Lake of The Ozarks Campgrounds: Section 3

Nestled within the breathtaking beauty of the Lake of the Ozarks State Park, Lake of The Ozarks Campgrounds: Section 3 in Brumley, Missouri, offers a fantastic escape for those seeking to immerse themselves in nature. As part of Missouri’s largest state park, this campground provides a welcoming environment for both seasoned campers and those new to the outdoor experience. It's a place where the tranquil sounds of nature replace the hustle and bustle of city life, inviting you to unwind and create lasting memories. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an active outdoor adventure, this campground serves as an ideal base for exploring all that the Lake of the Ozarks region has to offer.

The Lake of the Ozarks State Park is known for its diverse landscapes, from rugged oak-hickory forests to open glades and intriguing underground caves. The park's rich history, with many of its man-made features built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s and 40s, adds a touch of historical charm to your visit. Lake of The Ozarks Campgrounds: Section 3, specifically, is often praised by visitors for its well-maintained sites and clean facilities, contributing to a comfortable and enjoyable stay. It’s a popular choice for families and groups, offering a blend of natural beauty and convenient amenities.

Lake of The Ozarks Campgrounds: Section 3 is conveniently located at an unnamed road in Brumley, MO 65017, USA, making it an accessible destination for many Missouri residents. The campground is situated within the vast expanse of the Lake of the Ozarks State Park, which sprawls across over 17,620 acres with 80 miles of lake frontage. This prime location offers campers immediate access to the iconic Lake of the Ozarks, a premier boating and recreation destination in the Midwest.

To reach the campground, typical directions involve navigating to the broader Lake of the Ozarks State Park. From areas like Camdenton or Lebanon, you would generally travel north on Highway 5 until reaching Highway 54, then east on Highway 54 to Highway 42, and finally east on Highway 42 to Highway 134, which leads directly into the park. While Section 3 is a specific area within the larger state park, clear signage within the park helps guide visitors to their designated camping sections. One past visitor noted that in December 2024, the main opening was closed, requiring them to use a lower entrance, but signs were in place to guide the way, indicating good internal park navigation. The campground's proximity to the main tourist town of Osage Beach provides the benefit of nearby attractions and amenities, even during the off-season. For those traveling from major Missouri cities, the campground is approximately 56 minutes from Jefferson City, 1 hour 22 minutes from Columbia, 1 hour 45 minutes from Springfield, and about 2 hours 40 minutes from Joplin, with St. Louis and Kansas City typically being around a 3-hour drive. This central location makes it a feasible weekend getaway or a longer vacation spot for many Missourians.

• Campsites: A wide variety of campsites are available, including primitive walk-in sites, as well as RV sites with electric hookups (20, 30, and 50 amp options) and full hookups with water and sewer. Family campsites are also available, offering larger spaces with double amenities for extended family stays.

• Restrooms: Clean and well-maintained flush and vault toilets are available throughout the campground sections, ensuring convenience for all campers.

• Showers: Modern shower facilities are provided, offering hot water for a comfortable experience after a day of outdoor activities.

• Potable Water: Access to potable water is readily available across the campground.

• Dump Station: A sanitary dump station is provided for RVs, making waste disposal convenient.

• Laundry Facilities: On-site laundry facilities offer added convenience for campers on longer stays.

• Camp Host: Attentive camp hosts are often present, ensuring a pleasant stay and addressing any concerns, including managing noise levels at late hours, as noted by a past visitor.

• Fire Rings and Grates: Each campsite typically includes a fire ring and grate, perfect for campfires and outdoor cooking. Firewood can often be purchased from the camp host or nearby stores.

• Picnic Tables: Picnic tables are provided at each site for outdoor dining and gathering.

• Pet-Friendly: Pets are generally allowed at the campsites, though typically require leashes 10 feet or shorter, and are not permitted in designated swimming or fishing areas. It's recommended to check specific pet policies and any potential breed restrictions.

• Trash and Recycling: Designated areas for trash and recycling help maintain the cleanliness of the park.

• Direct Lake Access: The campground offers excellent access to the Lake of the Ozarks, providing opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, kayaking, and other water sports. Several campsites boast water views, offering scenic backdrops for your stay.

• Spacious Campsites: Both RV and tent sites are noted for their spaciousness, offering a sense of privacy and comfort. Paved parking spurs are common for RV sites.

• Hiking and Biking Trails: An extensive network of trails winds through the park, catering to hikers, mountain bikers, and even horseback riders. These trails offer opportunities to explore the rugged Ozark woodlands, glades, streams, and bluffs.

• Wildlife Viewing: The park is home to abundant wildlife, and campers often report seeing deer roaming freely, adding to the natural experience.

• Ozark Caverns: Located within the state park boundaries, Ozark Caverns is a popular attraction featuring unique cave formations, including the famous "Angel Showers." Various tours are available, offering a glimpse into the underground wonders of the Ozarks.

• Public Beaches: The park features designated swimming beaches, such as Public Beach #1, which often includes shaded areas, picnic tables, and a store for snacks and souvenirs.

• Boat Launches and Marinas: Two marinas within the park offer boat rentals (including deck boats, kayaks, canoes, and pedal boats), fuel docks, paved ramps, and marina stores, making it easy to get out on the water.

• Playgrounds: For families with children, playgrounds are available, providing a fun space for kids to enjoy.

• Amphitheater: The park may feature an amphitheater, which could host educational programs or evening events during peak season.

• Year-Round Availability: While amenities may vary, some campsites are open year-round, allowing for off-season camping experiences. One reviewer mentioned the quiet atmosphere in December 2024, highlighting the peacefulness during the colder months.

While specific promotions for Lake of The Ozarks Campgrounds: Section 3 are best confirmed directly with Missouri State Parks or upon booking, state park systems and many private campgrounds in the Lake of the Ozarks area frequently offer various deals that may apply. These can include:

• Extended Stay Discounts: Some campgrounds offer reduced rates for longer stays, such as 3-night, 4-night, or 5-night deals, particularly during non-peak seasons or on specific weekdays. For instance, some promotions might offer 15% to 25% off for stays of a certain duration or discounts for adding a Thursday or Sunday night to a weekend trip.

• Off-Season Rates: Camping during the fall, winter, or early spring can often come with lower rates compared to the peak summer season.

• Military and First Responder Discounts: Many campgrounds, including state parks, offer special discounts for active military personnel, veterans, and first responders (EMT, medical personnel, etc.) as a token of appreciation. These discounts are typically around 10% off site reservation fees.

• Homeschooler Discounts: Some locations provide discounts for homeschool families on midweek stays, often requiring a valid Homeschool ID upon check-in.

It is always recommended to visit the official Missouri State Parks website for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding any current promotions or special offers specifically applicable to Lake of The Ozarks Campgrounds: Section 3. When booking, check for promo codes or inquire directly about available discounts.

For detailed information, reservations, or any inquiries regarding Lake of The Ozarks Campgrounds: Section 3, you can typically reach the Lake of the Ozarks State Park administration.

• Address: Unnamed Road, Brumley, MO 65017, USA (This address directs you to the general vicinity of the state park area where Section 3 is located). The main park office is generally at 403 Highway 134, Kaiser, MO 65047-0170.

• Phone: For general park inquiries and reservations, the primary contact number for Lake of the Ozarks State Park is usually (573) 348-2694. Please note that for specific campground section inquiries or direct reservations, you may be directed to a state park reservation system or specific contact for that section.

• Website: The official Missouri State Parks website is the best resource for online reservations and comprehensive information. Look for "Lake of the Ozarks State Park" and navigate to the camping sections for booking Section 3.

It’s always a good idea to check the Missouri State Parks website or call ahead for the most current information on operating hours, seasonal closures (especially for specific entrances or facilities during quieter months), and any booking requirements.

For residents across Missouri, Lake of The Ozarks Campgrounds: Section 3 presents an exceptional opportunity for a local getaway that combines convenience with the unparalleled beauty of the Ozarks. Its central location makes it an accessible drive from major cities like St. Louis, Kansas City, Springfield, and Columbia, offering a perfect escape without the need for extensive travel. This means less time on the road and more time enjoying your well-deserved break.

What truly makes this campground suitable for locals is its ability to cater to a wide range of outdoor interests and family needs. Whether you're an avid RVer seeking full hookups, a tent camper looking for a more rustic experience, or a family needing spacious sites with amenities like clean bathrooms and playgrounds, Section 3 has something for everyone. Past visitors consistently highlight the cleanliness of the facilities and the attentiveness of the camp hosts, ensuring a comfortable and well-managed environment.

The direct access to the Lake of the Ozarks is a major draw, providing endless opportunities for swimming, fishing, boating, and kayaking right at your doorstep. Beyond the water, the extensive network of hiking and biking trails within the state park allows locals to reconnect with Missouri's natural landscapes, from dense forests to unique cave systems like Ozark Caverns. Even in the quieter months, as one reviewer noted about a December visit, the campground offers a peaceful retreat for those looking to enjoy the solitude and natural beauty. This versatility allows locals to return year after year, experiencing different aspects of the park with each visit, whether it's a bustling summer family trip or a serene off-season escape.

Ultimately, Lake of The Ozarks Campgrounds: Section 3 is more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's a gateway to experiencing the best of Missouri's outdoor heritage. Its combination of natural beauty, well-maintained facilities, and convenient location makes it an ideal choice for any Missourian looking to create cherished memories in their own backyard.