Lake Camping in Missouri

Missouri is home to some of the most beautiful lakes in the United States. The state's lakes offer a variety of activities, including swimming, boating, fishing, and hiking. Lake camping is a great way to experience the natural beauty of Missouri while enjoying some of your favorite outdoor activities.

There are many different campgrounds located around the lakes in Missouri. Some campgrounds are located directly on the water, while others are located in nearby forests. Campgrounds offer a variety of amenities, including RV hookups, tent sites, and cabins. Some campgrounds also have swimming pools, playgrounds, and boat ramps.

If you are planning a lake camping trip to Missouri, there are a few things you will need to do to prepare. First, you will need to choose a campground. There are many different campgrounds located around the lakes in Missouri, so you will need to do some research to find one that meets your needs. Once you have chosen a campground, you will need to make a reservation. Reservations can be made online or by phone.

Lake Camping Missouri

Lake camping in Missouri is a great way to experience the state's natural beauty. Here are 9 important points to keep in mind when planning your trip:

Choose the right campground.
Make a reservation in advance.
Pack for all types of weather.
Bring plenty of food and water.
Be aware of your surroundings.
Follow campground rules.
Leave no trace.
Be prepared for wildlife.
Have fun!

By following these tips, you can ensure that your lake camping trip to Missouri is a safe and enjoyable experience.

Choose the right campground.

The first step in planning your lake camping trip to Missouri is to choose the right campground. There are many different campgrounds located around the lakes in Missouri, so you will need to do some research to find one that meets your needs.

Here are a few things to consider when choosing a campground:

Location: Consider the location of the campground in relation to the lake and other activities you plan to do. Some campgrounds are located directly on the water, while others are located in nearby forests.
Amenities: Different campgrounds offer different amenities, so it is important to choose one that has the amenities you need. Some campgrounds offer RV hookups, tent sites, and cabins. Some campgrounds also have swimming pools, playgrounds, and boat ramps.
Price: The price of a campsite can vary depending on the location, amenities, and time of year. Be sure to compare prices before making a reservation.
Reviews: Read reviews of different campgrounds online to get an idea of what other campers have experienced. This can help you avoid any unpleasant surprises.

Once you have considered these factors, you can start narrowing down your choices. You can use the Missouri State Parks website to search for campgrounds by location, amenities, and price. You can also read reviews of different campgrounds on websites like Campground Reviews and RV Park Reviews.

Choosing the right campground is an important part of planning your lake camping trip to Missouri. By taking the time to do your research, you can find a campground that meets your needs and ensures that you have a great time.

Make a reservation in advance.

Once you have chosen a campground, the next step is to make a reservation. Reservations can be made online or by phone. It is important to make a reservation in advance, especially if you are planning to camp during peak season.

Why make a reservation in advance?
There are several reasons why you should make a reservation in advance:
- To guarantee a campsite. Campgrounds can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. By making a reservation, you can guarantee that you will have a place to camp.
- To get the best campsite. If you make a reservation in advance, you will have a better chance of getting the best campsite. The best campsites are often the ones that are located directly on the water or in a secluded area.
- To avoid disappointment. If you show up at a campground without a reservation, you may be disappointed to find that there are no campsites available. Making a reservation in advance will help you avoid this disappointment.
How to make a reservation
Reservations for Missouri state park campgrounds can be made online or by phone. To make a reservation online, visit the Missouri State Parks website. To make a reservation by phone, call 1-800-334-6946.
When to make a reservation
It is best to make a reservation as early as possible, especially if you are planning to camp during peak season. Peak season in Missouri is generally from May to October. If you are planning to camp during this time, it is a good idea to make a reservation several months in advance.
What information do I need to make a reservation?
When you make a reservation, you will need to provide the following information:
- The name of the campground
- The dates of your stay
- The type of campsite you want
- The number of people in your group
- Your contact information

Making a reservation in advance is an important part of planning your lake camping trip to Missouri. By following these tips, you can ensure that you will have a great time.

Pack for all types of weather.

Missouri weather can be unpredictable, so it is important to pack for all types of weather when you go lake camping. Here are a few items that you should pack:

Rain gear: A rain jacket and rain pants are essential for staying dry in the rain. Look for rain gear that is waterproof and breathable, so you can stay dry without getting too sweaty.
Warm clothes: Even in the summer, nights can be cool in Missouri. Be sure to pack a jacket, sweater, and hat to keep you warm at night.
Sunscreen: Sunscreen is important for protecting your skin from the sun's harmful UV rays. Be sure to pack sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
Insect repellent: Insects can be a nuisance when you are camping, so be sure to pack insect repellent to keep them away. Look for insect repellent that contains DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.

By packing for all types of weather, you can ensure that you will be prepared for anything that Mother Nature throws your way.

Bring plenty of food and water.

Food and water are essential for any camping trip, but they are especially important when you are camping in a remote area like a lake. Here are a few tips for bringing plenty of food and water on your lake camping trip to Missouri:

Food:

Plan your meals in advance. This will help you determine how much food you need to bring. Be sure to pack a variety of foods, including snacks, meals, and drinks.
Pack non-perishable foods. Non-perishable foods are foods that do not need to be refrigerated. This includes items like canned goods, dry goods, and snacks.
Bring a cooler. A cooler will help you keep your food cold and fresh. Be sure to pack ice packs to keep your food cold.
Store your food properly. Store your food in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing food in direct sunlight or in a humid area.

Water:

Bring plenty of water. You should aim to drink at least 2 liters of water per day, especially when you are camping in a hot and humid environment.
Pack water in a variety of containers. This will help you avoid running out of water if one container leaks or breaks.
Treat your water if necessary. If you are camping in a remote area, you may need to treat your water before drinking it. You can treat water by boiling it, filtering it, or using water purification tablets.
Store your water properly. Store your water in a cool, dark place. Avoid storing water in direct sunlight or in a humid area.

By bringing plenty of food and water, you can ensure that you will stay hydrated and nourished during your lake camping trip to Missouri.

Be aware of your surroundings.

When you are camping in a remote area like a lake, it is important to be aware of your surroundings. This will help you avoid potential hazards and stay safe.

Here are a few tips for being aware of your surroundings:

Pay attention to the weather. The weather can change quickly in Missouri, so it is important to pay attention to the forecast and be prepared for anything. If you see a storm approaching, seek shelter immediately.
Be aware of your surroundings. Take some time to familiarize yourself with your surroundings. Note the location of landmarks, trails, and water sources. This will help you stay oriented and avoid getting lost.
Make noise. When you are hiking or walking through the woods, make noise to scare away any animals that may be in the area. You can talk, sing, or clap your hands.
Carry a whistle or other noisemaker. A whistle or other noisemaker can be used to attract attention if you get lost or need help.
Stay with your group. If you are camping with a group, stay with your group at all times. This will help you stay safe and avoid getting lost.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable lake camping trip to Missouri.

Follow campground rules.

It is important to follow campground rules when you are lake camping in Missouri. These rules are in place for the safety and enjoyment of all campers.

Quiet hours: Most campgrounds have quiet hours, which are typically from 10 pm to 6 am. During quiet hours, campers are expected to keep noise to a minimum.
Speed limit: The speed limit in most campgrounds is 5 mph. This is for the safety of all campers, especially children.
Fire safety: Campfires are only allowed in designated fire rings. Never leave a campfire unattended and be sure to extinguish it completely before going to bed.
Trash disposal: Campers are responsible for disposing of their trash properly. There are trash cans located throughout the campground. Please do not litter.

By following campground rules, you can help ensure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable camping experience.

Leave no trace.

When you go camping, it is important to leave no trace of your presence. This means packing out everything you pack in, and avoiding damaging the natural environment.

Here are a few tips for leaving no trace when you are lake camping in Missouri:

Pack out everything you pack in. This includes all trash, food scraps, and other items that you brought with you.
Dispose of waste properly. There are trash cans located throughout the campground. Please do not litter.
Do not damage plants or trees. Avoid cutting down trees or damaging plants. Stay on designated trails and avoid trampling vegetation.
Respect wildlife. Do not feed or approach wildlife. Observe wildlife from a distance and avoid disturbing their natural behavior.
Leave your campsite clean. When you leave your campsite, be sure to clean up all of your belongings and extinguish any campfires.

By following these tips, you can help protect the natural beauty of Missouri's lakes and ensure that future generations can enjoy them.

Be prepared for wildlife.

Missouri is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkeys, squirrels, and raccoons. While these animals are generally not dangerous, it is important to be aware of their presence and take precautions to avoid conflicts.

Store your food properly. Food can attract wildlife, so it is important to store your food properly. Store food in airtight containers and keep it in a secure location, such as your car or a bear-proof container.
Dispose of waste properly. Trash can also attract wildlife, so it is important to dispose of waste properly. Place trash in designated trash cans and avoid littering.
Do not approach wildlife. Wildlife can be unpredictable, so it is important to avoid approaching them. Observe wildlife from a distance and avoid disturbing their natural behavior.
Be aware of your surroundings. Pay attention to your surroundings and be aware of the presence of wildlife. Make noise when you are hiking or walking through the woods to scare away any animals that may be in the area.

By following these tips, you can help avoid conflicts with wildlife and ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable lake camping trip to Missouri.

Have fun!

Lake camping in Missouri is a great way to experience the state's natural beauty and enjoy some of your favorite outdoor activities. By following the tips in this article, you can ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable lake camping trip.

Here are a few tips for having fun on your lake camping trip:

Bring your favorite activities. What do you like to do for fun? Whether it's swimming, fishing, hiking, or boating, be sure to bring your favorite activities with you on your lake camping trip.
Make new friends. Camping is a great way to meet new people. Be sure to introduce yourself to your neighbors and participate in campground activities.
Relax and enjoy the scenery. Camping is a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and relax in nature. Take some time to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery around you.
Create lasting memories. Camping is a great way to create lasting memories with your family and friends. Be sure to take plenty of pictures and videos to capture your special moments.

By following these tips, you can ensure that you have a fun and memorable lake camping trip to Missouri.

FAQ

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about lake camping in Missouri:

Question 1: What are the best lakes for camping in Missouri?
Answer: Some of the best lakes for camping in Missouri include Lake of the Ozarks, Table Rock Lake, Bull Shoals Lake, and Mark Twain Lake.

Question 2: What amenities are available at Missouri state park campgrounds?
Answer: Missouri state park campgrounds offer a variety of amenities, including RV hookups, tent sites, cabins, swimming pools, playgrounds, and boat ramps.

Question 3: How do I make a reservation for a campsite in Missouri?
Answer: Reservations for Missouri state park campgrounds can be made online or by phone. To make a reservation online, visit the Missouri State Parks website. To make a reservation by phone, call 1-800-334-6946.

Question 4: What are the rules for campfires in Missouri state parks?
Answer: Campfires are only allowed in designated fire rings. Never leave a campfire unattended and be sure to extinguish it completely before going to bed.

Question 5: What should I do if I see a bear while camping in Missouri?
Answer: If you see a bear while camping in Missouri, remain calm and slowly back away. Do not approach the bear or make any sudden movements. If the bear continues to approach, make yourself look as large as possible and make noise by clapping your hands or shouting.

Question 6: What are the best tips for having a safe and enjoyable lake camping trip in Missouri?
Answer: Here are a few tips for having a safe and enjoyable lake camping trip in Missouri:

Choose the right campground.
Make a reservation in advance.
Pack for all types of weather.
Bring plenty of food and water.
Be aware of your surroundings.
Follow campground rules.
Leave no trace.
Be prepared for wildlife.
Have fun!

By following these tips, you can ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable lake camping trip to Missouri.

In addition to the information provided in the FAQ, here are a few additional tips for lake camping in Missouri:

Tips

Here are a few additional tips for lake camping in Missouri:

Tip 1: Arrive early. If you are planning to camp on a weekend, arrive early to get a good campsite. The best campsites are often the ones that are located directly on the water or in a secluded area.

Tip 2: Bring a map. A map of the lake and surrounding area can be helpful for planning your activities and getting around. You can find maps online or at the campground office.

Tip 3: Be aware of the weather. The weather in Missouri can be unpredictable, so it is important to be aware of the forecast and be prepared for anything. If you see a storm approaching, seek shelter immediately.

Tip 4: Respect other campers. Be respectful of other campers and their property. Keep noise to a minimum, especially during quiet hours. Also, be sure to dispose of your trash properly.