The best camping near Big Lake State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Big Lake State Park adventure.

100% (2 reviews)

Enjoy a scenic retreat at this waterfront state park.

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Community favorites near Big Lake State Park

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Big Lake State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Big Lake State Park

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Beacon Farm Ministries

4 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Saint Joseph, MO

Pitch a tent or park a camper or small RV on our nonprofit farm. We have 5 acres of pasture/garden and 15 acres of woods in the River Bluffs of NW Missouri. Find a place in a meadow to star gaze and watch the moon, or hike into the woods for a secluded camping experience. Beautiful rolling hills, wildlife, wild flowers, peace and quiet are just a few of the perks in this rare location next to the Bluffwoods Conservation Area. Be prepared to get your hands dirty with this listing. All campers have the opportunity to volunteer one hour per day while staying at Beacon Farm. We are a nonprofit Christian ministry planting God's love one seed at a time. Donating organic produce to those in need here in Saint Joseph. Your hour of volunteer time each day could consist of harvesting veggies, weeding, stacking wood, milking goats, or any number of other things, depending on the time of year you are here. We look forward to meeting you and hearing where your travels have taken you. Located near here: Bluffwoods Conservation Land -- runs along our property Grocery Store, Gas station, and Cafe 10min back towards town (about 5 miles) Lewis and Clark Sate Park about 20 min from us Weston Bend Sate Park about 40 min from us Wallace state Park an hour from us Watkins Woolen Mill State Park 70min from us Big Lake State Park an hour away

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Fun Family Farm - Overview

18 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents120 acres · Robinson, KS

Fun Family Farm (FFF) near Robinson, KS is an organic farm where our hobby is creating fun! This entry is to give you an overview of the farm and also in case you want to hold a laid-back, nature-oriented, special event at the FFF, where our mantra is, “nothing will be perfect, but everything will be fine.” So, if you are looking for artificial perfection, look elsewhere. ---For any of the guest houses, bring your own linens or sleeping bags, or rent from us. ---The Blue Bedroom has a double bed in it, as does the Hippie Van. Both have either air conditioners or heaters as needed. ---The Big Yellow Bus has a queen bed and two sets of bunk beds in addition to a wood stove, air conditioner, small refrigerator, and a microwave. ---Braden's Brown Bus has a double bed and a futon, air conditioner, sink and a small refrigerator. ---The Hippie Van is a painted VW van with the seats removed and a double bed built in. AC and Heat are available. Some of the fun we create on the farm includes: ---Super-deluxe horseshoe pit and dart board ---900-lb counter-weighted trebuchet for throwing pumpkin, watermelons, or bowling balls over 400 feet ---Lots of rural roads, paved and unpaved for bike riding (bring your own bike) --- Smallish pond with a beach for swimming ---Creek for wading and looking for fossils ---Several fire-pits with seating ---Lots of shaded sitting areas for visiting and flowers for viewing ---Mowed trails through the woods ---Lawn games including lighted bocce ball ---Playground equipment and a large sandbox for the kids ---Cows, pigs, ducks, geese, turkeys, and chickens at various stages of growth depending upon the time of year. ---If the weather is right, an ice skating rink Amenities Include: ---An Outdoor shower ---Fire-pits with hot dog sticks, grates, and seating ---Gas Grill ---Access to town water for drinking ---Access to well water for sand and water play ---Two NICE outhouses in the barnyard (one is known to the local children as “the magic bathroom” due to its blue lighting) ---Seldom used outhouse at the pond. If you are interested in renting the entire farm for a family reunion or wedding etc., message us at least 6 months in advance and we will be able to block off the dates you are requesting.

Kelly's Campground

8 sites · RVs, Tents22 acres · Maryville, MO

Welcome to our unique campground, nestled in the heart of town yet offering total seclusion on 22 private acres. Positioned on the same ground as our paintball park that is closed for the season, our campground provides a serene and adventurous escape for all guests. Features: -Six Spacious Campsites: Each spot is adjacent to the campgrounds' picnic table, grill, and fire pit, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay. -Scenic Setting: The campsites are located in a peaceful clearing adjacent to a woodline, with a cluster of trees at the center, offering a picturesque atmosphere. -Fully Functional Bathroom: Enjoy the convenience of a clean, fully functional bathroom (No shower at this time), as well as a hydrant supplying plenty of fresh water. -Prime Location: Despite its secluded feel, the campground is within walking distance of local restaurants and stores, providing the perfect blend of convenience and solitude. -Private and Safe: Enjoy the privacy and safety of our 22-acre property, designed to give you a restful and enjoyable camping experience. Book your spot today and enjoy the best of both worlds – secluded nature and in-town convenience!

The best camping near Big Lake State Park guide

Overview

About

As its name implies, Big Lake State Park is all about the water. The 646-acre waterway is the largest oxbow lake remaining in Missouri. Fun fact: The lake itself is actually larger than the state park. Toss out a line from a shore or fishing dock—or hit the waters for boating and paddling. An onsite pool offers clear, cool waters for summertime splashing. Take a stroll through the wetlands to watch for wildlife, as many migratory birds are attracted to the large marsh. For overnight stays, book a tent or RV site in the campground or rent one of the premium cabins.

Notable campgrounds

Best for water views: Big Lake Campground’s basic sites are located directly on the shores of Big Lake.
Best for big rigs: Sites 1 through 8 at Big Lake Campground offer 50-amp hookups.
Best for new campers: Big Lake Campground has several pull-thru sites that make RV parking easier.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Reservations may be made up to 12 months in advance through the Missouri State Park website or by phone.
The campground is open year round, with reservations offered April 15 through October 31.
Showers and water are available April 15 through October 31.
The park offers basic sites, with no hookups, and electric-only sites. Water is available at a handful of spigots placed throughout the campground.
Weekend reservations require a two-night stay, either Friday and Saturday or Saturday and Sunday.
Advanced reservations are recommended for weekends and holidays, especially in the summer peak season.

When to go

Summer is a popular time to visit Big Lake State Park, as the warm weather invites outdoor recreation on the waters and the park pool is open. Visitors may encounter temperatures in the 90s and high humidity. Though summer and fall are pleasant, this is the slower season. The campground may be quieter, and the waters may be more still. Natural beauty abounds. The campground is open through the winter. Campers need to prepare for below freezing temperatures and the possibility of snow and ice.

Know before you go

Wifi is not offered by the park.
Potable water is available at a frost-free spigot during the off season.
The premium camper cabins have air conditioning, a kitchen, a bathroom, and sleeping space for up to six people.
Watercraft rentals may be available onsite. Call to confirm before visiting.