10 acres hosted by Laura Z.
2 RV/tent sites · 6 RV sites · 2 tent sites
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.
