Lake of the Ozarks: Camping
While many visitors to the lake region prefer to rent a hotel suite, villa or condominium with lake access, a large number of visitors choose Lake of the Ozarks camping. This area of Missouri is well known for its gorgeous scenery: sparkling lake waters, tree-covered hills and limestone cliffs abound. Why not choose to sleep under the stars or pitch your tent in a campground shaded by mature trees?
If you want to stay outdoors yet need many of the creature comforts, there are plenty of options for setting your motor-home or camper in a prime location. From this base camp, you will be close to boating, fishing and hiking. With just a short drive, you can find craft and antique stores, music, historical sites, great shopping and more. Then you can return to your outdoor “home” for a relaxing evening or night surrounded by nature.
A good place to start when thinking about camping in the Ozarks region is the Lake of the Ozarks Campground Association. Check their Web site for a directory to some of the best campgrounds in the area. Here are a few suggestions: Majestic Oaks Park – 85 sites; Lazy River RV Resort – on the Osage River; Cross Creek RV Park and Campground – considered unique with its themed cabins; Ozark Trails Family Campground – 65 full-service sites; Linn Creek Campground – 45 sites and lake dock; Hava-Space RV & Campground – in Gravois Mills; Cat Rock Campground – primitive but beautiful; Shorewood Landing RV Park & Camping – open year round, swimming pool; Osage Beach RV Park – 78 RV sites; Riverview RV Park – stocked fishing pond and swimming pond.
As you plan for Lake of the Ozarks camping include the state park campgrounds on your list of options. Most are open all year and offer electric hookups for the campers that need them. You should plan on a two-night minimum stay on the weekend and a limit of 15 days within any 30-day period. According to park Web sites, “Reservation customers are permitted to arrive any time within the first 24 hours of their stay.”
Pets are welcome in state parks as long as the owner/handler understands the responsibility that comes with having pets in a campground. Reduced camping fees are offered for senior citizens and people with disabilities. State park supervisors award a certificate and jacket patch to those who camp in five different state parks in a calendar year, yet another incentive for Lake of the Ozarks camping.
