Camp Branch Campground



Camp Branch Campground Overview
Rating
Address Smithville, MO 64089, USA
Hours
Camp Branch Campground Location & Map
Camp Branch Campground About
Welcome to Camp Branch Campground, your premier destination for a memorable outdoor escape right here in the heart of Missouri! Nestled alongside the beautiful Smithville Lake, Camp Branch offers a refreshing retreat for families, friends, and solo adventurers looking to connect with nature without venturing too far from home. We understand the appeal of a peaceful getaway, and our aim is to provide a clean, welcoming, and amenity-rich environment that truly enhances your camping experience. From the serene lakeside views to the well-maintained grounds, Camp Branch Campground is designed to offer a blend of relaxation and recreation, making it an ideal spot for your next Missouri adventure.
Many Missourians seek out local spots that offer both convenience and quality, and Camp Branch Campground consistently delivers on both fronts. Imagine waking up to the gentle sounds of nature, with the shimmering lake just a short stroll away. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the joys of sleeping under the stars, our campground provides the perfect setting for making lasting memories. Our commitment to cleanliness and customer service, as highlighted by numerous satisfied visitors, ensures that your stay will be comfortable and enjoyable. We believe that embracing the outdoors should be an accessible and stress-free experience, and Camp Branch Campground is dedicated to making that a reality for all our guests from across the Show-Me State.
Beyond just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV, Camp Branch Campground is a vibrant hub for outdoor activity and community spirit. It's a place where families can gather around a campfire, where friends can enjoy a quiet evening by the lake, and where individuals can find solitude in nature. Our proximity to various recreational opportunities at Smithville Lake means there's always something to do, whether it's fishing, boating, or exploring scenic trails. This dedication to providing a holistic outdoor experience is what sets Camp Branch Campground apart as a truly special place for Missouri residents.
Camp Branch Campground is conveniently located in Smithville, Missouri, offering easy access for residents throughout the Kansas City metropolitan area and beyond. Our address is Smithville, MO 64089, USA. Situated on the picturesque shores of Smithville Lake, the campground provides a tranquil escape that feels miles away from the hustle and bustle, yet remains highly accessible via well-maintained roads.
The campground's strategic location means you're never too far from essential services or local attractions should you need them. It's just a short drive from the city of Smithville itself, where you can find grocery stores, gas stations, and other necessities. For those coming from further afield in Missouri, Smithville Lake is a well-known landmark, making navigation to Camp Branch Campground straightforward. The clear signage within the park also ensures a smooth arrival, as noted by past visitors who appreciated the ease of finding their way around. This blend of natural seclusion and practical accessibility makes Camp Branch Campground an attractive option for both planned vacations and spontaneous weekend getaways for Missouri families.
Furthermore, the area around Smithville Lake is known for its diverse recreational offerings, extending the appeal of Camp Branch Campground beyond just the camping experience. With multiple access points to the lake and its surrounding amenities, campers can easily transition from a relaxing campsite to an active day on the water or trails. This seamless integration with the wider recreational area underscores Camp Branch's commitment to providing a comprehensive outdoor experience for all its visitors.
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Friendly and Patient Staff: Upon entering the park, you’ll be greeted by our dedicated staff. As one visitor shared, they are "very helpful" and "very patient," even when dealing with technical issues like card reader malfunctions. Our team is committed to ensuring a smooth and pleasant check-in process for every camper.
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Clean Restrooms and Shower Facilities: We pride ourselves on maintaining exceptionally clean facilities. Many campers have expressed pleasant surprise at the cleanliness of our restrooms and shower houses, which are regularly serviced and well-stocked. This commitment to hygiene enhances the overall comfort of your stay.
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Well-Kept Campsites: Our campsites are diligently maintained, featuring nicely mowed grass and clearly marked boundaries. This attention to detail ensures a tidy and inviting space for your tent or RV, allowing you to settle in and enjoy your surroundings without any unnecessary hassle.
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Electrical Hook-ups: Many of our campsites are equipped with electrical hook-ups, providing convenience for RV campers and those requiring power for their outdoor gear. This service makes camping more comfortable and accessible for a wider range of visitors.
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Picnic Tables and Fire Rings with Grills: Every campsite comes with a picnic table and a fire ring, complete with a grill. These amenities are perfect for enjoying outdoor meals, roasting marshmallows, and gathering around a warm campfire under the Missouri stars.
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Firewood and Ice Sales: For your convenience, firewood and bagged ice are available for purchase at the camp host booth located at the campground entrance while camp hosts are on duty. During the off-season, these can be purchased at the Camp Branch Park office during business hours, ensuring you have everything you need for your campfire and cool refreshments.
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Sanitary Dump Station: For RV campers, a sanitary dump station is available on-site, making it easy to manage waste and maintain a clean camping environment during your stay.
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Proximity to Smithville Lake: Camp Branch Campground offers unparalleled access to Smithville Lake. Many campsites are located particularly close to the lake, providing easy walking access for fishing, boating, and enjoying the scenic views. This lakeside advantage is frequently highlighted by visitors as a major draw.
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Excellent Fireworks Show Viewing: If you're planning a visit during a celebratory period, Camp Branch Campground is an ideal spot to watch fireworks displays over Smithville Lake. Guests have raved about the "excellent" fireworks show, making it a fantastic experience for families and groups.
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Paved Walking Trails: The campground boasts paved walking trails, providing a pleasant and accessible way to explore the park and enjoy the natural surroundings. These trails are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a more invigorating walk.
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Access to Smithville Lake Swimming Beach: A public swimming beach is located within Camp Branch Park, and campers have access to it. While you may need to drive to reach it, it's included in your stay, offering a refreshing way to cool off on warm Missouri days. Please note that pets, glass containers, and alcoholic beverages are not permitted at the beach.
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Boating and Fishing Opportunities: With the campground's proximity to Smithville Lake and the Camp Branch Marina, campers have ample opportunities for boating and fishing. You can bring your own pleasure craft, or rent fishing and pontoon boats from the marina. Fishing licenses and bait are also available there, making spontaneous fishing trips a breeze.
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Playgrounds: For families with children, playgrounds are conveniently located within the campground, offering a safe and fun space for kids to play and burn off energy.
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Pet-Friendly (with restrictions): We welcome your furry friends at Camp Branch Campground, provided they are kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet or tie-outs no longer than 10 feet. There's a maximum of two dogs per site, and owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets and ensuring they are not left unattended. Please remember pets are not allowed at the beaches.
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Well-Guided Roads: The roads within the campground are well-marked with clear signs, making it easy for visitors to navigate and find their assigned campsites.
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Variety of Campsite Types: Camp Branch Campground offers a range of campsites to suit different preferences, including unimproved (primitive) sites and sites with 50-amp electrical hookups, accommodating both tent campers and RVs.
While Camp Branch Campground operates under the Clay County Parks Department, which focuses on providing consistent, affordable rates for all visitors, specific short-term promotions can vary seasonally or for special events. We highly recommend checking the official Clay County Parks website or calling the park office directly for the most up-to-date information on any potential discounts, seasonal rates, or special packages that might be available.
Generally, reservations are advisable, especially during peak seasons and holidays, to secure your preferred spot. Camping fees typically include park entry fees for one vehicle, adding to the value of your stay. For those planning a longer visit, or perhaps looking to explore more of Clay County’s outdoor offerings, it’s worth noting that campers may be able to stay at Camp Branch for 15 days and then switch to Crow's Creek Campground (another Clay County Park campground) for another 15 days, extending your time exploring the beautiful Smithville Lake area. Keep an eye out for potential holiday weekend minimum stay waivers for same-day walk-ins, which can offer flexibility for spontaneous trips.
For reservations, inquiries, or more detailed information about Camp Branch Campground, please use the following contact details:
Address: Smithville, MO 64089, USA
Phone: (816) 407-3400
We recommend calling ahead or visiting the official Clay County Parks website for the most accurate and current information regarding site availability, booking procedures, and any specific rules or regulations that may apply to your visit. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak camping seasons and holidays, to ensure you secure your desired campsite.
For those of us living in Missouri, Camp Branch Campground isn't just another camping spot; it's a true local gem that embodies the spirit of outdoor recreation right in our backyard. Its ideal location in Smithville, Missouri, offers a fantastic blend of easy accessibility and immersive natural beauty, making it incredibly suitable for residents seeking a quick escape or a relaxing extended stay without the hassle of long-distance travel. We understand the value of convenience, and Camp Branch delivers, allowing you to spend less time driving and more time enjoying the great outdoors.
The positive experiences shared by fellow Missourians speak volumes about what Camp Branch Campground has to offer. The consistent praise for the friendly and patient staff highlights a welcoming atmosphere where you feel valued from the moment you arrive. The commitment to maintaining exceptionally clean restrooms and well-kept campsites addresses some of the most common concerns for campers, ensuring a comfortable and pleasant stay. Knowing that these essential facilities are well-cared for allows you to truly relax and immerse yourself in the camping experience.
Beyond the practicalities, Camp Branch Campground provides a rich tapestry of activities that appeal to various interests. Its prime location on Smithville Lake opens up a world of possibilities, from serene fishing trips and exciting boating adventures to refreshing swims at the dedicated beach. Imagine gathering your family and friends to enjoy an "excellent" fireworks show right from your campsite, creating unforgettable memories right here in Missouri. The paved walking trails offer a gentle way to connect with nature, while the playgrounds provide a safe and fun environment for younger campers.
Furthermore, the availability of amenities like electrical hook-ups, picnic tables, fire rings with grills, and on-site firewood and ice sales ensures that your camping trip is as convenient as it is enjoyable. Whether you're pulling in an RV or pitching a tent, Camp Branch caters to a variety of camping styles, making it versatile for any local outdoor enthusiast.
In essence, Camp Branch Campground is more than just a place to stay; it’s an invitation to experience the best of Missouri's natural beauty and recreational opportunities with the comfort and convenience that locals appreciate. It’s a community-focused destination where lasting memories are made, all within a short drive from your home. We encourage you to discover for yourself why Camp Branch Campground is the perfect local getaway for your next outdoor adventure.
Customer Reviews
We visited friends who were camping in RVs to watch the fireworks show, which was excellent. Camp Branch is a lovely place to camp, particularly close to the lake. Reservations are advisable.
When entering the park you are greeted by the staff. They were very helpful (my card wasn’t reading correctly) and the woman was very patient. Once in we used the restrooms which were very clean. I was very surprised about that. Then onto the campsite which we were just visiting. They were well kept and mowed nicely, the road was guided with well seen signs.
This is pretty much the only place we go during camping season. Location is convenient and close to home. I go back, time after time, despite my dislikes. Camping fees are $40 per night, plus they get you with a non-refundable online booking fee as well as service charge for using credit card. Some camp hosts are wonderful, some are quite grumpy. There is no in between. We have run into a very rude employee in the marina office as well. Mowing is sporadic and we usually have to catch one of them to mow around our sites. This last time, there were ants everywhere. I know we're outside & there is going to be bugs but this was crazy. They were all over the gravel in all of our sites. I went down to the shoreline to fish and they covered my shoes & crawled up my legs. I finally had to spray myself down as well as all the ground around me which held them off for a little while. We've had the occasional encounter with a racoon getting into any food left out at night. I'm okay with that. They need to eat too! But I would not be opposed to them spraying for the ants. I think next time we go, I'll spray my area before I pull into the site with my camper. Again, I keep going back. I guess the location outweighs all the cons.
Great bike trails.
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