The best campgrounds near Clinton, Missouri with wildlife watching

With its location on Truman Lake, Clinton is a summertime hotspot in western Missouri. However, thanks to its 55,000 acres of surface water, it has enough room for everyone. You’ll never feel crowded, making this a prime location for relaxing, fishing, boating, and paddling. After some fun on the water, head downtown to stroll the square. Historic buildings and Victorian architecture add to the charm. Private RV parks and glamping rentals are found across the region. The Army Corps of Engineers and the town of Osceola operate public campgrounds on Truman Lake, offering dry camping, as well as tent and RV sites with partial and full hookups.

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Top-rated campgrounds

With its location on Truman Lake, Clinton is a summertime hotspot in western Missouri. However, thanks to its 55,000 acres of surface water, it has enough room for everyone. You’ll never feel crowded, making this a prime location for relaxing, fishing, boating, and paddling. After some fun on the water, head downtown to stroll the square. Historic buildings and Victorian architecture add to the charm. Private RV parks and glamping rentals are found across the region. The Army Corps of Engineers and the town of Osceola operate public campgrounds on Truman Lake, offering dry camping, as well as tent and RV sites with partial and full hookups.

94% (349)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. D'Ranch at Clearwater

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(149)

41mi from Clinton · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Stover, 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.

2. Green Acres at Red Brick Farmhouse

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(211)

46mi from Clinton · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Higginsville, MO

A quiet country retreat nestled in the picturesque rural outskirts of Higginsville, Missouri. Our place consists of three RV sites with water and electric hookups, two camping sites and one on-site travel trailer for rent. Wifi is available at all sites, except for Site 3. Green Acres at Red Brick Farm is located just 50 miles east of Kansas City off of I-70 at Exit 49. Once you are off of I-70 your drive is less than 8 minutes away on all blacktop roads. Site 2 is on gravel with 30 amp hookup and water, preferably best for RV’s and trailers 25’ and under. Site 1 and Site 3 are on gravel with a 20/30/50 amp hookup and water, best suited for larger RV’s and trailers. You may choose your site location, but due to the small number of sites we have we may have to alter your choice. This is so we can accommodate our guests in the best way possible, depending on the size of each rig. If you are towing a vehicle or pulling a trailer your total length should be 55’ or under. We will not accept Triple Axels. Site 4 and site 5 are for tents, pop ups, very tiny trailers and are in flexible locations. A 20 amp standard outlet can be provided for site 4 and site 5. For your use is a shower, toilet, and bathroom sink in our farmhouse basement. Please arrive before dusk, so you don’t disturb other campers. Site 6 Is the on-site travel trailer, ‘Ain’t She Cute’. No Pets are allowed when reserving ‘Ain’t She Cute’. The vintage style travel trailer is completely renovated and decorated with collectibles and antiques and is available for booking. It is furnished with a queen size bed, tiny kitchen, TV, wifi, and full size, not trailer size, bathroom. The trailer is for 2 guests, but an additional guest may sleep on the daybed, preferably a child or small adult. We live onsite in our 1920’s Prairie Style home which is also Red Brick Farmhouse Bed and Breakfast with three Guest Rooms available for booking. Look us up online. At your disposal, is the use of our outdoor furniture, a large yard to walk around in, a fire pit, a BBQ grill, and even a tire swing. Our restaurant, Red Shanty Cafe and BBQ, is located in the town of Higginsville, about 5 miles from Red Brick Farmhouse. Red Shanty Cafe is open Weds and Thurs, 11am - 8 pm and Fri and Sat, 11am - 9pm.

3. Annie's HIDEOUT Musicians Camp

96%

(49)

40mi from Clinton · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Drexel, MO

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:

4. Fangthorn Forest

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(50)

25mi from Clinton · 1 site · Tent, RV · Garden City, MO

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. RV's are allowed, but we do not have any hook ups available and they are not allowed in the woods. Parking area is at the end of the driveway for both cars and RV's. 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.

Public campgrounds near Clinton

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Knob Noster Campground

28mi from Clinton · 35 sites · Tents, RVs · in Knob Noster State Park

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Hermitage Campground

38mi from Clinton · 117 sites · Tents, RVs · in Pomme de Terre State Park

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Pittsburg Campground

45mi from Clinton · 122 sites · Tents, RVs · in Pomme de Terre State Park

Stories from the community

Sheryl

2 weeks ago

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.

J

Jordan

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Fangthorn Forest

Really enjoyed our time there. Lane & Cheryl were very nice, and great with the kids when they were with the animals.

H

Hong Geun

2 weeks ago

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!

L

Leeann

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Fangthorn Forest

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!

Olivia

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Fangthorn Forest

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.

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.

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!

The coolest airstream RV owned by the coolest guests!

E

Elizabeth

September 2025

20 ft Class C

With pets

Weekend Trip to Green Acres at Red Brick Farmhouse

This is one of the more idyllic private residences where we have had the pleasure to stay during our cross country journey. Thanks to the hosts for their flexibility on our late arrival as we’d been on the road longer than originally planned on our day of arrival. It’s a beautiful location also managed as a bed-and-breakfast. Super sweet. We recommend.

J

John

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

4 nights at Annie's HIDEOUT Musicians Camp

We had a great time camping on this property. The site was private and the shower and toilet were a nice bonus.

D

Dora

September 2025

36 ft fifth wheel

2 nights at Green Acres at Red Brick Farmhouse

We loved our stay at Green Acres Farm, So peaceful, and beautiful, . The host are so nice and engaging . Would definitely recommend staying there. We will definitely stay if we are in the area again.

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.

A

Angela

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Fangthorn Forest

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!

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!!

C

Carlos

August 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Fangthorn Forest

The campsite was nicely mowed and the paths were kept nice. Plenty of room for multiple tents or a larger group. It is primitive, so keep that in mind. No hookups, but they did have an outhouse and it was decent. They also have potable water, but its at the barn. The animals were awesome. You're able to feed and maybe pet a Llama, alpaca, or some horses. They also have cows youre able to walk around with. Cheryl and her husband were awesome and super nice. The only downside to me was having to park and walk all the gear to the site. Theres no way of driving to the site because of the creek. Its not far, but if you have alot of stuff be prepared to take a few trips. However, they did have a nice cart you can use to haul stuff. Would stay there again and I would also recommend.

I

Isaiah

August 2025

Tent

1 night at Annie's HIDEOUT Musicians Camp

Annie’s place has a lot of natural charm and it was a perfect place for a quick getaway. We loved the goats.

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.

T

Tristan

August 2025

Weekend Trip to D'Ranch at Clearwater

Great little getaway! Host was very accommodating. Right on the water with great fishing. Have some kayaks that guests can use.

D

Daylin

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to D'Ranch at Clearwater

It’s always a wonderful time staying at D’Ranch! So thankful for such wonderful hosts. Their property is absolutely stunning and well-maintained.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

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Knob Noster State Park

Knob Noster, Missouri

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(4)

Pomme de Terre State Park

Hermitage, Missouri

Other options near Clinton

Von Holten Ranch Century Ranch

100%

(98)

37mi from Clinton · 40 sites · Mora, MO

Von Holten Ranch was originally in 1906 by David Von Holten's great grandfather. David is the 4th generation to own the family farm. David and Brandy married in 2005. Brandy Von Holten is an avid horsewoman. They quit their jobs, bought the family farm, and opened an equine trail riding facility and fully functioning camping facility.Learn more about this land:Winery nearby, horses and mules visible, heated and air conditioned guest shower house, creek that runs year round, mostly wooded, private firepits.Von Holten Ranch is on a century farm, meaning that the land has been in the same family for over 100 years. It is also home to a rustic wedding barn and an equine trail riding facility. We are considered the gateway to the Ozarks. The deer are plentiful and easily viewable, especially in the open fields.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

4 Modern Cabins with full kitchens

80%

(10)

17mi from Clinton · 4 sites · Windsor, MO

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.

Potable water

Toilets

Campfires

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best camping near Clinton with wildlife watching 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.