Peoples Creek
01 review19145 Wayne Route D, Wappapello, MO 63966
Peoples Creek
$16.00 - $28.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees range from $16 for tent-only sites with electric hookups to $28 for full-service sites offering 50-amp electric, water, and sewer. Group shelter...
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Standard Site Fee$24.00
Hookup Site Fee$28.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$16.00
Group Site Fee$50.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$118.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider573-222-8234wappapellolake@usace.army.mil
About this campground
Nestled along the tranquil shores of Wappapello Lake, People's Creek Recreation Area invites you to experience the perfect blend of modern comfort and natural beauty across 57 thoughtfully designed campsites. Whether you choose the lower section's 38 sites with 50-amp electric and water hookups for a closer connection to nature, or opt for the upper section's 19 premium full-service sites complete with 50-amp electric, water, and sewer connections, you'll find yourself immersed in the peaceful rhythm of lakeside living.
Peoples Creek offers various camping options to suit different preferences. The campground features 38 waterfront campsites with 50-amp electric and water hookups, 19 full-service campsites with water, electric, and sewer hookups, and walk-in tent sites.
Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape shaped by history and purpose. Since its completion in 1941, Wappapello Lake has stood as a testament to human ingenuity and environmental stewardship, protecting the St. Francis River valley from devastating floods while nurturing generations of local farming communities. Today, this historic reservoir continues to sustain both the region's agricultural heritage and its thriving recreational culture.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle embrace of moderate Ozark weather, where comfortable temperatures create ideal conditions for outdoor adventures. During peak camping season, visitors enjoy crisp mornings around 33°F that warm to pleasant afternoons near 47°F, all under the region's characteristically dry, refreshing air that makes every outdoor activity more enjoyable.
ElevationThe campground's natural contours follow the gentle rise and fall of the Ozark foothills, creating varied vantage points throughout the property for memorable sunrise and sunset views over the lake.
Natural Features and SceneryDiscover your own slice of paradise where the southeastern Ozark foothills meet the sparkling waters of 8,400-acre Wappapello Lake. Towering shade trees frame each campsite, their canopy providing natural relief from summer sun while opening to reveal stunning lake vistas. The lightly wooded shoreline creates an ever-changing tapestry of colors and textures, from spring's vibrant greens to autumn's fiery display, all reflected in the lake's mirror-like surface.
Geological RegionJourney to where ancient geology meets modern recreation in Missouri's southeastern Ozark foothills. This unique landscape, carved by millennia of natural forces, cradles the expansive 8,400-acre Wappapello Lake within gently rolling hills adorned with native hardwood forests. The region's distinctive topography creates intimate coves and scenic overlooks, while the weathered rock formations tell the story of an ancient mountain range transformed into today's welcoming recreational wonderland.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible amenities include fishing piers, boat ramps, picnic shelters, showers, flush toilets, and campsites.
Sites SizeCampsites are equipped to accommodate various needs, with 19 full-service sites and 38 waterfront sites offering ample space.
Sites PrivacyNo explicit information about site privacy is provided.
Total Campsites57 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose lower section campsites for waterfront views and convenient access to the lake. Full-service sites in the upper section provide enhanced amenities.
Best CampsitesWaterfront campsites in the lower section are considered highly desirable for their scenic views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum of 14 nights per visit, within rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact guest limits are not specified but standard regulations typically permit 8 guests per site.
Groups
Group camping sites are not mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into two sections: lower and upper, with waterfront sites in the lower section and full-service sites in the upper section.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen April 1, 2025, to September 2, 2025, during peak season. Closed from September 2, 2025, to May 6, 2026.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at Recreation.gov or through their contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not explicitly mentioned, but reservable sites are available with advance booking windows of up to six months.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled up to one day before check-in for campsites, incurring a $10 cancellation fee and forfeiting the first night's fee. Late cancellations or changes on-site may carry penalties.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Peoples Creek Recreation Area offers a wide range of activities including fishing, swimming, kayaking, hiking, biking, and picnicking. The lake is home to game fish such as largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, white bass, and channel catfish, making it a popular destination for anglers. The nine trail systems around the lake cater to hikers and bikers of varying skill levels. Kayaking and other water activities are well-supported by accessible boat ramps and lake access.
Hiking
Visitors can enjoy hiking on one of Wappapello Lake's nine trail systems, which provide options suitable for all ages and skill levels. The nearby Shell Lake Archery Trail offers a unique option for archery enthusiasts.Fishing
Fishing is popular year-round at the lake, which hosts sought-after species like largemouth bass, crappie, and channel catfish.Swimming
A designated swimming beach is available as part of the day-use area, suitable for families and groups.Biking
Biking trails are available around the lake, catering to riders with varying experience levels.Boating
Boating activities are supported by a two-lane boat ramp with a courtesy dock and a large sandy mooring area for visitors.Beach activities
Beach activities are supported by the swimming beach area, which provides sandy access and lake views.Winter Activities
Winter activities such as hunting and fishing are popular year-round.Water Sports
Water sports including kayaking and swimming are well-supported by accessible facilities and lake access.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfire policies are standard and campers are encouraged to buy local firewood to prevent tree-killing pests.
- Quiet hours are Standard quiet hours apply, but details are not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsHigh water events may impact campsite availability due to the campground's proximity to Wappapello Lake. Safety advisories are issued on lake levels.
Active alertsSome campsites or amenities may be unavailable during high water events. Contact the Lake Management Office for updates.
Weather forecast
60
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 86%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are accessible in Poplar Bluff, which is approximately 20 miles away. The Lake Management Office can provide real-time updates on lake levels at (573) 222-8562 or via their hotline at (573) 222-8139.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 1, 2025, to September 2, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not specifically mentioned in the source materials.
Proximity to water featuresSituated adjacent to Wappapello Lake, offering direct water access for boating, fishing, and swimming.
Common complaintsUser reviews highlight issues with interactions involving park attendants, describing confrontational behavior and poor treatment.
HostHost information is not explicitly provided.
Campground Map
19145 Wayne Route D, Wappapello, MO 63966
Driving directionsFrom St. Louis: Take I-55 South to Highway 67, head south to D Highway. Take D Highway South for about 15 miles and look for signs. From Poplar Bluff: Take Hwy 60 East to Highway T. Then take Highway T North and look for signs.
Road access is via paved highways, including Interstate 55, Highway 67, and Highway T, which provide smooth accessibility year-round. Seasonal closures are not mentioned.Nearby places
Poplar Bluff (approx. 20 miles), Mingo Wildlife Refuge (11.5 miles), Lake Wappapello State Park (18.2 miles), Sam A. Baker State Park (33.4 miles)
Nearby supplies
Supplies are available in Poplar Bluff, which includes groceries, fuel, and camping essentials. Additional facilities are located adjacent to the lake.
Camper Reviews
0.0
1 reviews
Peoples Creek has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews generally highlight the positive aspects of the campground, such as the waterfront access and variety of amenities. However, there are instances of negative interactions with staff, which have been reported as upsetting and unprofessional.
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers appreciate the accessibility features, the waterfront campsites, and the wide range of activities available, including fishing and boating.
Based on 1 reviewsCommon Concerns
One review highlights an unpleasant encounter with a park attendant, who was described as rude and argumentative. This incident led to emotional distress for the camper and their child.
Based on 1 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors might find it helpful to check signage and rules at the campground due to strict enforcement, as mentioned in a user review.
Based on 1 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground appears to be most popular during peak seasons, when activities like swimming and boating are fully accessible. No specific trends by season are heavily discussed.
Based on 1 reviewsCamper Quotes
"I camped so much here as a kid and I took my kid to ride his bike around and look at the water on my day off." "Peoples Creek offers a great variety of waterfront campsites and a range of...
Based on 1 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
The lower section offers 38 waterfront campsites, which are highlighted for their scenic location and accessibility.
Based on 1 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features such as fishing piers and boat ramps receive positive feedback in authoritative descriptions. No specific user reviews on accessibility were noted.
Based on 1 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific mentions of pet-related facilities or policies are included in the source materials.
Based on 1 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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