Thompson Campground

Missouri, known for its diverse landscapes ranging from the Ozark Mountains to the vast plains, offers countless opportunities for outdoor adventures. For many of us living in the Show-Me State, the appeal of camping lies in the chance to unwind, connect with nature, and create cherished memories with family and friends. While grand wilderness escapes are popular, sometimes the perfect getaway is closer to home, offering convenience without sacrificing the joys of the outdoors. In Moberly, Missouri, Thompson Campground provides just such an experience, offering a delightful blend of accessibility and natural recreation.

Thompson Campground is nestled within the expansive Rothwell Park, a true gem of Moberly. What makes this campground particularly appealing to locals is its unique ability to make you "forget that you are in town," even though essential amenities like a Walmart are just minutes away. This balance of a serene, natural setting with incredible convenience is a rare find and a major draw for Missourians looking for an easy escape. Named in honor of Lionel Thompson, a former Moberly Mayor and avid camper who cherished Rothwell Park's beauty, the campground reflects a commitment to providing quality outdoor experiences for the community.

Whether you’re rolling in with a large RV, looking for a peaceful tent site, or seeking a base to explore Moberly's attractions, Thompson Campground offers a welcoming environment. Its integration within a large city park means campers have a wealth of recreational opportunities right at their fingertips, promising a memorable stay for all ages.

Thompson Campground is ideally located at 207 Rothwell Park Rd, Moberly, MO 65270, USA. This address places it squarely within Rothwell Park, a massive 465-acre municipal park on the edge of Moberly, in Randolph County, Missouri. For residents across Central and Northeast Missouri, its location offers excellent accessibility. Moberly is situated at the intersection of US Routes 24 and 63, making it a straightforward drive from larger cities like Columbia (approximately 36 minutes), Jefferson City (around an hour), or even Kansas City (about 2 hours).

The "in-town" convenience of Thompson Campground is a major highlight. As one reviewer noted, a Walmart is just "10 minutes away," ensuring that campers have easy access to groceries, supplies, and any forgotten essentials. This proximity to urban amenities, combined with the feeling of being immersed in nature within the park, creates a unique advantage for locals. You can enjoy the tranquility of camping without feeling completely isolated from modern conveniences. The park's internal roads are well-maintained, allowing for easy navigation and access to campsites for all types of vehicles, including large RVs. This exceptional accessibility makes Thompson Campground a practical choice for a spontaneous weekend trip or a longer family vacation for Missourians.

Thompson Campground within Rothwell Park provides a solid range of services designed to ensure a comfortable and convenient camping experience for its guests, catering primarily to RVers but also offering options for tent campers.

• Full Hookup (FHU) RV Spaces: The campground offers 24 dedicated full hookup RV spaces. Each of these spaces includes concrete pads, providing a level and stable surface for parking, along with electricity, water, and sewer connections. This is a significant convenience for RV campers, allowing for extended stays with all the comforts of home.

• Year-Round Shower and Restroom Facility: A major upgrade and convenience is the presence of a year-round shower and restroom facility. This ensures that campers have access to clean, modern amenities regardless of the season, which is particularly beneficial during colder months or for tent campers.

• Tent Camping Area: In addition to RV sites, Thompson Campground also provides a designated area for tent camping. This ensures that traditional campers who prefer a more rustic experience also have a place to pitch their tents and enjoy the outdoors.

• Group Camp Area: For larger gatherings, there is a specific "Group Camp" area available. This space is designed for family, scout, or other organized groups tent camping together, accommodating 10-50 people for a maximum 7-day stay. This area typically includes a large, shared campfire pit, though it generally does not have electrical hookups.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Pits: Each individual campsite, whether RV or tent, is typically equipped with a picnic table and a fire pit, perfect for outdoor dining, cooking, and enjoying evening campfires.

• WiFi Access: While not explicitly rated as "excellent," WiFi is available at the campground, allowing campers to stay connected if needed.

• Pet-Friendly: The campground welcomes pets, though standard rules and regulations (e.g., leash laws, cleaning up after pets) are in place to ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.

Thompson Campground's integration within the vast Rothwell Park is its biggest asset, providing campers with an impressive array of recreational features and highlights right at their doorstep.

• Rothwell Park Amenities: Campers have access to the full scope of Rothwell Park's 465 acres of amenities, many of which are within walking distance of the campground. These include:

  • Aquatic Center: A modern swimming pool facility, perfect for cooling off during warmer months.
  • Athletic Complex: Features baseball, softball fields, basketball courts, and tennis/pickleball courts for sports enthusiasts.
  • Fishing Lakes and Piers: Several lakes within the park offer opportunities for fishing, with piers for easy access.
  • Miniature Railroad: A charming one-mile long miniature railroad, providing rides and entertainment, particularly popular with families.
  • Candy Cane City Playground: A large and engaging playground area for children to enjoy.
  • Disc Golf Courses: Two 18-hole disc golf courses for enthusiasts of the sport.
  • Walking/Biking Trails: Asphalt walking trails perfect for leisurely strolls, jogging, or biking through the park's scenic areas.
  • Dog Park: An enclosed dog park for canine companions to exercise and socialize.
  • Archery Range: A dedicated range for archery practice.

• "Forget You're In Town" Atmosphere: Despite its urban adjacency, the campground maintains a remarkably peaceful and natural ambiance, allowing visitors to truly feel like they've escaped into the wilderness, even with town amenities just a short drive away.

• Concrete Pads: The concrete pads at RV sites are a significant convenience, offering stable and level parking, which is highly appreciated by RV owners.

• Year-Round Facilities: The availability of a year-round shower and restroom facility is a major plus, particularly for those who enjoy camping outside of the peak summer season.

• Proximity to Local Attractions: Beyond Rothwell Park, campers are minutes away from other Moberly attractions such as the 4th Street Theatre, Heritage Hills Golf Course, Memory Lanes Bowling, and the Moberly 5 & Drive Movie Theater.

As a municipal campground operated by the City of Moberly Parks and Recreation, Thompson Campground's pricing structure is generally straightforward, but there are clear rates for different types of stays that can be seen as "offers" depending on your needs. Specific, limited-time promotions like those found at private campgrounds are less common, but the value proposition is inherent in its competitive pricing and included amenities.

• Affordable Daily Rates: The standard nightly rate for an RV site is around $30-$35, which is highly competitive for a full hookup site with access to the range of amenities offered within Rothwell Park. This makes it an affordable option for short-term stays.

• Discounted Monthly Rates: For those planning a longer visit, Thompson Campground offers a significantly discounted monthly rate of around $500-$600. This provides substantial savings compared to daily rates for extended stays, making it an excellent value for locals needing a temporary home base.

• Group Camp Pricing: The dedicated Group Camp area for tent campers has a specific rate of $175 per night, which is designed to be cost-effective for groups of 10-50 people. This is a special offering for organized youth groups or large family gatherings.

• Good Sam Discount: Thompson Campground is listed on Good Sam, a prominent RV and camping club. Good Sam members often receive a 10% discount on nightly rates at participating campgrounds. It's always advisable to inquire upon reservation if this discount applies.

For the most current pricing and to inquire about any specific offers, it is recommended to contact the Moberly Parks and Recreation Department directly using the contact information provided.

For reservations, inquiries, or to learn more about Thompson Campground within Rothwell Park, please use the following contact details:

Address: 207 Rothwell Park Rd, Moberly, MO 65270, USA

Phone: (660) 269-8705 ext. 2040

Park Ranger direct line for reservations/questions: (660) 998-0143

It is best to call during Moberly Parks & Recreation office hours (Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.) or reach out to the Park Ranger line directly for reservation assistance.

Thompson Campground in Moberly, Missouri, offers an outstanding and highly suitable camping option for locals, providing a compelling combination of convenience, affordability, and extensive recreational opportunities.

Its primary appeal for Missouri residents lies in its unique location. Situated within the sprawling Rothwell Park, it masterfully creates a sense of being "away from it all" while simultaneously being just minutes from essential city amenities. This means Iowans can enjoy the tranquility of a natural setting—complete with mature trees and open spaces—without the lengthy travel often associated with true wilderness camping. The quick 10-minute drive to Walmart, for example, is a significant convenience that enhances the overall camping experience, making forgotten items or grocery runs a breeze.

Furthermore, the campground caters well to various camping styles. With 24 full hookup RV sites featuring concrete pads, RV owners can enjoy a comfortable and stable stay with all the necessary utilities. The availability of a year-round shower and restroom facility is a major benefit, especially for those venturing out during the cooler months or for tent campers who rely on shared facilities. The dedicated tent camping area and specialized group camp site further expand its suitability, ensuring that diverse local groups, from families to scout troops, can find an appropriate and enjoyable space.

Beyond the campground itself, the comprehensive amenities of Rothwell Park are a huge draw. Imagine having an aquatic center, extensive walking and biking trails, fishing lakes, playgrounds, disc golf, and even a miniature railroad all within easy reach. This wealth of activities ensures that campers of all ages will find something to enjoy, preventing boredom and encouraging outdoor engagement. It's an ideal setting for families to create lasting memories, with something new to explore every day.

In conclusion, Thompson Campground at Rothwell Park is an exceptional choice for Missouri locals. It offers a practical, affordable, and amenity-rich camping experience that truly makes you forget you're in town. For a convenient escape that combines the peace of nature with the perks of urban access and a plethora of recreational activities, Thompson Campground is a highly recommended destination right here in Moberly.