Camping sites near Tuscumbia, Missouri center around Lake of the Ozarks, which spans 54,000 acres with 1,150 miles of shoreline. The region features rolling hills with elevations between 600-1,000 feet, creating terrain challenges at some campgrounds. Fall camping offers comfortable temperatures between 50-70°F while summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity levels.
What to do
Hiking on marked trails: Lake of the Ozarks State Park Campground provides extensive trail networks through oak-hickory forests. "Plenty of trails, fishing, and swimming," notes Elizabeth W., who appreciated the wildlife viewing opportunities along the paths.
Fishing from private islands: Cross Creek RV Park offers unique island camping spots where visitors can fish immediately upon waking. "We tent camped on the island for 2 nights. It was awesome, you can fish right off the bank of your own private island within minutes of waking up," reports Barrett C., highlighting the convenience for families.
Mini-golf and games: Majestic Oaks RV Park & Campground includes on-site recreation beyond lake activities. "Nice park, hiking trails on site, spots are well maintained. Good amenities on site and very close to everything the Lake has to offer," mentions Russ G., referring to the additional recreation options.
Boat rentals and water activities: Military Park Fort Leonard Wood Lake of the Ozarks Recreation Area provides military families with affordable watercraft options. "The marina has boat and jet-ski rentals that are much more reasonable than other rental places in the area," explains Jason B., noting the various watercraft available including pontoons, wave runners, and fishing boats.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Lake of the Ozarks State Park Campground attracts nature enthusiasts with frequent wildlife sightings. "Huge beautiful park. A lot of hiking and biking trails. Boat ramp and store in the park. We saw about 20 deer each day," shares Anthony C., highlighting the park's natural appeal.
Swimming in private lake: Cross Creek RV Park features an 8-acre stocked lake with multiple water activities. "Campground sits on 70 acres and includes an 8 acre stocked lake. Boat rental, paddle boats, miniature golf, shuffleboard, volleyball, playground, hiking and a general store," details Sherry D., covering the range of recreation options.
Off-season tranquility: Camping during spring or fall provides a different experience than peak summer months. "I was just there during spring break. I was the only tent camper. Maybe 8 RVs or so out of nearly 150 campsites. It was nice and quiet. Beautiful scenery—able to camp with a view of the lake," reports David W., describing his peaceful off-season experience at Lake of the Ozarks State Park.
Watching duck families: Regular wildlife interactions create memorable experiences. "Nice outdoor pool! Kids love the mini golf, shuffleboard, and basketball. Huge private lake great for fishing and watching duck families swim by and come up to you on the grass!" shares Keidra P. about Cross Creek RV Park.
What you should know
Road access challenges: Several campgrounds have difficult entrance roads requiring careful navigation. "The road to get in and out of this place is absolutely ridiculous. You can try to go 1mph to avoid potholes or washed out area just to hit the next pothole and washed out area," warns Sean about Cross Creek RV Park.
Site leveling requirements: Be prepared for uneven terrain at some campgrounds. "Our site was kinda tricky to get into, especially if you have a longer trailer. Seemed like quite a few were that way, so do your research. But campsite was average," advises Jenny H. about Lake of the Ozarks State Park.
Wildlife precautions: Lake of the Ozarks State Park Campground requires careful food storage. "Raccoons can become a problem if food, lotions or anything with a scent if left out," cautions Debbie H., indicating the importance of proper storage.
Water availability timing: Seasonal differences affect amenity access. "The water was off until the end of March but luckily the pump near the registration kiosk was on. It was just a bit of a drive to get it. And the bathrooms/shower houses are locked as well," notes David W. about spring camping at Lake of the Ozarks State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly water features: Osage Beach RV Park provides amenities specifically for families. "This RV park has everything you'd need. There is a nice pool, games, laundry, playground, propane, supplies and food, full hook ups, cable, restrooms and showers," Shannon G. explains.
Consider walking distance to restaurants: Location can enhance convenience for families. "We wish would have stayed here originally. While the State Park was nice this campground offered so much more and was closer to town so we could walk to restaurants," shares Tom B. about Osage Beach RV Park.
Halloween camping events: Seasonal programming offers special experiences for children. "They truly put so much work into making it the best experience for their guests," Hattie notes about Majestic Oaks RV Park & Campground's Halloween activities, which she describes as "always so fun for kids and adults alike."
Island camping for older children: Select sites based on family composition and interests. "Not as secluded as the other survivor tent site but really fantastic place. Had a restroom on the island, big plus for a family with 5 little ones," Barrett C. explains about the island camping experience at Cross Creek RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Internet connectivity: Lake of the Ozarks Recreation Area provides suitable accommodations for longer stays. "My 35 ft. Fifth wheel is about max length to make the campground roads. Otherwise, All pads are level asphalt so minimal pad shimming necessary," notes Tadd B.
Site spacing considerations: Be prepared for close quarters at some locations. "The reason I took a star off was that the sites were closer together than I like," Shannon G. comments about Osage Beach RV Park, a common concern at popular campgrounds.
Service assistance: Staff support can be crucial for RV issues. "First time camping in this new 5th wheel and tv didn't work out properly, camp host was eagerly to help out," Robin shares about their experience at Riverview RV Park.
Remote work capabilities: Some campgrounds provide reliable internet access. "This was a very nice, clean campground in the city of Osage Beach. We needed a campsite to be able to work and school remotely from and this fit the bill with excellent WiFi that had boosters all throughout the campground," Melissa H. explains about Osage Beach RV Park, noting good signals for both AT&T and Verizon.
