- Thousand Hills State Park
The best camping in Thousand Hills State Park, MO
Rugged, rolling hills are a surprising find at this northern Missouri park.
The best camping in Thousand Hills State Park, MO
Thousand Hills Campground
1. Thousand Hills Campground
57 sites · Tents, RVs · In Thousand Hills State Park
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Hidden Ridge Campground of NE MO
2. Hidden Ridge Campground of NE MO
28mi from Thousand Hills State Park · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
Come visit our peaceful 5 acre RV Park in rural Northeast Missouri. Enjoy fishing in the pond and a great night sky on clear nights. Enjoy the birds, wildflowers, and neighboring cows.
You'll be just three miles from the Rebel's Cove Conservation Area, perfect for hiking, hunting, and fishing. Or float the Chariton River.
We have 30 and 50 amp hookups, water hookups, a dump station, and pull through sites. Picnic tables and fire rings are available. Hidden Ridge is pet friendly, but leashes are required.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from
$25
/ night
Chief’s Lookout
3. Chief’s Lookout
29mi from Thousand Hills State Park · 4 sites · Lodging
Two cozy guest cabins (Amish made)that can sleep up to 4 a piece and a kitchen cabin (Chief Keokuk) that also sleeps four. Tucked in a serene wooded cove with a small pond, great for swimming and fishing. Located just two miles North of the Missouri border, and 7 miles south of Moulton, IA. The kitchen cabin has a full bathroom and full kitchen. There is a community fire pit on the patio with three picnic tables offered, horse shoe pit, and a deer hanging post and first come first serve dog kennel with dog house. It is located 2 miles away from 3,000 acres of public hunting land in Iowa, called Sedan Bottoms and a couple miles away from about 3,500 acres of public hunting in Missouri and it’s called Rebels Cove.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$75
/ night
Escape to North River Glamping
4. Escape to North River Glamping
100%
(4)
47mi from Thousand Hills State Park · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Settle into The Grove at North River Ranch, a lovely glampground on our 2200 acre working regenerative ranch. Look out on the pond, under the shade of oak, maple and honey locusts. Hike a trail through forested paths, around beautiful wide pastures. Look for protected birds on our Audubon Certified property, and observe deer, fox, beavers and other wildlife in their natural, balanced environment. Enjoy quiet, restful sleep in furnished platform tents with quality linens and handcrafted quilts under beautiful, unobstructed starry skies.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$30
/ night
Lakeroad Village RV Park
5. Lakeroad Village RV Park
2.6mi from Thousand Hills State Park · 11 sites
Discover the unique charm of Lakeroad Village RV Park, a premium RV campground nestled just outside Kirksville, Missouri, known as “Where People Make a Difference!” Open year-round, our park offers a wealth of amenities designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Each RV site features full hookups, city water, and cable TV, along with convenient laundry facilities and single-occupancy showers and bathrooms. Our spacious sites are perfect for accommodating larger rigs, providing ample room for relaxation.
While you enjoy the comforts of Lakeroad Village RV Park, you’ll find that nearby Kirksville offers a delightful array of dining and shopping options for the entire family. Our friendly staff is always ready to recommend local attractions, whether you’re interested in catching live music in the park, taking a refreshing swim at the local pool, or exploring the vibrant Farmers Market. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, there’s disc golf and plenty of scenic spots to explore.
At Lakeroad Village RV Park, we strive to create a safe and welcoming home-away-from-home experience for all our guests. Whether you choose to unwind at the campground or venture into Kirksville for a day of exploration, you’ll find everything you need for a memorable RV camping experience right here.
Northeast Missouri Fairgrounds
6. Northeast Missouri Fairgrounds
5.1mi from Thousand Hills State Park · 1 site
Discover the unique charm of the NEMO Fair Association Campground, where you can enjoy year-round camping amidst the excitement of events like the NEMO Fair! Our campground boasts 183 spacious sites, including 163 with 30-amp service and 20 with 50-amp options, making it ideal for RVs and trailers of all sizes.
Our amenities are designed to enhance your camping experience. Stay refreshed with convenient water hookups available throughout the campground. We also offer two dump stations for easy waste disposal, ensuring a hassle-free stay. Clean and comfortable shower facilities are provided for both men and women, allowing you to unwind after a day of adventure.
Engage in friendly competition at our horseshoe pits, or gather with family and friends in our covered picnic area, perfect for meals and celebrations. Located close to restaurants, shopping, and various activities in Kirksville, our campground is the perfect base for exploring the area.
With affordable rates of $25 for a 30-amp site and $30 for a 50-amp site, you won’t want to miss out on the fun at the NEMO Fair! Reserve your campsite today to ensure a memorable experience all week long!
Lake View RV Park & Campground
7. Lake View RV Park & Campground
26mi from Thousand Hills State Park · 39 sites
Discover a hidden gem where nature meets adventure, featuring approximately 25 acres of serene land adorned with majestic oak trees, all overlooking a stunning 35-acre rock quarry lake. This picturesque setting is perfect for those seeking a unique outdoor experience, offering a variety of activities such as swimming, fishing, boating, skiing, and jet skiing.
The lake is well-stocked with an array of fish, including channel catfish, largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and walleye, making it an angler's paradise. A large island graces the back of the lake, adding to the charm and allure of this tranquil oasis.
For those who enjoy leisurely strolls, a beautiful lakeside walking area invites you to take in the breathtaking views and fresh air, whether during a peaceful morning or a relaxing afternoon. This unique campground not only provides privacy and natural beauty but also serves as a gateway to a variety of outdoor activities and nearby attractions, ensuring an unforgettable getaway for all who visit.
Unionville City RV Park
8. Unionville City RV Park
28mi from Thousand Hills State Park · 1 site
Discover the charm of our unique park, conveniently located on US Hwy 5, just north of US Hwy 136 and the four-way stop. This inviting destination offers a blend of recreational activities and natural beauty, making it an ideal spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Recent enhancements have transformed our park into a vibrant community hub. Enjoy a refreshing dip in the new swimming pool, take a leisurely stroll along the walking trail, or let the kids explore the upgraded playground equipment. For sports lovers, we have a basketball court, and covered picnic tables are available for gatherings and relaxation.
Join us for Bingo nights every Monday at the Lions Club, and don’t miss the Putnam County Fair, which kicks off the week after Labor Day. Throughout the year, you can also participate in various auctions held at the 4-H building or nearby venues.
For those looking to stay longer, we offer 77 full RV hookups at just $25.00 per night, along with 8 limited hookups (no sewer) for $20.00 per night. The park also features a few Frisbee golf holes and expansive open terrain on the west end, perfect for outdoor activities. We invite you to enjoy all that our park has to offer. Stay safe and have fun!
McGowen Recreation Area Campground
9. McGowen Recreation Area Campground
41mi from Thousand Hills State Park · 1 site
The Davis County Conservation Board stands out as a unique destination, having been established in 1958 through the support of local residents. Since 1995, the board has dedicated its efforts to transforming over 300 acres into a vibrant park that offers a rich variety of recreational opportunities.
Visitors can explore diverse wildlife habitats, including upland timber, oak savanna, prairie, and serene ponds. The park features several miles of well-maintained trails perfect for hiking and biking, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, there are designated camping spots and picnic areas, making it an ideal location for family outings and gatherings.
Whether you're seeking adventure or a peaceful retreat, the Davis County Conservation Board provides a perfect blend of outdoor activities and natural attractions, ensuring a memorable experience for all who visit.
Lake Fisher
10. Lake Fisher
41mi from Thousand Hills State Park · 1 site
Experience the charm of our campground, where nature meets adventure in a serene setting. To ensure a smooth stay, all campers are required to self-register before setting up their campsite. Please note that reservations are not accepted; all sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis, allowing you to embrace spontaneity in your outdoor experience.
Camp fees must be settled for each night you occupy your site, and checkout is promptly at 2:00 PM. For your convenience, rates are clearly displayed at the registration booth. Our campground offers a unique blend of privacy and accessibility to nearby attractions, including stunning natural features, refreshing swimming holes, and a variety of outdoor activities. Additionally, you'll find local restaurants and shops just a short drive away, making it easy to enjoy both nature and community during your stay.
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Hidden Ridge Campground of NE MO
Hidden Ridge Campground of NE MO
28mi from Thousand Hills State Park · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
Come visit our peaceful 5 acre RV Park in rural Northeast Missouri. Enjoy fishing in the pond and a great night sky on clear nights. Enjoy the birds, wildflowers, and neighboring cows.
You'll be just three miles from the Rebel's Cove Conservation Area, perfect for hiking, hunting, and fishing. Or float the Chariton River.
We have 30 and 50 amp hookups, water hookups, a dump station, and pull through sites. Picnic tables and fire rings are available. Hidden Ridge is pet friendly, but leashes are required.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from
$25
/ night
Chief’s Lookout
Chief’s Lookout
29mi from Thousand Hills State Park · 4 sites · Lodging
Two cozy guest cabins (Amish made)that can sleep up to 4 a piece and a kitchen cabin (Chief Keokuk) that also sleeps four. Tucked in a serene wooded cove with a small pond, great for swimming and fishing. Located just two miles North of the Missouri border, and 7 miles south of Moulton, IA. The kitchen cabin has a full bathroom and full kitchen. There is a community fire pit on the patio with three picnic tables offered, horse shoe pit, and a deer hanging post and first come first serve dog kennel with dog house. It is located 2 miles away from 3,000 acres of public hunting land in Iowa, called Sedan Bottoms and a couple miles away from about 3,500 acres of public hunting in Missouri and it’s called Rebels Cove.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$75
/ night
Escape to North River Glamping
Escape to North River Glamping
100%
(4)
47mi from Thousand Hills State Park · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Settle into The Grove at North River Ranch, a lovely glampground on our 2200 acre working regenerative ranch. Look out on the pond, under the shade of oak, maple and honey locusts. Hike a trail through forested paths, around beautiful wide pastures. Look for protected birds on our Audubon Certified property, and observe deer, fox, beavers and other wildlife in their natural, balanced environment. Enjoy quiet, restful sleep in furnished platform tents with quality linens and handcrafted quilts under beautiful, unobstructed starry skies.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$30
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Thane
3 weeks ago
22 ft campervan
Nice quiet RV spot by a pond. Worth a stop even in winter with limited services. Directions were OK, just be sure to turn left at the house at the end of the road and you'll see the camping spots.
See moreE
Eric
August 2025
16 ft campervan
Abslolutely loved the place, would highly recommene it to anybody. Just beautiful.
See moreThe best camping in Thousand Hills State Park, MO guide
Overview
About
While northern Missouri isn’t known for its hills, Thousand Hills State Park has lots of them, hence its name. These rolling green mounds surround the waters of Forest Lake. Recreational opportunities abound, from hiking and biking to paddling and fishing. One surprising find is the preserved petroglyphs visitors can explore under an interpretive shelter. In addition to campsites, the park offers several deluxe cabins with lake views and full amenities, including kitchen and bathrooms. The town of Kirksville is nearby, offering restaurants, shopping, museums, and more.
Notable campgrounds
- Best for winter camping: Thousand Hills Campground 2 is open year round.
- Best for camping with friends and family: Thousand Hills Campground 1 offers special family campsites, with two pads and a shared space and amenities.
- Best for hikers: Thousand Hills Campground 2 is located directly on the Forest Lake Trail.
Tips for snagging a campsite
- The park’s campsites are most likely to fill in the summer months, especially on holidays and weekends. You should find good availability other times of year.
- Reservations may be booked on the Missouri State Park website or phone line.
- Reservations open 12 months in advance.
- While Campground 2 is open year round, Campground 1 is only open April 1 through October 31.
- Water and showers are available April 1 through October 31, but potable water is available at Campground 2 for filling your freshwater tank in the offseason.
When to go
Sweet summertime is when the waters of Forest Lake beckon to visitors, with temperatures warm enough for swimming. Expect some heat and humidity at the peak of summer. Spring is generally chilly, with the days warming up in May. Fall is a scenic time of year for fun on—but not in—the waters, as the surrounding hills reach peak autumnal colors in October. Winter is the quiet season, with occasional freezing temperatures and snow or ice. Watch the forecast and prepare ahead.
Know before you go
- This park has a robust marina, offering short-term and long-term dock slip rentals.
- The marina also offers kayak and canoe rentals.
- A city permit is required on private boats launched in the park.
- Some campsites are not level. Larger rigs need to select sites with care. The online campsite listings provide details about the extent of the slope.
- An accessible fish dock and the Forest Lake Trail are convenient for visitors with wheelchairs, strollers, or mobility issues.
- The 10-mile Thousand Hills Trail is a popular option for mountain biking.
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