Discover the Top 10 Best Camping Sites Near Kansas City for an Unforgettable Outdoor Adventure!

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Experience the great outdoors at its finest with the best camping sites near Kansas City. Enjoy scenic views, hiking trails, and campfires under the stars.


Are you an avid camper looking for the best camping experience near Kansas City? Look no further! With a plethora of options to choose from, you can find your perfect camping spot within just a few hours' drive from the city. From scenic lakeside campsites to dense forests, there is something for every type of camper. Here are some of the best camping spots near Kansas City that will make you want to pack your bags and head out on an adventure:

First on our list is the beautiful Lake Jacomo Campground, located just 30 minutes from downtown Kansas City. This picturesque campground offers a variety of sites, including RV sites with full hookups and tent sites with water and electric. The highlight of this campground is its proximity to the lake. You can enjoy water activities like fishing, boating, and swimming, or simply relax and soak in the breathtaking views.

If you're looking for a more secluded camping experience, head to Wallace State Park. Located two hours north of Kansas City, this park boasts of lush greenery and serene surroundings. The campground offers basic amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and restrooms, making it the perfect place to disconnect and immerse yourself in nature.

If you're an adventure enthusiast, look no further than Watkins Mill State Park. This park is located just an hour north of Kansas City and offers a range of outdoor activities. From hiking and biking to fishing and boating, there's never a dull moment at Watkins Mill State Park. The campground offers RV and tent sites with water and electric hookups, as well as easy access to the park's amenities.

For those who prefer a more luxurious camping experience, we recommend Worlds of Fun Village. This campground is located just minutes away from the popular Worlds of Fun amusement park and offers premium amenities such as swimming pools, hot tubs, and even a movie theater. The RV sites come equipped with full hookups and there are also cabins available for rent.

If you're looking for a camping experience that's off the beaten path, head to Weston Bend State Park. Located just an hour north of Kansas City, this park offers a unique blend of history and nature. The campground is nestled in a wooded area and offers basic amenities such as fire rings and picnic tables. Don't forget to explore the park's historic sites, including the beautifully restored Weston Bend Overlook.

Looking for a camping spot that's perfect for stargazing? Look no further than Perry State Park. This park is located two hours west of Kansas City and offers stunning views of the night sky. The campground offers basic amenities and easy access to the lake, making it the perfect spot for a peaceful getaway.

If you're traveling with your furry friends, we recommend Smithville Lake Campground. This pet-friendly campground is located just 30 minutes north of Kansas City and offers a range of activities for both you and your pets. From hiking trails to fishing spots, there's something for everyone. The campground offers RV and tent sites with water and electric hookups, as well as a dog park for your furry friends to play in.

If you're a fan of water activities, you'll love Hillsdale Lake Campground. This campground is located just an hour south of Kansas City and offers easy access to the lake. The campground offers RV and tent sites with water and electric hookups, as well as a boat ramp and fishing dock. Don't forget to pack your swimsuit!

If you're looking for a camping spot that's perfect for a family vacation, we recommend Longview Lake Campground. This campground is located just 20 minutes south of Kansas City and offers a range of family-friendly activities. From playgrounds to swimming beaches, your kids will never be bored. The campground offers RV and tent sites with water and electric hookups, as well as easy access to the lake.

Last but not least, we recommend Clinton State Park for a camping experience that's truly unique. This park is located two hours west of Kansas City and offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and fishing. The highlight of this campground is its proximity to the Wakarusa River, where you can enjoy a relaxing float trip. Don't forget to explore the park's historic sites, including the beautifully restored Bloomington Schoolhouse.


Introduction

If you're looking for a weekend getaway to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, there's no better way to do it than by camping. Whether you're an avid outdoors person or just looking for a change of scenery, camping near Kansas City has something for everyone. From serene lakeside views to rugged trails, there's an abundance of options to choose from. In this article, we'll take a look at some of the best camping spots near Kansas City.

1. Smithville Lake

Located just 25 miles north of Kansas City, Smithville Lake is a popular destination for camping enthusiasts. With over 7,000 acres of water and 175 miles of shoreline, this lake offers plenty of opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming. The campground at Smithville Lake features both electric and non-electric sites, as well as shower facilities and a dump station for RVs.

2. Weston Bend State Park

If you're looking for a quiet, peaceful retreat, Weston Bend State Park is the perfect place to camp. Located on the bluffs overlooking the Missouri River, this park offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The campground features both electric and non-electric sites, as well as shower facilities and a playground for children.

3. Wallace State Park

For those who enjoy hiking and exploring nature, Wallace State Park is a must-visit camping spot. With over 500 acres of forested hills and valleys, this park offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure. The campground features both electric and non-electric sites, as well as shower facilities and a playground for children.

4. Longview Lake

Located just south of Kansas City, Longview Lake is a popular destination for camping and outdoor recreation. With over 930 acres of water, this lake offers plenty of opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming. The campground at Longview Lake features both electric and non-electric sites, as well as shower facilities and a dump station for RVs.

5. Watkins Mill State Park

If you're looking for a camping spot that's rich in history, Watkins Mill State Park is the place to go. This park features a 19th-century gristmill that's still in operation, as well as several historic buildings and exhibits. The campground features both electric and non-electric sites, as well as shower facilities and a playground for children.

6. Hillsdale Lake

Hillsdale Lake is a popular destination for camping and outdoor recreation, located just southwest of Kansas City. With over 4,500 acres of water and 51 miles of shoreline, this lake offers plenty of opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming. The campground at Hillsdale Lake features both electric and non-electric sites, as well as shower facilities and a dump station for RVs.

7. Clinton State Park

Located just west of Lawrence, Clinton State Park is a popular camping spot for both locals and visitors alike. With over 1,500 acres of land and 25 miles of shoreline, this park offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure. The campground features both electric and non-electric sites, as well as shower facilities and a playground for children.

8. Shawnee Mission Park

If you're looking for a camping spot that's close to the city, Shawnee Mission Park is the perfect place to go. Located just 10 miles southwest of downtown Kansas City, this park offers plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and fishing. The campground features both electric and non-electric sites, as well as shower facilities and a playground for children.

9. Pomona State Park

Pomona State Park is a popular destination for camping and outdoor recreation, located just south of Topeka. With over 4,000 acres of land and 490 acres of water, this park offers plenty of opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming. The campground features both electric and non-electric sites, as well as shower facilities and a playground for children.

10. Prairie Spirit Trail State Park

If you're looking for a unique camping experience, the Prairie Spirit Trail State Park is the perfect place to go. This park features a 51-mile-long trail that's perfect for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The campground features both tent and RV sites, as well as shower facilities and a playground for children.

Conclusion

Camping near Kansas City offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and relaxation. Whether you're looking for a quiet retreat or an action-packed weekend, there's a camping spot that's perfect for you. From lakeside views to historic landmarks, these 10 camping spots are some of the best in the area. So pack your bags, grab your tent, and get ready for a weekend of fun in the great outdoors.


Introduction to Camping Near Kansas CityCamping is a perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and spend time with nature. Kansas City, located in the heart of the United States, is surrounded by some of the most beautiful and pristine natural areas, making it the perfect destination for camping enthusiasts. From hiking and fishing to swimming and boating, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy while camping near Kansas City.In this article, we will explore some of the top camping spots around Kansas City. We have categorized these campsites into different themes to help you find the perfect location that suits your needs. Whether you are looking for an affordable camping spot or a luxury glamping experience, we’ve got you covered.Top 5 Campsites for Families Near Kansas CityIf you’re planning a family camping trip near Kansas City, you want to make sure you choose a campsite that caters to families. Here are the top five campsites that offer excellent amenities and facilities for family camping:1. Weston Bend State Park - Located just 30 minutes north of Kansas City, Weston Bend State Park offers a variety of camping options, including basic campsites, electric campsites, and cabins. The park has several hiking trails, a playground, a picnic area, and a swimming pool, making it the perfect place for a family vacation.2. Clinton State Park - Situated on the banks of Clinton Lake, Clinton State Park is a popular destination for families who love water activities. The park offers over 400 campsites, including primitive sites, electric sites, and full-hookup sites. The park also has a beach, a marina, hiking trails, and a playground.3. Longview Lake Campground - This campground is located just south of Kansas City and offers 113 campsites, including 67 with electric hookups. The campground is situated on the shores of Longview Lake, which offers excellent fishing and boating opportunities. The park also has a beach, a playground, and hiking trails.4. Watkins Mill State Park - This state park is located just 30 minutes north of Kansas City and offers a variety of camping options, including basic campsites, electric campsites, and cabins. The park has several hiking trails, a fishing lake, a playground, and a historic gristmill.5. Wallace State Park - Situated in northwest Missouri, Wallace State Park offers primitive campsites, electric campsites, and cabins. The park has several hiking trails, a fishing lake, and a swimming beach. The park is also home to a historic CCC-era lodge, which is now a museum.Best Places for Hiking and Camping Near Kansas CityIf you’re an avid hiker and camper, you’ll want to check out these top camping spots near Kansas City that offer excellent hiking trails:1. Mark Twain National Forest - Located in southern Missouri, Mark Twain National Forest offers over 1.5 million acres of beautiful forests, grasslands, and mountains. The forest has several campgrounds that offer primitive and developed campsites. The forest also has over 750 miles of hiking trails, including the Ozark Trail.2. Shawnee National Forest - Located in southern Illinois, Shawnee National Forest offers over 280,000 acres of rugged wilderness. The forest has several campgrounds that offer primitive and developed campsites. The forest also has over 400 miles of hiking trails, including the River to River Trail.3. Ozark National Scenic Riverways - Located in southeastern Missouri, Ozark National Scenic Riverways offers over 80,000 acres of beautiful forests and rivers. The park has several campgrounds that offer primitive and developed campsites. The park also has over 130 miles of hiking trails, including the Ozark Trail.4. Katy Trail State Park - Located in central Missouri, Katy Trail State Park offers over 200 miles of hiking and biking trails. The park has several campgrounds that offer primitive and developed campsites. The trail follows the former Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad corridor and offers stunning views of the Missouri River.5. Burr Oak Woods Conservation Area - Located in eastern Jackson County, Burr Oak Woods Conservation Area offers over 1,000 acres of beautiful forests and grasslands. The conservation area has several hiking trails, including a nature trail and a birdwatching trail. The area also has a primitive campground.Camping Near Water: Top 3 Sites for Swimming and FishingIf you’re looking for a camping spot near water that offers excellent swimming and fishing opportunities, check out these top three campsites:1. Pomme de Terre State Park - Located in western Missouri, Pomme de Terre State Park offers over 700 acres of beautiful forests and lakes. The park has several campgrounds that offer primitive and developed campsites. The park’s lake is stocked with bass, crappie, and catfish, making it a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts.2. Stockton State Park - Situated on the shores of Stockton Lake, Stockton State Park offers over 2,000 acres of beautiful forests and water. The park has several campgrounds that offer primitive and developed campsites. The lake is stocked with bass, catfish, and walleye, making it a favorite spot for fishing.3. Hillsdale Lake - Located in northeast Kansas, Hillsdale Lake offers over 12,000 acres of water and land. The lake has several campgrounds that offer primitive and developed campsites. The lake is stocked with bass, crappie, and catfish, making it a popular destination for fishing. The lake also has several beaches for swimming and sunbathing.Affordable Camping Near Kansas City: Where to Go and What to ExpectCamping can be an affordable way to enjoy a vacation with family or friends. Here are some affordable camping spots near Kansas City that offer excellent amenities:1. Wallace State Park - This park offers primitive campsites for $13 a night and electric campsites for $23 a night. The park has several hiking trails, a fishing lake, and a swimming beach.2. Longview Lake Campground - This campground offers basic campsites for $22 a night and electric sites for $28 a night. The campground is situated on the shores of Longview Lake, which offers excellent fishing and boating opportunities.3. Pomme de Terre State Park - This park offers primitive campsites for $13 a night and electric campsites for $23 a night. The park’s lake is stocked with bass, crappie, and catfish, making it a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts.4. Hillsdale Lake - This lake offers primitive campsites for $10 a night and electric sites for $20 a night. The lake is stocked with bass, crappie, and catfish, making it a popular destination for fishing.5. Clinton State Park - This park offers primitive campsites for $10 a night and electric sites for $20 a night. The park also has a beach, a marina, hiking trails, and a playground.Luxury Camping Near Kansas City: Glamping Sites You Should Check OutIf you’re looking for a luxurious camping experience near Kansas City, check out these glamping spots:1. Cedar Cove Feline Conservatory & Education Center - Located in Louisburg, Kansas, Cedar Cove offers luxury safari tents that overlook the tiger and lion habitats. The tents are fully furnished and include a private bathroom, a kitchenette, and air conditioning. Guests can also enjoy a guided tour of the conservatory.2. Glamping at the Farm - Located in Bonner Springs, Kansas, Glamping at the Farm offers luxury tents that are fully furnished and decorated with a rustic theme. The tents include a private bathroom, a kitchenette, and air conditioning. Guests can also enjoy a fire pit and outdoor seating.3. Camp Long Creek - Located in Ridgedale, Missouri, Camp Long Creek offers luxury cabins and treehouses that are fully furnished and include a private bathroom, a kitchenette, and air conditioning. Guests can also enjoy a swimming pool, a hot tub, and a restaurant.Best RV Camping Spots Near Kansas CityIf you’re traveling in an RV, here are some great RV camping spots near Kansas City:1. Worlds of Fun Village - This RV park is located on the grounds of the Worlds of Fun amusement park. The park offers full-hookup RV sites, as well as cabins and tent sites. Guests can enjoy all the amenities of the amusement park, including roller coasters, water rides, and shows.2. Walnut Grove RV Park - This RV park is located just 30 minutes south of Kansas City. The park offers full-hookup RV sites, as well as cabins and tent sites. The park has a swimming pool, a playground, and a laundry room.3. Blue Springs RV Park - This RV park is located just east of Kansas City. The park offers full-hookup RV sites, as well as cabins and tent sites. The park has a swimming pool, a playground, and a dog park.Dog-Friendly Camping Near Kansas City: Top Picks for Your Furry FriendsIf you’re traveling with your furry friend, here are some dog-friendly camping spots near Kansas City:1. Smithville Lake - Located just north of Kansas City, Smithville Lake offers several campgrounds that allow dogs. The lake has several hiking trails and a dog park.2. Hillsdale Lake - This lake has several campgrounds that allow dogs. The lake also has several hiking trails and a dog park.3. Weston Bend State Park - This state park allows dogs in the campground and on the hiking trails. The park also has a dog park.Off-Grid Camping Near Kansas City: Escape the City Life and Explore the Great OutdoorsIf you’re looking to escape the city life and explore the great outdoors, check out these off-grid camping spots near Kansas City:1. Big Sugar Creek State Park - Located in southwest Missouri, Big Sugar Creek State Park offers primitive campsites that are only accessible by hiking or canoeing. The park has several hiking trails and a beautiful creek for swimming and fishing.2. Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve - Located in eastern Kansas, Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve offers backcountry camping that is only accessible by hiking. The preserve has several hiking trails and offers stunning views of the tallgrass prairie.3. Wilson State Park - Located in central Kansas, Wilson State Park offers primitive campsites that are only accessible by hiking or biking. The park has several hiking and biking trails and a beautiful lake for swimming and fishing.Seasonal Camping Near Kansas City: Where to Camp in Spring, Summer, Fall, and WinterHere are some seasonal camping spots near Kansas City:1. Fleming Park - Located just east of Kansas City, Fleming Park offers camping year-round. In the spring and summer, guests can enjoy swimming, boating, and fishing on Lake Jacomo. In the fall and winter, guests can enjoy hiking and wildlife watching.2. Watkins Mill State Park - This state park offers camping year-round. In the spring and summer, guests can enjoy fishing and boating on the lake. In the fall and winter, guests can enjoy hiking and birdwatching.3. Wallace State Park - This state park offers camping year-round. In the spring and summer, guests can enjoy fishing and swimming in the lake. In the fall and winter, guests can enjoy hiking and wildlife watching.ConclusionCamping near Kansas City offers a variety of options for all types of outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly camping spot or a luxurious glamping experience, there’s a camping spot near Kansas City that will suit your needs. From hiking and fishing to swimming and boating, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy while camping near Kansas City. So, pack your bags and head out to explore the great outdoors!

Best Camping Near Kansas City: A Perfect Getaway

Introduction

Camping is an excellent way to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy nature's beauty. Kansas City is a popular tourist destination, and it offers several campgrounds for outdoor enthusiasts. In this article, we will discuss the best camping near Kansas City, pros and cons, and a table comparison to help you choose the perfect getaway.

The Best Camping Near Kansas City

1. Weston Bend State Park- Weston Bend State Park is located on the Missouri River and offers breathtaking views of the river valley. The park has 28 primitive campsites and several hiking trails, making it ideal for nature lovers.2. Lake Jacomo Campground- Lake Jacomo Campground is located in Blue Springs, Missouri, and offers both RV and tent camping. The campground has over 50 sites with electric and water hookups, a beach, and a fishing dock.3. Smithville Lake- Smithville Lake is a large lake located in Clay County, Missouri, and offers several camping options. The campground has over 150 sites, including primitive camping and RV hookups, and several amenities such as a swimming beach, boat rentals, and fishing docks.

Pros and Cons of Camping Near Kansas City

Pros

1. Scenic Beauty- Camping near Kansas City offers stunning scenic beauty, including lakes, rivers, and wooded areas that are perfect for hiking and exploring.2. Affordable- Camping is an affordable way to enjoy nature and a perfect getaway compared to other expensive vacation options.3. Family-Friendly- Camping is a family-friendly activity that allows you to spend quality time with your loved ones.

Cons

1. Weather- The weather in Kansas City can be unpredictable, and it can rain or get too hot, which can ruin your camping experience.2. Insects and Wildlife- Camping near Kansas City means that you may encounter insects and wildlife such as snakes, bears, or coyotes, which can be dangerous.3. Lack of Amenities- Some campgrounds may not offer amenities such as showers or restrooms, making it challenging for some campers.

Table Comparison of the Best Camping Near Kansas City

Campground Location Number of Sites Amenities
Weston Bend State Park Weston, MO 28 Hiking trails, picnic areas, fishing pond
Lake Jacomo Campground Blue Springs, MO 50+ Electric and water hookups, beach, fishing dock
Smithville Lake Smithville, MO 150+ Swimming beach, boat rentals, fishing docks

Conclusion

Camping near Kansas City is an excellent way to escape from the city's hustle and bustle and enjoy nature's beauty. Weston Bend State Park, Lake Jacomo Campground, and Smithville Lake are some of the best campgrounds near Kansas City that offer beautiful scenic views and several amenities. However, you should also be aware of the pros and cons of camping to make your camping experience a memorable one.

Best Camping Near Kansas City

Thank you for taking the time to read our article on the best camping near Kansas City. We hope that we have provided you with all the information you need to plan your perfect camping trip in the area.

As you can see, there are many great camping options in and around Kansas City, from state parks to private campgrounds. Whether you're looking for a quiet retreat in nature or a fun-filled family vacation, there's something for everyone in this area.

If you're planning a camping trip, we recommend that you start by deciding what kind of experience you want. Do you want to rough it in a tent, or would you prefer the comfort of an RV? Do you want to be close to the city, or would you rather be out in the wilderness?

Once you've decided on your preferences, you can use our list of the best camping options in the area to narrow down your choices. Be sure to book your campsite early, as some of these locations can fill up quickly during peak season.

If you're new to camping, we recommend that you do some research and preparation before your trip. Make sure you have all the necessary equipment and supplies, such as a tent, sleeping bags, cooking supplies, and food. You should also familiarize yourself with basic camping skills, such as starting a fire and setting up a tent.

When you arrive at your campsite, be sure to follow all the rules and guidelines set by the park or campground. These rules are in place to protect the environment and ensure the safety of all visitors. Respect your fellow campers and the natural surroundings, and leave your campsite in better condition than you found it.

One of the best things about camping is the opportunity to disconnect from technology and enjoy the beauty of nature. Take advantage of this time to explore the area, go on hikes or bike rides, and relax by the campfire. You might even want to try some new outdoor activities, like fishing or kayaking.

Before you leave, make sure you've cleaned up your campsite and properly disposed of any trash. Leave the area as pristine as possible for the next visitors to enjoy.

Overall, we hope that you have found our article on the best camping near Kansas City helpful and informative. We encourage you to get out there and experience all that this beautiful region has to offer. Happy camping!


People Also Ask About the Best Camping Near Kansas City

What are some of the best camping spots near Kansas City?

There are several great camping spots near Kansas City, including:

  • Weston Bend State Park
  • Clinton State Park
  • Hillsdale State Park
  • Smithville Lake
  • Longview Lake

What amenities do these camping spots offer?

The amenities offered at each camping spot may vary, but typically include:

  • Campsites with picnic tables and fire rings
  • Bathrooms and showers
  • Hiking trails
  • Fishing and boating
  • Playgrounds and recreation areas

How much does it cost to camp at these locations?

The cost to camp at these locations varies based on several factors, including the time of year and the type of campsite you choose. Typically, rates range from $10 to $30 per night.

Do I need a reservation to camp at these locations?

Reservations are strongly recommended, especially during peak camping season. You can make reservations online or by calling the individual park.

What should I bring with me when camping near Kansas City?

Some essential items to bring with you when camping near Kansas City include:

  • Tent or camper
  • Sleeping bag and pillow
  • Cooler and food
  • Camp stove or grill
  • Clothing for varying temperatures and weather conditions
  • Bug spray and sunscreen
  • Flashlight or lantern