportunities to spot local wildlife.
Historical exploration: Arrow Rock State Historic Site offers access to preserved buildings and cultural sites. A camper noted, "There is a historic town you can tour for free that is within walking distance from the campsites." Another visitor recommends "going to see a show in Arrow Rock! It is great to go when they are having a festival and dress in period clothing."
Lake activities beyond fishing: Long Branch State Park features a sandy swimming beach, boat ramps, and rental options. "Great lake. Wonderful swim beach with sand," wrote one visitor. Another camper mentioned, "They have a great lake, and quite campground. The lake has a nice beach next to the marina. Marina store has icecream and other small items if you need something."
What campers like
Secluded lakeside camping: The walk-in sites at Long Branch State Park provide direct lake access away from more developed areas. As one camper shared, "I reserved a walk in site and it was totally worth it. It's a very short walk into the site, it's even visible from the parking lot. The site is right on the water with beach access so there's no need to drive to the crowded beach area to swim!"
Free camping options: Multiple conservation areas offer no-cost camping with basic amenities. Mussel Fork Conservation Area received this comment: "Had a great stealth camping experience here. Road was gravelled all the way down and opened up to a big gravel lot." Another visitor at Fountain Grove Conservation Area noted it has "picnic tables and fire rings at the camping sites and they were well maintained (grass mowed, good gravel roads etc.)."
Uncrowded experiences: Many campgrounds in the region remain relatively quiet even during peak season. Regarding Van Meter State Park, one visitor called it a "Secret gem" they almost didn't want to review to keep it undiscovered. Another camper noted, "We camped here over Memorial Day weekend in 2017 - the campgrounds were fairly empty!"
Attentive campground hosts: Several campgrounds receive praise for their helpful staff. At Pershing State Park, a visitor mentioned, "Good campsites, camp host very friendly and helpful." Another review noted, "The campground hosts, Dan and his wife, have been nothing but helpful and kind. They make their rounds often but never impose."
What you should know
Seasonal water availability: Many campgrounds turn off water services during colder months. At Van Meter State Park, one camper noted, "Electric $21 in season. $19 off season. Off season starts Nov 1." At Pershing State Park, a visitor shared, "Showers, laundry, dump station, playground in park. Great hiking trails. $21 Electric on season, $19 Electric off season. Off season starts Nov 1. Water is turned off."
Bug protection needed: Due to wetland proximity, insect repellent is essential. A visitor to Van Meter State Park warned, "Bring plenty of bug spray. The campground is right by a marsh and it is REALLY buggy." Another camper commented about the "buggy atmosphere" due to nearby marshland.
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly across campgrounds. At Arrow Rock State Historic Site, multiple visitors noted "no cell phone service really" and "We occasionally got 1 bar on T-mobile."
Site terrain considerations: Some campgrounds have uneven ground requiring leveling equipment. One camper mentioned at Long Branch State Park, "Campsites are at slants so be prepared to level." Another review of a site at Pershing State Park noted, "Take the last spot on the loop for extra privacy and to be close to the restrooms."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Van Meter State Park offers play areas suitable for younger children. A visitor noted it "had a nice playground for small kids including a little play area and some swing sets." Another review mentioned the "clean, well cared for campground" with "big open grassy area with shade trees."
Swimming options: Several lakes feature designated swimming areas with sandy beaches. One camper at Long Branch State Park commented, "The swimming beach looks very nice" and another mentioned it's a "great lake, wonderful swim beach with sand."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer chances to spot local animals. As one visitor to Van Meter State Park noted, "Woke up with a little friend in our tent lol wife was not pleased. All in all abundant wildlife and a calm cool getaway."
Educational sites: Some parks feature interpretive centers with historical or natural displays. A visitor to Van Meter State Park mentioned, "The visitors center has some great information and interesting displays about American Indian heritage."
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Pack leveling blocks for most campgrounds in the area. At Long Branch State Park, a visitor noted, "Great campsites with concrete pads, friendly staff and a decent shower house for a state park. The only negative was no water at the campsites."
Hookup availability: Lincoln Lake RV Park provides full connections for self-contained units. "Beautiful spot on the lake. Clean campground, full hook-ups. Tent and RV friendly," reported one camper.
Road conditions: Most parks have accessible entry roads, though some conservation areas have gravel access. At Thomas Hill Reservoir Conservation Area, a camper noted "access is easy peasy" despite its more remote location.
Site selection strategy: Choose sites based on privacy versus openness preferences. At Arrow Rock State Historic Site, a camper observed, "The largest camp area of Arrow Rock is definitely geared towards RVs, but there is a 'basic loop' with twelve basic campsites for tent camping."
