Osage Bluff
4.33134 reviews17671 Osage Bluff Rd.
Osage Bluff
$15.00 - $25.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season rates range from $15 for primitive sites to $25 for standard electric sites. Additional reservation service fees may apply.
About this campground
Discover your perfect lakeside retreat at Osage Bluff Park, where modern camping comforts meet the untamed beauty of Harry S. Truman Lake. This Corps of Engineers campground seamlessly blends into western Missouri's rolling landscape, offering everything from secluded primitive sites for the adventurous soul to fully-equipped 50-amp hookups for luxury RV travelers. Whether you're pitching a tent under ancient oaks or settling in with your motorhome, you'll find the ideal basecamp for exploring one of Missouri's most spectacular recreational lakes.
Osage Bluff Campground offers options for tent camping, RV camping, and primitive camping. Sites range from non-electric spots near the water to those with 50-amp hookups for RVs.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time and explore the rich heritage of the Osage River Valley, where centuries of human history have shaped this remarkable landscape. Before the creation of Harry S. Truman Lake, this region served as the ancestral homeland of the Osage Nation and later witnessed the westward expansion of American pioneers. Today, fascinating exhibits at the nearby Harry S. Truman Visitor Center bring these stories to life, offering campers a deeper connection to the land they're exploring and the communities that once thrived along the now-submerged river valley.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle rhythm of Missouri's seasons at Osage Bluff, where spring arrives with wildflower blooms and perfect 70-degree days. Summer transforms the campground into a bustling waterfront paradise, with warm days beckoning swimmers and boaters to the lake's refreshing waters. Fall paints the hardwood forests in brilliant golds and crimsons, while winter brings a peaceful solitude to the park, though adventurous cold-weather campers should prepare for occasional freezing temperatures and frost-kissed mornings.
ElevationThe campground's gentle slopes and varied terrain create natural privacy between sites while offering glimpses of the sprawling lake below, though specific elevation details vary throughout the park's diverse landscape.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Ozark Plateau, where towering oak, hickory, and aromatic cedar trees create a living cathedral above your campsite. This verdant sanctuary serves as nature's theater, where white-tailed deer emerge at dawn, wild turkeys strut through the underbrush, and majestic bald eagles soar overhead. The crystalline waters of Harry S. Truman Lake teem with bass, crappie, and catfish, while red-tailed hawks patrol the skies and songbirds fill the forest with their melodies. Every sunrise brings new wildlife encounters and photo opportunities in this thriving ecosystem.
Geological RegionPerched atop the ancient Ozark Plateau, Osage Bluff Park showcases Missouri's distinctive geological heritage with its weathered limestone bluffs and rolling hills that tell a million-year story. These rocky outcroppings and undulating landscapes create dramatic vistas across the lake, while hidden hollows and scenic overlooks reward hikers with stunning panoramic views of this timeless terrain carved by wind, water, and time.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible facilities are provided, including handicap showers and toilets, though some users noted that these need repairs. "Both handicap showers need to be fixed," commented one user.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious and include leveled gravel pads. "The sites are very large, and our favorite, 37, is right on the water," mentioned a camper.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies between sites; some areas are secluded while others are open due to recent brush removal. "The brush helps foster an atmosphere of privacy," noted one user.
Total Campsites61 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites #20 or #24 for primitive camping near the water. RV campers might prefer sites with 50-amp hookups for convenience.
Best CampsitesSite #26 is highly recommended for its shaded location and proximity to water. Sites #19 and #25 offer excellent water views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Official check-in time starts at 3:00 PM.
Check-out
Official check-out time is 10:00 AM.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Most sites allow for one wheeled camper and up to three tents or a combination of two tents.
Groups
No specific group camping sites are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features a mix of primitive and electric sites, with loops providing access to different sections.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season starts April 15, 2025, and closes September 30, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online or via their contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited walk-up availability. Most sites are reservable in advance; users are advised to check Recreation.gov for specific openings.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are allowed before the date of arrival. A $10 cancellation fee applies, along with the forfeiture of the first night's use fee for late cancellations.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Osage Bluff offers a variety of recreational activities suitable for campers of all ages. The nearby marina provides convenient access for boating and fishing enthusiasts. Wildlife viewing is popular, with frequent sightings of deer, turkeys, hawks, and water birds. "Fishing and boating are excellent," commented a user.
Fishing
Fishing is a highlight at Osage Bluff, with Harry S. Truman Reservoir known for crappie, bass, walleye, and catfish. "Osage Bluff is an excellent fishing location," noted one camper.Swimming
Swimming is possible in the lake, although there are no designated swimming areas or lifeguards mentioned.Boating
Boating is highly encouraged, with facilities provided for easy access to Truman Lake. "The marina is a tremendous asset," said one camper, and visitors can park boats directly on the shore.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife is abundant, with frequent sightings of deer, turkeys, hawks, ospreys, and bald eagles. "Beautiful location with lots of turkey vultures and other birds," commented one user.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned.Water Sports
Kayaking and other non-motorized water sports are possible, with the lake providing ample opportunities for adventure.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed but must be confined to designated fire rings. Bringing outside firewood is discouraged due to pest concerns.
- Quiet hours are strictly enforced to maintain a peaceful environment.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife interactions (deer and turkeys are common), ticks, and uneven terrain. Campfires are allowed but firewood must be sourced locally due to pest concerns.
Active alertsNo current alerts.
Weather forecast
58
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 66%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.1 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 the nearby city of Warsaw, approximately 5 miles away, including hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 15, 2025 - September 30, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available, but some reviews noted issues with litter and trash left behind by other campers. Recycling options are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to Harry S. Truman Lake, with several sites directly on the waterfront.
Common complaintsRecurring issues include cleanliness of bathrooms and showers, lack of soap in restrooms, and limited cellular service.
HostHosts Jim and Cynthia receive high praise for their friendliness and diligence in maintaining facilities. They often drive around and interact with campers.
Campground Map
17671 Osage Bluff Rd.
Driving directionsFrom Highway 83, travel about a mile on Osage Bluff Road. Follow signs into park.
Roads leading to the campground are paved and well-marked. Accessibility is consistent throughout seasons.Nearby places
Warsaw: Approximately 5 miles, Sedalia: Approximately 35 miles, Clinton: Approximately 27 miles.
Nearby supplies
The nearest grocery stores, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Warsaw, approximately 5 miles away. There is also a Walmart Supercenter in Warsaw.
Camper Reviews
4.3
134 reviews
Osage Bluff is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight both positive and negative aspects of Osage Bluff Campground. While many users praise the cleanliness of the facilities and the friendliness of the hosts, others noted issues with outdated showers, poor cell phone service, and occasional maintenance lapses. Overall, the campground is appreciated for its access to Truman Lake and its scenic beauty.
Review Summaries
Based on 134 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include clean facilities, friendly hosts, spacious campsites, and beautiful views of Truman Lake. "The sites are very large, and our favorite 37 is right on the water," mentioned one...
Based on 134 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include outdated showers, poor cell phone service, inconsistent maintenance of bathrooms, and lack of soap in restrooms. "Bathrooms were dirty with mold," said one camper.
Based on 134 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing soap for the restrooms and being prepared for limited cell service. Sites near the water, such as 19 and 25, are highly recommended for their views. "If you camp primitive,...
Based on 134 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Peak season reviews are generally positive, with campers enjoying the scenic views and activities. Off-season experiences are more mixed, with complaints about facility closures and reduced...
Based on 134 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The hosts Jim and Cynthia are the greatest. They are very friendly and drive around to talk to you," noted one user. "The shower house needs updates," commented another.
Based on 134 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 37 is highly praised for its proximity to the water. Sites 19 and 25 offer excellent lake views. However, sites like 55 are noted as steep and less suited for larger campers.
Based on 134 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features such as handicap showers need repairs, but the campground is generally accommodating. "Both handicap showers need fixing," mentioned one reviewer.
Based on 134 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and users report no major issues regarding pet policies.
Based on 134 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025