Ballard's Campground, Store & RV Park, Carthage, MO

For many of us in Missouri, the call of the great outdoors, whether for a weekend escape or a longer journey, often leads us to seek out the perfect campground. We look for a place that blends the tranquility of nature with the comforts and conveniences that make a trip truly enjoyable. If you're an RVer or a camper traversing our beautiful state and seeking a top-notch destination, then Ballard's Campground, Store & RV Park in Carthage, MO, is a name that consistently comes up in positive reviews. It's lauded for its pristine conditions, welcoming atmosphere, and array of amenities that cater to a relaxing and memorable stay.

Missouri, "The Show-Me State," boasts a diverse landscape perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, from its rolling hills to its numerous lakes and rivers. Southwest Missouri, in particular, offers a charming blend of historical sites, natural wonders, and small-town hospitality. Ballard's Campground fits perfectly into this setting, providing a peaceful haven that feels tucked away in nature, yet remains remarkably accessible. This campground is more than just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it's a meticulously maintained retreat where the owners genuinely care about your experience. It offers a balance of modern amenities and natural beauty, ensuring that whether you're passing through or staying to explore the local area, your time at Ballard's will be both comfortable and refreshing.

This article is designed to provide you, our fellow Missourians, with a clear, engaging, and factual overview of Ballard's Campground, Store & RV Park. We'll explore its strategic location and accessibility, the comprehensive services and amenities it offers, its unique features and highlights, and essential contact information. By the end, you'll understand why this highly-rated park is becoming a new favorite for many and why it could be your next ideal Missouri camping destination.

Ballard's Campground, Store & RV Park is conveniently located at 13965 Ballard Lp, Carthage, MO 64836, USA. This address places it in a peaceful, wooded area just minutes off Interstate 44 (I-44), a major artery for travel across Southwest Missouri. Its proximity to the interstate, reportedly just "2 minutes off interstate 44," makes it incredibly easy for RVers and campers to access without significant detouring.

For Arkansans, the accessibility of Ballard's Campground is a significant advantage. Carthage itself is a well-known town in Southwest Missouri, serving as a hub with good road connections. The park's location ensures a straightforward journey for those traveling from various parts of Missouri, whether from the Springfield area to the east or Joplin to the west. The internal roads and sites are designed for ease of access, with many pull-through sites and level pads, accommodating rigs of all sizes, including large fifth wheels.

The benefit of this "great location" extends beyond mere road access. While nestled in a "quiet, wooded area," the campground is still "super close to restaurants, shopping, and everything else you might need" in Carthage. This means campers can enjoy the tranquility of nature without being far from essential supplies or dining options. Additionally, it offers easy access to nearby attractions like George Washington Carver National Monument (just 9 kilometers away) and the Precious Moments Chapel (7 minutes east), allowing visitors to explore the rich history and unique points of interest in the region. This blend of secluded peace and urban convenience makes Ballard's Campground an ideal base for both short overnight stays and longer exploratory trips in Missouri.

Ballard's Campground, Store & RV Park offers a wide range of services and amenities designed to enhance the comfort and enjoyment of all its guests, whether they are in an RV or tent camping.

RV Sites: The park provides 50 full hook-up RV sites (water, sewer, and electric), with both 30 and 50 amp service available. Many sites are pull-through, spacious, and feature level pads (crushed rock or gravel), making them easy to access and set up for rigs of all sizes. They also offer secluded back-in spots for added privacy.
Tent Sites: Dedicated tent camping sites are available, including "Pondside Tent Camping" options, offering a more rustic experience for those without an RV.
Cabin Rentals: For guests seeking more comfort or those without camping equipment, cabins are available. Some cabins are newly renovated and offer amenities like hot tubs, full baths, kitchens, and linens.
Clean Bathhouses: The "shower house was very nice and clean!" as noted by reviewers, with facilities available 24 hours a day and a code for tenters/RV users without their own facilities.
Laundry Facilities: A "clean laundry facility" is available 24 hours a day, providing convenience for extended stays. They even offer a "Laundry Service Fee" where clothes can be washed, dried, and folded for a charge.
Camp Store: The on-site "Store & RV Park" (or "camp store") is stocked with essentials like propane, firewood, ice, snacks, refreshments, grilling essentials, and fishing supplies, ensuring guests have what they need without leaving the park.
Stocked Fishing Pond: A beautiful "stocked pond" is available for fishing, with the added benefit of "no fishing license needed!" This is a major highlight for relaxation. The pond is "catch-and-release."
Dog Washing Station: A "dog washing station" is available, catering to the needs of pet owners and helping keep RVs and cabins clean.
Pet Area/Dog Park: The park includes a dedicated "pet area" or "dog park" for furry friends to roam and play. The park is very "dog friendly."
Sports Courts: Guests can enjoy various sports activities on the "sports court," which includes a basketball court and a pickleball court. There's also a volleyball court.
Playground: A children's "playground" is on-site, offering entertainment for younger campers.
Picnic Tables & Campfire Pits: Most sites are equipped with picnic tables and campfire pits, perfect for outdoor meals and evening relaxation. Firewood is available for purchase.
Free Wi-Fi: Complimentary Wi-Fi is provided, allowing guests to stay connected during their stay.
Propane Refill Station: Propane is available for refilling tanks on-site.
Security & Management: Managers are on-site, with 24/7 access (presumably for urgent issues), providing a sense of security and support.
Movie Nights & Cookouts: The campground occasionally hosts "Movie nights" and "Cookouts," fostering a sense of community and providing organized entertainment.

These extensive services reflect Ballard's Campground's commitment to providing a comfortable, clean, and amenity-rich experience for all its visitors.

Ballard's Campground, Store & RV Park boasts a remarkable array of features and highlights that consistently earn rave reviews from guests, making it a standout destination for camping and RVing in Missouri.

Exceptional Cleanliness and Maintenance: A top highlight is the park's pristine condition. Reviewers repeatedly emphasize that the park is "very well maintained, clean and quiet." The "shower house was very nice and clean!" and bathrooms are described as the "cleanest bathroom ever," reflecting a strong commitment to hygiene.
Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere: Despite its convenient location near the interstate, the park is tucked into a "quiet, wooded area" and is noted for being "quiet." This makes it an ideal spot for relaxation and enjoying the sounds of nature, such as "frogs and other nightlife making noises" from the pond.
Highly Accessible and Big-Rig Friendly: With "easy to pull into" sites and "level pads" (crushed rock), the campground accommodates rigs of all sizes, including large fifth wheels. Its location just "2 minutes off interstate 44" ensures hassle-free arrival and departure, which is crucial for travelers.
Attentive and Friendly Owners/Staff: Guests consistently praise the "very nice" owners and staff, mentioning clear instructions for late arrivals and a general helpfulness that enhances the guest experience. This personalized touch fosters a welcoming environment.
Stocked Fishing Pond (No License Needed): The "beautiful view of the pond with lots of fish" is a major draw. The fact that "no fishing license needed!" to cast a line makes it an incredibly appealing and low-barrier activity for families and anglers alike.
Comprehensive Amenities for All Ages: The park offers a rich suite of amenities including a camp store for essentials, a laundry facility, a pet area with a dog washing station, and various sports courts (basketball, pickleball, volleyball), ensuring there's something for everyone. A playground keeps younger visitors entertained.
Diverse Accommodation Options: Beyond excellent RV sites (pull-through and back-in, 30/50 amp hookups), the availability of tent sites and newly renovated cabins (some with hot tubs) allows the park to cater to a wide range of preferences and group sizes, including friends who want to "glamp with your RV friends without a RV."
Great for Overnight Stays & Longer Vacations: Its convenience for "passing through" on multi-state trips is highlighted, while the array of amenities and peaceful setting also make it highly suitable for longer, more relaxed stays.
Close to Local Attractions: Situated near George Washington Carver National Monument, Precious Moments Chapel, and other local points of interest, the park serves as an excellent base for exploring the Carthage and Joplin areas.

These features collectively establish Ballard's Campground, Store & RV Park as a top-tier choice for a clean, convenient, and enjoyable outdoor experience in Southwest Missouri.

As a professional content writer committed to factual accuracy, it's important to note that while Ballard's Campground, Store & RV Park offers excellent value through its comprehensive amenities and competitive pricing, specific, widely advertised short-term promotional offers (like seasonal sales or holiday discounts) are not explicitly detailed in the provided public information. However, based on general practices within the campground and RV park industry, and information from their own website, certain benefits and considerations can be highlighted:

Competitive Rates: While specific daily/weekly rates vary by site type and season (e.g., tent sites starting from $35/night, RV sites typically from $45-$71/night depending on the source), the park aims to offer competitive pricing for its amenities and quality.
Longer Stay Options: The park offers daily, weekly, and monthly rates for RV sites and cabins, indicating flexibility for longer stays, which often come with a lower per-night cost compared to daily rates.
Discount Clubs: Ballard's Campground is listed on some platforms as offering "Military Discount" and "Senior Discount," suggesting that they provide reduced rates for these groups. It is always recommended to inquire about these directly when booking.
"Stay 7, Pay for 6" Potential: While not explicitly stated, many campgrounds offer a "stay 7 nights, pay for 6" or similar weekly discount. It is worth inquiring about this if planning a week-long visit.
Monthly Events: The park mentions offering "Monthly Events" which, while not a discount, add value to the guest experience without additional cost.

To confirm the most current rates, availability, and any specific promotions that might be running (such as military or senior discounts), the most reliable method for interested Missourians is to directly contact Ballard's Campground, Store & RV Park using the provided phone numbers. Their official website or booking platforms also serve as excellent resources for the most up-to-date pricing and any booking specials.

For those in Missouri planning their next camping adventure or RV trip and considering Ballard's Campground, Store & RV Park, here is the essential contact information:

Address: 13965 Ballard Lp, Carthage, MO 64836, USA
Phone: (417) 359-0359
Mobile Phone: +1 417-359-0359

Having both a standard phone number and a mobile phone number provides convenient options for direct communication with the campground management. It is highly recommended to call them for all inquiries, including:

Current availability and rates for RV sites, tent sites, and cabins.
Specific site details (e.g., 30-amp vs. 50-amp availability, pull-through vs. back-in, pond views).
Information on any current promotions, military, or senior discounts.
Details about group bookings or social hall availability.
Specific questions about amenities, pet policies, or nearby attractions.
Booking reservations directly, especially if you have specific site preferences or need to confirm a discount.

Direct communication ensures you receive the most accurate and up-to-date information, allowing you to plan your visit to Ballard's Campground, Store & RV Park with confidence and ease, ensuring a great outdoor experience in Missouri.

Ballard's Campground, Store & RV Park, located at 13965 Ballard Lp, Carthage, MO 64836, is an exceptionally suitable destination for local Missourians seeking a top-tier camping or RV experience. Its prime location, nestled in a peaceful wooded area yet just minutes off Interstate 44, offers the perfect blend of tranquil natural beauty and convenient access to essential amenities and local attractions. This balance is ideal for both travelers passing through and those looking for a longer, relaxing stay in our state.

The park's consistent dedication to cleanliness and meticulous maintenance is a major draw. Reviews repeatedly highlight the "very nice and clean" shower facilities, the well-maintained grounds, and the overall quiet atmosphere, providing a comfortable and hygienic environment that is highly valued by campers. For RVers, the availability of "level concrete pads" and "easy to pull into" full hookup sites ensures a hassle-free setup, accommodating rigs of all sizes.

Furthermore, the array of on-site amenities caters to a diverse range of interests and needs. The stocked fishing pond, where "no fishing license needed," is a fantastic feature for families and anglers. The presence of a camp store, laundry facilities, a dog washing station, sports courts, and a playground means that guests have everything they need for a comfortable and entertaining stay without leaving the park. The friendly and attentive owners and staff consistently receive praise, contributing to a welcoming and supportive atmosphere. For Missourians, Ballard's Campground, Store & RV Park is more than just a place to stay; it's a well-rounded and highly recommended retreat that offers comfort, convenience, and a genuine outdoor experience right in the heart of "The Show-Me State."