Lake Camping Near Clinton, Missouri, US: 20 Best Lake Campsites 2026

Camping by the lake in Clinton gives you over 300 ways to unwind. Set up at a site where you can light a campfire, rinse off under a hot shower, and spot wildlife between swims and hikes. You’ll find water access within steps of your tent—no long hauls with the kayak here. Prices start at $15 a night, with an average around $73. Locals head to Sawmill Hollow Creek (87 reviews) for shaded sites and creek trails, or D'Ranch at Clearwater (77 reviews) for easy lake access and a laid-back scene. For something out of the ordinary, the Tiny off grid A frame in the woods (2 reviews) puts you deep in the trees, steps from the water. Bring a fishing pole, sturdy shoes, and a sense of adventure. Campfires are allowed, and you won’t have trouble finding a spot to cool off after a hike.

94% (212) • 19 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Clinton

Sawmill Hollow Creek

1. 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

Odessa Waterfront loft

2. Odessa Waterfront loft

88%

(4)

42mi from Clinton · 1 site · Lodging

Unplug and unwind in this charming loft cabin nestled on the water’s edge. With large windows, a peaceful pond view, and a private dock, it's the perfect spot to relax and reconnect with nature. Inside, enjoy a warm, wood-accented space with a comfy loft bed, cozy living area, and everything you need for a restful stay. Ideal for couples, families and solo travelers or anyone craving a quiet escape.also a short 40 min drive to the Kansas City chiefs and KC royals stadium

Pets

Toilets

Showers

from

$130

/ night

D'Ranch at Clearwater

3. 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

Knob Noster State Park

4. Knob Noster State Park

100%

(1)

35 sites · Knob Noster, Missouri

Named for the small hills rising out of prairie flatlands, this park is a mid-Missouri retreat.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Pomme de Terre State Park

5. Pomme de Terre State Park

100%

(4)

239 sites · Hermitage, Missouri

Enjoy a peaceful lake retreat at this Missouri park with diverse camping experiences.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Secluded Treehouse Retreat By Lake

6. Secluded Treehouse Retreat By Lake

100%

(1)

42mi from Clinton · 1 site · Lodging

Welcome to an exceptional treehouse retreat nestled in a private cove at Lake of the Ozarks' 60MM. This unique hideaway, spacious yet cozy, sits above an acre of peaceful nature, offering outstanding views from an expansive deck just 200 feet from the serene lake. Serene Nature Escape Wake up to the melody of birds and enjoy your morning coffee on a partially screened deck. Watch as wildlife ambles beneath the tall trees. Unwind on hammocks and swings under the treehouse. Spend evenings around the fire pit under the starry sky. An Adventure Awaits Ideal for couples, families, solo travelers, and nature enthusiasts. Engage in fishing, kayaking, or share tranquil moments by the lake. Use the roll-away bed to sleep beneath the stars in the screened lanai. Activities and Amenities Spend sunny days floating on rafts or canoeing in the cove with provided gear. Enjoy lakeside bocce, then gather around the fire for a quintessential lakeside experience. A fun game of balls on the bedpost is always a great time, rain or shine. Explore the lake's perimeter through spring and fall hiking opportunities. Exclusive Dining Experience Request gourmet wellness meals prepared by your host, a skilled chef, for an added fee. (when available) Delight in craft meals on your private deck amidst the Ozarks’ beauty. Highlights You'll Appreciate: ✔ Private cove for an exclusive getaway. ✔ Spacious deck with breathtaking views. ✔ Cozy fire pit for nights infused with stars. ✔ Relaxing hammocks & swings. ✔ All-weather, partially screened deck setting. ✔ Easy 200 feet to the lake. ✔ Optional health-focused meals for a luxury experience. This hidden treasure is ideal for those seeking a secluded retreat or romantic getaway, where seclusion and luxury blend harmoniously. Feel at home among nature, with the luxury of amenities including Tempurpedic beds in all bedrooms at your disposal. Whether we’re present or not, you'll receive a key code before arrival and phone support during your stay. Connecting to WIFI is necessary for phone service. Pet and Event Friendly A $30 per dog fee applies—inform us about your furry friends. Inquire about hosting events like weddings or family reunions. Additional Options and Local Attractions

Pets

Toilets

Showers

from

$221

/ night

Tiny off grid A frame in the woods

7. Tiny off grid A frame in the woods

72%

(9)

33mi from Clinton · 3 sites · Lodging

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

$98

/ night

Cairn Cottage~kayaks~hot tub~LOZ

8. Cairn Cottage~kayaks~hot tub~LOZ

100%

(2)

39mi from Clinton · 1 site · Lodging

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

Lakeview by Sue Honeymoon Cabin

9. Lakeview by Sue Honeymoon Cabin

100%

(1)

21mi from Clinton · 1 site · Lodging

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

Camping by the lake in Clinton gives you over 300 ways to unwind. Set up at a site where you can light a campfire, rinse off under a hot shower, and spot wildlife between swims and hikes. You’ll find water access within steps of your tent—no long hauls with the kayak here. Prices start at $15 a night, with an average around $73. Locals head to Sawmill Hollow Creek (87 reviews) for shaded sites and creek trails, or D'Ranch at Clearwater (77 reviews) for easy lake access and a laid-back scene. For something out of the ordinary, the Tiny off grid A frame in the woods (2 reviews) puts you deep in the trees, steps from the water. Bring a fishing pole, sturdy shoes, and a sense of adventure. Campfires are allowed, and you won’t have trouble finding a spot to cool off after a hike.

94% (212) • 19 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Clinton

Sawmill Hollow Creek

1. 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

Odessa Waterfront loft

2. Odessa Waterfront loft

88%

(4)

42mi from Clinton · 1 site · Lodging

Unplug and unwind in this charming loft cabin nestled on the water’s edge. With large windows, a peaceful pond view, and a private dock, it's the perfect spot to relax and reconnect with nature. Inside, enjoy a warm, wood-accented space with a comfy loft bed, cozy living area, and everything you need for a restful stay. Ideal for couples, families and solo travelers or anyone craving a quiet escape.also a short 40 min drive to the Kansas City chiefs and KC royals stadium

Pets

Toilets

Showers

from

$130

/ night

D'Ranch at Clearwater

3. 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

Knob Noster State Park

4. Knob Noster State Park

100%

(1)

35 sites · Knob Noster, Missouri

Named for the small hills rising out of prairie flatlands, this park is a mid-Missouri retreat.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Pomme de Terre State Park

5. Pomme de Terre State Park

100%

(4)

239 sites · Hermitage, Missouri

Enjoy a peaceful lake retreat at this Missouri park with diverse camping experiences.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Secluded Treehouse Retreat By Lake

6. Secluded Treehouse Retreat By Lake

100%

(1)

42mi from Clinton · 1 site · Lodging

Welcome to an exceptional treehouse retreat nestled in a private cove at Lake of the Ozarks' 60MM. This unique hideaway, spacious yet cozy, sits above an acre of peaceful nature, offering outstanding views from an expansive deck just 200 feet from the serene lake. Serene Nature Escape Wake up to the melody of birds and enjoy your morning coffee on a partially screened deck. Watch as wildlife ambles beneath the tall trees. Unwind on hammocks and swings under the treehouse. Spend evenings around the fire pit under the starry sky. An Adventure Awaits Ideal for couples, families, solo travelers, and nature enthusiasts. Engage in fishing, kayaking, or share tranquil moments by the lake. Use the roll-away bed to sleep beneath the stars in the screened lanai. Activities and Amenities Spend sunny days floating on rafts or canoeing in the cove with provided gear. Enjoy lakeside bocce, then gather around the fire for a quintessential lakeside experience. A fun game of balls on the bedpost is always a great time, rain or shine. Explore the lake's perimeter through spring and fall hiking opportunities. Exclusive Dining Experience Request gourmet wellness meals prepared by your host, a skilled chef, for an added fee. (when available) Delight in craft meals on your private deck amidst the Ozarks’ beauty. Highlights You'll Appreciate: ✔ Private cove for an exclusive getaway. ✔ Spacious deck with breathtaking views. ✔ Cozy fire pit for nights infused with stars. ✔ Relaxing hammocks & swings. ✔ All-weather, partially screened deck setting. ✔ Easy 200 feet to the lake. ✔ Optional health-focused meals for a luxury experience. This hidden treasure is ideal for those seeking a secluded retreat or romantic getaway, where seclusion and luxury blend harmoniously. Feel at home among nature, with the luxury of amenities including Tempurpedic beds in all bedrooms at your disposal. Whether we’re present or not, you'll receive a key code before arrival and phone support during your stay. Connecting to WIFI is necessary for phone service. Pet and Event Friendly A $30 per dog fee applies—inform us about your furry friends. Inquire about hosting events like weddings or family reunions. Additional Options and Local Attractions

Pets

Toilets

Showers

from

$221

/ night

Tiny off grid A frame in the woods

7. Tiny off grid A frame in the woods

72%

(9)

33mi from Clinton · 3 sites · Lodging

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

$98

/ night

Cairn Cottage~kayaks~hot tub~LOZ

8. Cairn Cottage~kayaks~hot tub~LOZ

100%

(2)

39mi from Clinton · 1 site · Lodging

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

Lakeview by Sue Honeymoon Cabin

9. Lakeview by Sue Honeymoon Cabin

100%

(1)

21mi from Clinton · 1 site · Lodging

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

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.

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.

H

Hong Geun

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to D'Ranch at Clearwater

It was a fantastic camping trip with dogs, cats, and animals. The children really enjoyed it. Thank you!

A

Anita

November 2025

2 nights at Tiny off grid A frame in the woods

Very cute and supplied with everything we needed. I would definitely advise driving there in a truck or at least a vehicle that is not low profile because the road to get there is a little washed out in spots. Otherwise it was a nice place to stay!

Also thankful for the umbrella over the picnic table.

E

Erin

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sawmill Hollow Creek

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!

S

Sarah

October 2025

With pets

4 nights at Odessa Waterfront loft

This was an amazing stay. Small and cozy. The cabin was clean and had pretty much everything we needed. Despite having people in the areas around us, it was so quiet and peaceful. The neighbor we did interact with was friendly and helpful. The host responded quickly and was very helpful in explaining the things we needed to know. The only issue we had was really out of the owners control and not his fault at all. Off leash dogs come right up on the deck. 🤦‍♀️ Overall a great stay, and I would definitely stay again.

P

Patrick

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Secluded Treehouse Retreat By Lake

The cabin was exactly as described. Secluded and quiet while still being near the lake. Amy was very quick to respond to questions and friendly

T

Tara

October 2025

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Sawmill Hollow Creek

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

Sheryl

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to D'Ranch at Clearwater

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.

R

Rob

September 2025

25 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sawmill Hollow Creek

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.

j

jered

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sawmill Hollow Creek

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!

P

Preston

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Sawmill Hollow Creek

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.

J

Josh

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Tiny off grid A frame in the woods

The A Frame was a great place to spend a weekend away from the city. The building was comfortable and had some nice luxuries such as AC and a mini fridge. Bathroom facility was awesome: having a hot shower is unusual even for cabin camping. The area was clean and quiet. Definitely have a vehicle that can handle some rough gravel roads and be sure to follow the directions the host gives you.

Courtney

September 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to D'Ranch at Clearwater

Great location! The cabin was clean and comfy! Definitely recommend 10/10

Sheryl

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to D'Ranch at Clearwater

Every thing is just perfect anytime I stay. Tracey is an exceptional host!

Jordan

September 2025

Tent

4 nights at Sawmill Hollow Creek

As always, we loved our stay in paradise. Cannot recommend this place (or its hosts) 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.

Sheryl

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to D'Ranch at Clearwater

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.

L

LAUREN

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to D'Ranch at Clearwater

This place is amazing! Tracey and Ted are so friendly and have a wonderful place. It has everything you need and more. Especially love all the animals!!

K

Karl

August 2025

Weekend Trip to D'Ranch at Clearwater

What went well... Everything! The cabin was just what we needed. The property is lovely and I loved using the kayak on the cove. I saw Herons, ducks and other water birds and a few amphibians. They had a great bonfire on Saturday night and my wife and I really enjoyed talking with Tracey and Ted. All in all a great trip at a great site.