Beach Camping in Missouri
Discover the best beach camping across Missouri. Camp where the land meets the water. Ocean breezes, sandy shores, and stunning sunsets await.
Featured Campgrounds
Handpicked destinations that define the region
Greenville Recreation Area
Ancient Ozark bluffs rise dramatically above Wappapello Lake's northern shoreline, where secluded coves invite kayakers to explore crystal-clear waters and hidden gravel bars.
Mill Creek (Missouri)
Table Rock Lake's crystalline waters meet your campsite, where a designated swimming beach and boat ramp transform mornings into paddling adventures and afternoons into lazy lakeside swims.
2 Campground
Campsites nestle beneath oak canopies just steps from Table Rock Lake's crystalline waters, where a full-service marina launches you straight into swimming, boating, and waterfront exploration.
About Beach Camping in Missouri
Beach camping in Missouri offers an unexpected treasure trove of lakeside retreats where sandy shores meet the natural beauty of the Show-Me State's diverse landscapes. While Missouri may not have ocean coastline, its extensive network of man-made reservoirs and natural waterways creates exceptional beach camping opportunities across the Ozark region and beyond.
Best Time
The prime beach camping season in Missouri runs from late May through early September, with peak swimming conditions occurring during July and August when water temperatures reach comfortable levels in the mid-70s to low-80s Fahrenheit. Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends mark the unofficial bookends of beach season and draw the largest crowds, so reservations should be made 3-6 months in advance for these periods.
Scenery Highlights
- Oceanfront and lakeside sites
- Sandy beaches and swimming
- Stunning sunrise and sunset views
- Water sports and fishing
Explore Beach Camping in Missouri
Browse 20 campgrounds on our interactive map. Filter by amenities, price, ratings, and more.
Plan Your Trip
Popular Activities
Tips & Recommendations
- 1Reserve campsites well in advance for summer weekends, especially at premium waterfront locations—the best beach-adjacent sites at popular campgrounds like Mill Creek and Lake of the Ozarks State Park book out within hours of becoming available.
- 2Bring water shoes for rocky lake bottoms common at Ozark reservoirs, and pack plenty of sunscreen as the Missouri sun reflects intensely off lake surfaces.
- 3A portable canopy or beach umbrella provides essential shade during peak afternoon hours.
- 4Most Missouri lakes allow personal watercraft, so consider bringing kayaks, paddleboards, or canoes to explore quiet coves and fishing spots beyond the main beach areas.
Beach Camping in Missouri FAQ
We've ranked 20+ beach campgrounds in Missouri based on water access, amenities, and user reviews. Top options include oceanfront and lakeside sites with sandy beaches and swimming access.
Beach camping in Missouri is generally best from May through September when water temperatures are warmest. Shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds and milder weather.
For beach camping in Missouri, bring sun protection, beach chairs, water toys, and sand-friendly gear. Wind stakes for your tent are essential, and consider a shade structure for daytime comfort.
Popular Missouri Campgrounds Book Fast
The best beach camping in Missouri book up quickly. Set up free alerts to catch cancellations.
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Greenville Recreation Area
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