Glamping options near Willard, Missouri place campers within easy reach of Stockton Lake, Table Rock Lake, and Bennett Spring. The region sits in the western Ozarks at elevations ranging from 800-1,300 feet, with summer temperatures typically reaching 85-95°F during peak season. Camping in this area offers access to multiple water recreation opportunities with sites ranging from rustic tent camping to full-service RV hookups within a 50-mile radius of Willard.
What to Do
Fishing at Bennett Spring State Park: Located about an hour from Willard, this park offers premium trout fishing opportunities year-round. "This is one of Missouri's 'trout parks' with a hatchery and release sites so fishing (which actually becomes catching) is a big draw. Bennett Spring is so serious about their fishing they even have a trout cam so you can watch other anglers testing their skills," notes Nancy W. in her Bennett Spring State Park Campground review.
Swimming at Cedar Ridge: About 40 minutes north of Willard at Stockton Lake, this campground provides multiple swimming options. "The kids loved watching the sailboats on this part of the lake. They also love the Sandy Beach," writes Ashley W. of Cedar Ridge Campground. For visitors wanting variety, a camper named Laura H. mentions, "We noticed several of the tent sites do not have level areas for your tent," indicating visitors should check site details before booking.
Kayaking at Stockton State Park: Located along the eastern shores of Stockton Lake, this park features marked kayak trails. "Great state park. Cleanest restrooms I've seen. Great trails. Bring the kayaks. They have some pretty cool kayak marked trails on the lake. Beautiful sail boats to see as well!" shares Katie R.
What Campers Like
Proximity to attractions: Many campgrounds offer convenient access to regional attractions. "This KOA is clean with wonderful parks and a nice pool. It was a great place to stay while driving to our destination," says Courtney G. about Springfield - Route 66 KOA, located just 15 minutes from Willard.
Lakeside camping access: The region's lake-oriented campgrounds provide direct water access. Josh S. notes about Cedar Ridge: "We camped overnight here on a bit of a whim and we were pleasantly surprised by the amount of space some of the sites have between them. Some spots are right on the lake water and some are off in the woods a little bit more, which does somewhat provide a dispersed camping experience."
Clean facilities: Maintenance standards remain high at many area campgrounds. "The bathrooms, showers and laundry were immaculate. A true gem," writes Tom C. about RV Express 66, which offers concrete pads and full hookups just 20 minutes east of Willard.
What You Should Know
Train noise: Several campgrounds have nearby railroad tracks that create noise issues. "Because you're going to see and hear a lot of them, as there is a train track very close to the site," warns Steven N. about Springfield - Route 66 KOA. He continues, "If it wasn't for the trains coming by blowing their horns, this would easily be a favorite spot."
Reservation requirements: Most popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. At Table Rock State Park, Jeremiah K. notes: "Pleasant staff and very nice facilities," but others mention the park fills completely on summer weekends, making advance booking essential.
Lake level fluctuations: Water levels can impact facilities and access. A reviewer of Pittsburg Area Campground warns that high water can affect beach access: "Visiting in March meant there weren't many things to do. This parks main focus is Lake Pomme de Terra, so if you're not into being on the water - this campground may not be for you."
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Choose sites near recreation areas for convenience. At Tall Pines Campground (formerly Wilderness at Silver Dollar City), Sarah C. recommends: "We try to be right by the playground and our kids always make lots of friends at The Wilderness. Clean bathrooms, nice store, great pool and shuttle to SDC are all nice amenities."
Swimming options: Beaches with gradual entry work best for younger children. "The swim beach is nice and has picnic tables for use. We kayaked around the cove while others swam. No alcohol or pets allowed in the beach area which I appreciated. Family friendly!" explains Natalie C. about Indian Point.
Theme park access: Several glamping options close to Willard, Missouri provide shuttle service to attractions. Barrett C. notes, "Place was fine and well kept. Convenient store and pool and playground were nice," regarding Tall Pines Campground, which offers shuttle service to Silver Dollar City.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Review site maps carefully before booking. "We stayed on lot 28. It was a KOA Patio site (a cement patio area with a table, chairs, and fire pit) that had city water, sewer, and electric. The lot was well cared for and my spot was incredibly flat/level. It's always a nice feeling to pull in and set up with minimal effort," shares Steven N. about Springfield - Route 66 KOA.
Leveling considerations: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain. At Pittsburg Area Campground, Kevin C. observes: "Good room and nice level areas where we stayed in the 400 loop," showing how site research can improve your experience.
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups. "Sites are power only, water and dump separate. Campground has private boat ramp and parking away from public use so things stay secure overnight," reports Cody about Cedar Ridge Campground, highlighting the importance of checking for essential RV services before arrival.
