Smithville Lake offers multiple campground options near Waldron, Missouri, just 30-45 minutes from Kansas City. The area sits at approximately 840 feet elevation with a humid continental climate featuring hot summers and mild to cold winters. Most campgrounds remain open year-round, though water services may shut off during winter months when temperatures can drop below freezing.
What to do
Paved trail access: The campgrounds at Smithville Lake feature well-maintained biking trails connecting camping areas. "The roads and trails are nice for scooters and bikes. Fairly close to the water and playground; within walking distance," notes a visitor at Crow's Creek Campground.
Historic site exploration: Watkins Mill State Park includes preserved historical structures alongside camping options. "If you like history, take a tour of the woolen mill part. Very cool," writes a camper at Watkins Mill State Park Campground. The historic sites are a short drive from the camping area.
Fishing opportunities: The lakes provide excellent fishing access directly from many campsites. At Camp Branch Campground, one reviewer mentioned, "We had a short walk to the lake for fishing, and the loop had a restroom. We were able to enter the swim beach without having to pay extra."
What campers like
Shade coverage: Unlike some exposed campgrounds, Weston Bend State Park offers substantial tree cover. "The setting is thick deciduous forest," reports a visitor at Weston Bend State Park Campground, noting that site spacing is "very good" with visual privacy between adjacent sites.
Lake proximity: Many sites allow direct water access without driving. "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," explains a camper at Crow's Creek Park.
Private bathroom facilities: Some campgrounds offer individual bathroom units rather than communal facilities. A visitor to Lake Jacomo described, "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."
What you should know
Site leveling requirements: Some sites require significant leveling equipment. One camper at Kansas City East-Oak Grove KOA mentioned, "Our site was a bit small for my 29' rig. It is a toy hauler and I asked for more room. It was promised, but not delivered." Another camper at a different site reported a site that was "13" unlevel. Luckily we had several blocks of wood to help level our camp out."
Train noise: Several campgrounds experience regular train disturbances. A visitor to Lawrence KOA noted, "There was a train passing through... trains were one right behind the other… ALL NIGHT LONG!!!!! Every thirty minutes or so, a train passed by. It wouldn't be so bad, but it was LOUD!!!!!!!"
Seasonal water shutoffs: The water systems at some campgrounds close during cold weather. A camper explained, "We stayed in October and due to unseasonably cold weather they shut off water with no notice and halfway through our stay. Ended up leaving early since we had no water."
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly facilities: Several glamping locations near Waldron, Missouri accommodate pets with dedicated areas. "Great for dogs," notes a tent camper at Kansas City East-Oak Grove KOA. Smith's Fork Recreation Area offers "two good fenced dog parks" according to another reviewer.
Playground access: Family campers appreciate the recreation options at Smithville Lake. One visitor to Smith's Fork Recreation Area Camping praised the campground hosts who "went above and beyond making Halloween perfect for our family" and described it as "always a clean, safe and organized campground."
Swimming options: Beach access varies by location, with some requiring additional fees. Camp Branch Campground provides swimming access included with camping fees. "The lake is big with a sand beach for the kiddos. We enjoyed all the covers on the lake so we could anchor out and swim!"
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: For extended glamping stays, Smith's Fork offers complete utility connections. "This is full hook up. They have both 30 and 50 amp. Close to 169 hwy. Perfect for families with young children. Smaller park, very friendly hosts," writes a regular visitor.
Winter accessibility: Some campgrounds maintain services year-round. "Campground is hilly, sites are level, gravel pads. Lots of space between sites. Electric sites, no water, but water spigots were scattered around the campground," explains a visitor to Watkins Mill State Park, which remains open during winter with modified services.
Site spacing considerations: RV sites vary widely in proximity. At Weston Bend, "Some sites are very close to each other," while at Perry State Park Campground, one camper called the utility camping "a little close together for my liking." For more space, Camp Branch Campground offers "nice big spots with electric only."
