Lake Camping Near Ashland, Missouri, US: 12 Best Lake Campsites 2025

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% (84)

Top-rated campgrounds

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% (84)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. The Pocket

100%

(31)

20mi from Ashland · 4 sites · RVs, Lodging · Columbia, MO

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.

2. Wildflower Camp, Hike + Swim

99%

(69)

38mi from Ashland · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Eldon, MO

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!

3. Coconuts RV Resort

44mi from Ashland · 51 sites · RVs, Lodging · Gravois Mills, MO

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!

4. Silver Bell

35mi from Ashland · 1 site · RV · Fayette, MO

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.

5. Nalas Spring Lake Resort

38mi from Ashland · 1 site · Tent · Bagnell, MO

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!

Public campgrounds near Ashland

Pine Ridge Recreation Area

6.6mi from Ashland · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mark Twain National Forest

Dry Fork Recreation Area

7.7mi from Ashland · 16 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mark Twain National Forest

Round Prairie Interpretive Site

11mi from Ashland · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Mark Twain National Forest

100%

(9)

Finger Lakes Campground

22mi from Ashland · 35 sites · Tents, RVs · in Finger Lakes State Park

Swan Creek Campground

36mi from Ashland · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Mark Twain National Forest

Stories from the community

g

greg

2 weeks ago

20 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Pocket

Nice quite spot for an overnight and close to I70. Certainly would stay here again if passing through.

D

Drew

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Wildflower Camp, Hike + Swim

Jon + Kass have a great property and were excellent hosts. I would highly recommend if you are in the area. Thank you!

J

Jason

October 2025

38 ft fifth wheel

Weekend Trip to The Pocket

Amazing spot and wonderful hosts! We will be back.

J

Jasmin

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wildflower Camp, Hike + Swim

The land is beautiful, Jon and Kads have the most patient and lovely dogs. Definitely making a return visit.

R

Ryan

September 2025

With pets

4 nights at The Pocket

Amazing place to stay! Clean, comfortable, and quite in a beautiful setting. I'll look forward to staying here again in the future.

L

Louis

September 2025

28 ft travel trailer

With pets

1 night at The Pocket

Absolutely incredible property!! 10/10!! Host was excellent with communications and the property far exceeded expectations!

K

Kat

September 2025

1 night at The Pocket

I stopped here to get some sleep so I could continue my journey! It was a super cute and quiet place to be! There dog is super friendly and showed me around the property! I had an amazing time and would definitely recommend it!

S

Skylar

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wildflower Camp, Hike + Swim

Camping here was the perfect end to our summer! Swimming in the pond was a blast and the hike to the little waterfall was full of neat things to look at. It was also great to let our dog be off leash, she had as much fun as we did! Like other reviewers have mentioned, you can hear the highway, but the campsite is tucked back in a wooded area and felt very private.

Britnie

September 2025

23 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Pocket

Loved our weekend stay at the pocket! It was so peaceful and beautiful. The host family was so friendly and accommodating. Will stay again if we’re in the area!

E

Erica

August 2025

29 ft travel trailer

With pets

1 night at The Pocket

We were only here overnight, but it was great. We peddle boated in the morning before leaving, and the hosts dog swam in the pond with us while doing that. My dogs were able to run around off leash which was nice.

t

tbrice64

August 2025

17 ft travel trailer

With pets

1 night at The Pocket

Cute rural setting. Everything you need...peace AND quiet! Water and Electric too.

D

Diane

August 2025

20 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wildflower Camp, Hike + Swim

We absolutely loved our stay at Wild Flower camp, though it was only a stop over on our travels from Ohio to Colorado. Jon and Kass (and their awesome fire wood-delivering son) were such great host! With excellent communication, easy check in and a clear map of the vast property. We had the Creekside camp all to ourselves and honestly it was so peaceful and perfect we wish we would have booked 2 days to take full advantage of the pond and trails. We had the best nights sleep, sounds of bull frogs, crickets, owls, distant farm dog barks, we loved it. Our Great Pyrenees got to meet theirs, “Jack” super friendly and sweet. Don’t miss this gem of solitude!

C

Charlie

August 2025

15 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wildflower Camp, Hike + Swim

2nd time there ! Love this place I would highly recommend to anyone wanting a secluded chill place to camp.

Lia

July 2025

16 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Wildflower Camp, Hike + Swim

Awesome spot and incredibly kind and generous hosts!

Erica

July 2025

With kids

1 night at The Pocket

After a very long drive this was exactly what my family needed. Anything you can think of was provided. Warm water, a bathroom, potable water, microwave, kerig, TV and air conditioning. We were greeted by the owners and they even offered us eggs. We only stayed one night, wish we could’ve stayed longer.

Our 19ft camper and 21 ft truck fit with ease. Easy in and out.

J

Julie

June 2025

19 ft travel trailer

1 night at The Pocket

Exactly as we had hoped. Spot was great for a quick stop over on our journey across the Mid-West. Beautiful property and Amanda greeted us and made us feel welcome. Wish we could have stayed longer. 😀

T

Todd

June 2025

24 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Pocket

Awesome family with an amazing and peaceful spot for our travel trailer,. Overlooks a beautiful pond with plenty of fishing. Highly recommend!

Bill

May 2025

14 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Wildflower Camp, Hike + Swim

Jon and lads were excellent hosts. The site was extremely secluded and beautiful. The fireflies at night were a bonus. I just wish I had more time

Taura

May 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Pocket

the property was great! the RV was exactly what we needed. and the fresh eggs in the morning were a definite bonus!

R

RoRo

March 2025

20 ft campervan

2 nights at The Pocket

I stayed 2 nights in "The Pocket". This hipcamp is a peaceful respite after a long drive. The host were kind, accommodating and I would definitely stay again.