Van Meter State Park is situated in Miami, Missouri, approximately 10 miles from Triplett at an elevation of 700 feet above sea level. The park sits along Missouri River bottomlands where summer temperatures often reach the high 80s with humidity levels above 70%. Camping sites throughout the region typically receive 38-42 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush surroundings but occasionally challenging camping conditions during spring and early summer.
What to do
Hiking with canine companions: Van Meter State Park offers multiple trail options for visitors with dogs. Nathan P. notes, "I hiked on most of the trails in one day. I missed the memorial trail and boardwalk. Home that I walked on will maintained. Some of them are more difficult than others but none of them too strenuous."
Fishing opportunities: Long Branch State Park Campground provides excellent lake access for anglers. "You can walk right down to lake from several sites," reports Jason C. The park also features "handicapped accessible fishing from the fishing dock," according to Carissa H.
Historical exploration: Arrow Rock State Historic Site Campground offers camping near significant historical landmarks. Leah P. mentions, "there is even a one room Jail and the george Caleb Bingham's house," while another camper notes the "nearby town of Arrow Rock with its many historic buildings and an excellent interpretation center."
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Nathan P. describes Van Meter State Park sites: "The ones on the inside of the circle have more space and are more open but you don't have any privacy. Most spots on the outside of the circle, especially on the north and west sides have more privacy but not as much space."
Clean facilities: Pershing State Park Campground maintains excellent restrooms. Heather W. shares, "Facilities are clean and well maintained. Plenty of spacing between sites too!" Another camper describes "immaculate" showers.
Quiet atmosphere: Many dog friendly campgrounds near Triplett offer peaceful settings. At Arrow Rock, William Y. appreciates "wonderful walking, hiking and biking areas, quaint MO town nearby," while Chip K. describes Van Meter as a "Secret gem" worth protecting.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Sue B. notes that at Van Meter State Park, "Electric $21 in season. $19 off season. Off season starts Nov 1." Similar pricing applies at other state parks in the region.
Bug preparedness: Josh S. warns about Van Meter: "Marsh nearby so be prepared for buggy atmosphere," adding "abundant wildlife and a calm cool getaway." Bringing sufficient insect repellent is essential during summer months.
Accessibility challenges: Thomas Hill Reservoir Conservation Area offers free camping but requires preparation. Whitney L. explains, "Area had car camping sites with covered shelters and picnic tables right by the water and some more primitive sites further from the water. Access is easy peasy."
Reservation recommendations: Many pet-friendly sites fill quickly. At Pershing State Park, sites have limited availability during peak seasons, with the park often having fewer than five campers during off-peak times.
Tips for camping with families
Playground availability: Van Meter State Park features dedicated play areas. Nathan P. notes, "It had a nice playground for small kids including a little play area and some swing sets."
Swimming options: Mussel Fork Conservation Area provides creek access for cooling off. Whitney L. explains, "Each site at this CA features a small gravel lot with a fire ring. The areas that have grass were mowed."
Educational opportunities: Arrow Rock combines camping with learning experiences. Jon B. recommends, "Right up the road is Big Soldier Lake where you can fish as well," making it ideal for family activities.
Budget-friendly options: Free camping exists at several conservation areas. One camper describes Thomas Hill as "Like A State Park but free" with "grounds are well kept, its quiet and has an awsome lake. Picknick table and fire ring at each site on lower loop."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: At Lodder Up & Camp, Jeff C. notes, "Sites seemed level despite there being a lot of elevation change within the park. Utilities were in great shape. Wifi worked fine."
Electric service variations: Most pet-friendly campgrounds near Triplett offer electric hookups with different amperage options. Several state parks provide 30-amp service, while Lodder Up & Camp and Arrow Rock State Historic Site offer 50-amp connections for larger RVs.
Loop selection strategy: At pet-friendly state parks, choosing the right loop matters. Salisbury City Park features 17 spots with full hookups where "roughly 4 people seem to be full time residents, but kept the park clean," according to Never Sitting S.
Reservation timing: For Arrow Rock, Kathy L. advises, "You're supposed to reserve>24 hours in advance but we pulled up around 8 pm and got a site." This flexibility exists at several campgrounds in the region but isn't guaranteed during peak seasons.
Legend
