The best camping near Prairie State Park

Roaming herds of bison are not a common site in Missouri, but they are at Prairie State Park, which preserves the last remaining remnants of Missouri’s tallgrass prairies, which once covered one-third of the state. Around 100 bison and 25 elk roam the park’s 4,000-acres. Hiking and backpacking are the primary activities, with seven trails offering various terrains and views to explore. Look for wildflowers, walk along a trickling stream, and imagine you are a pioneer settler, like Laura Ingalls Wilder. The onsite Regal Tallgrass Prairie Nature Center has educational displays about the landscapes and wildlife of the rolling grasslands.

1. The four campsites are first-come-first serve. Walk-up registration is accepted year-round.
2. Campsites can accommodate more than one tent camper.
3. Site #4 has a double-size concrete pad.
4. The sites can accommodate vans and some RVs.
5. Getting to some sites may involve crossing a wet-weather stream.

Check the event calendar before heading to Prairie State Park, as the park frequently hosts bison walks and other special interpretive programs. The largest is the Prairie Jubilee, held in June of even-numbered years. The festival brings in artists and living history interpreters. Other times of year are likely to be more serene. Summer is generally hot and humid, which may be a consideration when camping without electricity. Spring and fall are pleasant, with below freezing temperatures occurring occasionally in winter.

• Campfires are not allowed in the backpack camp, but backpack stoves are.
• This park does not have a showerhouse or developed restrooms. Only a single vault toilet is located onsite.
• Potable water is available at a building near the camping area.
• Bring your hiking shoes. To truly experience the prairie as the pioneer settlers did, you need to get out in it.
• While the park doesn’t have many services onsite or nearby, the town of Pittsburg, Kansas, is 30 minutes away.