Highway K
4.17145 reviews5347 Co. Rd. 452, Annapolis, MO 63620, USA
Highway K
$14.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$16.00
Hookup Site Fee$20.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$50.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season rates range from $14 for standard non-electric sites to $50 for group shelter electric sites. Discounts and additional fees may apply based on reservation methods.
About this campground
Nestled along the gentle curves of the Black River, Highway K Campground invites you to experience the perfect riverside retreat. Wake up to the sound of water flowing past your campsite, spend lazy afternoons casting a line from the riverbank, or paddle through crystal-clear waters in your canoe. Modern amenities blend seamlessly with nature here – your site comes equipped with electric and water hookups, while hot showers await after a day of adventure. Families gather under shaded picnic shelters as children's laughter echoes from the playground, creating memories that last long after the campfire embers fade.
Highway K Campground accommodates a variety of camping types, including sites for tents, RVs, and groups. Some sites offer electric and water hookups, while others are non-electric.
Historical SignificanceYour basecamp at Highway K places you at the crossroads of natural wonder and living history. Just a short drive away, the ancient granite formations of Elephant Rocks State Park tell a billion-year-old geological story, while the rushing waters of Johnson Shut-ins State Park showcase nature's own water park carved from solid rock. History buffs will find themselves drawn to Fort Davidson, where the echoes of Civil War battles still resonate through preserved earthworks and interpretive trails, offering a sobering glimpse into Missouri's pivotal role in American history.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Highway K Campground with its own unique palette. Summer transforms the Black River into your personal swimming hole, with warm days perfect for floating and splashing in the refreshing current. As autumn arrives, the surrounding hardwood canopy erupts in a spectacular display of crimson, gold, and amber – nature's own fireworks show reflected in the river's surface. Cool evening temperatures make for perfect campfire weather, while crisp mornings are ideal for hiking riverside trails wrapped in a light jacket.
ElevationThe campground rests comfortably in the river valley, where the Black River has carved its peaceful path through the Missouri landscape over countless millennia.
Natural Features and SceneryStraddling both banks of the Black River, Highway K Campground immerses you in a living cathedral of towering hardwoods. Mighty oaks, maples, and hickories create a natural canopy overhead, their branches filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. The river itself serves as the campground's centerpiece – its dark waters (which give the Black River its name) flow steadily past, creating quiet pools perfect for swimming and riffles that attract eager anglers. Morning mist rises from the water's surface, while evening brings a symphony of crickets and tree frogs.
Geological RegionPositioned in the heart of Missouri's Ozark highlands near Clearwater Lake, Highway K Campground occupies a special place where ancient geological forces meet modern recreation. The Black River has patiently carved its channel through layers of limestone and dolomite, creating the gentle valley that cradles the campground today. Surrounding hardwood forests cloak the rolling hills in green, their roots anchored in soil enriched by centuries of fallen leaves. From your riverside campsite, you'll enjoy panoramic views of this timeless landscape where water, stone, and forest have danced together for eons.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility at the campground is limited. While some users appreciated the proximity to facilities like the river and the playground, there are no designated disabled camping sites. One reviewer noted the lack of disabled-specific accommodations but praised the ability to drive close to the beach for easier access.
Sites SizeThe campsites vary in size, with some being described as 'very large,' such as site K17, which was noted to have ample space. However, other sites are described as tight or challenging to access, with one user mentioning, 'Site was an angled, steep, backward uphill climb.'
Sites PrivacySite privacy varies significantly. Some campers appreciated the spacing of sites in the K loop, which they found to offer 'a lot of room between spaces,' while others complained about sites being 'so close together that you have absolutely no privacy.'
Total Campsites83 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor families, sites near the playground in Loop A are recommended. For quieter stays, weekends should be avoided.
Best CampsitesUsers frequently highlight sites along Loop K for privacy and proximity to water, particularly K13 and K15.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 10 people per site. Sites may contain one wheeled camping unit and one tent, or two tents.
Groups
Group sites are available for reservation, with one group noting that they had booked four adjacent spaces for a reunion. Specific details about the maximum number of people or vehicles allowed per group site are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are organized across multiple loops including A, B, C, D, and K, with varying levels of privacy and amenities.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 15, 2025 - September 14, 2025 for reservations. Outside peak season, sites are first-come, first-served.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online via Recreation.gov or through its mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityOutside peak season, campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations before arrival incur a $10 fee and may forfeit the first night's fee. Late cancellations (less than 24 hours before check-in) are subject to additional penalties.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Highway K Campground offers a range of activities, including fishing, canoeing, boating, and swimming. The Black River provides a scenic backdrop for these activities, and several nearby attractions, such as Elephant Rocks State Park, make for interesting day trips.
Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at the campground, with the Black River providing 'clear waters' ideal for this pastime.Swimming
Campers frequently enjoy swimming in the Black River, particularly during warmer months. The river is described as 'beautiful' and 'clear and cool,' making it a highlight of the campground experience.Boating
Canoeing and other boating activities are popular on the Black River. One user mentioned the convenience of 'Jeff's Canoe Rental,' located adjacent to the campground, for boat rentals.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned for this campground.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports, such as kayaking and canoeing, are popular, facilitated by clear access to the Black River and proximity to Jeff's Canoe Rental.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted in designated fire pits. Visitors are encouraged to buy firewood locally to prevent the spread of invasive pests.
- Quiet hours are enforced between 10 PM and 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsSeed ticks and mosquitos can be problematic during warmer months. Flooding has occurred in the past as reported by campers.
Active alertsReports of flooding have led to emergency evacuations in the past.
Weather forecast
76
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 41%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are available in Annapolis, MO (~5 miles).
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15, 2025 - September 14, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not specifically detailed in the authoritative sources or user reviews.
Proximity to water featuresCampsites are directly adjacent to the Black River.
Common complaintsMany reviews noted maintenance issues like leaking water valves, dirty bathrooms, and inconsistent hot water availability. Some campers reported excessive noise and lack of privacy due to closely spaced sites.
HostHosts are reportedly helpful but inconsistent in availability according to user reviews.
Campground Map
5347 Co. Rd. 452, Annapolis, MO 63620, USA
Driving directionsFrom Annapolis, MO, follow MO Highway K west for 5 miles. The park will be on the left, and is on both sides of the bridge.
The campground is accessible via paved roads; however, seasonal flooding has been reported by users as a potential challenge.Nearby places
Annapolis (5 miles, ~10 minutes), Ellington (17 miles, ~25 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries and essentials can be purchased at a Dollar General in Annapolis (~5 miles). Firewood is not sold at the campground and must be obtained in town.
Camper Reviews
4.2
145 reviews
Highway K is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews present a mixed picture of the Highway K Campground. Positive aspects include the beautiful Black River, access to recreational activities, and spacious campsites in some loops. However, recurring complaints highlight issues with site maintenance, bathroom cleanliness, and limited management presence.
Review Summaries
Based on 145 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users praised the scenic beauty of the Black River, the spacious sites in some areas, and the affordable camping rates. Comments such as 'LOVE THE BLACK RIVER AND HIGHWAY K CAMPGROUNDS' and...
Based on 145 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include unclean and poorly maintained restrooms and showers, leaking water spigots, a lack of camp hosts, and overcrowded sites. One user summarized the issues by stating, 'The...
Based on 145 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users frequently recommend bringing all necessary supplies, including firewood, as it is not sold on-site. Other tips include avoiding weekends if seeking a quieter experience and reserving space in...
Based on 145 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that summer months are the most popular for camping at Highway K Campground. However, weekends can become crowded and noisy, and maintenance issues with facilities appear most acute...
Based on 145 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'The Black River is beautiful and clear. We love camping here every summer.' 2. 'Bathrooms were bug-infested and dirty, and the showers were nasty.' 3. 'We had a wonderful time until a neighbor's...
Based on 145 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site K17 is noted for being spacious, while site K13 is described as close to a busy road. Loop A is popular among groups due to its proximity to the playground, but some sites in Loop B have...
Based on 145 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Reviews indicate limited accessibility for disabled campers, though some mention the ability to drive close to the beach for easier access.
Based on 145 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Mixed reviews for pet owners, with some sites allowing pets but also complaints about barking dogs disrupting the peace.
Based on 145 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025