- Prairie State Park/
- Camping
The best camping in Prairie State Park, MO
50% (1)
You can go where the buffalo roam—in Missouri.
Top-rated campgrounds in Prairie State Park
Prairie Campground
1. Prairie Campground
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Top-rated campsites near Prairie State Park
The Hill
1. The Hill
97%
(48)
16mi from Prairie State Park · 2 sites
My family settled on this plot of land at the turn of the century, moving west in a covered wagon. And aside from a brief time in the late 80's it has been in our family ever since. For most of the 20th century the property was a small farm, grazing cattle and mowed for bailing hay. We are trying to rejuvenate the property and breathing some new life into this old plot of land.
Learn more about this land:
The Hill, aptly named, is a hilltop that slopes down to a large pond that divides the twenty acre property in two. With plenty of room to stretch your legs you can enjoy a nature walk. In the evening enjoy the night sky around one of several fire rings, while roasting marshmallows. Easy access and only a quarter mile from the main road.
Potential for Noise: MoKan Speedway and Active railroad nearby
Pets
Full hookups
from
$6
/ night
Warriors o' Rainbow Horse Sanctuary
2. Warriors o' Rainbow Horse Sanctuary
91%
(85)
34mi from Prairie State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
The pasture is quite visible from Old Route 66, nearly adjoining it. Therefore people traveling “the Mother Road” find it convenient to stay with us. Grass is the best forage for horses, especially older ones, so we take care of our pastures, making for beautiful scenery for campers, too. Plus the entire back mile is bordered by old forest. And there is a swimming hole not a half mile away.
This is a quiet and private site, bordered by a neighbor's old forest on back, other neighbor's cattle pasture on side, and you're in one of the pastures used by the Horse Sanctuary. (You are camping about 1/4 mile, more or less, from our house.)
We regularly see coyote, wild turkeys, deer, fireflies, and the like.
We are just 1/2 mile off Old Route 66, therefore there are quirky little museums and great restaurants (for such a rural area!).
Plus we are only about an hour's drive from Branson. MO. which is a known tourist attraction.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$20
/ night
Farmland Panoramic Retreat
3. Farmland Panoramic Retreat
100%
(7)
20mi from Prairie State Park · 1 site
Farmland Panoramic Retreat
A Creative Destination for Wandering People
Perched on a small ridge and surrounded by open farm ground, Farmland Panoramic offers wide skies, pond views, and quiet, vibrant prairie sunsets.
You are staying on active farmland. Expect:
• Open terrain
• Occasional farm equipment in surrounding fields
• Wind
• Wildlife
• Uneven ground
We are currently a boondocking site, with electric and water hookups available beginning in March.
Choose from:
• 4 RV sites with electric & water hookups
• 2 boondocking sites
• Tent camping under the pine trees
This is a small, privately owned rural property designed for independent travelers who appreciate space, sky, and something a little different.
Some weekends, the on-site studio comes alive with hands-on metal and mixed media workshops. Guests are welcome to plan their stay around a creative weekend — or simply enjoy a quiet prairie retreat.
Stay the night. Leave an artist.
⸻
What to Expect
🌾 Self Check-In
You’ll receive your assigned site and instructions before arrival. This is a low-touch, independent stay.
🌅 Wide Open Views
Golden sunsets, pond reflections, and wind moving through the pines.
🎨 Studio Access
The art studio is open only during scheduled workshop weekends.
🛍 Farm Stand
Open during daylight hours with seasonal goods (eggs, honey, vegetables) and handmade items.
🔥 Fire Safety
Use designated fire areas only and follow local burn guidelines.
🌙 Quiet Hours
10pm–7am
🐾 Dogs
We have friendly, medium-sized farm dogs on the property. Well-socialized dogs are welcome. Expect normal sniffing and introductions. Please supervise your pets and clean up after them.
Pets
from
$24
/ night
Camp Mi Casa
4. Camp Mi Casa
100%
(4)
26mi from Prairie State Park · 51 sites
WELCOME
Camp Mi Casa on the Route RV Park
Aiming to be the best RV park around
…because you love to travel and we love to provide clean and comfortable RV accommodations, with a relaxing and friendly environment. Our convenient location on historical Route 66 is less than 5 minutes from historical Carthage, Missouri and less than 15 minutes from surrounding areas, such as Webb City and Joplin. All the while, offering amenities you might expect only at a resort.
When you stay at Camp Mi Casa, you stay with friends and we’re looking forward to your next visit!
Pets
Full hookups
from
$45
/ night
Big Red Barn RV Park
5. Big Red Barn RV Park
80%
(5)
31mi from Prairie State Park · 47 sites
Welcome To The Big Red Barn RV Park!
Carthage, Missouri, is home to the Big Red Barn RV Park located just off Historic Route 66. Whether you are looking to stay a night or two, or even a week, or month Big Red Barn RV Park can add the R and R to your trip. Catch a movie at the drive-in movie theatre, visit the beautiful county courthouse, or stay for the annual Maple Leaf Festival. All the amenities you need are right here waiting for you. Come on over. We’d love to have you here.
Things To Do In Our Area...
Out for a day trip? Just passing through? Carthage, Missouri, is a great family destination for you and your family. Stay and watch a movie at one of the few remaining drive-in movie theatres in the United States. You can also visit Precious Moments Park and the world's largest Precious Moments gift shop. For the history buff in the family, the Carthage Civil War Museum has all the information and artifacts of the Civil War Battle of Carthage and the Civil War in southwest Missouri. Make Big Red Barn RV Park and Carthage, Missouri, part of your memories.
From our small but comfortable spaces set aside for tent visitors to our oversized pull-through spaces created for today’s spacious motorhomes with pull-behinds, the Big Red Barn RV Park has carefully planned to meet the needs of every guest. Stop by the office in the morning to join us for a cup of coffee, and speak with our friendly staff about their favorite places to visit in Carthage!
Pets
Full hookups
from
$32
/ night
Riverside at Hollyhaven
6. Riverside at Hollyhaven
87%
(71)
34mi from Prairie State Park · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:Utilize the 7 acre lake or Shoal Creek for fishing, tubing, swimming, canoeing/kayaking, sunbathing, cave camping. Frisbee golf course within walking distance and fabulous trails for hiking.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$29
/ night
Ballards Campground & RV Park
7. Ballards Campground & RV Park
34mi from Prairie State Park · 57 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Looking for the perfect RV park in Joplin? Ballard’s Campground & RV Park has everything you need for a memorable stay. Nestled in a peaceful, wooded area, our park combines the tranquility of nature with easy access to nearby restaurants and shopping.
We offer 30/50 amp hookups, plenty of pull-through sites, and level pads, making us a top choice for both large rigs and smaller setups. Enjoy a range of amenities designed for your comfort: clean laundry facilities, bathhouses, a camp store, a pet area, a sports court, a playground, and free Wi-Fi. Relax with family or friends at our picnic tables and campfire pits, or cast a line in our stocked pond—no fishing license needed!
Our camp store has you covered with essentials like propane, firewood, and more. Plus, choose from our spacious pull-through sites or secluded back-end spots for added privacy.
Reserve your spot at Ballard’s Campground & RV Park today, where comfort and relaxation await!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$25
/ night
Hopewell Bridge Winery And RV Park
8. Hopewell Bridge Winery And RV Park
100%
(3)
37mi from Prairie State Park · 8 sites
Our campsites are nestled next to a beautiful vineyard and within walking distance from the Hopewell Bridge Winery. Sit back and relax, and sip on a nice glass of wine! The winery hosts many fun events, so check out our website for hours and more details. This campground is under 15 minutes to downtown Stockton, and 15-20 minutes from Stockton Lake.
Address: 13315 S 825 Rd, Stockton, MO
- Winery plus RV Park with 8 RV spots.
- We have 50/30 amps plus 110 volt hookups on all sites.
- We have a dump station and access to water (spigot).
- We have a large tasting bar with indoor and outdoor seating.
- Check out events and hours on our website.
- Very peaceful and quiet setting.
-Pets welcome on leash. Have free range chickens.
Electrical hookup
Sewer hookup
Pets
from
$50
/ night
Perry Park RV & Campground
9. Perry Park RV & Campground
38mi from Prairie State Park · 4 sites
Located along side Highway 54 in the quiet rural town of Bronson, KS. We are located within 20 minute drive of Ft. Scott and Iola.
The property is newly constructed with just 4 full hook ups. Full city water and sewer hook up as well as 30 & 50 amp at the pole along with a 110 on the pole.
Within 100 yards of a micro grocery store and diner. We have plenty of local spots for hunting and fishing as well.
Pets
Full hookups
from
$40
/ night
Greenwood Country
10. Greenwood Country
100%
(1)
42mi from Prairie State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Nestled in the serene Ozarks Greenwood area, surrounded by towering woods and trails with a spacious field, lies a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The starry sky above twinkles with a brilliance unmatched by any urban setting, offering a breathtaking backdrop to the tranquil handbuilt country store across the field on the hilltop where the "Western Territory of the Ozarks" Marker is located. There you can visit our store with a separate private heated bathroom for your convenience. You are now 3 miles from the closest town.
Tucked away in this tranquil oasis is a cozy campsite just for you! A fire ring perfect for roasting marshmallows under the stars. As night falls, the chorus of frogs croaking in the distance fills the air, accompanied by the calls of a mated pair of barred owls which lives in our woods. Here, you may catch a glimpse of deer gracefully roaming through the wispy air, or simply sit back and marvel at the beauty of the natural world surrounding you.
Just a stone's throw away is George Washington Carver National Park, this idyllic retreat is a nature lover's paradise! Museum, films, activities, trails, even an old farm house next to a spring fed pond and stream. Lot's of history all free admission and worth going just 5 miles away. We are centrally located in the United States and just 30 to 60 miles in any direction offers lakes, attractions and even an hour and a half away is Branson!
We are situated just off of state highway E, it provides easy access to all the wonders of the great outdoors, making it the perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful getaway in the heart of nature.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$20
/ night
Peoria Hills
11. Peoria Hills
100%
(6)
42mi from Prairie State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Rocky and uneven terrain, very hilly, a little open valley for running around. Twenty plus acres with ponds, a rock face jutting out of a hill, lots of trails and a dry creek bed that will flood with a heavy rain, it runs east to west. There is a waterless restroom located in the valley, hand sanitizer is provided.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$24
/ night
Mutton Creek Getaway
12. Mutton Creek Getaway
92%
(6)
45mi from Prairie State Park · 1 site
Our official grand opening of Mutton Creek Getaway vacation rental property was back in October 2021, and now we're ready to add a campsite for guests to book for gatherings of friends and family as well. On our 20 acre property, we have a full service hook-up RV site as well as a nightly rental cabin that sleeps 10. See Muttoncreekgetaway.com for more information.
The camping site includes a picnic table and firepit/grill as well as 30/50 amp electric hookup, sewer
Full hookups
from
$40
/ night
Ozzie and Daisy’s Chill and Stay
13. Ozzie and Daisy’s Chill and Stay
47mi from Prairie State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
We are in a safe rural area. There are no amenities. This is just a place to relax from the road. A wooded parking space. There is a fire pit to unwind by. We are near lakes and streams and lots of outdoor activities. Please feel free to bring your pets but please keep them on leash!
The Host is a gunsmith and works from the property. If you need any services, please let us know and send us a message.
Pets
Campfires
from
$19
/ night
Dogwood Campsite At Stockton Lake
14. Dogwood Campsite At Stockton Lake
49mi from Prairie State Park · 1 site
Come enjoy country life near the lake! This spacious campsite is the perfect home base for all your lake vacation fun. Big-rig friendly, with plenty of parking space to bring your boat.
Located just 4 miles from a public boat ramp, the site offers 50-amp full hookups, with the option to add an additional buddy RV with 30-amp full hookups. Life is better at the lake!
Pets
Full hookups
from
$30
/ night
Arrowhead Point
15. Arrowhead Point
100%
(2)
49mi from Prairie State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This beautiful RV park and cabin resort on the edge of the Ozarks is the perfect getaway from the stress of daily life. With pull-thru full-hookup RV sites, several cabins, a pond for fishing, and lots of room to roam, you won't want to leave. Arrowhead Point in near the Stockton, Pomme de Terre, and Truman lake with Corp of Engineers property abounding. In addition, the Sac and Osage rivers are nearby for kayak and canoe excursions. Lucas Oil speedway is only 25 miles to the east so if you want to be near but away from the noise, look no further. PLEASE BE AWARE: Our address is Osceola, MO but we are on Hwy 54 between Collins and El Dorado Springs, MO.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$44
/ night
R & K RV PARK
16. R & K RV PARK
49mi from Prairie State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
🌟 Welcome to R&K RV Park, your cozy haven in the heart of Chanute, KS 66720! 🌟
Nestled in a tranquil neighborhood, away from the hustle and bustle of commercial traffic, R&K RV Park offers you the perfect spot to park your home on wheels. Whether you're passing through for a day, settling in for a week, or planning an extended stay for a month, we've got you covered with our convenient hookup rentals.
What's included, you ask? Well, prepare to be impressed! Your rental spot comes complete with water, electric (20, 30, 50 amp service), sewer, and trash disposal services. It's all about making your stay as comfortable and hassle-free as possible.
So, why wait? Come experience the tranquility and convenience of R&K RV Park. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or a convenient stopover during your travels, we're here to make your stay in Chanute, KS 66720, unforgettable. Book your spot today and let the relaxation begin! 🏞️🚐✨
Property is new construction and still under development but fully operational slots for rent!
Message us to check for availability for your stay today!
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
from
$20
/ night
Buffalo Hump RV/tent
17. Buffalo Hump RV/tent
100%
(4)
49mi from Prairie State Park · 13 sites · Tents, RVs
We have 15 beautiful acres of different terrain, with tree line surrounding the property; the forest area is great for our tent campers with multiple areas of seclusion and great stargazing. Great area to walk around and explore the wildlife or the guinea hen and turtles we have on the property. For our self-contained RVers we have various areas to utilize the grass but yet still close to shade, some with picnic tables, fire pits and some without but we are growing into those features for all sites. These areas also have great star gazing and pretty secluded. Self-contained RV sites can fit up to 45' RV, we ask that if you are towing you remove your vehicle prior to going into the site areas. We also have areas with concrete if you prefer to stay there also suitable for over 45'. Regardless of the site we have some communal fire pits to use and wood for a small fee. We have a porta potty in a privacy tent for those tent campers and can be moved closer to sites if needed. We added 2 electric spots 50/30 amp hookups both are full sun great star gazing at night. Neither area has table or firepit as of yet. Animals are welcome but we ask they stay on a leash. We have spotted several turtles on the property, and we have free roaming guinea fowl to help keep down on the pesky bugs. We do have mosquitos, tics etc. on the property so please come prepared.
We have a 13,000 sq ft building with Military Surplus, flags, FREE morning coffee and a small vending machine with drinks, snacks and ice cream in freezer 7 days a week 9am to 5pm. We do have locked gates after hours, so please let us know if you need a gate code. We make it easy to get in and out of the property with three entrances/exits and large enough for big rigs to pull in. We are on US HWY 60, aprox. 1.5 miles West of Indigo Sky Casino and a short 3 miles from River Bend Casino and Twin Bridges State Park. We are close to Grand Lake which is a premier fishing location and host top professional fishing tournaments here. Grand Lake is great for Large Mouth Bass, bluegill, smallmouth bass, white crappie and channel catfish. If you're looking for something different, they are known for having spoonbill as well. For the kids there is a Safari Park not too far from us with lots of animals to checkout.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$10
/ night
Four Oaks RV Park
18. Four Oaks RV Park
11mi from Prairie State Park
Discover a unique camping experience with our 12 newly paved drive-through spaces, designed for your comfort and convenience. Each site is equipped with essential amenities, including water, 50 Amp electric hookups, and complimentary Wi-Fi, ensuring you have everything you need for a relaxing stay.
Our campground features a dedicated dump site and clean shower facilities, making it easy for you to enjoy your outdoor adventure without the hassle. Located adjacent to the scenic Four Oaks Golf Course and Lincoln Park, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for recreation and relaxation right at your doorstep.
Whether you're looking to hit the links, explore nearby parks, or simply unwind in nature, our campground offers the perfect base for your outdoor activities. With a blend of modern conveniences and natural beauty, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience. Come and enjoy the great outdoors with us!
Gunn Park
19. Gunn Park
23mi from Prairie State Park
The proposed action involves the re-issuance of the referenced Pretreatment permit for this facility, which stands out due to its specialized operations in aluminum extrusion and conversion coating. This facility processes aluminum from billets, applying a conversion coating to enhance the metal's readiness for painting and to provide corrosion resistance. Following this, aluminum parts are fabricated and, in certain instances, painted before they are shipped out.
The permit outlines specific limits for pH levels and includes monitoring requirements for various substances, including Chromium, Cyanide, Zinc, Oil and Grease, and Total Toxic Organics.
Individuals who wish to express their opinions or objections regarding the draft documents or permit applications are encouraged to submit their comments in writing to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE). To ensure that your feedback is considered in the decision-making process, please submit your comments by June 7, 2025. When preparing your comments, be sure to reference the appropriate Kansas document number (KS-AG-25-25-130/136, KS-Q-25-086/091) along with the name of the applicant or permittee.
All comments received will be addressed when the Secretary of Health and Environment makes a final determination regarding each draft document or application. Should there be significant public interest in
Bourbon County Fairgrounds
20. Bourbon County Fairgrounds
23mi from Prairie State Park
Discover the unique charm of the Bourbon County Fairgrounds, a vibrant hub of activity that offers a diverse range of events throughout the year. Nestled in the scenic Fort Scott area, our campground stands out for its welcoming atmosphere and the variety of experiences it provides, from the renowned Bourbon County Fair to the lively Pioneer Harvest Fiesta.
Throughout the year, the Fairgrounds buzz with agricultural shows, college-related events, and civic gatherings, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Our dedicated volunteers, generous donors, local merchants, livestock buyers, and enthusiastic contestants play a vital role in making these events successful. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the spectators who join us annually, adding to the excitement of our Fairground activities.
In addition to our signature events, we invite you to take advantage of our year-round camping facilities. Enjoy the tranquility and privacy of our campground while exploring nearby attractions, including natural features, swimming holes, and a variety of outdoor activities. With local restaurants and shops just a stone's throw away, the Bourbon County Fairgrounds is the perfect destination for fun and relaxation. Join us and experience the vibrant community spirit that makes our Fairgrounds truly special!
50% (1)
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Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
L
Laura
2 days ago
23 ft Class C
While traveling Route 66, we spent a lovely night in the pasture at Candida’s horse sanctuary. With the table, chairs and full fire pit, it was all we needed. All the night noises were a bonus! Would not hesitate to come back.
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C
CHARLES
November 2025
40 ft travel trailer
Very quiet,, everything was so easy too get to Noone bothered us .
See mored
dave
November 2025
13 ft travel trailer
We loved the camping spot and Candida provided us with friendly conversation and fantastic dry firewood. It was private and nice to be near the horses as well.
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A
Amber
November 2025
18 ft travel trailer
With pets
"Great" As a good view not too far from good entertainment, has an open view good, clean fresh air. Justin really gos out of his way to make sure you are pleased with your stay. It stays kept up on and maintained very nice.
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A
Andrew & Melissa
November 2025
16 ft car
Fantastic hosts. We got in late and they still came out an introduced themselves. The wine is fabulous and I hear the pizza is too, even though we didn't have any. If you stay here, be sure to bring a few treats for the puppets.
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Peter
November 2025
13 ft travel trailer
When I arrived I was upgraded to a site that had a small privacy wall a couple chairs and some neatly decorated route 66 paraphernalia on the privacy wall. The RV park has full electric, water and sewer hookups on each site. There is a bathhouse that contains men's and women's bathrooms with showers and a washer dryer area for campers use. I must say the bath house was spotlessly clean and well maintained. The park itself has a New Mexico midwest vibe to it even though it's in Southwest Missouri. Would definitely go there again.
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L
Lori
November 2025
With pets
It was a perfect get away. Has so much to offer right on the land. They had a stack of fire wood for the evening another nice touch my stay. Enjoyed the lounge it had a coffee pot microwave mini ice machine and a vending machine you can buy firewood from it was perfect. Restroom was clean and close. There was all kinds of activities like Frisbee golf.... I had a very nice stay and I will return.
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Thomas
November 2025
With pets
We had such a great weekend staying at the big oak lodge! Caren and her husband were both so accommodating and kind. The site itself is beautiful as well as the cabins and their history. Wonderful place. We will definitely be back!
See moreA
Amber
October 2025
20 ft travel trailer
I just wanna say that Justin has been very helpful and understanding to my husband and I and are dog. He made it very easy to find where they was located. Very kind people and very beautiful spots to stay . I definitely will be staying and I recommend Justin and his land to stay at . Hands down.
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D
Dave
October 2025
2 nights at Peoria Hills
We had a great time here. Beautiful land and cozy cabin. Very comfortable and great kitchen set up with induction stove and convection countertop oven. Everything was very clean and well stocked with everything from board games to laundry soap. The hosts John and Ginny are nice and welcoming. We will definitely come back when we can stay longer.
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Q
Quinn
October 2025
Tent
With pets
It was a nice place! They were super helpful and they had cute dogs
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Deborah
October 2025
1 night at Peoria Hills
Very quiet, even being located just off a road. Outdoor shower was a welcome experience after a long day on the road. I made a small fire with the supplies thoughtfully provided. The lounge with coffee maker and microwave was a nice touch.
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Z
Zoey
September 2025
Tent
We chose to camp right by the water down away from everyone else, and it was BEAUTIFUL! I loved the property, we were able to fish in the creek and the lake, it was perfect! Plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the peace! I recommend staying here!
See moreM
Matt
September 2025
16 ft travel trailer
Great campsite loved it near river. Host was super nice thx.
See moreM
Matt
September 2025
16 ft travel trailer
Great spot in Joplin Missouri. Hook ups were great and site was good
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K
Kimberly
August 2025
Tent
Me and my partner were looking for a last minute spot to camp and this spot right on the edge of Oklahoma was exactly what we were looking for. Very private and yet accessable. Offered us burning materials to have a fire. Great spot to set up hammocks. In the morning we were offered coffee and got a look around the military surplus shop they have. Very gracious hosts to let us show up late as well. Will definitely stay here again if I'm ever traveling through Oklahoma.
See moreP
Patrick
August 2025
Tent
With pets
We loved staying at Angela’s land it was peaceful and beautiful
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David
August 2025
Tent
Hope’s place is very comfortable! Easy to find and lots of space, well-secluded but close to the road for road trippers. Most of all, the hosts were super attentive, making sure I got in okay and had everything I need. Thank you Hope!
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Rebecca
August 2025
Tent
Group trip
Just us girls, summer camping trip. Fourth year in a row coming to this site. No other can compare, in our opinion. It's quiet, seems somewhat secluded but still only 7 minutes from a Walmart and 3minutes from a gas station. It's also only 7minutes drive to beautiful Grand Falls. We love to float from the falls to our camp. Very relaxing. Lots of wildlife. The land owners, Phil and Angie, are both super nice and so are their dogs. The restrooms/showers are in good repair and cleaned often. The land is very rocky, consider that if tent camping. The river is always so clear, and it's fun to go see all the beautiful rocks and fish.
RV campers- there is a narrow somewhat steep incline/decline onto the property so that may be something to consider if your rig is really long but there were about 20 RV/Campers onsite already and they clearly figured it out just fine.
There is also a nice sized beach area open for all campers to enjoy. Always clean when we go. There are several trees but also a lot of open space as well. The on site lake with rope swing is always a hit with our group, too.
Overall, our favorite trip every year, hands down.
See moreM
Michelle Lynn
August 2025
24 ft travel trailer
With pets
We stayed in our trailer for 1 night. We had a good time. There is a camp ground across the water and they party day and night. There is a little beach area but it is packed with non campers...think it must not be part of the camp ground.
See moreThe best camping in Prairie State Park, MO guide
Overview
About
Roaming herds of bison are not a common site in Missouri, but they are at Prairie State Park, which preserves the last remaining remnants of Missouri’s tallgrass prairies, which once covered one-third of the state. Around 100 bison and 25 elk roam the park’s 4,000-acres. Hiking and backpacking are the primary activities, with seven trails offering various terrains and views to explore. Look for wildflowers, walk along a trickling stream, and imagine you are a pioneer settler, like Laura Ingalls Wilder. The onsite Regal Tallgrass Prairie Nature Center has educational displays about the landscapes and wildlife of the rolling grasslands.
Notable Camping Spots
- Best for backpackers: Prairie Campground’s backpack camp is a short hike away from the campground.
- Best for RVers: Site 4 at Prairie Campground has a double-wide concrete driveway.
Tips for snagging a campsite
- The four campsites are first-come-first serve. Walk-up registration is accepted year-round.
- Campsites can accommodate more than one tent camper.
- Site #4 has a double-size concrete pad.
- The sites can accommodate vans and some RVs.
- Getting to some sites may involve crossing a wet-weather stream.
When to go
Check the event calendar before heading to Prairie State Park, as the park frequently hosts bison walks and other special interpretive programs. The largest is the Prairie Jubilee, held in June of even-numbered years. The festival brings in artists and living history interpreters. Other times of year are likely to be more serene. Summer is generally hot and humid, which may be a consideration when camping without electricity. Spring and fall are pleasant, with below freezing temperatures occurring occasionally in winter.
Know before you go
- Campfires are not allowed in the backpack camp, but backpack stoves are.
- This park does not have a showerhouse or developed restrooms. Only a single vault toilet is located onsite.
- Potable water is available at a building near the camping area.
- Bring your hiking shoes. To truly experience the prairie as the pioneer settlers did, you need to get out in it.
- While the park doesn’t have many services onsite or nearby, the town of Pittsburg, Kansas, is 30 minutes away.
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