GREENVILLE RECREATION AREA

For those of us in Missouri who appreciate a blend of well-maintained facilities, ample space, and rich history with our outdoor adventures, Greenville Recreation Area on the northern end of Wappapello Lake is a truly exceptional destination. As a premier campground managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE), it stands out for its commitment to providing a high-quality experience for all campers. From incredibly level, full-hookup sites to extensive recreational opportunities and a fascinating historical backdrop, Greenville Recreation Area offers a comprehensive and inviting environment for families, friends, and solo travelers alike to relax, explore, and create lasting memories right here in our beautiful Show-Me State.

Greenville Recreation Area is ideally situated in Greenville, MO 63944, nestled on the northern end of Wappapello Lake and the banks of the St. Francis River. This strategic location offers seamless access to the vast recreational opportunities of the lake and its surrounding natural environment. For us Missourians, reaching Greenville is a straightforward drive, often taking us through the scenic beauty of the southeastern Ozark foothills.

One of the distinct advantages of this campground's location is its historical significance. It's built on the original site of the historical Old Greenville City, allowing visitors to literally camp amidst history. While some sites might feel more communal than others, the overall layout prioritizes space, with many sites being "VERY large and spaced out widely." This accessibility, combined with the comprehensive amenities typical of a COE park, means that guests can easily transition into a comfortable outdoor experience. The campground also offers excellent connectivity, with paved trails leading into the modern city of Greenville, making it convenient for those who wish to explore local attractions beyond the immediate park boundaries. Its ease of access, coupled with the promise of diverse activities and a rich historical context, makes Greenville Recreation Area a highly appealing destination for locals.

Greenville Recreation Area, as a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers property, is renowned for its extensive and well-maintained services, designed to ensure a top-tier camping and recreational experience for all visitors.

• Full Hookup Campsites: The campground features 106 to 111 full-service campsites, all equipped with electric, water, and sewer hookups. This means convenience for RVs of all sizes, allowing for a comfortable stay without needing to frequently manage tanks. Sites are described as "level with asphalt drives & concrete pads or patio area," and "very level that we didn't have to lay a single block for leveling."
• Spacious Sites: A key highlight is the generous size of the campsites. "Sites were VERY large and spaced out widely," providing ample room for setups and privacy. Each site includes a large patio with a "large sturdy picnic table, fire ring, and post for trash or lantern."
• Clean Restrooms and Shower Houses: The campground boasts well-maintained facilities, including clean restrooms and showers, ensuring comfort for all campers.
• Boat Ramp and Courtesy Dock: There is easy water access with a boat ramp and courtesy dock, making it convenient for boaters and kayakers to launch onto Wappapello Lake.
• Playgrounds: Multiple playground areas are available throughout the grounds, ensuring entertainment for children of all ages.
• Sports Courts: The recreation area offers basketball and volleyball courts, as well as horseshoe pits, providing opportunities for active recreation.
• Day Use Picnic Areas and Shelters: There are 14 individual picnic sites and reservable group shelters, perfect for day trips or larger gatherings.
• Sanitary Dump Station: A convenient dump station is available for RVs.
• Water Access: Direct water access for boating and kayaking, making lake activities easily enjoyable.
• WiFi (Reported): Some sources indicate WiFi is available, which can be a valuable amenity for staying connected if desired.
• Pet-Friendly: The campground is generally pet-friendly, allowing furry family members to join the outdoor adventure (leash rules typically apply).

Greenville Recreation Area offers a unique blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and historical significance that sets it apart.

• Historical Significance: Built on the original site of Old Greenville City, the campground features "Memory Lane," a one-mile historical trail winding along old foundations and streets, offering a glimpse into the early 1900s. There's also a "neat old civil war cemetery" within the camping area. This connection to the Trail of Tears also adds a significant historical dimension.
• Expansive and Well-Maintained Grounds: The park is described as "Beautiful," with "lots of mature trees and grassy areas." The overall cleanliness and maintenance by the COE are consistently praised.
• Excellent Biking and Hiking Trails: A three-mile hike/bike trail, the "Greenville Trail," connects the campground to the modern city, perfect for "bike riding for young and old." There are also multiple other trail systems around Wappapello Lake.
• Abundant Wildlife: Campers frequently report seeing "deer more than once," and should be mindful of raccoons, indicating a thriving natural environment.
• Lake Wappapello Access: Direct access to the 45,000-acre Wappapello Lake provides excellent opportunities for fishing (largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, white bass, channel catfish), swimming, and boating.
• Annual Events: The park hosts notable events such as the Black Powder Rendezvous, Old Greenville Days, and a Halloween Boo Bash, offering unique cultural and recreational experiences throughout the year.
• Great Value: Many reviewers emphasize that the "Price is great for the layout and the full hookups," making it an attractive option for budget-conscious campers.

As a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) managed campground, Greenville Recreation Area operates under federal fee structures rather than typical commercial promotions. However, this often translates into excellent value and consistent pricing.

• Federal Recreation Passes: Visitors holding an America the Beautiful – The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass (including Senior Pass, Access Pass, Military Pass, etc.) are typically eligible for discounts on camping fees. For example, some reviewers mention getting a "Senior pass makes it half price," reducing the nightly rate significantly.
• Seasonal Rates: While full hookup sites are available, fees can vary based on the season. It is always best to confirm current rates directly via Recreation.gov or by contacting the campground.
• Reservations: Campsites at Greenville Recreation Area can be reserved up to 6 months in advance via Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. Same-day reservations are also available for unreserved sites.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on fees, availability, and specific events, it is always recommended to check the official Recreation.gov website for Wappapello Lake or contact the Wappapello Lake Project Office directly.

To plan your visit to the historic and amenity-rich Greenville Recreation Area on Wappapello Lake, you can use the following contact details:

Address: Greenville, MO 63944, USA (For GPS, it's recommended to key in "Greenville Recreation Area Greenville MO 63944")

Phone: (573) 224-3884 (Campground Fee Booth during operating hours)

Mobile Phone: +1 573-224-3884 (Same as above)

For general information or Wappapello Lake Project Office inquiries, you can also try:

Project Office: (573) 222-8562

Reservations (Toll-Free): 1-877-444-6777

Online Reservations: www.Recreation.gov

It is always advisable to make reservations in advance, especially for popular sites or during peak seasons, to secure your preferred spot.

For us Missourians, Greenville Recreation Area offers an incredibly well-rounded and appealing camping experience right in our own backyard. The fact that it's an Army Corps of Engineers park immediately signifies a high standard of maintenance and amenities. The "full hookups" at "VERY large and spaced out widely" sites, complete with "large sturdy picnic table, fire ring, and post for trash or lantern," provide a level of comfort and convenience that makes camping accessible and enjoyable for everyone, even those with larger RVs. The sites are also noted as being "so level that we didn't have to lay a single block for leveling," which is a huge plus.

Beyond the excellent facilities, the campground's setting is truly captivating. The presence of "mature trees and grassy areas" creates a beautiful and inviting atmosphere, and the frequent sightings of "deer" enhance the connection to nature. For active individuals and families, the "wonderful areas for bike riding for young and old" and the water access for "boating or kayaking" mean there's never a dull moment. While some areas might feel less secluded, the option to book "bigger and scenic sites" ensures that even those who prefer more privacy can find their ideal spot. The historical significance of Old Greenville City also adds a unique educational and exploratory element, making it more than just a campground – it's a piece of Missouri history we can camp in. Greenville Recreation Area truly provides a perfect blend of comfort, recreation, and local charm, making it a top choice for our next Missouri outdoor adventure.