Camp Childress

Camp Childress: The Premier Group Retreat and Adventure Destination in Southwest Missouri

Nestled within 175 acres of lush, rolling woodland in Southwest Missouri, Camp Childress (formerly the Frank Childress Scout Reservation) is a treasured local resource that has transitioned into a premier, year-round camping and retreat center for the entire community. Situated just southeast of Joplin, this expansive property offers far more than a typical campground; it’s a fully-equipped facility designed to host church groups, family reunions, youth organizations, and even corporate retreats. While steeped in a rich history—evident in the whimsical Jungle Book-themed campsites and the overall decor—the camp is now operated by a dedicated not-for-profit to ensure the property remains an accessible and affordable outdoor haven for Missourians.

Camp Childress is your perfect base for immersive outdoor adventure and group activities. From its expansive campgrounds to its climate-controlled lodge and dining hall, the camp successfully merges rustic natural beauty with essential modern comforts. Whether you're planning a massive church youth camp, a team-building weekend, or just want a quiet, unique family getaway, this facility provides the versatile spaces and exciting amenities to make lasting memories. Visitors consistently praise the thoughtful layout, the array of unique features, and the peaceful, well-maintained environment that feels miles away from the city, yet remains easily accessible.

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Location and Accessibility

Camp Childress is ideally positioned in a serene setting just outside of Joplin, Missouri, making it highly accessible for residents throughout the Missouri Ozarks region and beyond. Its location near major state routes ensures a simple journey to the camp's gates.

The camp is found at the intersection of I-49 and Missouri Highway V, providing convenient access right off the interstate for groups arriving from various parts of Missouri, including Springfield and Kansas City.

Official Address:

5250 Jamboree Ln, Joplin, MO 64804, USA

The grounds themselves cover over 175 wooded acres, offering extensive hiking trails and secluded camping areas, all while maintaining excellent road connections. The transition from the highway to the peaceful, nature-filled environment of the camp is quick and straightforward, minimizing travel stress for large groups.

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Services Offered

Camp Childress provides a broad spectrum of services and rental packages to accommodate groups ranging from small family gatherings to large multi-day retreats, making it one of the most versatile event and camping venues in the region.

• Campsites and RV Hookups: Numerous campsites are available for tent camping, and there are a limited number of sites offering RV hookups for a more comfortable stay.
• Group Lodging: Options include the Cedar Lodge (offering bunk beds, separate bathrooms, showers, and a combined kitchenette) and the unique Tipi Village for a one-of-a-kind experience.
• Climate-Controlled Dining Hall: A large, air-conditioned dining hall with a spacious commercial kitchen capable of seating up to 250 people, a crucial amenity for summer camps and large catered events.
• Restroom and Shower Facilities: Modern, clean shower houses are available, including those located near the pool area for convenience.
• Group Rental Facilities: Several outdoor and covered areas, such as the Max Myers Pavilion, the Nature Center Pavilion, and the Tipi MODOC Pavilion, are available for daily rental, perfect for picnics and day events.
• Pool Rental: The camp's sparkling swimming pool can be rented hourly or for a full day, an ideal feature for summer youth groups and parties (Note: groups must adhere to safety guidelines as lifeguards are not provided by the camp).
• Camp-Wide Rentals: Options are available to rent large sections of the camp or the Entire Camp, which includes nearly all amenities, making planning straightforward for the largest organizations.
• Group-Friendly Environment: The camp is explicitly available for church camps, sports camps, youth groups, fraternal organizations, and businesses, demonstrating a welcoming environment for all community uses.

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Features / Highlights

The history and creative design of Camp Childress give it a distinct personality that enhances the camping experience, especially for children and youth.

• Themed Recreational Attractions: The camp boasts whimsical, permanent structures that serve as activity centers and points of interest, including a classic Pirate Ship, an Old West Fort (Fort Winters), and a unique Tipi Village.
• Trout Pond and Fishing: A well-stocked, catch-and-release trout pond is tucked away on the property, providing a serene spot for fishing enthusiasts, often found down a scenic hiking trail near what local users describe as "castle-like ruins."
• Archery and Shooting Ranges: The property is equipped with dedicated ranges, which can be reserved and utilized by groups that provide their own certified range safety officers or supervisors.
• Extensive Hiking and Biking Trails: The 175 acres are crisscrossed with numerous trails, perfect for hiking, running, and mountain biking, allowing users to fully explore the lush Missouri woods and native plant life.
• Air-Conditioned Lodge and Mess Hall: The presence of climate-controlled facilities, including the main Dining Hall and the Cedar Lodge, is a major highlight, providing a comfortable respite and meeting space, especially during the hot Missouri summers.
• Hammock Village: A unique and relaxing feature offering a communal space for rest, with multiple hammocks gathered under one roof.

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Contact Information

For reservations, current pricing, or specific inquiries regarding the facility's availability for your group event, please use the following contact details:

Address: 5250 Jamboree Ln, Joplin, MO 64804, USA

Phone: (417) 385-2288

Mobile Phone (listed for general contact): +1 417-385-2288

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What is Worth Choosing Camp Childress

For local Missouri organizations and large families, choosing Camp Childress is a decision to prioritize scale, versatility, and historical charm over a simple, rustic getaway. What makes this venue worth choosing is its unique capacity and infrastructure to handle large group events—the commercial kitchen, the 250-seat air-conditioned dining hall, and the multiple pavilions are professional-grade features not found in typical public campgrounds.

Beyond the practical necessities, the property delivers an unparalleled sense of adventurous fun. The legacy of its Scout history means the camp is packed with delightful, unexpected features like the Pirate Ship, the Fort, the Tipi Village, and the trout pond, which turn a simple retreat into an immersive, memorable experience for children and adults alike. It is a venue where you can conduct serious team-building or faith-based training, and then immediately transition into playful, wholesome recreation. As a dedicated not-for-profit committed to keeping the outdoors accessible, Camp Childress provides an affordable, well-maintained, and richly featured environment that is perfectly suited for Missourians looking to foster community, leadership, and lasting outdoor memories.