
Summer Camping in Missouri
Discover the best summer camping across Missouri. Experience the best of outdoor camping during the warmest months. Long days, starry nights, and endless adventure await.
Summer Camping in Other States
Featured Campgrounds
Handpicked destinations that define the region

Wappapello Lake
Wappapello Lake's northern shoreline beckons swimmers, boaters, and anglers chasing crappie and bass from this historic 106-site campground built atop a submerged town.

Ancient volcanic rock formations create natural water slides and pools where swimmers splash through rushing currents all summer long. The shut-ins offer a geological playground unlike anywhere else, with smooth chutes carved through billion-year-old rhyolite drawing families back year after year.

Pomme De Terre Lake
Summer anglers launch into fish-rich waters below the Pomme de Terre dam, while the 3-mile Healthy Active Community Trail winds through forested hills buzzing with wildlife.
About Summer Camping in Missouri
Summer camping Missouri offers an exceptional blend of lake recreation, Ozark wilderness, and historic natural wonders that make the Show-Me State a premier warm-weather destination. From the crystal-clear waters of Table Rock Lake to the geological marvels of Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park, Missouri's summer campgrounds provide diverse experiences across varied terrain.
Best Time
Peak summer camping season runs from Memorial Day through Labor Day, with July and August offering the warmest water temperatures ideal for swimming, though these months also bring the highest crowds and temperatures. Early summer (late May through June) provides excellent conditions with moderate temperatures in the 75-85°F range, lower humidity, and blooming wildflowers across prairie campgrounds, plus this timing catches the tail end of spring-fed stream flows.
Season Highlights
- Warm weather and long days
- Swimming and water activities
- Full amenities and services
- Family-friendly activities
Campground Locations
Showing top 19 campgrounds near Summer Camping in Missouri
Plan Your Trips
Popular Activities
Tips & Recommendations
- 1Reserve popular state park campgrounds like Johnson's Shut-Ins and Lake of the Ozarks through the Missouri State Parks reservation system at least 90 days in advance for summer weekends, as these fill immediately when the booking window opens.
- 2Corps of Engineers campgrounds on Truman and Pomme de Terre lakes can be reserved through Recreation.gov, often with slightly better last-minute availability than state parks.
- 3Bring sun protection essentials including high-SPF sunscreen, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-protective clothing, as Missouri summer sun is intense, especially on reflective lake surfaces.
- 4Pack for variable weather—afternoon thunderstorms arrive quickly, so quality rain gear and waterproof storage for electronics and clothing are essential.
Summer Camping in Missouri FAQ
Popular Missouri Campgrounds Book Fast
The best summer camping in Missouri book up quickly. Set up free alerts to catch cancellations.
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Greenville Recreation Area
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