The best campgrounds near Sedalia, Missouri with horseback riding

Known as the home of the Missouri State Fair, Sedalia celebrates the Show-Me State each August with concerts, rides, exhibitions, and contests. It’s an iconic slice of rural life in Missouri, showcasing livestock, arts and crafts, and homewares. The fairgrounds offers camping year round, with both basic and full hookup sites available. Campsites and cabins can also be found at private RV parks around the region. A number of small towns in the area have city parks with basic campgrounds, including Pilot Grove, Farmington, and Versailles—amenities vary. Private glamping rentals might be located in dense woodlands or wide-open family farms.

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Top-rated campgrounds near Sedalia

Known as the home of the Missouri State Fair, Sedalia celebrates the Show-Me State each August with concerts, rides, exhibitions, and contests. It’s an iconic slice of rural life in Missouri, showcasing livestock, arts and crafts, and homewares. The fairgrounds offers camping year round, with both basic and full hookup sites available. Campsites and cabins can also be found at private RV parks around the region. A number of small towns in the area have city parks with basic campgrounds, including Pilot Grove, Farmington, and Versailles—amenities vary. Private glamping rentals might be located in dense woodlands or wide-open family farms.

91% (613)

Top-rated campgrounds near Sedalia

1. Selby Farm Horse Retirement

99%

(697)

41mi from Sedalia · 10 sites · Tents, RVs

Summary: Easy access from I-70 Great views. Usually very quiet except for wildlife sounds Portapottie at both camping areas Great star viewing. Excellent conditions for pets Hosts live nearby and are good communicators via text or phone. Hosts can direct you to several local attractions and shopping options. Hosts are happy to take questions before, during, or after your stay. Narrative about Selby Farm: Selbys have lived on this 75 acre farm since 1990. Doug and Brenda are retired from teaching at nearby public schools. Our Farm is now dedicated to boarding retired horses for their owners. Feel free to review the Selby Farm Horse Retirement webpage if you are a horse fan. We encourage you to visit our business website where you will see more farm pictures, videos, and where you will learn more about us. We practice rotational grazing for the health of the horses and the health of our pastures. The horses live in a herd as they would in the wild. Basically, they are hanging out with their friends! They also get regular care and feed and so are VERY happy. You will see and probably interact with the horses if you wish. They are guaranteed to come closer if you have treats like carrots and apples slices. Our quiet county road used to be the main road along the river. A hundred years ago it was called "Shanty Road". The shacks that were along it housed workers that harvested food from farms in the river bottom. The only evidence of those shacks now is perrenial flowers growing in unusual places. The area is inhabited by professionals working in nearby towns and cities. In fact there are only five homes along our 1.5 mile section of Copps Chapel Road. The native Americans who used this area did so because of the great diversity of wildlife and availability of water. Also the view is amazing in all directions. Was using this ridge top encampment for security, or just because the view is so satisfying? The Missouri River is on the far side of the bottoms now, but has been very close historically. There is also a large spring flowing from a cave nearby. Witness the flint chips when you walk through our barn lot. You are likely to see a broken stone tool that was once worked on by a native American. These river hills are composed of soils blown in from the end of the last ice age. Being near the river, erosion has cut down the surrounding area making the scenic topography associated with Missouri River valleys and river hills.

2. D'Ranch at Clearwater

100%

(149)

31mi from Sedalia · 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. 

3. Von Holten Ranch Century Ranch

100%

(98)

12mi from Sedalia · 40 sites

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.

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

5. Cross Creek RV Park & Campground- Lake of the Ozarks Missouri

44mi from Sedalia · 90 sites

Cross Creek RV Park and Campground stands out as a truly unique destination for nature enthusiasts at the Lake of the Ozarks. Spanning 70 acres, our campground is enveloped by majestic Dogwood and Oak trees, offering stunning views of our serene 10-acre private lake. Located just one mile off the main highway along a peaceful country road, you can enjoy a tranquil escape free from traffic noise. Plus, we are conveniently situated only three miles from the historic Bagnell Dam, making it easy to explore local attractions. If you're looking to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Cross Creek is the perfect retreat. Our campground provides everything you need to reconnect with nature, from scenic walking trails to cozy gathering spots. Come relax on our porch and discover why our guests often find it hard to leave this idyllic setting. Experience the personal service that earned us the title of Best of Missouri in both 2020 and 2021, and make unforgettable memories in this beautiful natural haven.

6. 4 Modern Cabins with full kitchens

80%

(10)

20mi from Sedalia · 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.

Public campgrounds near Sedalia

100%

(1)

Knob Noster Campground

20mi from Sedalia · 35 sites · Tents, RVs · in Knob Noster State Park

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

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!

G

Gabrielle

November 2025

Tent

With kids

4 nights at Selby Farm Horse Retirement

Doug and Brenda were amazing host! They were flexible with our late evening arrival time and checked on us every day. We learned a lot about their farm from themselves and their farm hand, Johnny. We got to feed all the animals, pick and keep chicken eggs and venture around the whole farm each day. We went when it was very cold and they made sure we had enough firewood to stay warm. They were wonderful to meet and get to know! We were inspired to eventually have a farm and animals of our own one day when we can settle down. Also, the stargazing was amazing!

S

Scott

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Selby Farm Horse Retirement

We had a great time camping around the giant oak tree, which is scenic and impressive. There was plenty of room on level ground to set up our tents. Doug was an attentive host, too. We appreciated the Solo Stove campfire setup on a cold night. The whole area is beautiful in the fall. I wish we had more time to explore. Maybe next time!

J

Jay

November 2025

21 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Selby Farm Horse Retirement

Great scenic quiet camping with the horses! Doug and Brenda are great hosts and have a beautiful property. I walked the trails and the gravel road and had a great time. I would definitely stay here again!

Mary Beth

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Selby Farm Horse Retirement

We loved our stay and at this gorgeous place! So many fond memories! Stunning views and great amenities!

M

Mark

October 2025

20 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Selby Farm Horse Retirement

Shelby Farm was very relaxing and tucked away just far enough to feel the solitude with nature. No road noise, horns beeping, or distant sirens. Great spot to just sit back and take it all in. Doug was very responsive and although we didn’t get a chance to meet, I felt he went out of his way to make sure my stay met expectations.

Adilah

October 2025

38 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Selby Farm Horse Retirement

Amazing views along with beautiful horses! I enjoyed my stay at the Shelby Farm Horse Retirement Stables! Such beautifully maintained grounds and an extremely nice host! Truly an amazing helper Johnny who was a life saver ❤️ we needed a jump and he was there to help! Doug and Brenda are very responsive and helped me get my questions answered swiftly! We really enjoyed our stay and especially felt at home. If your looking for a quiet place to camp with a beautiful view, come here! We can't wait to come again!

hugh

October 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Selby Farm Horse Retirement

I pulled up for the night here and loved it. I was the only one, just me and the horses. Beautiful property and so so quiet

A

Aubrey

October 2025

21 ft Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Selby Farm Horse Retirement

Very quiet and pretty place to stay! We got there very late and it was pretty easy to find. Easy for a class B RV to get to. Doug and Brenda were so nice and accommodating! There were other campers there, but it was still peaceful. Would definitely stay again!

J

Julie

October 2025

20 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Selby Farm Horse Retirement

Beautiful location. Very peaceful. Lovely countryside.

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.

l

liam

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Selby Farm Horse Retirement

Directions are clear and the property is really lovely. Great stars!

D

Diana

September 2025

20 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Selby Farm Horse Retirement

The Selby Horse Farm is great! Doug and Brenda are fabulous hosts and the horses are beautiful! We thoroughly enjoyed our short stay and recommend this HipCamp highly! Everything went smoothly, instructions were clear, and amenities were accurate.

A

Alvina

September 2025

21 ft Class C

With pets

1 night at Selby Farm Horse Retirement

As an animal lover just wow. Amazing way to wake up hearing the horses. You got water and electricity what more can you ask for?!

M

Michael

September 2025

30 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Selby Farm Horse Retirement

This place is a hidden gem. Water and electricity on site were easy and accessible. Horses were friendly and the view was amazing. Owner met us on site and was extremely nice to talk with and accommodating. If we have to go back to Columbia we will hang out here.

L

LIANNA

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Selby Farm Horse Retirement

Had a great overnite stay on the property and really appreciated the host's helpfulness and hospitality. Upon arrival we got to see dozens of horses welcoming us for the nite - was a real treat on a beautiful nite! Stayed at the Oak tree site which had a great view of the surrounding area. Very Peaceful. Would definitely stay again!

Courtney

September 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to D'Ranch at Clearwater

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

Dana

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Selby Farm Horse Retirement

What a peaceful place just a short drive off the interstate. Woke up to a beautiful sunrise over the farm. Doug and Brenda made me feel welcome and at ease. I highly recommend camping under the big oak tree.

Sheryl

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to D'Ranch at Clearwater

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

Nearby public parks

Browse national and state parks near Sedalia

100%

(1)

Knob Noster State Park

Knob Noster, Missouri

More campsites near Sedalia

Von Holten Ranch Century Ranch

100%

(98)

12mi from Sedalia · 40 sites

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.

Cross Creek RV Park & Campground- Lake of the Ozarks Missouri

44mi from Sedalia · 90 sites

Cross Creek RV Park and Campground stands out as a truly unique destination for nature enthusiasts at the Lake of the Ozarks. Spanning 70 acres, our campground is enveloped by majestic Dogwood and Oak trees, offering stunning views of our serene 10-acre private lake. Located just one mile off the main highway along a peaceful country road, you can enjoy a tranquil escape free from traffic noise. Plus, we are conveniently situated only three miles from the historic Bagnell Dam, making it easy to explore local attractions. If you're looking to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Cross Creek is the perfect retreat. Our campground provides everything you need to reconnect with nature, from scenic walking trails to cozy gathering spots. Come relax on our porch and discover why our guests often find it hard to leave this idyllic setting. Experience the personal service that earned us the title of Best of Missouri in both 2020 and 2021, and make unforgettable memories in this beautiful natural haven.

4 Modern Cabins with full kitchens

80%

(10)

20mi from Sedalia · 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.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best camping near Sedalia with horseback riding guide

Where to go

Katy Trail

Sedalia is located right on the Katy Trail, a 240-mile rail-to-trail conversion that runs across the middle of Missouri. While some cyclists do the whole trail, others do shorter segments. This state park also welcomes hikers and horseback riders. Jump on the trail at the restored historic Katy Depot, and head out in either direction. A number of camping options are located along the route, including RV, tent, and glamping rentals.

Knob Noster State Park

Knob Noster State Park is less than 30 minutes west of Sedalia, and it provides a scenic backdrop for outdoor adventures. Two small lakes welcome anglers and paddlers. Several trails take hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians through the woodlands and along waterways. Basic and electric tent and RV campsites are available, and backpackers can also find a dedicated primitive campground beside the McAdoo Trail.

Arrow Rock State Historic Site

For a dose of history alongside camping, head to Arrow Rock State Historic Site and Park, 45 minutes northeast of Sedalia. Travel back to the 1800s by touring the buildings remaining from a once-burgeoning town. A small fishing pond and two trails provide scenery and recreational opportunities An onsite campground offers basic, electric, and full hookup sites for tents and RVers.

Columbia

Approximately an hour northeast of Sedalia, Columbia is mid-Missouri’s largest town. The downtown area is popping with restaurants, bars, and entertainment—thanks in part to the college students that call the University of Missouri–Columbia home for much of the year. Private RV parks are found nearby, as well as public campgrounds at Finger Lakes State Park and Mark Twain National Forest.

When to go

Camping is best enjoyed in the spring and fall, when temperatures are mild. Fall is particularly beautiful in the forested areas. Summer brings heat and humidity—and the town explodes with visitors in mid-August during the Missouri State Fair. Winter is generally not a recommended time for camping due to the temperatures, which dip below freezing, and the winter precipitation.