Thousand Hills State Park Campground, near Kirksville, Missouri, is a fantastic spot for those looking to unwind in nature while enjoying a range of amenities. With options for tent camping, RVs, and even cabins, it caters to all kinds of campers, making it a versatile choice for your outdoor adventures.

The campground boasts clean facilities, including private shower houses that visitors rave about. Many campers have highlighted the spacious sites and the overall quiet atmosphere, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring. One reviewer noted, “The shower houses had individual, private, large, and very clean facilities,” which speaks volumes about the upkeep here.

When it comes to activities, you won’t be bored. The nearby lake offers swimming, fishing, and boat rentals, while several trails are available for hiking and biking. Families will appreciate the playgrounds and picnic areas, making it a great spot for kids to burn off some energy. As one camper put it, “There are tons of things to do during any stay at Thousand Hills.”

If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway with plenty of options for fun, Thousand Hills State Park Campground is worth considering. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a longer stay, you’ll find a welcoming atmosphere and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors.

Thousand Hills State Park Campground

Kirksville, MO is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Missouri camping has to offer. Find the best campgrounds near Kirksville, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Kirksville

The Best Camping Near Kirksville, Missouri

There are tons of things to do during any stay at Thousands Hills (affectionately called Thousand Chills). There are kayaks and canoes to rent, lakeside shelters, plenty of trails to hike, and plenty of campgrounds. There are areas that have cabins and also places that have RV hookups. Really great for anybody!

I went after a rain and it was beautiful. Many of the trails absorb water well and it's not too muddy. The trails and campsites are dog friendly and are very well marked.

Great Hiking and Relaxation Destination

Located just outside Kirksville, this hidden gem has a large lake with boat rentals.  The campground is well maintained.  Thousand hills also has a variety of trail lengths, giving options to the inexperienced and the backpacking adventurers.

Large Sites, and a great lake

Well maintained. Clean bathroom/shower house. Great trails. Nice beach area.

Nice quiet park

Nice calm lake great for swimming, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and small motored boats.  There are several trails, picnic areas, and play areas for kids.  Campground 2 is small and quite with clean shower/bathrooms. Camground 2 Site 58 is a joined drive with no tent space, however you get an isolated area, and has an uneven pad for camper. It has a large patio and picnic table. Campground 1 is much larger with several great sites.

Great state park.

Shower house is nice. Campsites are good, just not close to the lake.  You can take a trail from camground 2 down to indian petroglyphs and the swim beach. 

Good fishing lake in north eastern Missouri 

Thousand Hills SP was great. Huge swim beach, lots of trails, pavilions, playground equipment and beautiful views. Park has a full service marina where you can rent kayaks or fill your boat with gas. It also has a restaurant. Restaurant was not a little more upscale. I wouldn’t show up in flip flops and swim trunks. If you don’t have a RV or tent there are cabins to rent as well. 

Fun Labor Day weekend

I’ve camped here in a tent as well as a travel trailer and it’s great either way! 
Nice camping spots, generally a very quiet campground.  The campsites are a bit of a hike from the lake but there is lots to do when you get there.  Paddle boats, a beach, several playgrounds for kids, fishing, a marina and a great restaurant.
There are several different trails you can hike or bike.  
A great and affordable place to stay in north Missouri. 

A great getaway

I stayed one night for an activity at the state park the following day.  The shower houses had individual, private, large,  and very clean facilities.   It was not crowded at all.   Campground #2 was the smaller of the two campgrounds. The spots seemed more fitting for RV’s vs tent but there were a couple of tents.  I slept in my van so it wasn’t an issue for me.  I may reconsider visiting this park for tent camping. 

Photos of Thousand Hills State Park Campground

Real photos from real campers