The area surrounding Walker, Missouri features rural campsites scattered across gently rolling terrain at approximately 850 feet elevation. Missouri's continental climate brings humid summers with temperatures averaging 85-90°F and winters that can drop below freezing. Camping options range from primitive conservation areas to full-hookup RV parks with varying levels of seclusion and amenities.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at Prairie State Park: The park maintains a herd of free-roaming bison visible throughout the prairie landscape. A visitor noted, "If you are interested in bison sightings, this is the park for you," while another mentioned hearing "coyote calls" throughout the night, creating an authentic plains experience.
Fishing opportunities: Montrose Missouri Conservation Area offers shoreline fishing in a peaceful setting. According to a camper, "Big lake, several sites to choose, good fishing," though they advised checking hunting season restrictions as "the sign says NO FISHING after Oct.14 because of duck season."
Hiking diverse trails: The region offers varied hiking experiences from prairie to woodland. One visitor to Prairie State Park commented, "The multiple hikes are fun and you get the true prairie experience," while noting that pets aren't permitted on trails because of the roaming bison.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Deer Run RV Park & Campground offers a more secluded camping experience compared to highway-adjacent options. A visitor described it as a "nice little privately owned campground with a great value for your $. Definitely off the beaten path but full hookups for $15 per night."
Well-maintained facilities: Many campgrounds keep their facilities in good condition. At Kimmys At Caplinger, guests appreciate the care put into the property: "The trails they maintain for their guests are top notch. You have to check out the lake they're created for their campers to enjoy!"
Stargazing opportunities: Rural camping locations offer excellent night sky viewing. A camper at Montrose described "waking up in the most beautiful place," while Prairie State Park was noted as "good for star gazing" with its minimal light pollution and open prairie vistas.
What you should know
Primitive amenities at conservation areas: Stockton State Park Campground offers basic camping with limited facilities. A reviewer mentioned, "Almost boondocking with electric hookup and a dump station," while another noted, "The sites are quite close together with little privacy and minimal shade from the trees."
Highway noise at some locations: Campgrounds near major roads experience traffic sounds. A visitor to Osage Prairie RV Park commented it was "next to busy highway and trains" resulting in a "very noisy" stay, giving it a 2-star rating.
Seasonal limitations: Some camping areas close or restrict activities during hunting seasons. At Montrose Conservation Area, a camper warned, "There is no camping allowed after October 15 due to hunting season. This was not on the website and was not seeable in dust when arriving late on a small sign in the bushes."
Insect concerns: Ticks are common in prairie and wooded areas. A visitor to Prairie State Park mentioned simply: "Lots of ticks. Good clean campground," highlighting this as a key consideration when hiking or camping in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreation: Arrowhead Point RV Park & Cabins provides family-friendly amenities. A guest mentioned a "nice small catch and release pond" along with "2 club houses with large grills," making it suitable for family gatherings.
Kid-friendly water activities: Kimmys At Caplinger offers water recreation options for families. A reviewer noted it has "lots of activities for any outdoor adventures. Hiking kayaking swimming and lots of laughs come with Kimmy's crew," adding that "Stockton Lake is just minutes away."
Beginner-friendly walk-in sites: Stockton State Park offers accessible walk-in camping. A visitor shared: "We did check out the walk in sites here... They looked awesome and were a short 5 minute walk from the parking. A great beginner site for walk in camping and there were carts at the start of the trail for your gear."
Tips from RVers
Level sites for easy setup: Arrowhead Point accommodates RVs with properly prepared sites. A camper noted, "Level sites with full hookups. 30,50 amp, water, sewer on every site," while another mentioned the owner "had already caught my mistake on check in and moved us to a better spot."
Cell service reliability: Connectivity varies significantly across the region. At Deer Run, one visitor reported "No T-Mobile service," making it important for RVers who need to stay connected to check coverage maps before arrival.
Overnight stopover convenience: Several campgrounds cater to travelers passing through. A visitor to Arrowhead Point shared: "it was the perfect spot to stop to recharge for the night after a long day of travel glad we found it," highlighting its accessibility for RVers needing a quick overnight rest.
