Beach and dog-friendly camping near St Joseph

History buffs will find much to explore in this northern Missouri town.

100% (1 reviews)

United States
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Missouri
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St Joseph

100% (1 reviews)

Popular camping styles for St Joseph

2 top beach and dog-friendly campgrounds near St Joseph

Booked 2 times

Wathena Riverfront Campground

16 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Wathena, KS

Wathena Riverfront Campground is a new mom and pop private camping club which is made up of 10 waterfront acres along the main channel/current of the majestic Missouri River. It is about 2.5 miles SW of Wathena, KS and is bordered by Walnut creek to the south and a small creek just north of the boat ramp. We do not have staff on site on a scheduled basis. Campground and riverfont access is for registered guest only, there are no public facilities. Larger RV sites with electric only (30 amp camper plugs). The nearest RV dump station is at Love's Truck stop in St. Joseph 14 miles to the East. Each site has its own fire ring. You may bring your own wood or buy some at Casey's in Wathena. We often have some self service wood on premises as well (pay through Venmo). There is a hydrant near the elevated deck which is supplied with city water in case you need to fill jugs. Feel free to fish and enjoy shore fires along the banks of the Missouri River, but do so at your own risk and supervise minors at all times. Remember to bring your own fishing gear for an immersive experience by the water. Experience the tranquility of the riverfront and make the most of your stay. To help you choose which site is best for you: RV sites 2-6 are our largest RV sites. Tent camping site 12 is our largest overall site and is the only tent camping that you can drive right up to your tent. Sites 9 and 10 are the only 2 that you can park at, walk to nearby river and pitch a tent riverfront. Site 11 is the closest site (along with 7-10) to our tiny home/AirBnB. Site 11 is our only 50 amp service, sites 1-8 are 30 amp camper plugs, sites 9 and 10 share a standard outlet plug. Sites 1-6 and 12 are surrounded by grass, sites 8-11 are surrounded by sand. There is a fairly steep boat ramp past site 10. There are public boat ramps that are maintained in nearby Elwood, St. Joseph (near the Casino) and Atchison. This ramp can only be used by registered campground guest only and users assume all risk to themselves and property. The campground is at the original steamboat landing and downtown of the now ghost town of Palermo, KS. Nearby town of Wathena (2.5 miles) is the site of the beginning of the California Trail where settlers were let off at the river NE of town (area and trail is marked) and headed west. The Pony Express started at nearby St. Joseph, MO (9 miles) and passed through the area. It has a museum. Wathena has Star 36 Diner (breakfast, lunch and supper), the legendary Dairy Barn (ice cream and food options), Doniphan Nutrition (drinks), VFW bar, quilting store.

Booked 1 time

Peaceful Camper At The Lake

1 site · Lodging2 acres · Excelsior Springs, MO

Experience the Midwest charm at its finest in this unforgettable gem. Situated amidst the breathtaking scenery of two picturesque lakes visible from the front yard, this is a place you'll remember for years to come. Whether you prefer indoor or outdoor activities, this camper has you covered with cooking, dining, and sitting areas both inside and out. Stocked with everything you need, it's the perfect setting for creating lasting memories with family and friends. Step outside into the spacious yard and take in the beauty of the surrounding lakes, which are perfect for fishing, swimming, and boating. With all the details available upon request from the host, your Midwest getaway promises to be an experience you won't soon forget.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

Watkins Mill State Park

Excelsior Estates, Missouri

Weston Bend State Park

Weston, Missouri

Beach and dog-friendly camping near St Joseph guide

Overview

Located near the four corners where Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas, and Missouri meet, St. Joseph is a small town that once played a big role in history, notable as the departure point for the Pony Express and the Oregon Trail. Today’s visitors come to town to explore this history and the Victorian architecture of bygone eras. Just outside of town, the Department of Natural Resources operates several campgrounds offering dry camping near town, including the Rochester Falls Access and Happy Holler Conservation Area. Private RV parks abound, offering a full slate of amenities in town and beyond.

Where to go

Lewis and Clark State Park

The closest state park to St. Joseph is Lewis and Clark State Park, named for the explorers who passed through this spot in 1804 on the Corps of Discovery Expedition. The scenic lake that Lewis and Clark admired is now a popular spot for fishing, boating, and paddling. Basic and electric campsites for both tents and RVs can be found.

Big Lake State Park

Around 45 minutes north of St. Joseph, Big Lake State Park is another option for both recreation and camping. The park's 407-acre oxbow lake was formed by the Missouri River; it provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and paddling. The park offers tent and RV camping, with a mix of basic and electric sites. Some offer water views. Camper cabins and a lodge can also be reserved.

Kansas City

Located less than an hour south of St. Joseph, Kansas City is Missouri’s largest city, which has opportunities to explore art, architecture, history, and family attractions. A number of private RV parks are located around the city, primarily in the ring of suburbs. These parks offer a range of amenities, including full hookup sites, onsite activities, pools, and more. Public campgrounds can be found at Watkins Woolen Mill State Historic Site, Weston Bend State Park, and near Blue Springs, which is home to several lakes.

When to go

Spring is the official start of camping season, though the temperatures may take a few weeks to feel springlike in northern Missouri. The weather warms through summer, which can get hot and humid, with temperatures nearing 100°F. For watersports, however, summer is prime time. Winter is generally quite cold, with freezing temperatures and rounds of precipitation, including snow and ice.