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The best camping in Watkins Mill State Park, MO
100% (8)
Explore history and scenery just minutes from the heart of Kansas City.
100% (8)
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Watkins Mill State Park adventure.
Top-rated campgrounds in Watkins Mill State Park
Watkins Mill Campground
1. Watkins Mill Campground
100%
(8)
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Top-rated campsites near Watkins Mill State Park
SundanceKC Ranch
1. SundanceKC Ranch
95%
(11)
7.6mi from Watkins Mill State Park · 6 sites
Come enjoy our beautiful 200-acre national park-esque ranch fringed in gorgeous limestone boulders surrounding a spring-fed 15-acre private lake. Make lasting memories with your family and friends swimming, kayaking, or stand-up paddle boarding and, of course, excellent fishing!
From glowing tree houses floating above ephemeral streams to Bedouin-style canvas tents perched above rugged stone valleys, this is the way to experience nature at it's finest.
With a choice of unique and magical rustic "camp" sites or beautiful, modern accommodations, our serene landscape offers outdoor activities for every skill level and all the amenities one could desire.
Located just minutes from Kansas City we are an excellent location for your next stay-cation!
Inspired to merge with the unparalleled beauty of our rugged, serene landscape, our unique accommodations reflect a simple, yet sophisticated ambiance. Surround yourself with the comfort of plush bedding and relaxed furnishings, all enhanced by a warm palette of sunny colors that welcome the dawn of the new day. Charm meets modern convenience with complimentary Wi-Fi and a flat-screen television lakeside in the common area.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Milo Farm Sacred Land
2. Milo Farm Sacred Land
98%
(545)
22mi from Watkins Mill State Park · 20 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Milo Farm was established organically a few years ago. The energy at Milo so amazing we wanted to share! There's a story behind the sacredness of this land, Loni can share that with you if you ask! There are 5 different ecosystems at Milo, all which hold their own magic!🪄
Milo has mant tent sites, car camping sites (for retroverted cars & sprinter vans), 6 cabins, a luxury guest space for you to stay! Sorry we DO NOT have any RV spots at this time. Our cabins are the Hippie Trailer, which is located near the west woods near the Fairy Forest. Then the Bunkhouse just past the big barn on the north end of the property. The lodge, where the Airbnb and pool are is centrally located on the land. We rent out the lower level guest quarters for non-campers. We have a Hobbit Hut near the Frog Pond, a Boho Bus near the entry way and several Vardos (gypsy wagons). For our tent campers there are tent sites in the Eastfield, including the Movie set location of the DM Cabin, and for diehard campers the beauty of primitive pack-in/pack-out camping of Freedom Field is a joy! Feel the energy of the sacred land.
We also have SO may attractions! There are 2 stocked ponds, miles of trails, pool, Zen garden, farm animals, a library and more. Find all the portals here!
Bless Mother Earth and spend some time in nature at this magical place.
Great for the spiritually minded with several meditation spots. There are events happening some weekends you can participate in. We have a Call to Prayer 9:30am every day in the Art Studio/Spirit Shack, you may join us! Loni is a spiritual intuitive and can do a reading using the Milo Farm Oracle cards she created! Ask for availability of these things. Milo has a lot to offer!
Located in Eastern Jackson County MO, just 30 minutes from downtown Kansas City.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Perdue Homestead Farm-CLOSED
3. Perdue Homestead Farm-CLOSED
94%
(152)
22mi from Watkins Mill State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
FIFA World Cup 2026 Camping. Campsites will only be reopened in 2026 from June 14th-July 13th, 2026 for this event and soccer fans. 4 campsites to choose from
Nestled in historic Platte County, Missouri, our property provides an rural agritourism experience off-grid out in the natural environment.
We are 20 minutes from historic Weston, MO, 30 minutes from historic St. Joseph, and 30 minutes from downtown Kansas City.
We also offer local, farm fresh, grass raised Beef and Pork products from famous McBee Meats (series the McBee Dynasty). Please contact Host or order under extra's before your arrival. Includes Brats, Ground Beef, Beef Sticks, all-beef hot dogs, beef sticks, Eggs, etc.
We are a 420 friendly property. Campers must comply to all Missouri regulations.
Under no circumstances should visitors trespass over to any of the neighboring properties. We have had multiple campers trespassing across the fence to the neighbors property. Neighbors are nice people but because of the multiple incidents and damage done to fences and their property, they did notify me that they will prosecute. Thank you for respecting this policy.
All campsites are Private and Primitive. Please bring your own potable water and portable toilet
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Seven Oaks
4. Seven Oaks
99%
(120)
23mi from Watkins Mill State Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Seven Oaks is our home. There are 40 acres of hardwood timber on the Platte river and 10 acres of grass and wildflowers; Miles of rustic trails for hiking or biking, some appropriate for hayrides; picnic table and a 300 sq. ft. treehouse with hammocks for relaxation; Play a game of Cornhole; Fish in our pond or the Platte river. We are 15 minutes from Smithville lake boat ramp.
We are limiting the 40 acres of timber to five groups of campers to provide privacy and seclusion for all. Topside is The Barn and The Hickory Forest RV/tent sites which have water and RV power hookups available. The lower level has three other tent camp sites available.
WARNINGS! Hazards on our property include, but are not limited to: Biting insects, wild animals, dead fall trees (especially on the river bottom), slick and muddy approach to the river. In general, keep in mind you are camping in a timber and nature happens!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Basswood Family Camping Resort
5. Basswood Family Camping Resort
90%
(10)
24mi from Watkins Mill State Park · 61 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Escape Ordinary — Experience Basswood Resort
Just minutes from Kansas City, yet worlds away from the noise, Basswood Resort is where your perfect getaway begins. Nestled among rolling hills and shimmering lakes, our award-winning resort blends the peaceful beauty of nature with the excitement of modern camping fun.
Whether you roll in with your RV, pitch a tent beneath the stars, or settle into one of our cozy vacation rentals, you’ll find the perfect spot to unwind and reconnect. Spend lazy mornings sipping coffee by the lake, cast your line for a trophy catch, or dive into our sparkling seasonal pool. When the sun sets, the fun doesn’t stop—our themed weekends, live entertainment, and family-friendly events fill the air with laughter and music.
You’ll love the thoughtful touches that make Basswood feel like home. Grab a fresh, hot slice from our Basswood Pizza Shack, treat yourself to something sweet or savory from our snack options, or enjoy the simple comforts of Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and convenient camp store essentials. Kids will love our outdoor play areas and open spaces, while grown-ups relax lakeside or join in on the games.
From couples seeking a quiet retreat to families chasing adventure, Basswood Resort delivers the perfect balance of relaxation and excitement. You don’t have to travel far to feel a million miles away—just head to Basswood Resort, Kansas City’s favorite family camping destination.
Book your site today and start counting down to bonfires, belly laughs, and memories that will last long after the campfire fades.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Harmony Lake Farm Park & Playground
6. Harmony Lake Farm Park & Playground
99%
(1082)
25mi from Watkins Mill State Park · 15 sites · Tents, RVs
Harmony Lake welcomes you to our farm. We are proud to be a registered member of Missouri Agritourism.
Agritourism connects our guests with the great outdoors via a farm stay.
We hope you enjoy your stay at Harmony Lake Farm.
We are walking distance to Harmony Lake: a private 12-acre lake for fishing, swimming and paddle boats. Our lake is home to record large-mouth bass and Missouri's longest free-floating walkway leading to a private island.
We are located just 15-minutes from the highway and one hour to sites and attractions of Kansas City. We are 15-minutes to Lexington historic district or Odessa.
We have a variety of tent and RV sites for your party to choose from so just reach out if you would like clarification on anything. Campfires and pets are allowed and all sites have access to bathroom with shower, trash bins, and an outdoor grill house.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Old Goat Farm
7. Old Goat Farm
99%
(51)
26mi from Watkins Mill State Park · 1 site
Learn more about this land:
Pitch a tent in our pasture with our cute friendly goats and enjoy a panoramic view of the countryside.
We are a small goat dairy with chickens and ducks and lots of wildlife with a peaceful countryside to enjoy.
Campers are welcome to join in with farm chores and activities or just sit back and enjoy the peace and quiet.
Campfires
Toilets
Potable water
Wit’s End
8. Wit’s End
100%
(46)
33mi from Watkins Mill State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:
Dry camp in a grassy field surrounded by trees or down by the pond area. Fish and perhaps see the horses stroll by. Plenty of wildlife visits daily.
Pets
Campfires
Green Acres at Red Brick Farmhouse
9. Green Acres at Red Brick Farmhouse
98%
(225)
36mi from Watkins Mill State Park · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
A quiet country retreat nestled in the picturesque rural outskirts of Higginsville, Missouri. Our place consists of three RV sites with water and electric hookups, two camping sites and one on-site travel trailer for rent. Wifi is available at all sites, except for Site 3. Green Acres at Red Brick Farm is located just 50 miles east of Kansas City off of I-70 at Exit 49. Once you are off of I-70 your drive is less than 8 minutes away on all blacktop roads.
Site 2 is on gravel with 30 amp hookup and water, preferably best for RV’s and trailers 25’ and under. Site 1 and Site 3 are on gravel with a 20/30/50 amp hookup and water, best suited for larger RV’s and trailers. You may choose your site location, but due to the small number of sites we have we may have to alter your choice. This is so we can accommodate our guests in the best way possible, depending on the size of each rig.
If you are towing a vehicle or pulling a trailer your total length should be 55’ or under. We will not accept Triple Axels. Site 4 and site 5 are for tents, pop ups, very tiny trailers and are in flexible locations. A 20 amp standard outlet can be provided for site 4 and site 5. For your use is a shower, toilet, and bathroom sink in our farmhouse basement. Please arrive before dusk, so you don’t disturb other campers.
Site 6 Is the on-site travel trailer, ‘Ain’t She Cute’. No Pets are allowed when reserving ‘Ain’t She Cute’. The vintage style travel trailer is completely renovated and decorated with collectibles and antiques and is available for booking. It is furnished with a queen size bed, tiny kitchen, TV, wifi, and full size, not trailer size, bathroom. The trailer is for 2 guests, but an additional guest may sleep on the daybed, preferably a child or small adult.
We live onsite in our 1920’s Prairie Style home which is also Red Brick Farmhouse Bed and Breakfast with three Guest Rooms available for booking. Look us up online.
At your disposal, is the use of our outdoor furniture, a large yard to walk around in, a fire pit, a BBQ grill, and even a tire swing.
Our restaurant, Red Shanty Cafe and BBQ, is located in the town of Higginsville, about 5 miles from Red Brick Farmhouse. Red Shanty Cafe is open Weds and Thurs, 11am - 8 pm and Fri and Sat, 11am - 9pm.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Lee's Summit RV Storage and Camping
10. Lee's Summit RV Storage and Camping
94%
(26)
37mi from Watkins Mill State Park · 4 sites
Convenient location just 9 miles east of Lee’s Summit, MO on US 50 Hwy. Perfect spot to stop for the evening or week. There are 4 RV hookup spots with WIFI, security cameras, trash, water, electricity and fire pit. All parking is on concrete. Open Year Around.
Pets
Full hookups
Roots, Fruits & Greens Farm
11. Roots, Fruits & Greens Farm
99%
(104)
45mi from Watkins Mill State Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
The farm is in its tenth growing season, selling eggs and vegetables for home delivery and to some of Kansas City's best restaurants.
We are so excited to share the beauty of the property with you!
Learn more about this land:
You will be staying on a working farm. The property is 20 acres with a 2 acre pond, 1 acre of vegetables, two dozen goats, three (large but gentle) guardian dogs, and a flock of chickens, guinea fowl (and sometimes turkeys or quail). The camp sites are scattered around the property, with several secluded from the main field/barn/campfire.
Enjoy a day of fishing or strolling the property and finish off a relaxing day by watching the sunset by the fire.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Honey Grove Campground
12. Honey Grove Campground
97%
(18)
45mi from Watkins Mill State Park · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Honey Grove Campground, where picturesque and tranquil pastures surrounded by trees await you. Whether you're a history enthusiast, stargazer, Amish goods shopper in Jamesport, fisherman/hunter, or simply seeking a relaxing retreat with friends and family, your stay at Honey Grove Campground promises to be delightful. We are conveniently located just 5 minutes away from historic sites and a short 5-minute drive from the fishing and boating opportunities at The Grand River.
Our well-appointed bathroom facilities include toilets, sinks, and hot showers to ensure your comfort during your stay. Nestled in the serene landscape are three cabins, each accommodating four guests, offering a view of the wide-open field and our historic brick silo. Each bunkhouse is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring for your outdoor enjoyment.
For those who prefer tent camping, we offer nine spacious sites with shade, a picnic table, and a fire ring provided for each site.
To contribute to our shared camping experience, kindly bring your own bedding, practice water conservation, and leave the campsite cleaner than you found it. We extend a warm welcome to our hive at Honey Grove Campground, where nature and relaxation come together for a memorable outdoor experience.
Our restrooms are closed during the winter (December 1 - February 28).
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Deer Lake Retreat
13. Deer Lake Retreat
4.6mi from Watkins Mill State Park · 1 site
Seated on a secluded one-acre site, Deer Lake Retreat offers a peaceful, primitive camping experience in the heart of nature. This cozy, private spot is perfect for those looking to disconnect and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors.
The camp features a covered camping structure with two twin mattresses; you must provide your own bedding. There’s plenty of space for an additional tent, allowing for a small group or family to enjoy the campsite. There is parking for up to three cars, and the campsite is easy to access.
The campsite is equipped with a fire pit and firewood provided. Tiki torches are provided, but you must bring your own torch fuel. There’s also a table for food prep. This site has a porta-potty but no shower or running water.
Access to the lake for fishing, swimming, and paddling is available, but you’ll need to purchase a day pass through the City of Crystal Lakes website, which gives you access to all five lakes in the area. While swimming is allowed, we recommend you use the lakes for fishing and paddling only.
Escape the hustle and bustle and experience the magic of private, lakeside camping.
Well-behaved pets are allowed.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Walnut Creek Winery RV Park
14. Walnut Creek Winery RV Park
100%
(7)
5.8mi from Watkins Mill State Park · 1 site
Relaxed setting by creek with shade trees. Close to winery.
4 electric hookups, water and dump station
Pets
Full hookups
BigFoote Outfitters Camp & Float
15. BigFoote Outfitters Camp & Float
100%
(6)
16mi from Watkins Mill State Park · 28 sites · Tents, RVs
At BigFoote Outfitters, camping is about more than just a place to stay. It's about making memories-where campfires crackle, the river flows and the only thing on your schedule is relaxation. Tucked away at the north end of Smithville Lake, our campground offers a welcoming, family-friendly environment built for those looking to unplug, spread out, relax by the fire and enjoy the outdoors the way it was meant to be. Whether you're pitching a tent under the stars or pulling in with your RV, you'll find everything you need for a comfortable, laid-back stay.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Private Farm Camping Near Lake
16. Private Farm Camping Near Lake
100%
(2)
17mi from Watkins Mill State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Escape the crowds and enjoy private camping on our 20-acre farm just minutes from Smithville Lake. With only a few well-spaced sites, you’ll have room to relax, unwind, and experience a quieter kind of stay.
We offer two distinct campsite experiences:
Sycamore Grove — A shaded, secluded site surrounded by trees, ideal for quiet stays and privacy.
Overlook Site — A spacious, open setting perfect for RV campers or those who prefer wide views and flexible space.
Spend your day at Smithville Lake, then return to a peaceful campsite where you won’t hear crowded neighbors - just open space and natural surroundings.
This is not a traditional campground. Sites are intentionally spaced for privacy and simplicity.
The Overlook site is a dry site (no water or sewer), best suited for self-contained setups.
With limited sites available, weekends and peak seasons tend to book quickly—reserve early to secure your stay.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Fort Osage RV Park
17. Fort Osage RV Park
100%
(6)
20mi from Watkins Mill State Park · 2 sites
Welcome to Fort Osage RV Park, your peaceful retreat just outside the hustle and bustle of the city. Located in a charming small town near the Kansas City metro area, our short-term RV park offers full hookups and a quiet, comfortable environment—perfect for traveling professionals seeking a restful place to stay and work. Whether you’re here for a temporary job assignment or just passing through, you’ll appreciate our convenient location, reliable amenities, and relaxed atmosphere. Stay with us and enjoy the best of both worlds—small-town tranquility with easy access to big-city opportunities.
Pets
Full hookups
Black Sheep Bluff
18. Black Sheep Bluff
100%
(2)
24mi from Watkins Mill State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
A Historic Property with Deep Roots in American History
This very special property has visible links to the Oregon and Santa Fe Trails, the Civil War, and the region’s early coal mining history. A natural spring on the land was once used by the Pony Express, as well as travelers on the pioneer trails and even during the Civil War.
The property sits on what were once the banks of the Missouri River, perched on a bluff that offers incredible sunsets and wide-open night skies.
Today, it’s a small working farm with chickens, goats, and a massive turkey named “Tank” who proudly answers to his name. There’s so much to see here — from rich history and wild open spaces to the nearby river and passing trains.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Hedy Lamarr Airstream
19. Hedy Lamarr Airstream
26mi from Watkins Mill State Park · 1 site
Journey back to 1956 and stay in the Hedy Lamarr Airstream. This vintage 1956 Flying Cloud Airstream features a comfy double bed, a kitchenette with sink and a 3-in-1 appliance (coffee maker, toaster, and griddle), a cute dinette table that doubles as a chalkboard art space, a composting toilet (yes, everyone must sit down for their business), and a shower.
Lounge on the large 12x24’ deck in a hammock and listen to the pond and nature. This property is located in the city but feels like a nature sanctuary (we even have raccoons and possums!). Minutes from the freeways, you can easily enjoy all that Kansas City has to offer as well.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Liberated Grounds
20. Liberated Grounds
88%
(13)
27mi from Watkins Mill State Park · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Liberated Grounds – A Sanctuary for Soul, Soil & Story
Tucked away on a 100-year-old property in Kansas City, Liberated Grounds is more than just a campsite — it’s a refuge for renewal, creativity, and connection. Here, the land breathes with history, imagination, and freedom.
Pitch your tent beneath tall shade trees or rest and retreat in on the ranch. Whether you’re here to unplug, meditate, garden, write, or simply listen to the birds, there’s a place for you.
Expect intentional stillness. Expect community if you want it, and solitude if you need it. This is a land in transformation — and you’re invited to be part of the story.
✨ What You’ll Experience
• Open space for tent camping or car camping (we can provide tents)
• Fire pits, hammocks, and garden beds
• A creative atmosphere — perfect for artists, healers, and daydreamers
• Access to seasonal programming: sound baths, campfire poetry, nature journaling, and self-guided rituals
• Amenities: Bathroom access, water, ranch home (between 7am-9pm) + more amenities coming soon: compost toilet & solar lights
🌿 Perfect For:
• Solo travelers, couples seeking peace, or day groups
• Creatives needing a nature reset
• Families introducing kids to eco-living
• Spiritual folks craving Earth-aligned spaces
Come as you are. Leave lighter.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
J
Jordan
5 days ago
16 ft car
I had such a great experience staying on Mike’s Land. The campsite itself was very nice, with a lot of different options. My trip had me driving for a long time and when I needed a place to rest for the night this site turned out to be a perfect stay, but what really stood out to me was the hospitality from the owner, Mike.
I ended up needing to change my reservation to arrive a day earlier, and Mike was incredibly accommodating. He made the change without any hassle and was professional, responsive, and welcoming throughout the entire process. It’s clear that he genuinely cares about his guests and wants them to have a great experience.
I would absolutely stay here again and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a great camping experience with a fantastic host!
Thank you, Mike, for making the stay so easy and enjoyable!
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Terri
1 week ago
30 ft travel trailer
With kids
Beautiful and peaceful property, loved the lake, animals and pickleball court! Owners are very friendly and helpful. We definitely plan on returning.
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Renée
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Joan and Kenny were friendly and helpful. Their property is well groomed. The peacocks/peahens are friendly, and the pig and emu were a fun surprise! The lake is gorgeous, with a peaceful little island in the middle (accessible by a floating walkway). I’d stay here again if I come this way! Also appreciated was an indoor toilet and shower!
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J
Jessica
2 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
Absolutely beautiful property! We loved everything about staying here. Hosts were wonderful. Very gracious,
Accommodating (we went in extreme heat), and kind. Ice on location, community kitchen with pots pans and cooking utensils, shower, bathrooms and generous amount of firewood to purchase. Fridge and freezer we were able
To use. The lake is beautiful, full of fish and easy to access. I would absolutely recommend. The peacocks were beautiful and free range. Animals were all friendly. Great for families or solo.
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d
don
2 weeks ago
24 ft campervan
It was perfect for us! A beautiful place of shade and plants. It was great to let our dog off leash. It is very convenient to the highway and easy to find. We will definitely return!
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R
Rachel
3 weeks ago
3 nights at Milo Farm Sacred Land
I absolutely loved Milo Farm! We had an amazing time staying in the bunk house. All the goats and donkeys roaming about, we're all so friendly, and I loved getting to pet them!. We walked all over their trails. The staff was also very friendly! Trout was a fun guy to to talk with, and Moonflower was very sweet! Will definitely stay again!
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L
Lamented
3 weeks ago
2 nights at Milo Farm Sacred Land
Truly a magical escape. It lifted our spirits to the clouds, but grounded us in the best way possible. We can't wait to come back!
See moreJ
Jessica
3 weeks ago
29 ft Class C
With kids
Another excellent stay! Thankful for such a peaceful place so close to the city!
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T
Tristan
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Our campsite was very clean and easy to access. There were a lot of activities like tetherball and volleyball available. A very nice woman helped us in the shop and we had a great conversation with her. Overall, it was a great experience.
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M
Michael
3 weeks ago
1 night at Milo Farm Sacred Land
A beautiful, quiet place to stay and reconnect with nature/self. Would highly recommend and look forward to a return.
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J
John
August 2026
Tent
With kids
It was a great spread of land with lots of variety to suit anyones site preferences and available amenities plus a pool! Hosts were very friendly and welcoming would definitely recommend for an off the beaten path camping experience for the whole family!
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J
John
August 2026
Tent
With pets
I am very thankful Liberated land, a bit of peace and nature. I was greeted with warmth and kindness. I had my choice of areas to camp and was able to find a home away from home. It was a port in a storm as I travelled from the Pacific NW to New Orleans.
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D
Dan
July 2026
Tent
We fully enjoyed our stay at the Green Acres. Kenton was a fantastic host! We pulled in with our teardrop and he came right out to find us the best spot he had available. As a nice surprise he allowed us to use the cabins bathroom that was just feet away from our site. Also, don’t sleep on the Red Shanty BBQ restaurant in town. It was amazing! .
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R
Ryan
July 2026
With kids
Awesome family getaway! We fished, swam, played at the park, jumped on a jumping pillow, made s’mores and had an absolutely amazing time! Their pizzas (especially bacon cheeseburger) was 🔥. And staff super friendly and helpful, general store has EVERYTHING also. Beautiful and well managed! 💯
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C
Cayla
July 2026
Tent
Thank you, Sonya! We hope to return soon. This is a great example of entering in to permaculture, where all life works together.
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C
Cayla
July 2026
Tent
We had such a lovely time at Sonya's farm that we decided to stay another night. We enjoyed petting the goats, and I was even able to help move the billy goats and withers to another enclosure. It was beautiful at sunset and magical in the morning.
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K
Kasee
July 2026
26 ft pop-up camper
With pets
It was amazing very clean. Everyone was so nice. Helpful with anything. I definitely recommend basswood for anyone. Lots of fun things to do. There’s horseshoes cornhole, tetherball and much more swimming pool. Pickleball bounce ball for kids and anyone who wants to get on it playgrounds so much to do. We had an amazing time. It was great fun. We’ll definitely come back. Thank you.
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J
Jacob
July 2026
With kids
Loni Louise’s land worked well for our family get together. We enjoyed the funky bunkhouse and appreciated the four bunk-bed capacity and having the AC unit really helped for the hot summer nights.
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g
george
July 2026
20 ft pop-up camper
The location at the Red Brick Farmhouse was great. We were passing through and the hosts were very welcoming.
See more
B
Brooke
July 2026
Tent
With kids
We had a lovely time camping at Milo. Our daughter loved the fairy forest and all the magical and thoughtful creations throughout the property. We would love to come back. Thank you Loni!
See moreWatkins Mill State Park camping guide
Overview
About
Watkins Mills State Park is one of those parks that is truly an unexpected gem. VIsitors rave about the 4-mile lake trail that circles the 100-acre lake at the park’s center. Williams Creek Lake provides scenery and recreation, offering fishing, boating, and swimming. Watkins Woolen Mill State Historic Site is connected to the park, and it tells the story of 19th-century life in Missouri, with a well-preserved home, mill, and other historic sites. If the bustle of the big city becksons, venture into Kansas City to find museums, nightlife, foodie-approved restaurants, and more.
Notable Camping Spots
- Best for group camping: Watkins Mill Campground’s family sites have paired camping pads with communal spaces.
- Best for big rigs: Watkins Mill Campground has a handful of sites with 50-amp hookups.
- Best for a classic campout: Watkins Mill Campground’s basic campsites are perfect for tent camping.
Tips for snagging a campsite
- A handful of sites are open year round. The majority are open April 15 through October 31.
- Reservations are accepted for dates between April 15 through October 31.
- Showers and water are available April 15 through October 31. Potable water is available at a single spigot in the off season.
- Weekend reservations require a two-night stay (Friday and Saturday or Saturday and Sunday).
- Reservations open 12 months in advance. This park may require advanced reservations, especially for holidays and summer weekends.
- This park offers basic and electric sites. Water and sewer are not available at individual sites.
When to go
Summer is the busiest, with warm weather and visitors enjoying the outdoor activities. Spring is pleasant, with trees budding in May. Fall generally has good weather, and the park’s woodlands are particularly beautiful, with colors peaking in October. While a handful of sites are available in the winter, visitors will find limited services and may encounter freezing temperatures.
Know before you go
- This park has a camping gate that locks each evening at 9pm during the regular season and 8pm during the off season. Campers must arrive before the gate locks.
- Bring your bike—or your horse. The park has trails with access for bicycling and horseback riding.
- In the summer, grab a swimming suit and take advantage of the swim beach.
- A boat dock and boat launch are available on Williams Creek Lake.
- Visitors may register for the opportunity to go metal detecting in specified areas of the park, a unique activity only offered at a handful of state parks in Missouri.
Reviews for Watkins Mill State Park Campgrounds
100%
8 ratings · 3 reviews
Recommends
· January 2019
Probably my wife's favorite campground we've been to. Nestled in the trees, clean, easy trails to the swim beach. Lots of fun.
Recommends
· January 2018
Can be crowded in the summertime but a nice place to stay with lots of trees.
May 2017
5-10-17 I visited Watkins Mill. Unfortunately, on our way around the parks trails they had stepped through poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans). Red spots were appearing on their legs. The other party with me informed me that there were shower units available and we would be able to rinse the urushiol (the clear liquid in the sap that is the toxin) away.
After emerging from the shower I hear a quite rude and rough voice from about 30 feet away. "ARE YOU GOING TO PAY FOR A CAMPSITE OR ARE YOU JUST TAKING A SHOWER?" Yelled the voice, unnecessarily rudely. When I told him that I did not appreciate the way he was talking to me, I didn't do anything wrong. He proceeded to tell me that
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