Windsor, Missouri camping areas stretch across the Ozark Plateau with elevations averaging around 850 feet. The region experiences moderate seasonal variations with summer temperatures often reaching 90°F and high humidity levels. Most campgrounds within a 25-mile radius of Windsor remain open year-round, though water facilities may be winterized during the coldest months.
What to do
Kayaking on small lakes: At Knob Noster State Park Campground, visitors can rent kayaks to explore Lake Buteo. "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. The other lake, Clearfork Lake, was great for fishing for us!" notes camper Kelsie L.
Swimming at designated beaches: COE Harry S Truman Reservoir Long Shoal Park provides beach access with swimming areas. "We picked one that over looked the lake and we could walk to from the campsite. The campground has its own beach and its own boat launch that are only for campground guests," reports Jason C.
Mountain biking on park roads: The paved roads throughout Harry S Truman State Park offer excellent cycling opportunities. "Thorny ridge has a great variety of sites. Most a relatively secluded, but there's a few right on top of each other. Lots of sites have direct water access and great shade," according to camper Ben.
What campers like
Quiet camping atmosphere: Multiple reviewers mention the peaceful environment at Raccoon Ridge — Harry S Truman State Park. "Was perfect, there are several campgrounds to choose from. We had the whole beach to ourselves for awhile, the most we seen was probably 5 or 6 families at the beach at once," says Jason C.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Campers frequently spot local wildlife, though some note raccoons can be problematic. "Great place to relaxe or fish away your troubles. Highly suggest keeping your food locked in your vehicle. Had a raccoon enter our tent but that's to be expected when you leave stuff out like I did," advises Curtis M. from Raccoon Ridge.
Well-maintained facilities: Clean bathrooms and shower facilities receive positive mentions across campgrounds. According to Maggie C. at Knob Noster State Park, "Bath houses (there are at least 2) have 4 unisex shower pods that are clean and have good pressure. There are no sinks or mirrors, just shower and bench."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer camping requires preparation for heat and humidity. "If ticks bother you this may not be your best choice. We had them dropping onto us at the picnic table. Otherwise, it's a really nice state park with lots of sites, as cheap as $15 if you don't need hookups," warns Lee F. about Thorny Ridge.
Reservation recommendations: Many campgrounds fill quickly, especially those with 50-amp service. At Sparrowfoot, a camper notes, "Just got back from 2 nights and could not be more pleased with the experience. Very well layout grounds, well marked camp sites, excellence shower, flush toilets and washer/dryer available."
Site selection factors: Campsite positions vary significantly in terms of shade, lake views, and privacy. "Sites are spacious. Bath houses (there are at least 2) have 4 unisex shower pods that are clean and have good pressure. The only reason I took off a star is because my site (13) was adjacent to a fenced off sewer lagoon which did emit slight odor," cautions one Knob Noster camper.
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly amenities: Hickory Hollow Resort offers family cabins with additional features. "My kids and stayed in a Cabin and it was nice! They have a pool there, a store, and lots of trees and also have a campfire spot. They also have TV with a good amount of Channels," shares Lanei S.
Choose sites near playgrounds: Some campgrounds feature designated play areas. At Sparrowfoot, "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. Only complaint is that there are no benches or picnic tables at the playground," notes Devin M.
Consider walk-in availability: During off-peak times, sites may be available without reservations. "We stopped late without reserving when our original plan fell through, but found a primitive site just fine. Nature programs were fun and informative, and the campground was relatively quiet," says Jim S. about Farrington City Park.
Tips from RVers
Electric-only hookups: Most camping areas near Windsor offer electrical service but limited additional hookups. "This is a ACE campground with mostly 30Amp Electric only hookups. There is one loop with 50Amp sites but they reserve quickly. Day use of the boat launch is included," advises Landon W. about Thibaut Point.
Level concrete pads: Many sites provide stable, flat surfaces for RV camping. "Well maintained campground with nice, level concrete pads. Sites are spacious," reports Maggie C. about Knob Noster State Park Campground.
Dump station availability: Plan for sewage disposal at designated areas rather than at individual sites. As a COE Harry S Truman Reservoir Long Shoal Park visitor notes, "Dump station and fresh water fill station at camp ground entrance."
