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Wathena Riverfront Campground

94%

· Wathena, Doniphan, Kansas

10 acres hosted by Laura Z.

2 RV/tent sites · 2 RV sites

It is a 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. 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. 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), VFW bar, quilting store.

Natural features

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River, stream, or creek

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Reviews

94% Recommend9 ratings · 6 reviews

Recommends

· June 2025

Nice camping on Missouri River

17 ft pop-up camper ·

Site 1

We enjoyed being close to the river...just a short walk from our site. The premises and bathrooms were clean. Great place for the evening on our cross country trip.

Cheryl B.

5 reviews

Recommends

· June 2025

Quiet By The River

15 ft travel trailer · With kids ·

RV Site #2

Great little campground next to the Missouri river with bathrooms (no shower) we enjoyed our stay. (One night)

Devon T.

3 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· May 2025

Perfect little getaway spot!

29 ft travel trailer ·

RV Site #6

Great outdoors area right on the river! Quite and friendly neighbors.

Justin K.

3 months on Hipcamp

Recommends

· May 2025

Another amazing stay

16 ft car ·

Site 1

I came up for another peaceful camping excursion at Laura’s place! It’s so quiet and peaceful! This time I was able to enjoy the amenities near the river. Several chairs and sitting areas, fire pits, etc. This place is just beautiful and I feel completely safe staying here. Laura is very quick to respond if needed. I will attempt to upload some photos.

Melody T.

2 reviews

Recommends

· April 2025

Peaceful & quiet retreat

Tent ·

Site 1

I Absolutley loved Laura’s place! I felt safe. The area is in the country on the river. Driving through the town to get there everyone would wave as you passed by; reminded me of all the friendly people at home. The camping area is extremely clean. Laura even brought me a converter for the electric hookup as I was car camping. The tent area has soft fresh grass with a large open area. There were picnic tables, and small fire rings/pits. I didn’t get a chance to go down to the river to enjoy it as I was passing through but I did see the area with comfy chairs and fire area with lights hanging. There are two tiny homes they are almost finished with that look adorable. There is a toilet and sink with running water. I loved how quiet and peaceful the area is and Star gazing at its finest! ! Such an amazing peaceful experience. I met Laura and she was so friendly and accommodating.. she thought of things I didn’t and her response time was very quick. I most definetly will be back!

Melody T.

2 reviews

Recommends

· April 2024

Peaceful Missouri River Weekend

Tent ·

Site #10 -Van, Tent, or Pop up

My husband and I had a wonderful weekend camping! We got to our campsite, pitched a tent near the water and made ourselves dinner. I loved the hanging lights and the party deck that has restrooms nearby on the campground. It was very convenient! We can’t wait to come back again this summer!

Danielle H.

1 year on Hipcamp

Location

Wathena, Doniphan, Kansas, United StatesTo respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking

Wathena Riverfront Campground

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Reviews

Location

Hosted by Laura Z.

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