This article about camping near Joplin, Missouri is brought to you by Gregory. Their commuter backpacks are perfect for a trip along Route 66.
Route 66 is one of the most famous highways in the U.S., and it has tons of history associated with it. If you’re planning a trip down the famed Highway 66, here’s 7 spots for camping near Joplin, Missouri to stay at and take in the sights.
1. Twin Bridges Area at Grand Lake
Image from The Dyrt camper DJ H.
This is a lovely campground with pull-through sites of gravel and electric hookups for RVs. It’s a great spot to relax and fish for bluegill, bass, and catfish. There are also tons of amenities and activities including horseshoes, volleyball, and playgrounds.
Although some spots may flood in the wet season, Twin Bridges Area at Grand Lake is a well-tended and maintained campsite on the Grand Lake o’ the Cherokees, 40 minutes from Joplin, MO.
“Mostly set up for RVs with some day use areas. Nice vistas of the Neosho River from the Echo Bluff sites with all the leaves down.” – DJ H.
Campground Details:
- Price: $14-22
- Number of sites: 163
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
2. Prairie State Park
Image from The Dyrt camper Wendy M.
In the past, Missouri was covered in gorgeous grasslands, but only 1% remains intact. This small acreage of unchanged grasslands is mostly located in Prairie State Park.
Staying at Prairie State Park campground is an intimate affair because there are only 4 campsites. There is no running water at the campground, so campers share a vault toilet serves the campground and you can get potable water on the south side before driving in on the long dirt road.
“Good for stargazing. Two sites have a paved pad and two do not… depends what you’re looking for.” – Wendy M.
Campground Details:
- Price: $5-20
- Number of sites: 4
- RV sites: No
- Fires allowed: No
- Pets allowed: Yes
3. Baxter Springs Riverside Park
Image form The Dyrt camper Jamie F.
Just 15.5 miles from Joplin, MO is Baxter Springs Riverside Park, located by the river under stately shade-trees. Enjoy a myriad of water sports at this fairly basic campsite conveniently located near Baxter Springs near Lowell, KS. If you’re into U.S. and Civil War History, this place is a treasure trove.
“There is a boat ramp and some nice fishing spots, but it looks like getting in the water is the preferred method. Across the river, there is a local rodeo arena.” – Annie C.
Campground Details:
- Price: $5-20
- Number of sites: 20
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
4. Camp Mi Casa on the Route RV Park
Image from The Dyrt camper Tamisha S.
Right off historic Route 66 and only minutes from downtown Joplin, MO, Camp Mi Casa on the Route RV Park is centrally located and well-maintained. It is small but has tons of amenities like a community pool, spotless bathhouse and laundry, and a covered pavilion for larger parties.
“This place is a great place to sit back and relax. Want to watch an old-time outdoor movie drive in.” – Mike C.
Campground Details:
- Price: $21-40
- Number of sites: 35
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
5. Big Brutus Museum
Image From The Dyrt Camper Tracy N.
This campsite accommodates primitive tent camping or self-contained RVs. There are amenities available on site, but the biggest attraction is Big Brutus, the retired coal mining shovel that you can see for miles away.
Nearby fishing on Neosho River and educational resources at the Big Brutus Museum make this an exceptional destination for the entire family.
“Simple, but clean. Staff was so friendly! The whole family loved the self-guided tour of Big Brutus.” – Tracy N.
Campground Details:
- Price: $5-25
- Number of sites: 10
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
6. Springfield / Route 66 KOA
Image from The Dyrt camper Debbie C.
Just over an hour and 60 miles from Joplin is Springfield / Route 66 KOA, a gem of a campsite with everything you need for a great getaway. This is a smaller campground than other KOAs. If you’re a railroad enthusiast, this campground is sure to please because there is a track nearby.
It offers a wide variety of camping arrangements and basic amenities, including laundry and showers, a camp store, playgrounds, and fenced-in dog areas.
“Visit Wilson’s Creek Battlefield to explore, learn and hike. When you come to this KOA, it obviously does not have any hiking, but the battlefield offers a lengthy system of trails.” – Crystal C.
Campground Details:
- Price: $41-70
- Number of sites: 99
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
7. River Ranch Resort
Image from The Dyrt camper Angela L.
Located on the beautiful Elk River, River Ranch Resort is a half-hour’s drive from Joplin, MO. The serenity of this campground makes you feel far away from modern life.
Sites vary from RV pull-through sites to more primitive dry camping tent sites. This campsite allows dogs but might not be the best spot for your pooch. Dogs have restricted access to the area and there is a $12 charge per dog. A store and café are both located on-site, and you can get your barbeque catered.
“This is the best place to stay when floating the Elk River. Lots to choose from, cabins, tents, campers, etc.” – Jason B.
Campground Details:
- Price: $21-40
- Number of sites: 72
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
Camping near Joplin, MO, gives you glimpses of ancient grasslands and Civil War history. These campgrounds scratch the surface of the camping options available throughout this area. For hundreds more, check out The Dyrt’s full list of the best camping in Joplin, MO.
This article about camping near Joplin, Missouri was brought to you by Gregory. Their day hiking backpacks are great for any adventure you find yourself on.
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