The best dog-friendly camping near Lake Lotawana

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With a name that translates to “sparkling waters,” the town of Lake Lotawana is named for Missouri’s largest private lake. It is far enough from Kansas City to feel like a relaxed retreat, while still offering easy access to the city for sightseeing and more. To access the 400-acres of water, you’ll need an invitation from a resident, though a number of upscale restaurants offer waterfront views. To the north and west, Blue Springs and Lee’s Summit are extensions of the KC suburbs, offering some private RV parks with amenities like full hookups and free wifi.

96% (1.5K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Lake Lotawana

2. Deer Lake Retreat

32mi from Lake Lotawana · 1 site · Tent
Seated on a secluded one-acre site, Deer Lake Retreat offers a peaceful, primitive camping experience in the heart of nature. This cozy, private spot is perfect for those looking to disconnect and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. The camp features a covered camping structure with two twin mattresses, you must provide your own bedding. There’s plenty of space for an additional tent, allowing for a small group or family to enjoy the campsite. There is parking for up to three cars, the campsite is easy to access. The campsite is equipped with a fire pit and firewood provided. Tiki torches are provided but you must bring your own torch fuel. There’s also a table for food prep. This site has a porta potty but no shower or running water. Access to the lake for fishing, swimming and paddling is available but you’ll need to purchase a day pass through the City of Crystal Lakes website, which gives you access to all five lakes in the area. While swimming is allowed, we recommend you use the lakes as fishing and paddling only. Escape the hustle and bustle and experience the magic of private, lakeside camping. Well behaved pets are allowed.
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$75
 / night

3. Kansas City East / Oak Grove KOA Holiday

11mi from Lake Lotawana · 13 sites · RVs
Welcome to the Kansas City East KOA – From S'mores to Snores! Where wagon wheels once rolled, you'll find campfires crackling' and fun all around. With so much to explore, you just might hang your hat and stay a while! Nestled in the heartland of America and just minutes from the historic start of the Oregon Trail, the Kansas City East KOA in Oak Grove is your perfect getaway destination! We're conveniently located right off I-70 at Exit 28—easy to find, and even easier to fall in love with. Whether you're just passing through or planning a full vacation, we've got the perfect spot for you. Bring your RV, pitch a tent, cozy up in one of our cabins, or try something totally unique—like our charming covered wagon! Looking for a little extra comfort? Ask about our Deluxe RV sites, or Deluxe Cabins. But that's just the beginning…So much to do, you'll want to stay a while! Cool off in our pool, bounce the day away on our giant jump pad, or try your luck panning for treasures at our Horseshoe Creek Mining Sluice—you might just uncover gems, fossils, or even shark teeth! Challenge the family to a round of mini golf, or race around the track on one of our fun 4-wheel pedal carts. The paved race track is perfect for bikes, roller skates, skateboards, or a good old-fashioned stroll. Feeling hungry? Stop by our camp store for hand-dipped ice cream, fresh hot pizza, and everything you need to make your stay extra sweet. Bringing a furry friend? They'll love our dog park and dog walk trail—plenty of tail-wagging fun! Nearby adventures await! You're just minutes away from some amazing local attractions, including: The historic Oregon Trail Trailhead– 19 miles / 30 minutes Kansas City Royals & Chiefs games at Truman Sports Complex – Only 15 miles / 20 minutes away Family favorites: LEGOLAND Discovery Center – 30 miles / 30–35 minutes SEA LIFE Aquarium – 30 miles / 30–35 minutes Kaleidoscope at Crown Center – 30 miles / 30–35 minutes Kansas City Zoo – 22 miles / 25–30 minutes History buffs will appreciate: Harry S. Truman Library & Museum – 20 miles / 25 minutes Fort Osage Natural Historic Landmark – 16 miles / 20 minutes Missouri Town Living History Museum 1855 – 21 miles / 25–30 minutes
Full hookups
from 
$53
 / night

4. Shawnee Hitching Post

38mi from Lake Lotawana · 1 site · Tent, RV
Bring your horses and explore! Just 20 minutes from Truman Lake’s 26 miles of equestrian trails and 15 minutes from the Katy Trail. You’ll have the RV hookup, stalls, and camping space all to yourself. Welcome to our peaceful, horse- and pet-friendly retreat located just off Highway 13 between Clinton and Warrensburg, Missouri. Whether you’re hauling horses, traveling with your RV, or both, you’ll find a clean, comfortable spot to rest and recharge. We provide two spacious 12x14 stalls with automatic waterers and covered runs, along with ample trailer parking. RV travelers can enjoy electric and water hookups, and dogs are always welcome. The property is kept neat and mowed, offering a calm and easy place to regroup on your journey. Although we live in the home on-site, guests have full, private use of the RV hookup, horse stalls, and surrounding camping area. You’ll never be sharing the space with other campers—just you, your animals, and the countryside. The setting is surrounded by open cropland, giving you wide skies and true country tranquility. Evenings are especially peaceful—you may hear the soft calls of owls and see deer grazing nearby. It’s a safe, restful space to breathe, relax, and let your animals stretch after a long day on the road. For outdoor adventure, Truman Lake is just 20 minutes away. At the Berry Bend Public Use Area, horseback riders will find nearly 26 miles of developed equestrian trails, perfect for day rides. Truman Lake also offers excellent fishing for bass, crappie, and catfish, plus boating, water skiing, jet skiing, kayaking, swimming at public beaches, hiking scenic trails, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. Don’t miss the Truman Lake Dam and Visitor Center for a great look at the area’s history and landscape. We’re also just 15 minutes from the Katy Trail, where riders can enjoy horseback riding along the scenic 35-mile stretch from Clinton to Sedalia. Cyclists and hikers love this section too, making it a wonderful option if you’re traveling with family or friends who prefer different activities. Whether you’re stopping overnight or planning a couple of days to explore the area, you’ll enjoy a private, welcoming spot for both you and your four-legged companions.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Potable water
from 
$30
 / night

With a name that translates to “sparkling waters,” the town of Lake Lotawana is named for Missouri’s largest private lake. It is far enough from Kansas City to feel like a relaxed retreat, while still offering easy access to the city for sightseeing and more. To access the 400-acres of water, you’ll need an invitation from a resident, though a number of upscale restaurants offer waterfront views. To the north and west, Blue Springs and Lee’s Summit are extensions of the KC suburbs, offering some private RV parks with amenities like full hookups and free wifi.

96% (1.5K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Lake Lotawana

2. Deer Lake Retreat

32mi from Lake Lotawana · 1 site · Tent
Seated on a secluded one-acre site, Deer Lake Retreat offers a peaceful, primitive camping experience in the heart of nature. This cozy, private spot is perfect for those looking to disconnect and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. The camp features a covered camping structure with two twin mattresses, you must provide your own bedding. There’s plenty of space for an additional tent, allowing for a small group or family to enjoy the campsite. There is parking for up to three cars, the campsite is easy to access. The campsite is equipped with a fire pit and firewood provided. Tiki torches are provided but you must bring your own torch fuel. There’s also a table for food prep. This site has a porta potty but no shower or running water. Access to the lake for fishing, swimming and paddling is available but you’ll need to purchase a day pass through the City of Crystal Lakes website, which gives you access to all five lakes in the area. While swimming is allowed, we recommend you use the lakes as fishing and paddling only. Escape the hustle and bustle and experience the magic of private, lakeside camping. Well behaved pets are allowed.
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$75
 / night

3. Kansas City East / Oak Grove KOA Holiday

11mi from Lake Lotawana · 13 sites · RVs
Welcome to the Kansas City East KOA – From S'mores to Snores! Where wagon wheels once rolled, you'll find campfires crackling' and fun all around. With so much to explore, you just might hang your hat and stay a while! Nestled in the heartland of America and just minutes from the historic start of the Oregon Trail, the Kansas City East KOA in Oak Grove is your perfect getaway destination! We're conveniently located right off I-70 at Exit 28—easy to find, and even easier to fall in love with. Whether you're just passing through or planning a full vacation, we've got the perfect spot for you. Bring your RV, pitch a tent, cozy up in one of our cabins, or try something totally unique—like our charming covered wagon! Looking for a little extra comfort? Ask about our Deluxe RV sites, or Deluxe Cabins. But that's just the beginning…So much to do, you'll want to stay a while! Cool off in our pool, bounce the day away on our giant jump pad, or try your luck panning for treasures at our Horseshoe Creek Mining Sluice—you might just uncover gems, fossils, or even shark teeth! Challenge the family to a round of mini golf, or race around the track on one of our fun 4-wheel pedal carts. The paved race track is perfect for bikes, roller skates, skateboards, or a good old-fashioned stroll. Feeling hungry? Stop by our camp store for hand-dipped ice cream, fresh hot pizza, and everything you need to make your stay extra sweet. Bringing a furry friend? They'll love our dog park and dog walk trail—plenty of tail-wagging fun! Nearby adventures await! You're just minutes away from some amazing local attractions, including: The historic Oregon Trail Trailhead– 19 miles / 30 minutes Kansas City Royals & Chiefs games at Truman Sports Complex – Only 15 miles / 20 minutes away Family favorites: LEGOLAND Discovery Center – 30 miles / 30–35 minutes SEA LIFE Aquarium – 30 miles / 30–35 minutes Kaleidoscope at Crown Center – 30 miles / 30–35 minutes Kansas City Zoo – 22 miles / 25–30 minutes History buffs will appreciate: Harry S. Truman Library & Museum – 20 miles / 25 minutes Fort Osage Natural Historic Landmark – 16 miles / 20 minutes Missouri Town Living History Museum 1855 – 21 miles / 25–30 minutes
Full hookups
from 
$53
 / night

4. Shawnee Hitching Post

38mi from Lake Lotawana · 1 site · Tent, RV
Bring your horses and explore! Just 20 minutes from Truman Lake’s 26 miles of equestrian trails and 15 minutes from the Katy Trail. You’ll have the RV hookup, stalls, and camping space all to yourself. Welcome to our peaceful, horse- and pet-friendly retreat located just off Highway 13 between Clinton and Warrensburg, Missouri. Whether you’re hauling horses, traveling with your RV, or both, you’ll find a clean, comfortable spot to rest and recharge. We provide two spacious 12x14 stalls with automatic waterers and covered runs, along with ample trailer parking. RV travelers can enjoy electric and water hookups, and dogs are always welcome. The property is kept neat and mowed, offering a calm and easy place to regroup on your journey. Although we live in the home on-site, guests have full, private use of the RV hookup, horse stalls, and surrounding camping area. You’ll never be sharing the space with other campers—just you, your animals, and the countryside. The setting is surrounded by open cropland, giving you wide skies and true country tranquility. Evenings are especially peaceful—you may hear the soft calls of owls and see deer grazing nearby. It’s a safe, restful space to breathe, relax, and let your animals stretch after a long day on the road. For outdoor adventure, Truman Lake is just 20 minutes away. At the Berry Bend Public Use Area, horseback riders will find nearly 26 miles of developed equestrian trails, perfect for day rides. Truman Lake also offers excellent fishing for bass, crappie, and catfish, plus boating, water skiing, jet skiing, kayaking, swimming at public beaches, hiking scenic trails, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. Don’t miss the Truman Lake Dam and Visitor Center for a great look at the area’s history and landscape. We’re also just 15 minutes from the Katy Trail, where riders can enjoy horseback riding along the scenic 35-mile stretch from Clinton to Sedalia. Cyclists and hikers love this section too, making it a wonderful option if you’re traveling with family or friends who prefer different activities. Whether you’re stopping overnight or planning a couple of days to explore the area, you’ll enjoy a private, welcoming spot for both you and your four-legged companions.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Potable water
from 
$30
 / night

Public campgrounds near Lake Lotawana

More campsites near Lake Lotawana

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Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best dog-friendly camping near Lake Lotawana guide

Where to go

Lake Jacomo and Blue Springs Lake

Though Lake Lotawana is a private lake, there are plentiful public options nearby, offering wider accessibility. Lake Jacomo and Blue Springs Lake have 1700 acres of waters, with Fleming Park being a great jumping-off point for boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, and paddling. Three public campgrounds are operated by Jackson County Parks & Rec, including Longview Campground, Blue Springs Campground, and Jacomo Campground. Each offers basic and electric tent camping and RV sites, and some full hookup campsites are available.

Kansas City

Downtown Kansas City is just over 30 minutes west of Lake Lotawana. Head into town for big-city attractions, culture, history, nightlife, and more. Private RV parks are found across the metro region and through the suburbs, offering free wifi and full hookups. Venture outside of the city proper to find public campgrounds and outdoor recreation at Watkins Mill State Park and Weston Bend State Park, which have basic and electric tent and RV campsites.

Knob Noster State Park

The closest state park to Lake Lotawana is Knob Noster State Park, which showcases two lakes and a variety of recreational opportunities, including paddling, fishing, biking, and hiking. The onsite campground has RV and tent sites, both with and without electric hookups. The McAdoo Trail offers backpackers trailside primitive camping, as well.

When to go

If the lakes are your destination, summer is a best bet, though temperatures can rise into the 90s and above. Humidity is to be expected, but the cool waters provide a refreshing contrast. Spring is generally pleasant, though lake waters remain chilly late into the season. While fall isn’t best for swimming, it is a scenic time for a drive or hike, with good weather and colorful landscapes.