Truman Lake offers multiple camping options within a 30-minute drive of Windsor, Missouri. The area contains three state parks and multiple Corps of Engineers sites positioned along the 958 miles of shoreline. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, with summer levels typically 4-5 feet higher than winter pool. Campsites range from basic tent spots to full hookup sites, with many located within walking distance of boat ramps and fishing access points.
What to do
Fishing from shore: At Sparrowfoot Campground, shoreline fishing spots are accessible from multiple locations. "Site 47 right on the water great for kayaking and swimming. Water in the lake is high this time of year but fun is still to be had via fishing," notes a recent visitor to COE Harry S Truman Reservoir Long Shoal Park.
Kayaking on smaller lakes: Knob Noster State Park offers kayak rentals on Lake Buteo, providing a calmer alternative to Truman Lake. "There are several small lakes and plenty of hiking trails to keep everyone busy. The campground is one of the better ones in the state park system," mentions one camper about Knob Noster State Park Campground.
Swimming at designated beaches: "Loop B also has the playground which is right behind site B47. Further past Loop B the road turns to gravel and there is a parking lot with a walkway to the lake. This offers some small bluffs with deep water for jumping off," explains a visitor to Sparrowfoot when describing swimming options.
What campers like
Lakefront sites: Many campsites offer direct water access. "Each site in the electric loop has a private path to the waters edge. Sites viewable by map next to water," notes a visitor to Pittsburg Area Campground at Pomme de Terre State Park, located about 90 minutes south of Windsor.
Affordable camping options: The Corps of Engineers sites offer reduced rates for pass holders. "With America the Beautiful Senior pass, cost of site was $10 per night," reports a visitor at Sparrowfoot, which features newly renovated hookups and concrete pads.
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse wildlife. "Raccoon have taken over the park... About 40 in my camp the whole week making us scared," warns one camper at Knob Noster State Park, highlighting the importance of proper food storage while camping near Windsor.
What you should know
Seasonal water conditions: Lake levels fluctuate significantly. "When we were here (July) the lake was pretty muddy but I'm not sure if it's always that way or not. It was also pretty low, but still had plenty of fun and kayaked through all the little coves," explains a visitor at Sparrowfoot.
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds have spotty coverage. "Poor Verizon coverage, TMobile a little better," notes a visitor to Long Shoal Park. Another camper at Berry Bend - Harry S. Truman Lake mentioned having no signal during their stay.
Bathroom facilities vary widely: "Loop B: this is where the shower house and flushable toilets are. Showers were clean and water was hot. Showers had good water pressure," reports one camper at Sparrowfoot, while others noted some parks only offer vault toilets.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Several campgrounds include play areas for children. "Loop B also has the playground which is right behind site B47. It's a newer playground and all equipment was nicely maintained. There are no swings," reports a visitor to Sparrowfoot.
Biking-friendly campgrounds: "Nice level area great for bike riding," notes a visitor to COE Harry S Truman Reservoir Bucksaw Campground, which offers paved roads suitable for children learning to ride.
Kid-friendly swimming areas: Several spots offer shallow water access. "If you walk further around the corner to the right, it turns into a nicer 'beach' style area with few rocks, although the mud can be a little thick after it rains," mentions a visitor describing the swimming area at Sparrowfoot.
Tips from RVers
Concrete pads at state parks: "Well maintained campground with nice, level concrete pads. Sites are spacious," notes a camper at Knob Noster State Park, adding that most sites are well-spaced with good shade coverage.
Dump station access: "Dump station is about 3 minutes away," reports a Sparrowfoot visitor, indicating that while not all sites have full hookups, facilities remain conveniently located for RVers staying at glamping sites close to Windsor, Missouri.
Hookup locations: "Only negatives were our hookups were literally in the next site next to their table, and their fire ring was very close to our trailer," cautions a visitor to Kansas City East-Oak Grove KOA, highlighting the importance of checking site layouts when booking glamping accommodations near Windsor.
