Lake Wappapello serves as the dominant camping destination near Zalma, Missouri, with several Corps of Engineers and state park facilities along its 45-mile shoreline. The area sits within the eastern Ozark foothills at elevations ranging from 400-600 feet, creating a mix of upland forest and bottomland habitats. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F with high humidity, while spring and fall bring more moderate conditions with nighttime lows in the 50-60°F range.
What to do
River access opportunities: Several campgrounds provide direct access to clear water for wading and swimming. At Sam A. Baker State Park Campground, "The river made for nice wading in the afternoon heat. A friend and I even spotted a baby eastern spiny softshell turtle while crossing Big Creek!" says Madelyn H.
Biking options: Paved paths connect campground areas and extend into nearby communities. "Sam A. Baker is a super park for great biking, hiking, river access, restaurant, great camp store," notes Jenny H. The Greenville Recreation Area features "nice bike/walking paths through the level park on the St. Francois River," according to Gary P.
Historical exploration: Some campgrounds contain significant historical features. At Greenville - Lake Wappapello, "There are still old foundations of the court house and various homes. There are also markers telling the history of the area. Truly a neat place to visit!" explains Jan D. The area includes Trail of Tears segments, with Gary P. mentioning "Great historic town with nice bike/walking paths."
What campers like
Lake access: Campers appreciate waterfront locations with beach areas. At Asher Creek Campground, "My group and I camped in two of the basic sites in Asher Creek campground and we couldn't get enough of the front-row lake view!" writes Madelyn H. Another camper notes, "The lake is great to swim in - very clean bottom and not slimy at all."
Campsite privacy: Site spacing varies significantly between campgrounds. "People's lower has a mixture of sites that are very close to the lake but relatively less shade. The higher parts of people's lower are very shady and beautiful," writes John W. about Peoples Creek - Lake Wappapello.
Well-maintained facilities: Campers frequently comment on bathhouse quality. "The restroom was emaculate. Clean park with a boat launch," notes John R. at Asher Creek Campground. At Greenville - Lake Wappapello, one reviewer mentions "paved drives and paved sites with a concrete pad for the fire ring and picnic table along with a hook for your lantern."
What you should know
Site levelness challenges: Several campgrounds present terrain difficulties. At Redman Creek Recreation Area, Gary P. advises, "Not many real level sites. Bring plenty of blocks." Similar issues exist at Peoples Creek with one camper noting, "Our original site was extremely unlevel but thankfully we were able to get into a level one last minute."
Operating seasons: Many facilities close during winter months. Redman Creek Recreation Area operates from March 15 through October 31, while other campgrounds remain open year-round with reduced services during winter.
Campground differences: Quality varies significantly even within the same park. At Lake Wappapello State Park, one camper reported, "When we drove through the Asher loop it was like a different campground! I couldn't believe the difference and was quite upset. Just because Ridge is the older part of the park doesn't mean it should be maintained any different."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming beaches: Look for campgrounds with designated swim areas for safer water play. At Ridge Campground, Donna M. mentions, "Great place to swim and fish! The family had a lot of fun! We kayaked around the lake and had a blast!"
Special events: Some campgrounds host seasonal activities. Brasley C. notes that Redman Creek "do a Trick or Treating event at Halloween. Campers decorate campsites and the kids walk through. They also hold the Festival of Lights around Christmas time."
Dog friendly options: Most campgrounds welcome pets with some restrictions. At Holliday Landing Campground & Marina, campers note dogs are welcome throughout the property with designated walking areas, though they should be kept on leash around the marina facilities.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Services vary widely between campgrounds. Some, like Greenville - Lake Wappapello, offer "full hookups" at many sites, while others have more limited options. At Ridge Campground, "30A & 50A options available. Fees are very reasonable," reports Kayla M.
Road conditions: Access roads can be challenging at some locations. Jennifer warns about Peoples Creek: "The twisty turns will grab your stabilizers and bumper if you're not very careful." Another camper mentions "gravel roads" leading to most facilities.
Water tank filling: Not all sites have direct water hookups. At Ridge Campground, one camper notes "only electric, you must fill your water tank at the different hydrants scattered around the campground," requiring planning before setting up.
