Top RV campsites in the Missouri Ozarks
1. Lake of the Ozarks State Park – Osage Beach, MO
Why It’s Great: Nestled along the shores of Missouri’s largest lake, Lake of the Ozarks State Park offers a serene escape with modern amenities. The park’s campground features over 180 campsites, many with electric hookups (30/50 amp) and some with full hookups (water, electric, sewer). Surrounded by woodlands, it’s ideal for swimming, boating, hiking, and fishing.
Highlights:
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Access to two swimming beaches and boat rentals.
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12 miles of hiking trails with lake views.
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Camper store for supplies and affordable ice.
Family campsites for extra space.
Tips: Reserve up to 12 months in advance via mostateparks.com, as summer weekends fill quickly. Winter camping is available, but prepare for occasional snow.
2. Ozarks Landing RV Resort – Lake Ozark, MO
Why It’s Great: Located on the Osage River, Ozarks Landing RV Resort is perfect for those seeking a blend of luxury and nature. The park offers full hookups (water, electric, sewer) at all sites, with 30/50 amp options. Its pet-friendly policy and proximity to Lake of the Ozarks attractions make it a family favorite.
Highlights:
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Laundry facilities, a pool, and free Wi-Fi.
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Scenic riverfront sites for fishing and kayaking.
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Quiet winter camping with fewer crowds and stunning snow-dusted views.
Close to shopping and dining in Osage Beach.
Tips: Book early for peak season (May–October). Insulate your trailer’s windows for winter stays to prevent pipe freezing.
3. Alley Spring Campground – Eminence, MO (Ozark National Scenic Riverways)
Why It’s Great: Part of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, Alley Spring Campground combines rustic charm with modern convenience. It offers 28 electric hookup sites (30/50 amp) suitable for travel trailers, set near the turquoise waters of the Jacks Fork River. The iconic red Alley Spring Mill is a short walk away.
Highlights:
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Access to floating, kayaking, and fishing on the Jacks Fork and Current Rivers.
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Hiking trails to springs and historic sites.
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First-come, first-served backcountry sites for a quieter experience (reservations required for developed sites via recreation.gov).
Stargazing in a low-light-pollution area.
Tips: Download the recreation.gov app for backcountry payments starting April 15, 2025. Check for hunting season restrictions.
4. Cross Creek RV Park & Campground – Eldon, MO
Why It’s Great: Just 3.5 miles from Lake of the Ozarks, Cross Creek RV Park is a family-friendly gem with full hookups (30/50 amp, water, sewer) at all sites. Set on an 8-acre fishing lake, it offers a peaceful retreat with plenty of on-site activities.
Highlights:
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Hiking trails, a playground, and a stocked fishing pond.
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Basketball courts, sand volleyball, and horseshoes.
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Affordable cabin rentals for non-RV guests.
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Highly rated for cleanliness and customer service.
Tips: Reservations are recommended for summer. The park’s island camping option is unique but requires advance booking.
5. Big Creek RV Park – Annapolis, MO
Why It’s Great: For a quieter, off-the-beaten-path experience, Big Creek RV Park offers 63 full-hookup sites (30/50 amp, water, sewer) in the heart of the Ozarks. Located near Johnson’s Shut-Ins and Elephant Rocks State Parks, it’s perfect for exploring natural wonders.
Highlights:
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Clean, private restroom and shower suites.
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Seasonal events and walking trails.
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Proximity to Black River for swimming and kayaking.
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Cable TV and complimentary Wi-Fi for downtime.
Tips: Book early for proximity to popular attractions like Taum Sauk Mountain. The park’s small size means sites fill up fast during peak season.
Practical Tips for Travel Trailer Camping in the Ozarks
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Aluminum vs. Wood Frames: Aluminum-framed trailers are lighter and better suited for the Ozarks’ winding roads, improving fuel efficiency. Wood-framed trailers offer better insulation for cooler spring or fall nights but require diligent sealing to prevent moisture damage in the region’s humid climate.
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Weather Prep: May–October offers the best camping weather, but summer ticks are prevalent. Wear light-colored clothing and use DEET-based repellents. Winter camping is serene but requires insulated pipes and space heaters.
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Reservations: Most sites recommend booking in advance, especially for summer and holidays. Use recreation.gov for national park sites and mostateparks.com for state parks.Leave No Trace: Follow Missouri State Parks’ seven principles, like minimizing campfire impacts and respecting wildlife, to preserve the Ozarks’ beauty.
Conclusion
The Missouri Ozarks offer a diverse range of camping experiences for travel trailer enthusiasts, from lakeside retreats to riverfront havens. Whether you’re drawn to the bustling Lake of the Ozarks or the serene Ozark National Scenic Riverways, these campgrounds provide reliable hookups and stunning scenery. Pack your trailer, hit the road, and immerse yourself in the Ozarks’ natural splendor. Don’t forget to snap photos of your setup against these picturesque backdrops—your memories will be as vibrant as the landscapes!
