Smithville Lake serves as the largest outdoor recreation attraction near Lake Lotawana, Missouri, with 7,200 acres of water and 175 miles of shoreline for camping and water activities. Tent camping options within 30 minutes of Lake Lotawana range from primitive sites to those with electricity, with most campgrounds providing flush toilets during summer months and vault toilets during off-season. Most campgrounds in this region maintain a 14-day maximum stay policy, with seasonal closures typically occurring from late October through early April.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Jacomo at Fleming Park offers close lake access with multiple species available. The campground sits just steps from Smithville Lake where visitors can enjoy quiet fishing spots. "Just a walk away from a beautiful lake and your stay here is a perfect get away from the city lights!" notes Rylan B. about Lake Jacomo - Fleming Park.
Trail systems: Several paved and unpaved trails connect campgrounds to lake recreation areas. "The bike trail is about 3 steps away from our site," writes Savannah T. about Camp Branch Campground, which connects directly to the Smithville Lake trail network. Camp Branch maintains multiple lake access points along its shoreline trail system.
Water recreation: Most lakes in the area permit motorized boats with designated swimming areas separate from boat traffic. "We had a nice RV site with electric. The best part is the view of and access to the lake! So beautiful and relaxing. We could walk right down a grassy hill to the trail along the lake," reports Julie B. about her experience at Camp Branch Campground.
Historical attractions: Some campgrounds offer unique historical features beyond typical outdoor activities. "If you like history, take a tour of the woolen mill part. Very cool," suggests Josh P. about Watkins Mill State Park Campground, which maintains a preserved 19th-century mill complex adjacent to camping areas.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Site spacing varies significantly between campgrounds, with some offering more seclusion than others. "The sites and facilities are well kept and clean. Full-hookup sites don't have any tree coverage, but the electric/water sites near the lake are very cozy," notes Jason W. about Russell Crites Primitive — Hillsdale State Park.
Clean facilities: Many campers mention the well-maintained bathroom facilities as a highlight of their stays. "The bathrooms are the nicest campground bathrooms I've ever used - large, clean, and not communal, so you get a sink, toilet, and shower all to yourself," writes Fawn W. about Lake Jacomo - Fleming Park.
Reliable camp hosts: Several campgrounds receive positive reviews specifically for their attentive staff. "Campground is great! Camp hosts Janet and Chris went above and beyond making Halloween perfect for our family. Been here several times and they are more than accommodating," shares Haley C. about Smiths Fork Recreation Area Camping.
Accessibility to Kansas City: The proximity to urban areas while maintaining a natural setting appeals to many visitors. "Nice little campground tucked away just outside Kansas City. Close to everything but far enough that it's still really camping," remarks Steve C. about Lake Jacomo - Fleming Park, highlighting the balance between convenience and outdoor experience.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring preparation. "Our spot was 13" unlevel. Luckily we had several blocks of wood to help level our camp out," reports Caitlin R. about Camp Branch Campground, suggesting campers bring leveling equipment.
Seasonal closures: Water systems at many campgrounds shut down during cold weather. "We stayed in October and due to unseasonably cold weather they shut off water with no notice and halfway through our stay," warns Bridget U. about Camp Branch, recommending campers check facility status during shoulder seasons.
Wildlife encounters: Several campgrounds report active wildlife, requiring proper food storage. "Raccoon have taken over the park... About 40 in my camp the whole week making us scared," shares Angela D. about Knob Noster State Park Campground, suggesting secure food storage is essential.
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some campgrounds more than others. "Close proximity to the interstate does come with some traffic noise," notes Renee H. about Kansas City East-Oak Grove KOA, while other campgrounds offer more separation from roads.
Tips for camping with families
Dedicated activity areas: Look for campgrounds with specific family-friendly features. "It's a good camp ground if you are looking to get out of the city... a perfect for kids. The sites are nice and spacious and relatively level," writes GW C. about Lake Jacomo - Fleming Park.
Safety considerations: Road layouts within campgrounds matter for families with young children. "Only negative is that some sites are right on the road, so kids can dart out at any time... just be careful!" cautions Steve C. about Lake Jacomo - Fleming Park.
Off-season advantages: Families may find less crowded conditions during shoulder seasons. "It was quite and clean. Not very many campers when we went," notes Travis C. about Crow's Creek Campground, indicating weekday or off-season visits offer a more relaxed experience with children.
Weather preparedness: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F in this region, making water access important. "When it wasn't raining the sites were nice and spacious and relatively level. Made for easy set up and break down," observes GW C. about Lake Jacomo - Fleming Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Campgrounds offer different utility configurations worth researching before booking. "We don't stray very far from the KC Metro (50 mile radius). Of everywhere Smith's Fork is the only one (so far) that offers Electric (30 & 50 amp), Water (2) and Sewer at every campsite. At just $30 per day it is a steal!" advises Don M. about Smiths Fork Recreation Area Camping.
Site proximity issues: RV campers note varying site spacing that affects privacy. "Easy access to Interstate and pull through sites were long enough for our truck and 32' trailer without having to unhitch... Only negatives were our hookups were literally in the next site next to their table," notes Roy T. about Kansas City East-Oak Grove KOA.
Shade availability: Tree cover varies significantly between campgrounds and even between loops at the same facility. "The sites were all sunny and since it was 100 degrees, it was hot," reports Joel R. about Kansas City East-Oak Grove KOA, suggesting RVers sensitive to heat should research shaded options.
Reservation timing: Full-service sites book quickly during peak season. "If you require electrical hookups, it is getting to be more common to plan ahead and submit a reservation in state parks as more and more young people are catching on to the camping experience," advises John J. from Knob Noster State Park Campground.
