Camping in Sedalia, MO, US: 12 Best Campgrounds 2024

United States
—
Missouri
—
Sedalia

93% (1147 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Sedalia

Available this weekend

Top camping destinations

Washington State Park

Finger Lakes State Park

331 campgrounds

Mark Twain National Forest

521 campgrounds

Potosi

63 campgrounds

Star Hosts in Sedalia

99%

(802)

Harmony Lake Farm Park & Playground

30 sites · RVs, Tents45 acres · Wellington, MO

Harmony Lake welcomes you to our Farm. We are proud to be a registered member of Missouri Agritourism. Agritourism connects our guests with the great outdoors via Farm Stay. We hope you enjoy your stay at Harmony Lake Farm. We are walking distance to Harmony Lake: a private 12-acre lake for fishing, swimming and paddle boats. Our lake is home to record large-mouth bass and Missouri's longest free-floating walkway leading to a private island. We are located just 15-minutes from the highway and one hour to sites and attractions of Kansas City. We are 15-minutes to Lexington historic district or Odessa. We have a variety of tent and RV sites for your party to choose from so just reach out if you would like clarification on anything. Campfires and pets are allowed and all sites have access to bathrooms, a shower, bins, and an outdoor grill house.

Sawmill Hollow Creek

2 sites · RVs, Tents54 acres · Warsaw, MO

Campsite - A private 1.5 acre campsite with a firepit (and plenty of wood to burn in it) and direct access to the Lake of the Ozarks. The campsite connects to a 1-mile trail around the perimeter of the 54-acre property. Guests have access to several kayaks for enjoyment of a secluded inlet of the lake. RV site - We also provide an RV hook-up site completely separate from the campsite with access to the mentioned amenities (trail, kayaks, canoe, paddleboat, etc.). See photos for directions to the site and a map of the perimeter trail.

Selby Farm Horse Retirement

10 sites · RVs, Tents75 acres · Wooldridge, MO

Summary: Easy access from I-70 Great views. Usually very quiet except for wildlife sounds Portapottie at both camping areas Great star viewing. Excellent conditions for pets Hosts live nearby and are good communicators via text or phone. Hosts can direct you to several local attractions and shopping options. Hosts are happy to take questions before, during, or after your stay. Narrative about Selby Farm: Selbys have lived on this 75 acre farm since 1990. Doug and Brenda are retired from teaching at nearby public schools. Our Farm is now dedicated to boarding retired horses for their owners. Feel free to review the Selby Farm Horse Retirement webpage if you are a horse fan. We encourage you to visit our business website where you will see more farm pictures, videos, and where you will learn more about us. We practice rotational grazing for the health of the horses and the health of our pastures. The horses live in a herd as they would in the wild. Basically, they are hanging out with their friends! They also get regular care and feed and so are VERY happy. You will see and probably interact with the horses if you wish. They are guaranteed to come closer if you have treats like carrots and apples slices. Our quiet county road used to be the main road along the river. A hundred years ago it was called "Shanty Road". The shacks that were along it housed workers that harvested food from farms in the river bottom. The only evidence of those shacks now is perrenial flowers growing in unusual places. The area is inhabited by professionals working in nearby towns and cities. In fact there are only five homes along our 1.5 mile section of Copps Chapel Road. The native Americans who used this area did so because of the great diversity of wildlife and availability of water. Also the view is amazing in all directions. Was using this ridge top encampment for security, or just because the view is so satisfying? The Missouri River is on the far side of the bottoms now, but has been very close historically. There is also a large spring flowing from a cave nearby. Witness the flint chips when you walk through our barn lot. You are likely to see a broken stone tool that was once worked on by a native American. These river hills are composed of soils blown in from the end of the last ice age. Being near the river, erosion has cut down the surrounding area making the scenic topography associated with Missouri River valleys and river hills.

Wildflower Camp, Hike + Swim

3 sites · RVs, Tents60 acres · Eldon, MO

We have a 60 acre property with plenty of space to explore. There are maintained trails throughout and a year-round creek that runs through the valley. Our spring-fed pond is perfect for swimming or paddling around in your canoe. If you're feeling adventurous, you can hike along the creek a ways to a beautiful waterfall.

95%

(20)

Big River Ranch

8 sites · RVs, Tents1600 acres · Lexington, MO

At Big River Ranch, you'll always find something to do. From fishing to enjoying the 20 miles of riding trails the Ranch has to offer you'll never get tired of it. - Enjoy views of the Missouri River from the 100 foot elevation of the bluffs. - Over 20 miles of horse riding and UTV trails. - Diverse habitat of deciduous forests, cedars, and pines, wildflowers, ponds, streams, and rolling hills.

12 top campgrounds near Sedalia

99%

(802)

Harmony Lake Farm Park & Playground

30 sites · RVs, Tents45 acres · Wellington, MO

Harmony Lake welcomes you to our Farm. We are proud to be a registered member of Missouri Agritourism. Agritourism connects our guests with the great outdoors via Farm Stay. We hope you enjoy your stay at Harmony Lake Farm. We are walking distance to Harmony Lake: a private 12-acre lake for fishing, swimming and paddle boats. Our lake is home to record large-mouth bass and Missouri's longest free-floating walkway leading to a private island. We are located just 15-minutes from the highway and one hour to sites and attractions of Kansas City. We are 15-minutes to Lexington historic district or Odessa. We have a variety of tent and RV sites for your party to choose from so just reach out if you would like clarification on anything. Campfires and pets are allowed and all sites have access to bathrooms, a shower, bins, and an outdoor grill house.

Selby Farm Horse Retirement

10 sites · RVs, Tents75 acres · Wooldridge, MO

Summary: Easy access from I-70 Great views. Usually very quiet except for wildlife sounds Portapottie at both camping areas Great star viewing. Excellent conditions for pets Hosts live nearby and are good communicators via text or phone. Hosts can direct you to several local attractions and shopping options. Hosts are happy to take questions before, during, or after your stay. Narrative about Selby Farm: Selbys have lived on this 75 acre farm since 1990. Doug and Brenda are retired from teaching at nearby public schools. Our Farm is now dedicated to boarding retired horses for their owners. Feel free to review the Selby Farm Horse Retirement webpage if you are a horse fan. We encourage you to visit our business website where you will see more farm pictures, videos, and where you will learn more about us. We practice rotational grazing for the health of the horses and the health of our pastures. The horses live in a herd as they would in the wild. Basically, they are hanging out with their friends! They also get regular care and feed and so are VERY happy. You will see and probably interact with the horses if you wish. They are guaranteed to come closer if you have treats like carrots and apples slices. Our quiet county road used to be the main road along the river. A hundred years ago it was called "Shanty Road". The shacks that were along it housed workers that harvested food from farms in the river bottom. The only evidence of those shacks now is perrenial flowers growing in unusual places. The area is inhabited by professionals working in nearby towns and cities. In fact there are only five homes along our 1.5 mile section of Copps Chapel Road. The native Americans who used this area did so because of the great diversity of wildlife and availability of water. Also the view is amazing in all directions. Was using this ridge top encampment for security, or just because the view is so satisfying? The Missouri River is on the far side of the bottoms now, but has been very close historically. There is also a large spring flowing from a cave nearby. Witness the flint chips when you walk through our barn lot. You are likely to see a broken stone tool that was once worked on by a native American. These river hills are composed of soils blown in from the end of the last ice age. Being near the river, erosion has cut down the surrounding area making the scenic topography associated with Missouri River valleys and river hills.

Sawmill Hollow Creek

2 sites · RVs, Tents54 acres · Warsaw, MO

Campsite - A private 1.5 acre campsite with a firepit (and plenty of wood to burn in it) and direct access to the Lake of the Ozarks. The campsite connects to a 1-mile trail around the perimeter of the 54-acre property. Guests have access to several kayaks for enjoyment of a secluded inlet of the lake. RV site - We also provide an RV hook-up site completely separate from the campsite with access to the mentioned amenities (trail, kayaks, canoe, paddleboat, etc.). See photos for directions to the site and a map of the perimeter trail.

Wildflower Camp, Hike + Swim

3 sites · RVs, Tents60 acres · Eldon, MO

We have a 60 acre property with plenty of space to explore. There are maintained trails throughout and a year-round creek that runs through the valley. Our spring-fed pond is perfect for swimming or paddling around in your canoe. If you're feeling adventurous, you can hike along the creek a ways to a beautiful waterfall.

Big River Ranch

8 sites · RVs, Tents1600 acres · Lexington, MO

At Big River Ranch, you'll always find something to do. From fishing to enjoying the 20 miles of riding trails the Ranch has to offer you'll never get tired of it. - Enjoy views of the Missouri River from the 100 foot elevation of the bluffs. - Over 20 miles of horse riding and UTV trails. - Diverse habitat of deciduous forests, cedars, and pines, wildflowers, ponds, streams, and rolling hills.

DnD Lakefront Campground Lake Ozark

6 sites · Tents15 acres · Sunrise Beach, MO

Pitch your tent in our Lakefront campsites at DnD Lakeside Campground and have access to your own picnic table and fire ring on the shores of the beautiful Lake of The Ozarks, one of the Midwest's premier boating and lake fun destinations. Swim, fish and float in our quiet cove, take walks up our hiking trails and end your day enjoying the night sky sitting next to a fire. We are close to Ha Ha Tonka State Park, Bridal Cave, many lakefront bars and restaurants and The Ozark Amphitheater. We are at the starting line of the LOZ Annual Shootout, a fast-paced boating event benefiting local fire and rescue agencies, held the last weekend in August. Make sure to book early for summer holiday weekends. Discounted prices for weekday rentals available. Limited boat slip rentals available for a fee.

100%

(106)

D'Ranch at Clearwater

10 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Gravois Mills, MO

D'Ranch at Clearwater is a small, 40 acre hobby farm located on the north side of the Lake of the Ozarks in Central Missouri. What started as a simple love of backyard chickens has now become a dream farm for Tracey Durant and her husband Theodore. Nestled in the valley between two forest covered hillsides, and running adjacent to Clearwater Creek on the east and the lake on the south, D'Ranch could not have been a more perfect location for the Durants to plant their roots and get their feet wet. While they continue their love of backyard chickens with their small egg and hatchery operation know as HeebyJeeby Chickens, they have expanded their interests to an array of friendly farm animals including horses, cows, pigs, goats, sheep, ducks, and an occasional turkey or two.

99%

(41)

Powell’s Creekside Haven Campground

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents15 acres · Kingsville, MO

Powell’s Creekside Haven Campground and RV Park We are the nearest accommodations to beautiful Powell Gardens, Kansas City’s Botanical Gardens! Come experience the peaceful serenity of Powell’s Creekside Haven! Powell’s Creekside Haven is both a convenient, safe place for RVers on the road and a great destination for families looking for a clean, affordable camping experience. We focus on providing a reasonably priced, friendly and relaxing destination. We are family and pet friendly,* with a playground, walking trail and a creek to explore. WE ARE OPEN during development. Easy access and fast driving distance to many popular local and Kansas City attractions. Within a half hour from many communities, including Kingsville, Holden, Odessa, Warrensburg, Lee’s Summit, Bates City, Oak Grove, Peculiar, Pleasant Hill, Pittsville, Blue Springs. *Some of the cabins are pet friendly.

100%

(8)

Fletcher Creek Farm

6 sites · Lodging, Tents40 acres · Warrensburg, MO

Welcome to our cozy retreat just south of Warrensburg! Imagine 40 acres of pure bliss, just a stone's throw away from the hustle and bustle of town. If you're keen on exploring "Amish country," it's a mere 30-minute drive away, offering a delightful peek into traditions and crafts. And let's not forget about Truman Lake – perfect for fishing and boating enthusiasts. The Katy Trail? Cyclists, you're in luck! Now, about those creeks...they're a tad on the dry side during the warmer months, courtesy of our drought-stricken area so they may or may not have water in them. But don't let that dampen your spirits – they still make for great spots to soak in the scenery (pun intended). And our resident armadillos? They sure keep things interesting with their digging escapades! On the flip side, nature can throw us a curveball with snakes, ticks, chiggers, and poison ivy. Consider it a friendly reminder to tread cautiously and pack some bug spray. Speaking of creatures, our furry friends love to make appearances. Our dogs are friendly and safely fenced in, though they might join the coyotes in a sing-along or give passing raccoons a piece of their mind. As for our outdoor cats, they're as friendly as can be but prefer to keep their adventures outside. Don't worry – they're more than happy to be contained if needed. So, whether you're here for peace and quiet or a wildlife-filled adventure (complete with occasional serenades from our four-legged friends), our rental property has it all. Come and experience the best of rural living – cozy camper included!

100%

(1)

Diamond S Ranch

3 sites · Lodging60 acres · Florence, MO

Diamond S Ranch has 60 acres of wooded property with several streams running through it and a 6 acre private lake where you fish for crappie or catfish, we also offer canoe, kayak and paddle board rentals during your stay. Our property is for adults over 18 years of age. We have a 2 mile wooded hiking trail where you may see deer, raccoons, fox or other wildlife. Our property is secluded assuring a nice quiet get-a-way for you to enjoy. Each site includes a beautiful one-of-kind fire pit designed by a local artist in Sedalia, Mo. We have hammocks at each site that you can take a moment to relax and enjoy the sounds of nature. Each site includes a private bathhouse, Keurig coffee maker, utensils, dinnerware, glassware, bedding and linens, fans, heaters/cooling units, solar lights outside, deck off of each glamping tent or treehouse. We are close to wineries, museums, shopping, and more.

Papa Chubby's Lakeside Resort

61 sites · Lodging, RVs10 acres · Sunrise Beach, MO

Papa Chubby’s Lakeside Resort is a relaxing environment with the true Lake of the Ozarks feel. Calm waters are in the back of the Cozy Cove at the 26-mile marker. You will listen to the birds chirp in the morning as you’re sipping your coffee. As the day passes, you and your family will be having fun and creating memories. Enjoy the water’s edge by the restaurant during your vacation at the Lake of the Ozarks. At Papa Chubby’s Lakeside Resort, friendship is the heartbeat of our existence. We believe that every cherished memory, every moment of joy, is amplified when shared with those we hold dear. We welcome you not just as a guest, but as a friend, and we hope that your stay with us becomes a chapter in your own story of friendship and lifelong connections. Our vast resort provides a restaurant & bar with a full menu, live entertainment, fully furnished cabins that sleep six, and an RV Park that are all just steps away from the water’s edge. Whether you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of life, reconnect with nature, or simply indulge in a well-deserved retreat, our resort offers a unique experience that will leave you feeling refreshed and inspired. We take pride in our commitment to hospitality and want to offer the best experience possible. Whether you are renting a cabin or becoming a member of our RV Park, you will have access to the water, restaurant & bar, and other amenities that we have to offer in order to make your stay that much more enjoyable. Enjoy your morning walk near nature and observe the wildlife. If you’re a thrill seeker, we have rental boats and wave runners to cut through the water with or slow down with a paddle board or kayak. If you’re more of a night owl, we hold live concerts every weekend throughout the full swing of the lake season. On Fridays and Saturdays, you can bet you’ll be dancing before the evening’s over. Sunday afternoons you can find yourself with your feet in the sand, cold beverage in your hand, and some soft beach music to vibe out to.

Booked 1 time

Little Cabin On The Farm

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Jamestown, MO

Natural cabin for nature lovers on a little homestead. This cabin was built using local wood and is situated in a grove of mature oak and persimmon trees. Relax on the porch, sit around the fire, or enjoy looking out the window at wildlife (lots of birds!) and livestock. The cabin has a loft, galley kitchen, and a small bathroom with shower. Less than 20 minutes away from I-70, just over 30 minutes from Columbia, MO. Located close to Missouri river access at Lupus, and is approx 10 minutes away from Plowboy Bend Conservation Area, Prairie Home Conservation Area, and Big Muddy NWR. There is one twin bed on ground level and a twin and full bed in the loft, option to move full mattress to the floor. Family friendly, pets must be on a leash at all times (we have katadhin sheep, Irish Dexter cattle, plus many more).

Under $50

100%

(36)

Wildflower Camp, Hike + Swim

3 sites · RVs, Tents60 acres · Eldon, MO

We have a 60 acre property with plenty of space to explore. There are maintained trails throughout and a year-round creek that runs through the valley. Our spring-fed pond is perfect for swimming or paddling around in your canoe. If you're feeling adventurous, you can hike along the creek a ways to a beautiful waterfall.

Sawmill Hollow Creek

2 sites · RVs, Tents54 acres · Warsaw, MO

Campsite - A private 1.5 acre campsite with a firepit (and plenty of wood to burn in it) and direct access to the Lake of the Ozarks. The campsite connects to a 1-mile trail around the perimeter of the 54-acre property. Guests have access to several kayaks for enjoyment of a secluded inlet of the lake. RV site - We also provide an RV hook-up site completely separate from the campsite with access to the mentioned amenities (trail, kayaks, canoe, paddleboat, etc.). See photos for directions to the site and a map of the perimeter trail.

Big River Ranch

8 sites · RVs, Tents1600 acres · Lexington, MO

At Big River Ranch, you'll always find something to do. From fishing to enjoying the 20 miles of riding trails the Ranch has to offer you'll never get tired of it. - Enjoy views of the Missouri River from the 100 foot elevation of the bluffs. - Over 20 miles of horse riding and UTV trails. - Diverse habitat of deciduous forests, cedars, and pines, wildflowers, ponds, streams, and rolling hills.

Harmony Lake Farm Park & Playground

30 sites · RVs, Tents45 acres · Wellington, MO

Harmony Lake welcomes you to our Farm. We are proud to be a registered member of Missouri Agritourism. Agritourism connects our guests with the great outdoors via Farm Stay. We hope you enjoy your stay at Harmony Lake Farm. We are walking distance to Harmony Lake: a private 12-acre lake for fishing, swimming and paddle boats. Our lake is home to record large-mouth bass and Missouri's longest free-floating walkway leading to a private island. We are located just 15-minutes from the highway and one hour to sites and attractions of Kansas City. We are 15-minutes to Lexington historic district or Odessa. We have a variety of tent and RV sites for your party to choose from so just reach out if you would like clarification on anything. Campfires and pets are allowed and all sites have access to bathrooms, a shower, bins, and an outdoor grill house.

Selby Farm Horse Retirement

10 sites · RVs, Tents75 acres · Wooldridge, MO

Summary: Easy access from I-70 Great views. Usually very quiet except for wildlife sounds Portapottie at both camping areas Great star viewing. Excellent conditions for pets Hosts live nearby and are good communicators via text or phone. Hosts can direct you to several local attractions and shopping options. Hosts are happy to take questions before, during, or after your stay. Narrative about Selby Farm: Selbys have lived on this 75 acre farm since 1990. Doug and Brenda are retired from teaching at nearby public schools. Our Farm is now dedicated to boarding retired horses for their owners. Feel free to review the Selby Farm Horse Retirement webpage if you are a horse fan. We encourage you to visit our business website where you will see more farm pictures, videos, and where you will learn more about us. We practice rotational grazing for the health of the horses and the health of our pastures. The horses live in a herd as they would in the wild. Basically, they are hanging out with their friends! They also get regular care and feed and so are VERY happy. You will see and probably interact with the horses if you wish. They are guaranteed to come closer if you have treats like carrots and apples slices. Our quiet county road used to be the main road along the river. A hundred years ago it was called "Shanty Road". The shacks that were along it housed workers that harvested food from farms in the river bottom. The only evidence of those shacks now is perrenial flowers growing in unusual places. The area is inhabited by professionals working in nearby towns and cities. In fact there are only five homes along our 1.5 mile section of Copps Chapel Road. The native Americans who used this area did so because of the great diversity of wildlife and availability of water. Also the view is amazing in all directions. Was using this ridge top encampment for security, or just because the view is so satisfying? The Missouri River is on the far side of the bottoms now, but has been very close historically. There is also a large spring flowing from a cave nearby. Witness the flint chips when you walk through our barn lot. You are likely to see a broken stone tool that was once worked on by a native American. These river hills are composed of soils blown in from the end of the last ice age. Being near the river, erosion has cut down the surrounding area making the scenic topography associated with Missouri River valleys and river hills.

Dog-friendly getaways

99%

(520)

Selby Farm Horse Retirement

10 sites · RVs, Tents75 acres · Wooldridge, MO

Summary: Easy access from I-70 Great views. Usually very quiet except for wildlife sounds Portapottie at both camping areas Great star viewing. Excellent conditions for pets Hosts live nearby and are good communicators via text or phone. Hosts can direct you to several local attractions and shopping options. Hosts are happy to take questions before, during, or after your stay. Narrative about Selby Farm: Selbys have lived on this 75 acre farm since 1990. Doug and Brenda are retired from teaching at nearby public schools. Our Farm is now dedicated to boarding retired horses for their owners. Feel free to review the Selby Farm Horse Retirement webpage if you are a horse fan. We encourage you to visit our business website where you will see more farm pictures, videos, and where you will learn more about us. We practice rotational grazing for the health of the horses and the health of our pastures. The horses live in a herd as they would in the wild. Basically, they are hanging out with their friends! They also get regular care and feed and so are VERY happy. You will see and probably interact with the horses if you wish. They are guaranteed to come closer if you have treats like carrots and apples slices. Our quiet county road used to be the main road along the river. A hundred years ago it was called "Shanty Road". The shacks that were along it housed workers that harvested food from farms in the river bottom. The only evidence of those shacks now is perrenial flowers growing in unusual places. The area is inhabited by professionals working in nearby towns and cities. In fact there are only five homes along our 1.5 mile section of Copps Chapel Road. The native Americans who used this area did so because of the great diversity of wildlife and availability of water. Also the view is amazing in all directions. Was using this ridge top encampment for security, or just because the view is so satisfying? The Missouri River is on the far side of the bottoms now, but has been very close historically. There is also a large spring flowing from a cave nearby. Witness the flint chips when you walk through our barn lot. You are likely to see a broken stone tool that was once worked on by a native American. These river hills are composed of soils blown in from the end of the last ice age. Being near the river, erosion has cut down the surrounding area making the scenic topography associated with Missouri River valleys and river hills.

Big River Ranch

8 sites · RVs, Tents1600 acres · Lexington, MO

At Big River Ranch, you'll always find something to do. From fishing to enjoying the 20 miles of riding trails the Ranch has to offer you'll never get tired of it. - Enjoy views of the Missouri River from the 100 foot elevation of the bluffs. - Over 20 miles of horse riding and UTV trails. - Diverse habitat of deciduous forests, cedars, and pines, wildflowers, ponds, streams, and rolling hills.

Wildflower Camp, Hike + Swim

3 sites · RVs, Tents60 acres · Eldon, MO

We have a 60 acre property with plenty of space to explore. There are maintained trails throughout and a year-round creek that runs through the valley. Our spring-fed pond is perfect for swimming or paddling around in your canoe. If you're feeling adventurous, you can hike along the creek a ways to a beautiful waterfall.

Harmony Lake Farm Park & Playground

30 sites · RVs, Tents45 acres · Wellington, MO

Harmony Lake welcomes you to our Farm. We are proud to be a registered member of Missouri Agritourism. Agritourism connects our guests with the great outdoors via Farm Stay. We hope you enjoy your stay at Harmony Lake Farm. We are walking distance to Harmony Lake: a private 12-acre lake for fishing, swimming and paddle boats. Our lake is home to record large-mouth bass and Missouri's longest free-floating walkway leading to a private island. We are located just 15-minutes from the highway and one hour to sites and attractions of Kansas City. We are 15-minutes to Lexington historic district or Odessa. We have a variety of tent and RV sites for your party to choose from so just reach out if you would like clarification on anything. Campfires and pets are allowed and all sites have access to bathrooms, a shower, bins, and an outdoor grill house.

Sawmill Hollow Creek

2 sites · RVs, Tents54 acres · Warsaw, MO

Campsite - A private 1.5 acre campsite with a firepit (and plenty of wood to burn in it) and direct access to the Lake of the Ozarks. The campsite connects to a 1-mile trail around the perimeter of the 54-acre property. Guests have access to several kayaks for enjoyment of a secluded inlet of the lake. RV site - We also provide an RV hook-up site completely separate from the campsite with access to the mentioned amenities (trail, kayaks, canoe, paddleboat, etc.). See photos for directions to the site and a map of the perimeter trail.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

100%

(1)

Knob Noster State Park

Knob Noster, Missouri

100%

(1)

Arrow Rock State Historic Site

Arrow Rock, Missouri

Van Meter State Park

Miami, Missouri

Camping near Sedalia guide

Overview

Known as the home of the Missouri State Fair, Sedalia celebrates the Show-Me State each August with concerts, rides, exhibitions, and contests. It’s an iconic slice of rural life in Missouri, showcasing livestock, arts and crafts, and homewares. The fairgrounds offers camping year round, with both basic and full hookup sites available. Campsites and cabins can also be found at private RV parks around the region. A number of small towns in the area have city parks with basic campgrounds, including Pilot Grove, Farmington, and Versailles—amenities vary. Private glamping rentals might be located in dense woodlands or wide-open family farms.

Where to go

Katy Trail

Sedalia is located right on the Katy Trail, a 240-mile rail-to-trail conversion that runs across the middle of Missouri. While some cyclists do the whole trail, others do shorter segments. This state park also welcomes hikers and horseback riders. Jump on the trail at the restored historic Katy Depot, and head out in either direction. A number of camping options are located along the route, including RV, tent, and glamping rentals.

Knob Noster State Park

Knob Noster State Park is less than 30 minutes west of Sedalia, and it provides a scenic backdrop for outdoor adventures. Two small lakes welcome anglers and paddlers. Several trails take hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians through the woodlands and along waterways. Basic and electric tent and RV campsites are available, and backpackers can also find a dedicated primitive campground beside the McAdoo Trail.

Arrow Rock State Historic Site

For a dose of history alongside camping, head to Arrow Rock State Historic Site and Park, 45 minutes northeast of Sedalia. Travel back to the 1800s by touring the buildings remaining from a once-burgeoning town. A small fishing pond and two trails provide scenery and recreational opportunities An onsite campground offers basic, electric, and full hookup sites for tents and RVers.

Columbia

Approximately an hour northeast of Sedalia, Columbia is mid-Missouri’s largest town. The downtown area is popping with restaurants, bars, and entertainment—thanks in part to the college students that call the University of Missouri–Columbia home for much of the year. Private RV parks are found nearby, as well as public campgrounds at Finger Lakes State Park and Mark Twain National Forest.

When to go

Camping is best enjoyed in the spring and fall, when temperatures are mild. Fall is particularly beautiful in the forested areas. Summer brings heat and humidity—and the town explodes with visitors in mid-August during the Missouri State Fair. Winter is generally not a recommended time for camping due to the temperatures, which dip below freezing, and the winter precipitation.