Pet friendly camping near Windyville, Missouri offers campers access to the Niangua River corridor where elevations range between 900-1,100 feet above sea level. The region experiences hot summers with temperatures often reaching above 90°F in July and August, while spring and fall provide milder camping conditions with average daytime temperatures between 65-80°F. Most campgrounds maintain gravel roads that can become dusty during dry periods and muddy after rainfall.
What to do
Fishing at Bennett Spring: Anglers can fish for trout at Bennett Spring State Park Campground, a designated trout park with daily stocking during fishing season. "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.
Hiking trails: The park offers over twenty miles of hiking trails through 3,216 acres of Ozark terrain. "The park has over twenty miles of hiking trails meandering through its 3,216 acres. Trails range from a leisurely walk along the stream to that of rigorous mountain trails that reward hikers with great picturesque views of the Ozark Mountains," according to a visitor review.
Winter camping options: Off-season camping provides a quieter experience with fewer crowds. "We stayed in campground one because it is the only one open during the off season. Because we went in the winter there was only four other campsites taken," reports Nathan P., highlighting the peaceful winter atmosphere.
What campers like
Clean shower facilities: Riverfront Campground and Canoe maintains well-kept shower houses and bathroom facilities. "Great shower house. Set up and take down super easy," notes Cathy S., who rated her experience highly. Many campers mention the consistently clean facilities as a standout feature.
Level concrete pads: RV sites with stable surfaces make setup easier. "Level concrete pads on most sites. The sites are fairly large so you're not on top of your neighbor," Ken K. explains about the camping experience at Riverfront Campground.
Berry picking opportunities: At B Berry Farms & Co., campers can harvest berries during season. "We enjoyed picking black berries right next to our campsite to have with breakfast in the morning," shares Nick S., highlighting this unique camping perk. The farm grows both blackberries and blueberries accessible to guests.
What you should know
Limited shade at newer sites: Hidden Valley Outfitters offers full hookups but with minimal tree cover. "Trees have been planted but currently no shade. Concrete pads. Nice store with pizza ovens," explains Sharon J. The campground continues to develop as trees mature.
Seasonal water temperatures: The Niangua River remains cool even during summer months. "Water is chilly year around so if you like bathwater warmth, not the place for you," advises Craig B. about swimming conditions.
Campground expansion: Many properties in the area continue to add amenities and features. "They're supposed to be adding more soon," notes Angela L. about Hidden Valley Outfitters, while another camper mentioned, "They are building a winery and drive in theater to be open in '19."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly biking routes: Bennett Spring Campground & Float Trips provides paved roads ideal for children learning to cycle. "The roads are all paved so it made biking for our kids easy and enjoyable. The campsite was spacious and shaded," explains Amanda R.
Water slides and river play areas: Look for campgrounds with water recreation features. "There is a water slide that's so fun. The staff are all super friendly, and the campground is always well kept," shares Dasha D. about Mountain Creek Campground.
Family-designated camping areas: Some properties separate family camping from party zones. "We were in the family area. Now camping is free if you float with them and it does get crowded on the weekends," explains Kris S., noting the distinction between quieter family zones and busier party sections at Niangua River Oasis.
Tips from RVers
Off-season reservations: Winter camping offers more space and tranquility for RVers. "We pulled into the campground and picked out a super sweet paved full hook-up site we let out a sigh of approval and knew we were going to really like it there for a few days," shares Nancy W. about visiting Bennett Spring during early April.
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring adjustment. "We have a 40' Renegade Verona and it took 6 tries to find a place near the hookups where our auto-level would find a good position," notes Angela M. about the RV site at B Berry Farms.
Access road conditions: Approach roads at some properties require careful navigation. "The bus ride down to the river is terrifying because most of the road is washed out with a huge rut down the middle," cautions a reviewer about accessing water sites at certain locations.
