Campgrounds and RV parks near Knob Noster, MO

Knob Noster State Park is the main draw. Seven trails wind through the park, including two that start at the campground. Equestrian activities are only permitted on the 4.9-mile McAdoo Trail System, which is also open to backpackers and hikers. Other trails include the Buteo Trail, the Discovery Trail, the Opossum Hollow Trail, the North Loop Trail, the Hawk Nest Trail, and the Clearfork Woodland Trail. The park has two small lakes for fishing and paddling. There are no boat launches, but visitors are allowed to carry small boats to the water. Non-motorized boats and boats with trolling motors are permitted, and kayak rentals are offered at the visitor center. Biking is allowed on all park trails. Aircraft spotting is a local specialty. Watching the skies can pay off with sightings of military aircraft, including the B-2 Stealth Bomber, which departs from neighboring Whiteman Air Force Base.

The Knob Noster State Park campground operates on a split calendar. Sites 30 through 71 are only reservable during the on-season (April 15 through October 31) and are closed during the off-season (November through April 14). Core sites remain open year-round, but during the off-season (November 1 through April 14), showers and water are turned off in the campground. Potable water is available at a frost-free spigot in front of the visitor center. Summer is peak season. Warm weather brings the most visitors, and summer weekends and holidays book out early, so plan ahead. Spring and fall offer moderate temperatures, with the park's woodlands particularly scenic in October. June is the wettest month, and afternoon thunderstorms are common through July. Winter camping is possible for self-contained RVs, but expect cold nights, occasional snow, and no shower access. Spring brings mud on trails and the McAdoo equestrian route, while fall delivers the most reliable conditions with cool nights and lower humidity.

Inside the state park, select campsites provide 30-amp electrical service, and converter devices are not permitted. Water is available through several communal spigots located throughout the campground. Two shower houses are available during the on-season, and both flush and vault toilet facilities are located in the camping area. Sites are wooded, gravel or paved, and most are level enough for larger rigs. Camping is limited to any 15 days within a 30-consecutive-day period at any one park or historic site. Missouri State Parks recommends no more than two dogs per campsite. Pets must be supervised and kept on leashes no longer than 10 feet at all times. The use of generators is prohibited in the campground unless approved by the park manager. Expect regular aircraft noise from Whiteman AFB, including B-2 and A-10 training flights day and night. Raccoons are active around dumpsters, so secure food and trash.