Campsites near Warsaw, Missouri sit at elevations between 700-850 feet above sea level in the Ozark Highlands region. The area features rolling hills surrounding Harry S. Truman Lake and the Osage River, with limestone bluffs and oak-hickory forests creating natural boundaries around camping areas. Warsaw's position at the meeting point of two major waterways creates unique shoreline camping opportunities with both wooded and open lakefront sites available.
What to do
Fishing at multiple access points: Long Shoal offers direct lake access for anglers with sites just steps from Truman Lake. "Enjoyable stay at this COE campground with plenty of lake views and access. Right across from the marina," reports Dan F.
Swimming at maintained beaches: Berry Bend provides a sandy swimming area popular with families. "Great beach with a beautiful view," notes Lauri C., who appreciated the designated swimming zone away from boating traffic.
Wildlife viewing in conservation areas: Montrose Missouri Conservation Area attracts numerous species visible from campsites. "There is loads of wildlife to see and aren't much scared of humans, raccoons, beavers, crane, squirrels, deer, owls and much more," writes Sarah, who regularly visits the area.
Horseback riding on dedicated trails: Several equestrian campgrounds near Warsaw, Missouri provide direct trail access. The region's mix of wooded paths and open meadows creates varied terrain for riders of different skill levels.
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere away from crowds: Knob Noster State Park Campground offers a more secluded experience than some busier Warsaw-area campgrounds. "Spent 5 nights. The campground filled up on the weekend but it was very quiet," shares JoAnn P., who found it ideal for relaxation.
Level, spacious sites: Horse-friendly campgrounds in the Warsaw area typically feature large, flat camping pads. "Level concrete pads on most sites. The sites are fairly large so you're not on top of your neighbor," notes Ken K. about Riverfront Campground.
Clean facilities: Campground maintenance receives frequent positive mentions. At Long Shoal, Angela F. writes, "They had the cleanest facilities I have ever seen," making it her "second favorite place for camping."
Free amenities: Some equestrian campgrounds near Warsaw provide unexpected perks beyond standard horse facilities. Berk G. notes the "Free use of washer and dryer" at one campground, adding that cyclists were accommodated during rainy weather with indoor options.
What you should know
Seasonal closures affect availability: Hunting seasons impact camping access at conservation areas. "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," warns Leni K. about Montrose Conservation Area.
Water level fluctuations: Truman Lake levels vary seasonally, affecting shoreline access points. "Shallow muddy water but it does attract wildlife," notes Mark D., suggesting visitors check water conditions before planning water-based activities.
Limited cell coverage in some areas: Several campgrounds feature minimal connectivity. Berry Bend camper Lauri C. mentioned "No internet, no cell, no problem" as part of the appeal for those seeking digital disconnection.
Varied bathroom facilities: Campgrounds range from modern bathhouses to basic options. "Vault toilets were absolutely disgusting, thankfully we brought our own toilet paper," reports Leni K., while others note exceptionally clean facilities at different locations.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with play spaces: COE Stockton Lake Hawker Point offers sites with good spacing for family activities. "The site is very spacious and shaded with plenty of trees for our hammocks and clothesline. Lots of level places for tents," shares Lea B.
Consider noise levels when selecting loops: Campground sections vary in atmosphere. "The campground was well kept, mowed, clean and fellow campers were friendly while at the same time respectful of others," notes Carman S., suggesting Hawker Point for families seeking quieter environments.
Check for kid-friendly water access: Swimming areas with gradual entry points work best for young children. "The swim beach was the highlight of this location and very nice!" reports Hayley G. about Orleans Trail's designated swimming area.
Plan for wildlife encounters: Several campgrounds report frequent wildlife sightings that can delight children but require proper food storage. Knob Noster camper Kelsie L. shares, "We did have a problem with Raccoons, but with our site being on the very edge of the sites I think that may be inevitable."
Tips from RVers
Water access planning is essential: Not all sites have direct hookups. Carman S. advises, "Fill your rig with water before you go. There are no water hookups" at certain sections of Hawker Point campground.
Site privacy varies significantly: When selecting RV sites near Warsaw, research specific loops for spacing. "While Stockton Lake itself brings a lot to the table...the State Park and several of the other campground sites...are always jammed together with few trees. This campground is an exception," notes Charlotte B. about Hawker Point.
RV size restrictions apply at equestrian sites: Horse campgrounds near Warsaw typically accommodate medium-sized rigs rather than large motorhomes. Access roads may have low clearance areas and tight turns to consider.
Electric hookup availability differs by loop: Within the same campground, some loops may offer full hookups while others have minimal amenities. Lea B. explains, "A loop consists of full hookup sites and many sit right on the water. Little shade and crowded, but if you like to play on the lake all day these might be for you."
