Longshoal
4.49161 reviews12733 Longshoal Park Rd, WARSAW, MO 65355, USA
Longshoal
$15.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
Hookup Site Fee$25.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$30.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $15 for standard non-electric sites to $30 for group shelters. Additional charges for reservation service fees may apply.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of the Ozark Plateau, Longshoal Park beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its impressive array of 94 campsites tailored to every camping style. Whether you're rolling in with a fully-equipped RV to one of the 44 premium sites with 50-amp electric and water hookups, settling into one of 38 cozy 30-amp electric sites, or seeking a back-to-nature experience at the 12 primitive sites, this versatile campground delivers. A spacious day-use group shelter makes it perfect for family reunions and gatherings under the canopy of ancient trees.
Longshoal Campground accommodates a variety of camping styles, including RV camping, tent camping, primitive sites, and group shelters. It is noted for offering both electric hookups (30-amp and 50-amp) and water hookups.
Historical SignificanceJust a short drive from your campsite, the Harry S. Truman Visitor Center stands as a gateway to centuries of fascinating history. Through captivating exhibits and artifacts, discover the rich tapestry of the Osage River Valley's story—from the ancient peoples who first called these hills home, through the frontier days of settlement, to the dramatic transformation brought by the creation of the reservoir. It's a journey through time that adds depth and meaning to your outdoor adventure.
Weather and SeasonsThe Ozark climate treats campers to comfortable, moderate temperatures throughout the peak camping season, creating ideal conditions for outdoor adventures. While Mother Nature occasionally flexes her muscles with dramatic thunderstorms that roll across the plateau, these brief interludes only add to the authentic outdoor experience, often leaving behind crystal-clear skies and that fresh, rain-washed forest scent that makes everything feel renewed.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering hardwoods and aromatic cedar trees create a natural cathedral above the campground, their branches filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. This living landscape pulses with wildlife—white-tailed deer emerge at dawn to graze in nearby meadows, wild turkeys strut through the underbrush, and overhead, the sky becomes a theater where hawks circle on thermals while majestic ospreys and bald eagles patrol the shoreline. The shimmering expanse of Harry S. Truman Reservoir stretches beyond the trees, its waters teeming with prized game fish including feisty crappie, hard-fighting bass, and the prehistoric paddlefish that have called these waters home for millions of years.
Geological RegionThe ancient Ozark Plateau reveals its character through a landscape of gentle rolling hills punctuated by dramatic rocky bluffs that speak of eons past. This timeless terrain supports a thriving forest ecosystem where mighty oaks spread their branches wide, hickories drop their nuts to feed wildlife, and evergreen cedars add their distinctive fragrance to the mountain air. It's a geological wonderland where every trail leads to discovery and every vista tells a story written in stone and soil.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible playground, accessible boat ramp, flush toilets, and parking areas are provided.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as spacious and accommodating large rigs. Some sites are heavily wooded, while others are open with lake access.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site, with some offering seclusion and others being close together. Sites near the water may face issues with neighbors cutting through.
Total Campsites95 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 22 has uneven terrain, making it unsuitable for large RVs despite its advertised capacity. Site 53 is recommended for shade and lake views.
Best CampsitesHighly rated campsites include Site 53 for its shade and proximity to water, and Site 69 for privacy and peaceful views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 11:00 AM
Check-out
Check-out ends at 12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Limits depend on site type
- typically one wheeled camper and up to two tents per pad.
Groups
The group shelter is reservable for day use only, with no overnight camping options available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into loops, with varying levels of amenities ranging from primitive to electric hookups.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from April 15 to September 30 for reservable camping.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov, online or via the app.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited walk-up availability; most sites require advance booking due to popularity.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be cancelled any time before the scheduled arrival date. A $10 cancellation fee applies, and late cancellations incur additional fees including forfeiture of the first night's use fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Dump station
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Longshoal Campground provides diverse recreational activities including fishing, boating, swimming, hunting, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The sandy beach and nearby marina add appeal for families and anglers. The area is known for abundant wildlife and bird-watching opportunities, including eagles and ospreys.
Hiking
Interconnected hiking and biking trails are available near the town of Warsaw, about 10 miles away. Reviews highlight the convenience of these trails.Fishing
Fishing opportunities include crappie, bass, walleye, paddlefish, and catfish. The lake is highly popular with tournament fishermen.Swimming
Swimming is available at a sandy beach within the campground area. Multiple users noted its appeal for families.Biking
Biking trails are accessible within Warsaw, offering scenic paths connected to the Osage River.Boating
The nearby Longshoal Marina provides convenient boat services. Campers report enjoyable boating experiences.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife is abundant, with reports of white-tailed deer, turkey, hawks, ospreys, and bald eagles. Bird-watching opportunities were specifically praised.Beach activities
The campground features a sandy beach perfect for sunbathing and swimming.Winter Activities
Winter camping may include bird-watching and peaceful lake views, as noted in reviews.Water Sports
Includes boating, fishing, and swimming at the nearby beach.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed, but firewood must be purchased locally to prevent the spread of pests.
- Quiet hours are enforced starting at 10:00 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsTicks and mosquitoes are prevalent during summer. Wildlife interaction, such as with dogs and deer, is possible.
Active alertsActive alerts include warnings to prevent the spread of invasive species like zebra mussels by draining water equipment.
Weather forecast
73
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 43%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 4.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
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
Emergency services are available in nearby Warsaw, including hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 15 - September 30
Trash and recyclingTrash bins and recycling facilities are located at the entrance of the campground.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground offers lake access, including a sandy beach for swimming and a marina for boating.
Common complaintsComplaints include cleanliness of restrooms, issues with lighting and water pressure at shared spigots, and uneven campsite grading.
HostHosts are known for being friendly and helpful. Bill is frequently mentioned for his exceptional service.
Campground Map
12733 Longshoal Park Rd, WARSAW, MO 65355, USA
Driving directionsFrom Warsaw, Missouri, take Highway 7 for about 8 miles northwest. Follow signs into the campground.
The campground is accessible via Highway 7, with clear signage leading to the site. The road is likely paved and suitable for most vehicles.Nearby places
Warsaw (~8 miles northwest, approximately 15-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
Supplies, including groceries and camping essentials, are available in Warsaw, which also has a Walmart Supercenter for broader shopping needs.
Camper Reviews
4.5
161 reviews
Longshoal is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight Longshoal Campground as clean, spacious, and accommodating for families. Key mentions include helpful staff, scenic lake views, and enjoyable fishing and boating experiences. Complaints revolve around outdated facilities, unleashed pets, noise violations, and site leveling issues.
Review Summaries
Based on 161 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews emphasize clean facilities, friendly staff, beautiful lake views, and spacious campsites. Users particularly loved the proximity to the marina and sandy beach.
Based on 161 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include outdated showers, limited water spigots, unleashed dogs causing chaos, noisy neighbors violating quiet hours, and uneven campsites requiring extra leveling.
Based on 161 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing mosquito and tick spray for summer months, visiting the marina restaurant, and reserving lakeside spots for better views. Some suggest arriving early to familiarize...
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Seasonal Insights
Summer months are most popular but bring mosquitoes, ticks, and occasional noise issues. Fall is quieter with excellent bird-watching and scenic lake views. Winter camping offers solitude and clear...
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Camper Quotes
"Shower houses are always clean"; "Bird-watching was excellent, we saw bald eagles and ospreys"; "The marina dinner was great and service outstanding"; "Bring mosquito and tick spray for summer...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 22: Uneven ground requiring extensive leveling. Site 53: Excellent lake view and shade. Site 69: Peaceful with privacy. Site 112: Clean bathrooms and helpful staff. Site 31: Difficult backing in...
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Accessibility Features
Accessible toilets and parking areas are available. Some users specifically praised the accessibility of restrooms and shower facilities.
Based on 161 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Mixed experiences with pets. Some users noted unleashed dogs creating chaos, while others described the campground as dog-friendly overall.
Based on 161 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025