Lake Showme Campground #1

For Missouri locals seeking a peaceful and natural escape, Lake Showme Campground #1 in Memphis, MO, offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourselves in the tranquility of the great outdoors. This campground provides a serene lakeside setting that's a bit "out of the way," making it perfect for those who truly want to disconnect and enjoy nature. It's a destination where the primary attractions are the beautiful lake itself, excellent fishing opportunities, and a relaxed atmosphere. Whether you're looking for a simple, budget-friendly campsite for your rooftop tent or a place where children can enjoy new playground equipment, Lake Showme Campground #1 provides a back-to-basics camping experience amidst scenic Missouri landscapes.

The appeal of Lake Showme Campground #1 lies in its focus on natural recreation and its quiet, secluded environment. As one recent visitor highlighted, "We chose this beautiful lake for a free campsite in our rooftop tent. The lake is very tranquil and a bit out of the way." This tranquility, combined with its direct access to the lake, makes it a favored spot for anglers and those who enjoy being on the water. Another camper praised the experience, noting, "Nice campground! Good fishing. Nice shower and restrooms. Children enjoyed the new playground equipment!" This feedback emphasizes the campground's suitability for families and those looking for a laid-back camping trip where outdoor activities take center stage. While it offers essential amenities, the core draw is the natural beauty and the unhurried pace of life by the lake.

Lake Showme Campground #1 is located in Memphis, MO 63555, USA. This specific address places it in Scotland County, in the northeast region of Missouri. The campground is situated on the shores of Lake Showme, a 225-acre lake managed by the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC).

To reach the campground from Memphis, Missouri, you typically take Highway 136 west for approximately 2 miles, then turn south onto Lake Showme Drive (a gravel road) for about 1 mile. While it's described as "a bit out of the way," this contributes to its peaceful and tranquil atmosphere, making it a desirable retreat from more bustling areas. For locals, this means a manageable drive to a truly natural setting. The nearest town, Memphis, offers basic amenities such as gas stations and local eateries. One reviewer specifically recommended "Corner Perk Coffee house, 2.7 miles from the campsite, in beautiful downtown Memphis," suggesting that local comforts are not far away. The surrounding area of Northeast Missouri is characterized by its rolling hills and agricultural landscapes, providing a scenic backdrop for the lake and its recreational offerings. The accessibility, coupled with the sense of seclusion, makes Lake Showme Campground #1 an ideal spot for Missouri residents seeking an authentic outdoor experience without venturing too far from local conveniences.

• Campsites: Offers a variety of campsites, including those suitable for tents (such as rooftop tents) and RVs/campers. Some sources indicate there are 8 RV sites, with options for primitive (free) camping and paid sites with power and water.

• Water Access: Drinking water is available. The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) typically provides water at their managed sites.

• Showers: Adequate shower facilities are available for camper use, as noted in reviews.

• Restrooms: "State park" type outhouses are available. While described as basic, they are functional for campground use. Some information also points to "bathrooms" which might imply more traditional flush toilets in certain areas of the wider Lake Showme complex.

• New Playground Equipment: A new playground is available, providing entertainment for children.

• Fishing: Lake Showme is known for good fishing opportunities, including Walleye/Sauger, Sunfish, Catfish, Crappie, and Black Bass.

• Boat Launching/Landing: Allowed 24 hours a day, with outboard motors in excess of 10 horsepower permitted but at slow, no-wake speed.

• Shooting Range: An archery, rifle/handgun, or shotgun shooting range is located on the area. This area is managed under a cooperative agreement and may have special regulations and fees, so it's advisable to check with the area owner for details.

• Year-Round Camping: Camping is permitted 24 hours a day, making it accessible throughout the year.

• Pet-Friendly: Pets are generally allowed in MDC areas, typically on a leash. Specific rules for the campground should be confirmed.

• Tranquil Lake Setting: The most prominent feature is the beautiful and tranquil Lake Showme, providing a peaceful backdrop for camping and numerous water-based activities.

• Excellent Fishing: Consistently highlighted for its good fishing, Lake Showme offers diverse species like bass, crappie, bluegill, and walleye, making it a prime spot for anglers.

• New Playground: The recently updated playground equipment is a significant highlight for families with children, ensuring entertainment for younger campers.

• Secluded & "Out of the Way": For those seeking a quiet escape from crowds, the campground's somewhat remote location is a major plus, ensuring a serene experience.

• Free Primitive Camping Option: The availability of free campsites for primitive camping (like rooftop tents) provides a budget-friendly option for adventurers.

• Accessible Showers: The presence of adequate showers, even if basic, is a valued amenity for campers, offering a refreshing clean-up after outdoor activities.

• 24-Hour Access for Specific Activities: While the general area has closed hours, hunting, fishing, trapping, dog training, camping, launching, and landing boats are allowed 24 hours a day, offering flexibility for outdoor enthusiasts.

• Diverse Recreational Opportunities: Beyond camping and fishing, the wider Lake Showme area offers a shooting range and opportunities for hiking, providing a variety of activities for visitors.

As Lake Showme Campground #1 is part of a conservation area often managed by the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), it typically operates under a different model than private commercial campgrounds. Therefore, traditional "promotions" or discount codes are not usually offered. However, its value proposition for Missouri locals is inherent in its access and pricing structure:

• Free Primitive Camping: One of the most significant "offers" is the availability of free campsites for primitive camping (e.g., rooftop tents, ground tents without hookups). This provides an incredibly affordable option for budget-conscious campers.

• Affordable RV Sites: For RVs and campers, sites with power and water are available for a fee (some sources suggest $20 for RVs/campers with hookups). This remains a highly competitive and affordable rate compared to many private campgrounds in Missouri.

• Public Access to MDC Facilities: As an MDC-managed area, visitors generally benefit from the department's mission to conserve and manage the state's fish, forest, and wildlife resources, offering well-maintained natural spaces at little to no cost for entry or basic use.

• Fishing Opportunities: The excellent fishing at Lake Showme, with its diverse species, is a continuous "offer" for anglers, providing recreational value without additional specific fees beyond standard fishing permits.

• Year-Round Camping: The 24-hour access for camping allows for flexible trips throughout the year, which can be seen as an ongoing benefit, especially for those who enjoy off-season camping when other sites might be closed.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on camping fees (if any beyond free primitive sites), specific site availability, and any particular regulations for the shooting range or other activities, it is always recommended to contact the Missouri Department of Conservation or the area management directly. The phone number provided, (660) 785-2420, is often listed as a contact for the Lake Showme area.

• Address: Memphis, MO 63555, USA

• Phone: (660) 785-2420 (Missouri Department of Conservation, Lake Showme Area Office)

For Missouri locals, Lake Showme Campground #1 in Memphis is an exceptionally suitable destination, particularly for those who prioritize a tranquil, natural, and budget-friendly outdoor experience. Its secluded location, a bit "out of the way," is a significant advantage for residents seeking genuine peace and quiet, a true escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. This allows for deeper immersion in the beautiful Northeast Missouri landscape, characterized by its serene lake and surrounding natural areas.

The campground's strong focus on fishing is a major draw for Missouri's avid anglers, with Lake Showme known for its excellent catches of various species. The convenient 24-hour access for fishing and boating further enhances its appeal for those looking to maximize their time on the water. For families, the new playground equipment is a welcome addition, providing safe and engaging entertainment for children. The availability of free primitive campsites also makes it an incredibly accessible option for budget-conscious campers or those with rooftop tents, encouraging more locals to enjoy the state's natural resources. While amenities like outhouses are basic, the presence of adequate showers adds a level of comfort. Lake Showme Campground #1 embodies the essence of a Missouri outdoor adventure – unpretentious, scenic, and focused on genuine connection with nature, making it a perfect spot for locals to unwind and create lasting memories right in their home state.