This article about camping near Kansas City is brought to you by NW Alpine. Their outdoor apparel will keep you warm without sacrificing mobility on your next Missouri adventure.
Camping near Kansas City is the best way to enjoy the history and beauty of the Great Plains. Immerse yourself in prairie life while you soak up the immense beauty of Kansas City and beyond. From the Missouri River to the lakes and grasslands, the unique features of the Great Plains will soothe the soul and relax the mind. And Kansas City is smack in the middle of it. Hike your way through the trails, fish for bass on calm waters, or take advantage of outdoor sports. There’s no better way to appreciate the Great Plains than by camping near Kansas City.
The Best Camping Near Kansas City
1. Watkins Mill State Park
Image from The Dyrt camper Suzie L.
Watkins Mill State Park is a lakeside park rich in history and recreation. The park is 40 minutes from Kansas City, on the beautiful shores of Williams Creek Lake. The campground has sites for tents and RVs of all sizes. Amenities include electric hookups, flush toilets, laundry, and showers. Enjoy the lake and learn about the park’s historic buildings via multi-use trails and guided walks. Sunbathe on the lake’s sandy beaches, then use the boat ramp to catch bass and catfish. Watkins Mills is a fun camping spot near the city where you can learn about local history and enjoy the dazzling 100-acre lake.
“Campground is great. There are 2 shower houses, 1 new one towards the front and one in the farthest loop. There is a small lake great for kayaking and fishing boats. The swim beach has been closed because of excessive vegetation growth. The trail wraps the lake and connects to the edge of the campground. There is a couple historic sites not far on the side of the lake, quick little drive.” – Jason C.
Campground Details:
- Price: $12-42
- Number of sites: 96
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
2. Wallace State Park
Image from The Dyrt camper Jim P.
Wallace State Park is your ticket to relaxation. The park is 45 minutes from the city, near Lake Allaman. The campground has sites for tents and RVs, with electric hookups, flush toilets, and showers. You’re mere steps from several gorgeous trails that wind through the forest and to the lake. Take a swim in the calm waters or drop in a kayak and float your way to serenity. Wallace State Park is a tranquil outdoor haven where you can step out of normal life for a few days and relax in nature.
“Exceptional primitive camping, private spaces with plenty of shade. Clean toilets and welcoming full time staff. Small swimming lake a short walk away and nice treks. RV area is a bit more open. Artisan brewery in nearby Cameron and highly recommended deli in nearby Hamilton. Always spaces available during the week.” – Marimba N.
Campground Details:
- Price: $12-25
- Number of sites: 88
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
3. Basswood Country RV Resort
Image from The Dyrt camper Jennifer G.
Basswood Country RV Resort is an excellent option for RV campers who want to get away. It’s a half-hour from Kansas City, in a sprawling country valley. The campground has sites for tents RVs, with a ton of lavish amenities. You get Wi-Fi, cable TV, laundry, a pool, several stocked lakes, lawn games, and more. They also host themed weekends, musicians, and cornhole tournaments. Basswood is a luxurious camping experience just outside the city — the perfect place to get away and have some family fun. As a bonus, they offer weekly and monthly discounts.
“We needed a place to stop over and stumbled upon Basswood Resorts on our way back from the Ozarks. What a find! It’s located 20 miles north of Kansas City and had full hookups, and even Wi-Fi and cable. It was beautiful and well kept. You could fish in the lakes and didn’t even need a license. We watched kids get excited as they caught fish after fish. Very family friendly place. It also had a fenced dog run which was great for the pups. It was scenic and relaxing and we will definitely stop again.” – Shannon G.
Campground Details:
- Price: $56-65
- Number of sites: 155
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
4. Blue Springs Lake Campground
Image from The Dyrt camper Chris W.
Blue Springs Lake Campground is a festive destination where you can rest and rejuvenate. It’s 20 minutes from the city, on the shores of Blue Springs Lake. The campground is just outside the city, overlooking the 720-acre Blue Springs Lake. They have sites for tents and RVs up to 80 feet. Amenities include full hookups, flush toilets, showers, and laundry. You’re within walking distance to the swimming beach, where you can build sandcastles or enjoy a game of volleyball. The lake is a popular spot for swimming, boating, and water skiing. If your timing is right, you may catch an exciting scheduled event. Blue Springs has something for everyone in your family, from water sports to hiking and more.
“A nice close to home campsite for a quick get away. Between Jackson county parks, this has the least amount of shade trees, the campsites are closer together. However, you get more fire wood with your purchase and you are close to Blue Springs Lake Marina, beach, and trails to walk/bike. We had a great time and will be back!” – GW C.
Campground Details:
- Price: $29-47
- Number of sites: 81
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
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5. Crow’s Creek Campground
Image from The Dyrt camper Doug
Crow’s Creek Campground is the perfect balance of leisure and repose. The spacious campground is 40 minutes north of Kansas City, on the relaxing shores of Smithville Lake. There are spacious sites for tents and RVs, including equestrian sites. Sites come with electric and water hookups, flush toilets, and showers. Many campsites are right on the water, offering fantastic views of the pristine lake. You’ll find miles of multi-use trails, ample fishing opportunities, field sports, and playgrounds. Crow’s Creek is a soothing lakeside camping adventure where you can play by day and enjoy stunning sunsets by night.
“We live near Crow’s Creek, and enjoy making spur of the moment camping trips here throughout the year. There are many spacious tent sites with great views of the lake. Miles of paved walking/biking trails around the water offer a nice activity! Tip: Before choosing your site number, ask which loop is furthest from the horse camping as there can be some noise from the barn at night.” – Stef C.
Campground Details:
- Price: $22-40
- Number of sites: 406
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
6. Green Acres at Red Brick Farmhouse
Image from The Dyrt camper Frank H.
Green Acres at Red Brick Farmhouse is a quiet country retreat near the city that caters to RV and tent campers. This traditional homestead is the quintessential Midwest experience. In addition to the Green Acres Campground, there are many other lodging options, from travel trailers to guest houses. The shaded campsites come with electric hookups, flush toilets, showers, and a horseshoe pit. The Red Brick Farmhouse is a peaceful retreat where you can kick back and experience life on the prairie.
“Small, secluded camp sites on picturesque lawn surrounding 3-story red brick farmhouse near Higginsville, MO. Two tent sites. Two or three small RV sites and one parked RV trailer available as a nightly rental. Bathroom with shower available. Water and electric available. Friendly and helpful hosts reside in the big house. There are places to eat nearby. Fire pit with comfortable chairs in corner of yard. Very pleasant stay. Relaxing for the soul.” – Frank H.
Campground Details:
- Price: $35
- Number of sites: 5
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
7. Weston Bend State Park
Image from The Dyrt camper Leni K.
Weston Bend State Park is a soothing getaway. It’s a short half-hour drive from the city, on the banks of the Missouri River. There are roomy sites for tents and RVs up to 40 feet. Amenities include electric hookups, flush toilets, and laundry. Hiking trails feature incredible panoramas of the Missouri River and beyond. Some trails lead right to the water. Dip your toes in and cool off. The park also features paved biking trails, friendly woodland creatures, and acres of deep relaxation. Camping at Weston Bend is like stepping back in time and enjoying unspoiled nature.
“It is a smaller park than some however that is part of it’s charm! Doesn’t seem over crowded at all. Weston Bend State Park has an amazing hiking trail system within the park! Even one paved trail! We greatly enjoyed our visit and can’t wait to go again!” – Danielle H.
Campground Details:
- Price: $12-48
- Number of sites: 33
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
8. Longview Campground
Longview Campground is an adventure-filled camping destination just minutes from the city. Less than 30 minutes from Kansas City, the park sits on the beautiful shores of Longview Lake. The campground has sites for tents and RVs of all sizes. Amenities include full hookups, flush toilets, and showers. The park features all kinds of fun and entertainment. You’ll find multi-use trails, beaches, softball fields, a golf course, and of course, the lake. Swim the lake, drop in a canoe, or try your hand at fishing. No matter what you end up doing, Longview has something fun in store for you.
“Nice camping area. We have stayed at this campground multiple times when visiting the KC area for sporting activities. Showers are clean. Sites are well taken care of. Never had any issues with noise, etc. It is a great spot to set up camp and then take advantage of all that KC has to offer.” – Natalie C.
Campground Details:
- Price: $26-37
- Number of sites: 88
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
Camp in the footprints of American pioneers. Next time you need some relaxing outdoor fun, check out the camping near Kansas City.
