Camp Rising Sun

Deep in the scenic splendor of the Lake of the Ozarks State Park, in Kaiser, Missouri, lies Camp Rising Sun. This isn't your typical drive-up campground; it's a unique and cherished group camp, primarily designed to host organized groups, youth camps, and educational programs. With a rich history and a reputation for fostering a truly welcoming community, Camp Rising Sun offers an immersive outdoor experience where participants can connect with nature, engage in various activities, and build lasting memories. Reviews consistently highlight the incredibly friendly atmosphere, the kindness of the people, and the general sense of fun that permeates the camp. It’s a place where kids thrive, adults unwind, and everyone feels like part of something special.

Operated as part of the Missouri State Parks system, Camp Rising Sun provides a structured yet enjoyable environment, perfect for groups seeking a dedicated space for their activities. The camp features well-maintained facilities, comfortable lodging options, and access to the beautiful lake for swimming and other water adventures. Many who visit speak of wonderful experiences, excellent food, and the sheer joy of the community. Whether it's for an educational retreat, a youth leadership program, or a group family gathering, Camp Rising Sun offers a unique blend of natural beauty and communal spirit that truly sets it apart.

Camp Rising Sun is located at 708 Camp Rising Sun Rd, Kaiser, MO 65047, USA, placing it directly within the sprawling and beautiful Lake of the Ozarks State Park. This prime location means campers are surrounded by the natural wonders of the Ozarks, including forests, trails, and, of course, the vast Lake of the Ozarks itself. The camp is nestled in a serene area, offering a sense of seclusion and immersion in nature, while still being accessible from major routes within Missouri.

Accessibility to Camp Rising Sun is generally straightforward. As part of a state park, the roads leading to the camp are well-maintained. For those traveling from various parts of Missouri, the camp is within a reasonable driving distance, making it an ideal destination for organized groups looking for a dedicated outdoor experience without excessively long travel times. The setting within Lake of the Ozarks State Park also means that while the camp provides its own array of activities, groups can also take advantage of other park features, such as hiking trails, other lake access points, and visitor centers. The combination of natural beauty and relative ease of access contributes to Camp Rising Sun's suitability as a premier group camping destination in Missouri.

• Group Camp Facilities: Camp Rising Sun is primarily an organized group camp, requiring a minimum of 75 people for reservations and accommodating up to 200. This setup is ideal for youth groups, educational programs, family reunions, and other large gatherings.
• Dining Lodge and Kitchen: A central dining hall with a fully equipped commercial kitchen, including coolers, freezers, a commercial stove, oven, dishwasher, and all necessary pots, pans, plates, bowls, and serving utensils. Food is often highlighted as "amazing" by visitors.
• Sleeping Barracks: Multiple sleeping units (barracks) are available, varying in capacity (e.g., 18 or 26 people per barracks) and featuring modern restrooms with multiple toilets, lavatories, and hot showers. Some barracks are ADA accessible.
• Recreation Building: A large hall serving as a social center, auditorium, meeting hall, and game room, offering a hub for indoor activities.
• Waterfront Access: Features a beach, swim dock, and boat dock on the lake, providing ample opportunities for swimming and boating. A vault toilet is available at the beach.
• Lighted Playcourts: Paved courts for basketball and volleyball, encouraging active recreation.
• Amphitheater: An outdoor space for performances, presentations, and group gatherings.
• Shuffleboard Courts: Additional recreational facilities for group enjoyment.
• Office and Staff Quarters: Dedicated facilities for camp administration and staff housing.
• Central Restrooms: Separate men's and women's central restrooms with numerous toilets, lavatories, and showers.
• Accessible Facilities: The camp has several ADA-accessible features, including accessible restrooms and showers in some cabins/barracks, paved pathways connecting buildings, accessible parking, and an accessible trail to the amphitheater.

• Welcoming Community: A standout feature, repeatedly praised by visitors, is the incredibly welcoming and friendly community fostered at Camp Rising Sun, creating a warm and inclusive atmosphere.
• Well-Made Cabins/Barracks: The sleeping accommodations are described as well-made and comfortable, providing a solid base for group stays.
• Fantastic Lake Swimming: Direct access to the lake for swimming, often highlighted as a very fun activity, with a dedicated beach and swim dock.
• Historical Significance: The Recreation Hall, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) between 1938 and 1941, is a significant historical feature, serving as an excellent example of rustic architecture from that era and retaining its original purpose.
• All-Inclusive Group Experience: Designed to accommodate large organized groups, providing a comprehensive set of facilities and services for a cohesive camp experience.
• Beautiful Natural Setting: Located within the expansive Lake of the Ozarks State Park, campers are surrounded by stunning natural scenery, perfect for outdoor exploration.
• Variety of Recreational Facilities: From sports courts to a waterfront and amphitheater, the camp offers diverse options for group activities and entertainment.
• Dedicated Staff: The presence of helpful and accommodating staff contributes significantly to the positive experiences reported by campers.
• Focus on Activities: The camp's design encourages active engagement, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor play, learning, and group bonding.
• Delicious Food: Reviewers specifically mention the amazing quality of the food provided at the camp, enhancing the overall experience.

As a state park group camp, Camp Rising Sun operates differently from a typical public campground with individual site rentals. Its primary function is to host organized groups, and therefore, it does not typically offer public "promotions" or "special offers" in the retail sense. Instead, the focus is on providing a comprehensive, well-managed facility for group reservations. Pricing and availability are based on group size and duration of stay, often with a minimum group requirement (e.g., 75 people with a capacity of 200).

Organizations interested in booking Camp Rising Sun should contact Missouri State Parks directly to inquire about reservation procedures, nightly rates for group camps, and any specific requirements or available dates. Programs like the Missouri FFA Association utilize Camp Rising Sun for their leadership camps, which may have their own scholarship or fundraising opportunities for their members. Similarly, other groups, such as the Ozark Sufi Camp or the Concord Baptist Association Kids Camp, secure reservations for their specific events. It is advisable to visit the Missouri State Parks website or call the number provided to get detailed information about booking the camp for your organized group, including any applicable fees and reservation policies. This will ensure you have the most accurate and up-to-date information for planning your group's stay.

Address: 708 Camp Rising Sun Rd, Kaiser, MO 65047, USA

Phone: (573) 348-2694

Mobile Phone: +1 573-348-2694

For more detailed information and to make reservations, it is best to visit the Missouri State Parks website for Camp Rising Sun or contact the park office directly via phone.

For Missourians, Camp Rising Sun offers an exceptional opportunity for organized groups to experience the unparalleled beauty and recreational offerings of Lake of the Ozarks State Park right in their own state. This isn't just a place to pitch a tent; it's a dedicated group camp designed to facilitate immersive and memorable experiences for youth organizations, school groups, family reunions, and other community assemblies. The fact that it's located within a Missouri State Park means it’s a public asset, managed to provide quality outdoor access, making it a suitable and accessible choice for numerous local groups across the state.

The overwhelmingly positive reviews from visitors, highlighting the welcoming community, friendly people, well-made cabins, and fantastic lake swimming, speak volumes about the quality of experience offered. For local youth groups, Camp Rising Sun provides a safe and engaging environment for leadership development, team building, and outdoor education, often at a more affordable cost than private facilities. The comprehensive amenities, including a full dining lodge, recreational hall, sports courts, and direct lake access, mean that groups have everything they need on-site for a successful and fun program. Furthermore, the camp's historical significance, with structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, adds an educational dimension that connects visitors to Missouri's rich past.

Ultimately, Camp Rising Sun represents a valuable resource for Missouri communities. It fosters a sense of belonging, encourages outdoor activity, and provides a backdrop for invaluable shared experiences. It’s a place where young Missourians can grow, learn, and appreciate the natural wonders of their home state, making it a cherished destination for years to come. If you're part of an organized group looking for an enriching and enjoyable camp experience in the heart of the Ozarks, Camp Rising Sun truly shines.