Bucksaw
4.45314 reviews673 SE 803 Rd., Clinton, MO, 64735, USA
Bucksaw
$15.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
Hookup Site Fee$30.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary by site type and amenities. Peak season rates include $15 for standard nonelectric, $20-$30 for standard electric with varying hookup levels. Taxes and additional fees may apply.
About this campground
Nestled along the shimmering waters of the Grand River Arm, Bucksaw Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts to Harry S. Truman Lake's most scenic peninsula. Whether you're seeking a rustic adventure at a primitive site, the comfort of electric hookups, or the convenience of full amenities, this waterfront haven offers the perfect basecamp for your Missouri lake country escape. Wake to panoramic water views and spend your days exploring one of the Midwest's premier recreational lakes.
Bucksaw Campground accommodates various camping styles, including primitive, tent, RV, and group camping.
Historical SignificanceAs an integral part of the Truman Lake Recreation Area, Bucksaw Campground sits within one of Missouri's most ecologically rich landscapes. This protected haven showcases the remarkable transformation of the Grand River valley into a thriving aquatic ecosystem, where diverse wildlife flourishes and nature's delicate balance is carefully preserved. The area stands as a testament to successful conservation efforts, offering visitors a glimpse into Missouri's natural heritage.
Weather and SeasonsFrom mid-April through September, Bucksaw comes alive under Missouri's warm sun and crystal-clear skies, creating ideal conditions for swimming, boating, and lakeside relaxation. Spring arrives with wildflowers and perfect fishing weather, while summer brings long, golden days perfect for water sports. Autumn paints the landscape in brilliant hues as temperatures cool. Winter transforms the campground into a peaceful retreat, where crisp air and occasional snow dustings create a serene atmosphere for hardy cold-weather campers.
ElevationPerched at a gentle elevation along the lake's edge, Bucksaw Campground offers easy access to both water activities and comfortable camping. The low-lying peninsula position creates a unique microclimate where cool lake breezes temper summer heat and morning mists dance across the water, providing campers with stunning sunrise views and comfortable conditions throughout their stay.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to the gentle rustle of leaves in the mature canopy overhead, where dappled sunlight filters through to your shaded campsite. The campground's level terrain flows seamlessly into expansive meadows where wild turkeys strut at dawn and white-tailed deer graze at dusk. Above, red-tailed hawks circle lazily while ospreys dive for fish in the crystal-clear waters below. The surrounding landscape offers a perfect blend of wooded privacy and open spaces, creating an idyllic setting where anglers can cast lines into waters teeming with bass, crappie, and catfish.
Geological RegionBucksaw Campground claims a prime position on a scenic peninsula jutting into the Grand River Arm of Harry S. Truman Lake, where the rolling hills of western Missouri meet vast expanses of water. This unique geographical setting provides campers with nearly 360-degree water views while maintaining the gentle, accessible terrain that makes setup easy and exploration comfortable. The peninsula's flat topography, carved by ancient rivers and shaped by modern engineering, creates the perfect platform for experiencing the best of Missouri's lake country.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility details are not extensively documented, but reviews mention spacious campsites that may accommodate larger RVs.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, ranging from primitive to full hookups. Pull-through sites are mentioned as accommodating large RVs up to 42 feet.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels differ by loop. Loop C (full hookups) is described as offering less privacy due to courtyard-style layouts, while other loops provide more secluded sites.
Total Campsites146 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy and views, Loop B sites like B038 and B041 are recommended. Sites in Loop A offer quieter environments.
Best CampsitesLoop B campsites near the water are highly favored for their lake views and proximity to the beach.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
6:00 PM
Check-out
6:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum of 14 consecutive nights allowed per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 guests per site.
Groups
No specific details on group camping are provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized into three loops: A, B, and C, with areas for primitive, electric, and full-hookup sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from April 15 to September 30. Reservations begin June 20 annually.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available through Recreation.gov online and app.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites may be available on a first-come-first-serve basis but reservations are recommended for peak times. Tags for late reservations may not be posted before arrival.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled with a $10 fee. Late cancellations (within one day of check-in) incur an additional fee equal to the first night's charge. Refunds do not cover reservation service fees.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Bucksaw Campground provides ample recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Popular activities include wildlife viewing, fishing, hunting, swimming, hiking, and boating.
Hiking
The campground features a one-mile hiking trail located across the road from the A & B loop's showerhouse. The trail is described as easy but unmaintained, featuring mostly tree-lined paths.Fishing
Fishing is highly recommended at Bucksaw. Anglers can catch crappie, largemouth bass, and multiple types of catfish (blue, flathead, channel). Truman Lake is noted as a popular destination for tournament fishermen.Swimming
The sand beach offers a designated swimming area, although reviews mention the water quality as occasionally dirty. Crowding during peak times is also noted.Boating
Bucksaw Marina is nearby and offers boat rentals, including pontoons and fishing boats. The campground also has a boat ramp for easy lake access.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife sightings include whitetail deer, turkey, hawks, ospreys, and eagles. Deer are frequently seen roaming through campsites.Beach activities
The sand beach offers recreational swimming and sunbathing. Some users mentioned crowded conditions and water quality issues.Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities are documented, but the campground appears to operate seasonally.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding are likely viable due to the marina and lake access, although not specifically detailed.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed in designated fire rings. Visitors are encouraged to buy firewood locally to prevent pest infestations.
- Quiet hours are posted but inconsistently enforced, according to user reviews.
Hazards
General hazardsTicks are prevalent during warmer months. Poison ivy near campsites has been reported.
Active alertsLimited cell service for emergency communication. No specific active alerts mentioned.
Weather forecast
74
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 40%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Mainly clear
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
Clinton Regional Hospital (15 miles), Clinton Police Department (15 miles), no local ranger station mentioned.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 15 - September 30
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are located by the entrance of the campground, which some campers find inconvenient for daily use.
Proximity to water featuresLocated on Truman Lake with direct access to a beach and marina.
Common complaintsFrequent issues include lack of hot water in bathrooms, cleanliness concerns in shower houses, and noise from campers due to limited enforcement of quiet hours.
HostCampground hosts are frequently praised for their helpfulness and availability.
Campground Map
673 SE 803 Rd., Clinton, MO, 64735, USA
Driving directionsFrom Highway 7, take Highway U south for 3 miles. Turn left at SE 803. Stay on the paved road and follow signs into the campground.
The campground is accessed via paved roads, which are in good condition. Limited signage for loops within the campground may cause confusion.Nearby places
Clinton (approx. 15 miles, 20 minutes), Warsaw (approx. 30 miles, 35 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Clinton (15 miles) offers Walmart, Aldi, grocery stores, fuel stations, and a local winery with brick oven pizza.
Camper Reviews
4.5
314 reviews
Bucksaw is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Bucksaw Campground are mixed, with an average sentiment rating of 4.3. Positive feedback highlights the campground's spacious sites, beautiful lake views, and friendly hosts. Complaints focus on poor cell reception, inconsistent shower facilities, and cleanliness issues.
Review Summaries
Based on 314 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers appreciate the spacious sites, lake views, and well-maintained grounds. Reviews frequently mention friendly and helpful hosts. The campground is described as peaceful and ideal for family...
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Common Concerns
Common issues include poor cell reception, outdated shower facilities, dirty bathrooms, and crowded swimming areas. Noise from nearby campers and barking dogs is also frequently mentioned.
Based on 314 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing bug spray due to ticks, and planning for poor connectivity. Booking larger sites for RVs and arriving early to avoid late checkouts are also suggested.
Based on 314 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is busiest during peak summer months, with crowded swimming areas and noise issues. Spring and fall are recommended for quieter stays and better overall experiences.
Based on 314 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The campground is very clean and beautiful, with friendly staff.' - Review by Richard W.
2. 'Loop B site 45 had 2 large honey locust trees with sharp thorns, which caused uncomfortable wounds.' -...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site B038 offers excellent water views but lacks privacy due to its proximity to the swim beach. Site A015 is described as large and grassy, ideal for families with kids. Site C060 is noted for its...
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Accessibility Features
Reviews mention that pull-through sites accommodate large RVs, but no other accessibility features are highlighted.
Based on 314 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and some reviews mentioned hosts providing milk bones for dogs. However, barking dogs have been reported as a nuisance by some campers.
Based on 314 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025