94% (298) • 26 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Clinton
Fangthorn Forest
1. Fangthorn Forest
100%
(50)
25mi from Clinton · 1 site
In the 1840's there was a trading post on the property known as Lick Skillet because the owner would set the pans out at night for the dogs to lick.
Today, we call it Fanthorn Forest and it's our dream, our haven and our home.
We love sharing our farm with others and allowing them the same experience of peace and tranquility we get from the land.
Learn more about this land:
Located only 50 miles SE of Kansas City, MO! We have woods and pasture with Settle's Ford Wildlife area (fishing and hiking available) 1/4 mile away. Camping is primitive with only an outhouse and no shower facilities. There are MANY thorn trees, so hikers must have proper footwear. Fire ring, wood and a grate for cooking are provided. Livestock encounters are also available with owners in attendance. All proceeds are put back in the farm to care for the animals and the land. Parking area is at the end of the driveway and a cart is provided to take your gear across the bridge. We love kids and will provide lawn darts or any other games we have available if requested. Please visit our website at fangthornforest.com for more information.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from
$32
/ night
Sawmill Hollow Creek
2. Sawmill Hollow Creek
100%
(123)
26mi from Clinton · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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 sites and a map of the perimeter trail.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$60
/ night
Annie's HIDEOUT Musicians Camp
3. Annie's HIDEOUT Musicians Camp
96%
(49)
40mi from Clinton · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Pitch your tent on one of two wooded islands or back in woods by the creek. Opened new hiking trail up creek cross bridge, down opposite side. Badminton, fishing, paddle boats, hillbilly swimming pool. Second Saturday musician night from 6-9 pm. Stage, PA, drums, mics, amps, dance floor.
Learn more about this land:
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$28
/ night
Knob Noster State Park
4. Knob Noster State Park
100%
(1)
State park 28mi from Clinton · 35 sites
Named for the small hills rising out of prairie flatlands, this park is a mid-Missouri retreat.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
D'Ranch at Clearwater
5. D'Ranch at Clearwater
100%
(149)
41mi from Clinton · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$15
/ night
Wild Plum Valley
6. Wild Plum Valley
16mi from Clinton · 1 site
A lovely creekside camping location ready for your dry camp including lovely forested spots to hold your tents, truck or van campers. The creek is fun to play in but certainly not over knee high in depth. The rock creek bed is great to walk down and explore the bluffs, and when dry or very low gives campers the occasional arrowhead. This location was the ancestral land of ancestral peoples (currently their name is unknown) and once you get settled in, you can easily see why!
Firewood is provided as well as a rock fire ring, LED lights, seating and a very unique outhouse and outdoor shower. Can't wait to see you!
***Once you are booked, you will receive a short video showing you the campsite, the camp kitchen, outhouse, etc. as well as instructions for parking.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$40
/ night
Lakeview by Sue Honeymoon Cabin
7. Lakeview by Sue Honeymoon Cabin
100%
(1)
21mi from Clinton · 1 site
The Couple's Cabin is a part of the rustic Cabins of Lakeview by Sue Barn Venue. With its own lake-view porch too, it holds a maximum of 3 guests (including the ladder-accessible loft for one). When not being rented along with a wedding/event, it is offered here for a quiet stay. All the kitchen accessories you may need, comfy bedding, and plush towels, for the full bathroom with shower, have been provided. The little lake is steps from your front door where you can enjoy a little fishing too.
The space
Along with a well-appointed inside, we have chairs on the front porch for lake viewing and a grill for outdoor cooking too. There is also the Rustic Duck, a wonderful restaurant and art gallery, just a short walk away. Enjoy our little lake! This peaceful countryside cabin has a nice little lake just right for fishing just steps from the front door from which folks have caught catfish, bluegill, crappie, and bass. The Appleton City Lake does not allow swimming. It does not allow boats with motors. However, you could bring a kayak if you wanted. We have a community fire pit and picnic tables too. The grill is electric with pellets. We provide firewood for the pit and pellets for the grill.
Guest access
We are a little over one mile down a level gravel road and just 3.5 miles total from the small town of Appleton City where we have a little restaurant, Caseys, a very nice little grocery store (closes 7 pm), coffee house (mon-sat 8 am-11 am), and Dollar General (closes 9 pm). I live nearby on the property and am available to greet you when you arrive.
Other things to note
Appleton City is a small town. If you are coming in late, you may want to stop on the way to pick up food. We have a few stores in town, but some folks are caught off guard to find out the stores close early. But Caseys has sandwiches and assorted quick items and is open until 11 pm.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$130
/ night
B&S Creekside Retreat LLC
8. B&S Creekside Retreat LLC
100%
(7)
23mi from Clinton · 7 sites · Tents, Lodging
B&S Creekside Retreat offers a quiet, peaceful, Countryside setting on 21 acres with walking trails. We offer tent camping with firepit and picnic table. Enjoy nature, relax in a hammock or cozy up next to a warm fire. Guests will have access to inside bathroom and shower on the lower level of our guest house Upon request only if not being occupied by Airbnb or Vrbo guests at that time. Complimentary coffee and soda machine also available 24/7.
Please be respectful of quiet hours listed, due to other guests on the property.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$35
/ night
Arrowhead Point
9. Arrowhead Point
100%
(2)
33mi from Clinton · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This beautiful RV park and cabin resort on the edge of the Ozarks is the perfect getaway from the stress of daily life. With pull-thru full-hookup RV sites, several cabins, a pond for fishing, and lots of room to roam, you won't want to leave. Arrowhead Point in near the Stockton, Pomme de Terre, and Truman lake with Corp of Engineers property abounding. In addition, the Sac and Osage rivers are nearby for kayak and canoe excursions. Lucas Oil speedway is only 25 miles to the east so if you want to be near but away from the noise, look no further. PLEASE BE AWARE: Our address is Osceola, MO but we are on Hwy 54 between Collins and El Dorado Springs, MO.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$44
/ night
Tiny off grid A frame in the woods
10. Tiny off grid A frame in the woods
72%
(9)
33mi from Clinton · 4 sites
Unique off grid tiny A Frame in the Lake of the Ozarks/Truman Lake area with tons of activities to do in the area from fine dining to boat rentals. Comes with an off grid working shower and toilet. Private boat launch with access to lake of the Ozarks 5 minutes away. Property is on two lots of land but guest will be off to themselves the cabin is situated at the back of eagle bay resort in Lincoln MO
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$100
/ night
Cairn Cottage~kayaks~hot tub~LOZ
11. Cairn Cottage~kayaks~hot tub~LOZ
100%
(2)
39mi from Clinton · 1 site
Enjoy a retreat @cottagecairnloz a classic one-room, stone cottage sitting a stones throw from the Osage Arm of The Lake of the Ozarks (69MM). Relax with nature from the cabin hot tub year around. From May to when the water drops you can enjoy the Kayaks and SUPs at the lake lot. Brown Bend Public boat ramp is 11 minutes (6 mi) away from Cairn Cottage for those with boats. Please note that the cottage and lake lot are a short drive from each other. We are 20 minutes away from Missouri Department of Conservation land, 45 minutes away from climbing at Raven's Rocks and Warsaw. We are also 45 minutes from Mtn Biking trails in several directions. Message for links to these activities.
Toilets
Showers
Hot Tub
from
$180
/ night
Lake Ozark Wooded Retreat
12. Lake Ozark Wooded Retreat
100%
(1)
48mi from Clinton · 2 sites
A secluded gem in the Lake of the Ozarks hills. The property is very hidden from normal lake activity, offering an incredible time to enjoy privacy, nature and wildlife.
Hiking options vis trails or finding your own way. Abundant deer, turkey, squirrels, armadillos and more are regularly seen. The county is very natural and hilly so be prepared to enjoy safely.
There are towns only about 20 minutes away if you want to get back to civilization. The lake , including options to rent a boat, kayak or eat lakeside is also just a few miles drive from the camp sites.
Noite that the private shared drive is gravel and hilly. A for wheel drive truck or SUV is highly recommended and required in winter weather.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$16
/ night
4 Modern Cabins with full kitchens
13. 4 Modern Cabins with full kitchens
80%
(10)
17mi from Clinton · 4 sites
Learn more about this land:4 modern cabins with full kitchens/queen beds/wifi. Half block from Katy Trail State Park and Rock Island Spur. Cycle, hike, nature, Amish community.
94% (298) • 26 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Clinton
Fangthorn Forest
1. Fangthorn Forest
100%
(50)
25mi from Clinton · 1 site
In the 1840's there was a trading post on the property known as Lick Skillet because the owner would set the pans out at night for the dogs to lick.
Today, we call it Fanthorn Forest and it's our dream, our haven and our home.
We love sharing our farm with others and allowing them the same experience of peace and tranquility we get from the land.
Learn more about this land:
Located only 50 miles SE of Kansas City, MO! We have woods and pasture with Settle's Ford Wildlife area (fishing and hiking available) 1/4 mile away. Camping is primitive with only an outhouse and no shower facilities. There are MANY thorn trees, so hikers must have proper footwear. Fire ring, wood and a grate for cooking are provided. Livestock encounters are also available with owners in attendance. All proceeds are put back in the farm to care for the animals and the land. Parking area is at the end of the driveway and a cart is provided to take your gear across the bridge. We love kids and will provide lawn darts or any other games we have available if requested. Please visit our website at fangthornforest.com for more information.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from
$32
/ night
Sawmill Hollow Creek
2. Sawmill Hollow Creek
100%
(123)
26mi from Clinton · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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 sites and a map of the perimeter trail.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$60
/ night
Annie's HIDEOUT Musicians Camp
3. Annie's HIDEOUT Musicians Camp
96%
(49)
40mi from Clinton · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Pitch your tent on one of two wooded islands or back in woods by the creek. Opened new hiking trail up creek cross bridge, down opposite side. Badminton, fishing, paddle boats, hillbilly swimming pool. Second Saturday musician night from 6-9 pm. Stage, PA, drums, mics, amps, dance floor.
Learn more about this land:
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$28
/ night
Knob Noster State Park
4. Knob Noster State Park
100%
(1)
State park 28mi from Clinton · 35 sites
Named for the small hills rising out of prairie flatlands, this park is a mid-Missouri retreat.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
D'Ranch at Clearwater
5. D'Ranch at Clearwater
100%
(149)
41mi from Clinton · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$15
/ night
Wild Plum Valley
6. Wild Plum Valley
16mi from Clinton · 1 site
A lovely creekside camping location ready for your dry camp including lovely forested spots to hold your tents, truck or van campers. The creek is fun to play in but certainly not over knee high in depth. The rock creek bed is great to walk down and explore the bluffs, and when dry or very low gives campers the occasional arrowhead. This location was the ancestral land of ancestral peoples (currently their name is unknown) and once you get settled in, you can easily see why!
Firewood is provided as well as a rock fire ring, LED lights, seating and a very unique outhouse and outdoor shower. Can't wait to see you!
***Once you are booked, you will receive a short video showing you the campsite, the camp kitchen, outhouse, etc. as well as instructions for parking.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$40
/ night
Lakeview by Sue Honeymoon Cabin
7. Lakeview by Sue Honeymoon Cabin
100%
(1)
21mi from Clinton · 1 site
The Couple's Cabin is a part of the rustic Cabins of Lakeview by Sue Barn Venue. With its own lake-view porch too, it holds a maximum of 3 guests (including the ladder-accessible loft for one). When not being rented along with a wedding/event, it is offered here for a quiet stay. All the kitchen accessories you may need, comfy bedding, and plush towels, for the full bathroom with shower, have been provided. The little lake is steps from your front door where you can enjoy a little fishing too.
The space
Along with a well-appointed inside, we have chairs on the front porch for lake viewing and a grill for outdoor cooking too. There is also the Rustic Duck, a wonderful restaurant and art gallery, just a short walk away. Enjoy our little lake! This peaceful countryside cabin has a nice little lake just right for fishing just steps from the front door from which folks have caught catfish, bluegill, crappie, and bass. The Appleton City Lake does not allow swimming. It does not allow boats with motors. However, you could bring a kayak if you wanted. We have a community fire pit and picnic tables too. The grill is electric with pellets. We provide firewood for the pit and pellets for the grill.
Guest access
We are a little over one mile down a level gravel road and just 3.5 miles total from the small town of Appleton City where we have a little restaurant, Caseys, a very nice little grocery store (closes 7 pm), coffee house (mon-sat 8 am-11 am), and Dollar General (closes 9 pm). I live nearby on the property and am available to greet you when you arrive.
Other things to note
Appleton City is a small town. If you are coming in late, you may want to stop on the way to pick up food. We have a few stores in town, but some folks are caught off guard to find out the stores close early. But Caseys has sandwiches and assorted quick items and is open until 11 pm.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$130
/ night
B&S Creekside Retreat LLC
8. B&S Creekside Retreat LLC
100%
(7)
23mi from Clinton · 7 sites · Tents, Lodging
B&S Creekside Retreat offers a quiet, peaceful, Countryside setting on 21 acres with walking trails. We offer tent camping with firepit and picnic table. Enjoy nature, relax in a hammock or cozy up next to a warm fire. Guests will have access to inside bathroom and shower on the lower level of our guest house Upon request only if not being occupied by Airbnb or Vrbo guests at that time. Complimentary coffee and soda machine also available 24/7.
Please be respectful of quiet hours listed, due to other guests on the property.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$35
/ night
Arrowhead Point
9. Arrowhead Point
100%
(2)
33mi from Clinton · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This beautiful RV park and cabin resort on the edge of the Ozarks is the perfect getaway from the stress of daily life. With pull-thru full-hookup RV sites, several cabins, a pond for fishing, and lots of room to roam, you won't want to leave. Arrowhead Point in near the Stockton, Pomme de Terre, and Truman lake with Corp of Engineers property abounding. In addition, the Sac and Osage rivers are nearby for kayak and canoe excursions. Lucas Oil speedway is only 25 miles to the east so if you want to be near but away from the noise, look no further. PLEASE BE AWARE: Our address is Osceola, MO but we are on Hwy 54 between Collins and El Dorado Springs, MO.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$44
/ night
Tiny off grid A frame in the woods
10. Tiny off grid A frame in the woods
72%
(9)
33mi from Clinton · 4 sites
Unique off grid tiny A Frame in the Lake of the Ozarks/Truman Lake area with tons of activities to do in the area from fine dining to boat rentals. Comes with an off grid working shower and toilet. Private boat launch with access to lake of the Ozarks 5 minutes away. Property is on two lots of land but guest will be off to themselves the cabin is situated at the back of eagle bay resort in Lincoln MO
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$100
/ night
Cairn Cottage~kayaks~hot tub~LOZ
11. Cairn Cottage~kayaks~hot tub~LOZ
100%
(2)
39mi from Clinton · 1 site
Enjoy a retreat @cottagecairnloz a classic one-room, stone cottage sitting a stones throw from the Osage Arm of The Lake of the Ozarks (69MM). Relax with nature from the cabin hot tub year around. From May to when the water drops you can enjoy the Kayaks and SUPs at the lake lot. Brown Bend Public boat ramp is 11 minutes (6 mi) away from Cairn Cottage for those with boats. Please note that the cottage and lake lot are a short drive from each other. We are 20 minutes away from Missouri Department of Conservation land, 45 minutes away from climbing at Raven's Rocks and Warsaw. We are also 45 minutes from Mtn Biking trails in several directions. Message for links to these activities.
Toilets
Showers
Hot Tub
from
$180
/ night
Lake Ozark Wooded Retreat
12. Lake Ozark Wooded Retreat
100%
(1)
48mi from Clinton · 2 sites
A secluded gem in the Lake of the Ozarks hills. The property is very hidden from normal lake activity, offering an incredible time to enjoy privacy, nature and wildlife.
Hiking options vis trails or finding your own way. Abundant deer, turkey, squirrels, armadillos and more are regularly seen. The county is very natural and hilly so be prepared to enjoy safely.
There are towns only about 20 minutes away if you want to get back to civilization. The lake , including options to rent a boat, kayak or eat lakeside is also just a few miles drive from the camp sites.
Noite that the private shared drive is gravel and hilly. A for wheel drive truck or SUV is highly recommended and required in winter weather.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$16
/ night
4 Modern Cabins with full kitchens
13. 4 Modern Cabins with full kitchens
80%
(10)
17mi from Clinton · 4 sites
Learn more about this land:4 modern cabins with full kitchens/queen beds/wifi. Half block from Katy Trail State Park and Rock Island Spur. Cycle, hike, nature, Amish community.
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
J
Jenn
December 2025
Weekend Trip to Cairn Cottage~kayaks~hot tub~LOZ
Cottage was quaint and cozy and super clean; Hannah is an excellent communicator; thorough amenities throughout the property. Perfect getaway for the weekend! Highly recommend giving Cairn Cottage a stay if you’re in the neighborhood.
See more
Sheryl
November 2025
Weekend Trip to D'Ranch at Clearwater
I've tent camped at D'Ranch several times. Ted and Tracey are always the best! Chose a cabin this time. Perfect for my needs. Basic with no electric or running water. Port a john nearby. Great place to relax. Good place to see some wildlife.
See more
J
Jordan
November 2025
Tent
With kids
Really enjoyed our time there. Lane & Cheryl were very nice, and great with the kids when they were with the animals.
See more
H
Hong Geun
November 2025
Tent
With kids
It was a fantastic camping trip with dogs, cats, and animals. The children really enjoyed it. Thank you!
See more
Thomas
November 2025
With pets
We had such a great weekend staying at the big oak lodge! Caren and her husband were both so accommodating and kind. The site itself is beautiful as well as the cabins and their history. Wonderful place. We will definitely be back!
See more
E
Erin
October 2025
Tent
We had an absolutely wonderful time! What a beautiful spot. So private. We were well taken care of and thoroughly enjoyed the quiet. Our dogs loved exploring the grounds which was such a treat for them!
See more
L
Leeann
October 2025
Tent
I just can’t say enough wonderful things about this experience. The hosts are so kind and caring. The camping spot was in a clearing with a short walk across a bridge. There was a great fire pit and Layne kept it stocked with wood. He even provided a gas torch that made starting fires easy and fun. In addition to this beautiful, quiet camping spot….a nearby fairy cove was beautifully situated which made for hours of reading. In the middle of the pasture, a gated area with additional space for hanging out with the animals was a two minute walk from my camping spot. All weekend long, I enjoyed getting to know all the animals. Each animal has a name and a personality. I loved the horses but quickly began to appreciate the cattle, alpacas, llama, pig, cats and dogs. The rescued animals are healthy, well-fed and loved. It was the most restful and unique camping experience. The owners added some great fall/Halloween decorations that thrills the kid in all of us. Kids would really benefit from this environment. I had no problem getting cell service but wouldn’t have minded either way. The sunsets were especially gorgeous. The hosts left me to myself but didn’t mind when I had questions- they are so smart. I enjoyed my stay so much I added another day on. I got to take my gravel bike out and explore all the nearby areas. Being able to bike was an added bonus. I am already excited to bring my grandson back!
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Olivia
October 2025
Tent
Group trip
Beautiful campsite and beautiful animals! The hosts let us brush the cows and give treats to the animals. We had so much fun! Would love to come back.
See moreT
Tara
October 2025
Tent
With pets
Beautiful and relaxing getaway! The property was perfect for unwinding, and the hosts were absolutely fantastic—welcoming, attentive, and kind. We truly enjoyed our stay and are already hoping to return next year
See more
Sheryl
October 2025
Tent
This is my go to place when I'm needing a reset. Tracey is always a phenomenal host even when she's busy in her personal life.
See more
R
Rob
September 2025
25 ft campervan
With pets
First and foremost, the owners of this are truly incredible people. They’re very kind and thoughtful and they go to great lengths to make sure that yourstay is as comfortable as possible. They bring you an incredible amount of wood, the fishing pole holders everywhere there are wonderful lights and placement of chairs and guide lights all over the place. This place is truly a Shangri-La.
Secondly, the land itself is magnificent If you’re a nature lover, and enjoy seeing bald eagles, white tail, and an incredible wide variety of birds this place cannot be beat. The body of water that this sits next to is full of fish and is so gorgeous. Also, the site itself is far enough away from city lights that you can see the spiral of the Milky Way galaxy and the star watching is absolutely wonderful.
We plan on coming back to this place annually.
See morej
jered
September 2025
Tent
With pets
Everything about our trip was perfect! The host is incredible and everything about the site is so well thought out and prepared for campers to enjoy their visit. The campsite is large with 3 platforms for tents and is located right on the channel leading to the lake. Our dog loved exploring the well manicured walking paths, and using one of the multiple kayaks available. Absolutely incredible experience, we will be back!
See more
P
Preston
September 2025
Tent
Group trip
Our group has been to Mike’s place twice and will be back again. Beautiful location with a lot of space all to yourself. Mike is super helpful with anything you’d need.
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Courtney
September 2025
With kids
Great location! The cabin was clean and comfy! Definitely recommend 10/10
See more
Sheryl
September 2025
Tent
Every thing is just perfect anytime I stay. Tracey is an exceptional host!
See more
J
John
September 2025
Tent
Group trip
We had a great time camping on this property. The site was private and the shower and toilet were a nice bonus.
See more
Jordan
September 2025
Tent
As always, we loved our stay in paradise. Cannot recommend this place (or its hosts) more.
See more
J
John
September 2025
2 nights at D'Ranch at Clearwater
Quiet, secluded, great place to disconnect. Would recommend to any one looking to get away.
See more
Sheryl
September 2025
Tent
Creekside 4 is where I stayed over Labor Day weekend. The creek was low but still beautiful. Perfect for wading in. There is a herd of deer that frequent the area. Unfortunately, I did not get to see them. It is a working 40 acre hobby farm, not a campground. There is no modern bathroom or shower house. They do have airbnb units that do have all your amenities, plus breakfast! They also have 3 rustic cabins on the lake. And 1 portajohn. Whatever your camping style is, they have you covered. Tracy is a phenomenal host. She is not only knowledgeable about her farm but the land around her. She is very passionate about what she does. Her tour of the farm was very informational. The grounds were so clean. You wouldn't even know you were on a farm. Ted, her husband, met me at the gate. And escorted me to my site. They both are just the best. Tracy was very responsive to her messages both Before & After booking. She asked many times if there was anything I needed & to let her know if I did. I would highly recommend D'Ranch to anyone! Topnotch hosts and gorgeous well-maintained property.
See moreA
Angela
August 2025
Tent
With kids
We wanted to try camping with our two little girls. This worked for a secluded, quiet spot. The wagon provided to take transport gear was super helpful. Also the torch provided to start a fire. Grass was freshly mowed and made the clearing inviting. It was surprisingly not too buggy even though it was humid. We didn’t spend much time with Cheryl, but she and her husband were hospitable. Our girls loved the animals!
See more
The best forest camping near Clinton guide
Where to go
Harry S. Truman State Park
Named for the Missouri-born president, Harry S. Truman State Park offers recreation and camping accommodations on Truman Lake. The onsite marina, swim beaches, and ample shore access make it easy to hit the waters. Six campgrounds provide tent and RV campsites, with some electric hookups available.
Knob Noster State Park
Knob Noster State Park is 30 minutes north of Clinton. It preserves woodlands and prairies along a creek, with scenic hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails. Two lakes provide waters for fishing and paddling. RVers will find basic and electric sites, while tent campers can choose from the developed campgrounds or primitive backpacking campsites along the McAdoo Trail.
Kansas City, Missouri
While downtown Kansas City is more than an hour northwest of Clinton, it is close enough for a day trip (or for camping at the many RV parks sprinkled across the southern suburbs). The city offers a fantastic array of museums, with art, history, sports, and music as focal points. The reinvigorated downtown is an energetic spot for shopping and dining. In addition to the private RV parks, public campgrounds can be found nearby, primarily centered on Lake Jacomo and Blue Springs Lake.
When to go
With the lake at the center of the action, Clinton’s peak season is summer. The refreshing waters offer a break from Missouri’s heat and humidity. However, spring and fall are also beautiful times for a boat tour, as long as you stay on the water instead of hopping in it. Fall brings a burst of color to the region’s woodlands. Winter is generally not the best time for camping, unless you come prepared for freezing temperatures and bouts of snow and ice.