The best lakeside camping near Ashland

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In Ashland, camping by the lake gets real—over 150 options let you pitch your tent right where the water meets the woods. Prices start at $30 a night, with an average closer to $110. If you want lakeside mornings, fishing gear at the ready, and easy access to swimming spots, you’re in the right place. Many sites allow pets and offer basics like toilets and showers, so you can stay comfortable between swims. For a spot with a loyal following, check out Wildflower Camp, Hike + Swim (50 reviews). Looking for something quieter? The Pocket (17 reviews) and Diamond S Ranch (1 review) offer their own take on lakeside camping. Expect regular fishing action, plenty of wildlife, and a swim whenever the mood strikes. This is Ashland camping—practical, unfussy, and all about the lake.

83% (85) 37 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Ashland

The Pocket

1. The Pocket

100%
(32)
20mi from Ashland · 4 sites · RVs, Lodging
A literal 30 acre pocket of paradise tucked away just minutes North of Columbia, MO. Here you’ll find a private lake with fishing access, rolling hills with stunning sunrises and sunsets, plenty of space to reset with nature, perfect for a glamping getaway. We have 3 separate sites on the property. Our 24’ yurt that sleeps up to 6 with indoor toilet (no shower) propane fireplace for chilly fall and winter stays and AC for the Missouri heat; a cozy RV that sleeps 4 (queen bed and bunks in the back) offers all the amenities of home with a kitchen and bathroom (with hot water and shower); and last we have a level gravel site with 30amp electric and water hook ups (no dump capability) with picnic table, fire pit and grill available for those that want to bring their own RV. We are Pet friendly (with additional cost for the yurt) as we have our own over friendly farm dog. Come play yard games, swing, fish, bring your kayak or paddle board, kids can play or swim on our sandy beach, or just walk our 1 mile perimeter trail, a perfect place to rest, rejuvenate and recharge. Farm fresh eggs are available as well as any extra firewood. We look forward to meeting you and sharing our little pocket of paradise.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
Wildflower Camp, Hike + Swim

2. Wildflower Camp, Hike + Swim

99%
(69)
38mi from Ashland · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
This beautiful 60 acre property has plenty of space to explore. Wander the trails, splash in the creek, take a dip in the pond or paddle around in our canoe. If you're feeling adventurous, hike through the creek to a beautiful waterfall. You'll need sturdy shoes! Please note: There is no bathroom on site, so don't forget your camping potty!
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
$50
 / night
Silver Bell

3. Silver Bell

35mi from Ashland · 1 site
The Silver Bell is a historic Motel in Howard county with a backyard pond and a short drive to Central Methodist University in Fayette Missouri.
Electrical hookup
Pets
from 
$24
 / night
Mark Twain National Forest

4. Mark Twain National Forest

88%
(21)
National forest 100mi from Ashland · 452 sites
Missouri’s only national forest has 1.5 million acres of wilderness to explore.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Finger Lakes State Park

5. Finger Lakes State Park

100%
(9)
State park 22mi from Ashland · 35 sites
Select from a menu of activities at this scenic mid-Missouri park, popular for ATVing.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Nalas Spring Lake Resort

6. Nalas Spring Lake Resort

38mi from Ashland · 1 site
Spring Lake is a private, 27 acre lake subdivision nestled into the heart of the Ozarks. YOU WILL HAVE ACCES TO 0.25 ACRES OR 10,890 SQUARE FEET MORE THAN ENOUGH TO HAVE FUN!. It is conveniently located between Jefferson City and the Lake of the Ozarks, six miles from Eldon and ten miles from Osage Beach. The private lake within is only 1/4 mile off of Highway 54, yet it is not visible from the road. The lake is spring fed by an Artesian well that was built in the 1960's. There is a boat launch area on the southwest side of the lake. There is also a public located on the north section of Spring Lake that allows access to the lake. The water is deep, clear, and clean which offers record size fish and peaceful relaxation. The subdivision park is three acres and sits on the northwest side of the lake. A shelter sits close to the lake that would make a great place for a picnic or family outings! Although there is no hunting in the subdivision, the ducks, swans, and deer are frequent visitors. Whether your preference is relaxing lakeside, fishing the nooks and crannies of the lake, or a place for a weekend getaway, you will find it here. You are also close to shopping, entertainment, and restaurants if your heart desires those things. Spring Lake offers all of this and a whole lot more!
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$36
 / night
Coconuts RV Resort

7. Coconuts RV Resort

44mi from Ashland · 50 sites · RVs, Lodging
Lake of the Ozarks' Premier RV Resort Get ready for the ultimate getaway at Coconuts RV Resort! Located at the 7mm of the Gravois Arm, our resort is packed with fun, featuring annual and nightly waterfront RV sites, cozy vacation rentals, and tons of exciting amenities. Splash around in our multiple pools, have a blast at the water park, or set sail with boat rentals from our marina. Feast on tasty treats at Coconuts Bar and Grill and enjoy perks like retail shops, dog parks, and a fitness center. With lively events and endless activities, there’s always something to keep you smiling in the sun. Come join the fun at Coconuts RV Resort—where everything you need for a great time is right here!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$49
 / night
Cross Creek RV Park & Campground- Lake of the Ozarks Missouri

8. Cross Creek RV Park & Campground- Lake of the Ozarks Missouri

42mi from Ashland · 90 sites
Cross Creek RV Park and Campground stands out as a truly unique destination for nature enthusiasts at the Lake of the Ozarks. Spanning 70 acres, our campground is enveloped by majestic Dogwood and Oak trees, offering stunning views of our serene 10-acre private lake. Located just one mile off the main highway along a peaceful country road, you can enjoy a tranquil escape free from traffic noise. Plus, we are conveniently situated only three miles from the historic Bagnell Dam, making it easy to explore local attractions. If you're looking to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Cross Creek is the perfect retreat. Our campground provides everything you need to reconnect with nature, from scenic walking trails to cozy gathering spots. Come relax on our porch and discover why our guests often find it hard to leave this idyllic setting. Experience the personal service that earned us the title of Best of Missouri in both 2020 and 2021, and make unforgettable memories in this beautiful natural haven.

In Ashland, camping by the lake gets real—over 150 options let you pitch your tent right where the water meets the woods. Prices start at $30 a night, with an average closer to $110. If you want lakeside mornings, fishing gear at the ready, and easy access to swimming spots, you’re in the right place. Many sites allow pets and offer basics like toilets and showers, so you can stay comfortable between swims. For a spot with a loyal following, check out Wildflower Camp, Hike + Swim (50 reviews). Looking for something quieter? The Pocket (17 reviews) and Diamond S Ranch (1 review) offer their own take on lakeside camping. Expect regular fishing action, plenty of wildlife, and a swim whenever the mood strikes. This is Ashland camping—practical, unfussy, and all about the lake.

83% (85) 37 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Ashland

The Pocket

1. The Pocket

100%
(32)
20mi from Ashland · 4 sites · RVs, Lodging
A literal 30 acre pocket of paradise tucked away just minutes North of Columbia, MO. Here you’ll find a private lake with fishing access, rolling hills with stunning sunrises and sunsets, plenty of space to reset with nature, perfect for a glamping getaway. We have 3 separate sites on the property. Our 24’ yurt that sleeps up to 6 with indoor toilet (no shower) propane fireplace for chilly fall and winter stays and AC for the Missouri heat; a cozy RV that sleeps 4 (queen bed and bunks in the back) offers all the amenities of home with a kitchen and bathroom (with hot water and shower); and last we have a level gravel site with 30amp electric and water hook ups (no dump capability) with picnic table, fire pit and grill available for those that want to bring their own RV. We are Pet friendly (with additional cost for the yurt) as we have our own over friendly farm dog. Come play yard games, swing, fish, bring your kayak or paddle board, kids can play or swim on our sandy beach, or just walk our 1 mile perimeter trail, a perfect place to rest, rejuvenate and recharge. Farm fresh eggs are available as well as any extra firewood. We look forward to meeting you and sharing our little pocket of paradise.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
Wildflower Camp, Hike + Swim

2. Wildflower Camp, Hike + Swim

99%
(69)
38mi from Ashland · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
This beautiful 60 acre property has plenty of space to explore. Wander the trails, splash in the creek, take a dip in the pond or paddle around in our canoe. If you're feeling adventurous, hike through the creek to a beautiful waterfall. You'll need sturdy shoes! Please note: There is no bathroom on site, so don't forget your camping potty!
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
$50
 / night
Silver Bell

3. Silver Bell

35mi from Ashland · 1 site
The Silver Bell is a historic Motel in Howard county with a backyard pond and a short drive to Central Methodist University in Fayette Missouri.
Electrical hookup
Pets
from 
$24
 / night
Mark Twain National Forest

4. Mark Twain National Forest

88%
(21)
National forest 100mi from Ashland · 452 sites
Missouri’s only national forest has 1.5 million acres of wilderness to explore.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Finger Lakes State Park

5. Finger Lakes State Park

100%
(9)
State park 22mi from Ashland · 35 sites
Select from a menu of activities at this scenic mid-Missouri park, popular for ATVing.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Nalas Spring Lake Resort

6. Nalas Spring Lake Resort

38mi from Ashland · 1 site
Spring Lake is a private, 27 acre lake subdivision nestled into the heart of the Ozarks. YOU WILL HAVE ACCES TO 0.25 ACRES OR 10,890 SQUARE FEET MORE THAN ENOUGH TO HAVE FUN!. It is conveniently located between Jefferson City and the Lake of the Ozarks, six miles from Eldon and ten miles from Osage Beach. The private lake within is only 1/4 mile off of Highway 54, yet it is not visible from the road. The lake is spring fed by an Artesian well that was built in the 1960's. There is a boat launch area on the southwest side of the lake. There is also a public located on the north section of Spring Lake that allows access to the lake. The water is deep, clear, and clean which offers record size fish and peaceful relaxation. The subdivision park is three acres and sits on the northwest side of the lake. A shelter sits close to the lake that would make a great place for a picnic or family outings! Although there is no hunting in the subdivision, the ducks, swans, and deer are frequent visitors. Whether your preference is relaxing lakeside, fishing the nooks and crannies of the lake, or a place for a weekend getaway, you will find it here. You are also close to shopping, entertainment, and restaurants if your heart desires those things. Spring Lake offers all of this and a whole lot more!
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$36
 / night
Coconuts RV Resort

7. Coconuts RV Resort

44mi from Ashland · 50 sites · RVs, Lodging
Lake of the Ozarks' Premier RV Resort Get ready for the ultimate getaway at Coconuts RV Resort! Located at the 7mm of the Gravois Arm, our resort is packed with fun, featuring annual and nightly waterfront RV sites, cozy vacation rentals, and tons of exciting amenities. Splash around in our multiple pools, have a blast at the water park, or set sail with boat rentals from our marina. Feast on tasty treats at Coconuts Bar and Grill and enjoy perks like retail shops, dog parks, and a fitness center. With lively events and endless activities, there’s always something to keep you smiling in the sun. Come join the fun at Coconuts RV Resort—where everything you need for a great time is right here!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$49
 / night
Cross Creek RV Park & Campground- Lake of the Ozarks Missouri

8. Cross Creek RV Park & Campground- Lake of the Ozarks Missouri

42mi from Ashland · 90 sites
Cross Creek RV Park and Campground stands out as a truly unique destination for nature enthusiasts at the Lake of the Ozarks. Spanning 70 acres, our campground is enveloped by majestic Dogwood and Oak trees, offering stunning views of our serene 10-acre private lake. Located just one mile off the main highway along a peaceful country road, you can enjoy a tranquil escape free from traffic noise. Plus, we are conveniently situated only three miles from the historic Bagnell Dam, making it easy to explore local attractions. If you're looking to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Cross Creek is the perfect retreat. Our campground provides everything you need to reconnect with nature, from scenic walking trails to cozy gathering spots. Come relax on our porch and discover why our guests often find it hard to leave this idyllic setting. Experience the personal service that earned us the title of Best of Missouri in both 2020 and 2021, and make unforgettable memories in this beautiful natural haven.

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