Watkins Mill Sp And Shs Shelter

Open — Open year-round with reservations. Showers, dump station, and laundry closed November through March. During off-season, sites 1-34, 98, and 99 are walk-in only; potable water available from the fill hydrant near the dump station.

About

Watkins Mill State Park campground is located near Kansas City in northwest Missouri, offering 96 reservable campsites set among wooded and open areas. The campground includes 74 sites with electric hookups, with 50-amp electric available at select sites. For groups wanting more space, family campsites provide extra room. Five sites are accessible for campers with disabilities, including three electric and two basic sites. Each campsite features a graveled parking pad, picnic table, fire ring, and lantern hook, with parking pads ranging from 38 to 80 feet in length to accommodate various RV sizes. The campground serves as a base for exploring the park's 100-acre lake, which offers excellent fishing for bass, crappie, bluegill, and catfish. A paved bicycle path circles the lake, and the park features multiple hiking and equestrian trails. Boating is permitted with a 10-horsepower limit. The park is adjacent to Watkins Woolen Mill State Historic Site, a National Historic Landmark featuring a remarkably preserved 19th-century woolen mill and home. During the on-season, the campground operates with full amenities including showers, a dump station, and laundry facilities. Firewood is available for purchase from a woodlot in the evenings during on-season. The campground gate closes at 9 p.m. during on-season and 8 p.m. during off-season. Reservations can be made up to 12 months in advance through Missouri State Parks, with a two-night minimum stay required for weekend reservations.

Directions

From Kansas City, take I-35 north to Exit 26 at Kearney. Turn right onto Highway 92 east, continue for five miles, then turn left onto Route RA. The park entrance is on the right off Route RA.

Nearby Campgrounds