Campgrounds Around Kansas City: Best Spots For Your Next Trip
Readers, are you looking for a getaway close to the heart of Kansas City, but want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city? Have you ever considered a camping trip? There’s no better way to connect with nature than by pitching a tent under the stars or parking your RV in a peaceful, scenic location. The Kansas City area is home to some of the best campgrounds in the Midwest, offering a range of experiences from luxurious glamping to rustic backcountry camping. As someone who’s explored countless campgrounds around Kansas City, I’ve analyzed the best options for every type of camper, from families to couples to solo adventurers.
Finding the Perfect Campground Near Kansas City
Finding the right campground near Kansas City depends on your camping style and preferences. Do you prefer a campground filled with amenities, or are you looking for a more secluded experience? Are you planning a family trip with kids or a romantic escape with your significant other? These are just a few questions to consider before you book your next camping adventure. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the top campgrounds around Kansas City, highlighting their unique characteristics and what makes them stand out.
Exploring the Best Camping Options near Kansas City
Campgrounds for Families
Families looking for a camping experience with plenty of activities and amenities will find several excellent campgrounds around Kansas City. These campgrounds often feature playgrounds, swimming pools, and hiking trails, ensuring that children of all ages have plenty to do. They also typically offer spacious campsites with hookups for RVs, making them perfect for families who want to enjoy the comforts of home while still experiencing the great outdoors.
Campgrounds for Couples
For couples seeking a romantic getaway, there are campgrounds that offer a more intimate and secluded setting. These campgrounds may have cozy cabins, secluded campsites, or scenic lakeside views, creating a peaceful and romantic atmosphere. They provide a chance to reconnect with nature and each other, enjoying starlit evenings and quiet mornings.
Campgrounds for Solo Adventurers
Solo travelers seeking a peaceful retreat will appreciate campgrounds that offer a balance of solitude and community. Some campgrounds cater to solo adventurers with designated campsites and opportunities to meet other like-minded individuals. These campgrounds provide a chance for introspection and exploration, allowing you to reconnect with yourself and the natural world.
Popular Campgrounds near Kansas City
The Kansas City area is home to a wide variety of campgrounds, making it easy to find the perfect spot for your next trip. Here are some of the most popular campgrounds near Kansas City, each offering a unique experience:
Lake of the Ozarks State Park
Located about two hours from Kansas City, Lake of the Ozarks State Park offers stunning views of the lake and a variety of recreational activities. With over 100 miles of shoreline, campers can enjoy swimming, fishing, boating, and hiking. The park also has several campgrounds with different amenities, from basic campsites to RV hookups.
Perry Lake
Just an hour from Kansas City, Perry Lake offers a serene setting for a camping getaway. The lake provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming, while the surrounding area features hiking trails and picnic areas. The campground at Perry Lake offers spacious campsites with hookups for RVs, as well as basic campsites for tent campers.
Longview Lake Park
Located within the city limits of Kansas City, Longview Lake Park offers a convenient and affordable camping option. The park features a lake for swimming, fishing, and boating, as well as hiking trails, picnic areas, and a playground. The campground offers both RV hookups and basic campsites.
Hidden Valley Campground
Nestled in the rolling hills of Missouri, Hidden Valley Campground provides a secluded and peaceful escape. The campground offers spacious campsites with hookups for RVs, as well as primitive campsites for those who prefer a more rustic experience. Hidden Valley Campground is a great option for families and groups looking for a quiet and relaxing camping trip.
Lake Jacomo
Located just a short drive from Kansas City, Lake Jacomo is a popular destination for camping and recreation. The lake offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and kayaking, while the surrounding park has hiking trails, picnic areas, and a playground. The campground at Lake Jacomo features a mix of RV hookups and basic campsites, making it suitable for a variety of campers.
Shawnee Mission Park
Shawnee Mission Park is a sprawling park located in the heart of the Kansas City metropolitan area, offering a unique blend of urban amenities and natural beauty. The park boasts miles of hiking trails, fishing ponds, playgrounds, and picnic areas, making it a perfect destination for families and individuals seeking a convenient and diverse outdoor experience.
Wyandotte County Lake Park
Wyandotte County Lake Park is another gem in the Kansas City area, offering a variety of recreational activities and beautiful scenery. The park features a lake for fishing, boating, and kayaking, as well as hiking trails, picnic areas, and a playground. The campground at Wyandotte County Lake Park offers a mix of RV hookups and basic campsites, making it a suitable option for different camping preferences.
Big Creek Campground
Big Creek Campground is nestled in the scenic Ozark Mountains, offering a tranquil and immersive camping experience. The campground boasts lush forests, sparkling creeks, and a variety of hiking trails, providing ample opportunities for nature enthusiasts to connect with the wilderness. The campground offers a range of campsites, including RV hookups and primitive campsites, catering to different camping styles and preferences.
Camping Amenities and Activities
Campgrounds around Kansas City offer a wide range of amenities and activities, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the most common amenities and activities you can expect to find at these campgrounds:
Amenities
- RV hookups
- Restrooms and showers
- Picnic tables and fire rings
- Playgrounds
- Swimming pools
- Hiking trails
- Fishing docks
- Boat ramps
- Camp stores
Activities
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Kayaking
- Biking
- Birdwatching
- Stargazing
- Picnicking
- Campfire stories
Camping Tips and Tricks
To ensure a safe and enjoyable camping trip, it’s important to be prepared. Here are some helpful tips and tricks:
Plan Ahead
Plan your trip in advance, reserving your campsite and making sure you have all the necessary equipment. Consider the weather conditions and pack appropriate clothing and gear.
Pack Wisely
Pack only what you need and leave no trace. Be sure to pack essential items such as food, water, first aid supplies, flashlights, and bug spray. It’s also good to bring games or activities to keep yourself entertained.
Be Respectful
Be respectful of other campers and the environment. Keep noise levels down, dispose of trash properly, and adhere to campground rules.
Stay Safe
Follow safety precautions, especially when cooking over a fire. Be aware of your surroundings and take steps to prevent wildlife encounters.
A Table Breakdown of Popular Kansas City Campgrounds
To help you narrow down your choices, take a look at this table comparing some of the most popular campgrounds around Kansas City. This table outlines their relative distance from the city, amenities, and activities offered.
| Campground | Distance from Kansas City | Amenities | Activities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lake of the Ozarks State Park | 2 hours | RV hookups, restrooms, showers, picnic tables, fire rings, hiking trails, fishing docks, boat ramps, camp store | Hiking, fishing, boating, swimming, kayaking, birdwatching, stargazing |
| Perry Lake | 1 hour | RV hookups, restrooms, showers, picnic tables, fire rings, hiking trails, fishing docks, boat ramps | Fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, picnicking |
| Longview Lake Park | Within Kansas City | RV hookups, restrooms, showers, picnic tables, fire rings, playground, hiking trails, fishing docks, boat ramps | Swimming, fishing, boating, hiking, picnicking, playground |
| Hidden Valley Campground | 1.5 hours | RV hookups, restrooms, showers, picnic tables, fire rings, hiking trails, fishing ponds | Hiking, fishing, stargazing, campfires |
| Lake Jacomo | 30 minutes | RV hookups, restrooms, showers, picnic tables, fire rings, playground, hiking trails, fishing docks, boat ramps | Fishing, boating, kayaking, hiking, picnicking, playground |
| Shawnee Mission Park | Within Kansas City | Restrooms, picnic tables, fire rings, playground, hiking trails, fishing ponds | Hiking, fishing, picnicking, playground, bike trails |
| Wyandotte County Lake Park | Within Kansas City | RV hookups, restrooms, showers, picnic tables, fire rings, playground, hiking trails, fishing docks, boat ramps | Fishing, boating, kayaking, hiking, picnicking, playground |
| Big Creek Campground | 2 hours | RV hookups, restrooms, showers, picnic tables, fire rings, hiking trails, fishing creeks | Hiking, fishing, camping, stargazing |
FAQ About Campgrounds Around Kansas City
What are the best campgrounds for families with kids?
Families with kids will enjoy campgrounds like Lake of the Ozarks State Park, Perry Lake, and Longview Lake Park. These campgrounds offer a range of amenities and activities, including playgrounds, swimming pools, and hiking trails, making them perfect for families looking to have fun and create lasting memories.
Are there any campgrounds near Kansas City that allow pets?
Many campgrounds around Kansas City are pet-friendly, but it’s always best to check their policies before you book your stay. Some campgrounds may have restrictions on certain breeds or require leashes at all times.
What are the best campgrounds for experienced campers?
Experienced campers may prefer campgrounds like Hidden Valley Campground and Big Creek Campground. These campgrounds offer a more rustic and secluded setting, perfect for those who enjoy exploring the wilderness and pushing their camping skills.
Conclusion
With so many great campgrounds around Kansas City, finding the perfect spot for your next camping trip is easy. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly getaway, a romantic escape, or a solo adventure, there’s a campground in the Kansas City area that will suit your needs. So, pack your bags, grab your gear, and get ready to experience the beauty of the great outdoors!
As the sun dips below the horizon, casting long shadows over the rolling hills of Kansas City, the campfires crackle with a gentle warmth, inviting you to relax and unwind. With so many incredible campgrounds just a short drive from the city, your next outdoor adventure is within reach. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil escape amidst towering trees or a lively gathering spot with all the amenities, you’ll find a perfect match in the diverse landscape of Kansas. From the serene shores of Lake Jacomo to the rugged beauty of Weston Bend State Park, each campground offers a unique experience. Be sure to pack your hiking boots, fishing rods, and a sense of adventure, as Kansas City’s surrounding campgrounds are waiting to welcome you with open arms.
Beyond the breathtaking scenery and recreational opportunities, camping in Kansas City offers a chance to connect with nature and escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Imagine waking up to the melodic song of birds, breathing in the fresh air, and immersing yourself in the beauty of the natural world. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a first-timer, the campgrounds offer a welcoming environment. Restrooms, showers, and picnic tables are readily available, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Many campgrounds also provide additional amenities such as playgrounds, swimming pools, and even boat ramps, catering to families with children and those seeking a little extra fun. In addition to the abundance of natural wonders, the campgrounds provide easy access to local attractions, allowing you to explore the rich history and cultural heritage of Kansas City.
So, pack your bags, gather your loved ones, and embark on an unforgettable camping adventure in the heart of Kansas. With its diverse range of campgrounds, Kansas City is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a unique and memorable experience. From quiet retreats to bustling gatherings, there’s a campground waiting to fulfill your camping dreams. As you venture out into the great outdoors, allow yourself to be captivated by the beauty of nature, the comfort of community, and the lasting memories that await you in the campgrounds of Kansas City.
Escape to nature near Kansas City! Discover the best campgrounds for your next adventure, from serene lakes to scenic forests. Book your spot today!
