Introduction / Overview
For Missouri locals seeking an authentic and serene outdoor escape, Devil's Backbone Campground, nestled within the expansive Harry S Truman State Park near Warsaw, MO, offers a truly remarkable destination. This campground provides a fantastic opportunity to immerse oneself in the natural beauty of the Ozark Plateau, known for its rolling hills, dense forests, and, most notably, the vast Harry S Truman Lake. Devil's Backbone is one of several well-regarded campgrounds within this state park, distinguished by its blend of convenient amenities and a peaceful, natural setting.
Devil's Backbone Campground is designed to cater to both RV and tent campers, providing a versatile option for various preferences. It offers a chance to disconnect from daily routines and reconnect with nature, whether through fishing, boating, or simply enjoying the tranquil lakeside environment. Visitors consistently praise the campground for its generally peaceful atmosphere and the accessibility of its facilities, even during the off-season for some amenities. While nature, including insects, is an inherent part of the outdoor experience, and occasional challenges like trail closures due to storm damage can occur, the overall consensus highlights its value as a premier camping spot for those looking to enjoy Missouri's great outdoors. Its year-round electric hookups make it a particularly appealing option for those who enjoy camping in cooler months, offering a rare opportunity to extend the camping season in comfort.
Location and Accessibility
Devil's Backbone Campground is located on an Unnamed Road, Warsaw, MO 65355, USA, within the beautiful Harry S Truman State Park. This prime location places it directly adjacent to the enormous Harry S Truman Lake, a 55,600-acre reservoir known for its 950 miles of shoreline and excellent recreational opportunities. Situated in the heart of Missouri, near the town of Warsaw, the campground is remarkably accessible for locals from various parts of the state.
Reaching Devil's Backbone Campground is straightforward, with well-maintained state park roads leading directly to the site. For those traveling from Kansas City, Springfield, or Columbia, the drive is manageable, offering a convenient escape without excessive travel time. The park’s location near Warsaw provides access to local amenities and supplies, striking a good balance between a secluded natural experience and the convenience of nearby services. The campground's setting on the Ozark Plateau means visitors will be surrounded by picturesque landscapes of rolling hills and dense forests, creating a truly immersive outdoor environment. Its position on Harry S Truman Lake further enhances its accessibility for water-based activities, with boat launches and a marina readily available within the wider state park. This combination of natural beauty, ease of access, and proximity to a major recreational lake makes Devil's Backbone Campground an ideal and practical choice for Missouri residents seeking a quality camping experience.
Services Offered
Features / Highlights
Contact Information
Address: Unnamed Road, Warsaw, MO 65355, USA (within Harry S Truman State Park)
For reservations and specific inquiries about Devil's Backbone Campground, it is best to use the official Missouri State Parks reservation system. While there isn't a direct phone number for the campground itself, general inquiries for Harry S Truman State Park can be made. Reservations for Missouri State Parks can typically be made through their online portal:
Missouri State Parks Reservation Website: icampmo.usedirect.com/MSPWeb
For additional park information, check the official Missouri State Parks website for Harry S Truman State Park, where contact details for the park office may be provided. It is always advisable to check the website or call ahead for the most current information regarding seasonal closures, trail conditions, and attendant hours.
Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals
Devil's Backbone Campground at Harry S Truman State Park is an exceptional choice for Missouri locals seeking a versatile and engaging outdoor experience right in their backyard. Its strategic location near Warsaw and its direct access to the massive Truman Lake provide unparalleled opportunities for water-based recreation, making it a dream destination for anglers, boaters, and those who simply love spending time by the water. For Missouri residents, the ease of reaching this state park means less time on the road and more time enjoying the beautiful Ozark landscape.
The campground's suitability for locals is further amplified by its year-round availability of electric hookups, a significant benefit for extending the camping season beyond the traditional warmer months. This allows Missourians to experience the changing seasons in the park, from the vibrant colors of autumn to the peaceful tranquility of a winter camp. While challenges like insects and temporary trail closures can be part of the natural environment, the consistent provision of well-maintained sites with essential amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and access to showers and restrooms (seasonal for water) ensures a comfortable stay. The presence of friendly camp hosts and nearby park resources, such as the marina for forgotten bait or boat rentals, adds to the convenience. Devil's Backbone Campground offers a true taste of Missouri's natural splendor, combining recreational opportunities with practical comforts, making it an ideal, accessible, and highly suitable retreat for any local looking to reconnect with the outdoors.
Picnics
Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Picnic tables
Public restroom
Restroom
Tent sites
Good for kids
On-site parking
Dogs allowed
My recent stay had some good points, but also a few challenges worth noting. The campsite itself offered electric and water hookups, concrete pad, picnic table, and fire ring with a grill. Firewood is available for purchase, but remember the attendant is only on duty from 3 PM to 7 PM. One significant issue we encountered was the abundance of insects....i know, you are in the forest so that is to be expected. But spiders, flies, and termites seemed to be in excess. Our tents were covered in granddaddy long legs, wolf spiders and others I didn't want to try to identfy. While sitting at camp, the amount of flies was just annoying. The grass at the campsite was quite deep, which resulted in several issues with ticks. The showers provided only extremely hot water, making them uncomfortable to use. The camp hosts were friendly and came by our site to invite my grandkids to an educational event about insects, though we did not attend. We appreciated the proximity of the marina, where we could buy bait after forgetting ours, allowing the grandkids to fish. Unfortunately, a recent storm had caused extensive damage, resulting in all hiking trails being closed during our visit. While there are swim areas nearby, the rocky beaches make water shoes a good idea.
Wonderful to find a camping area with electric open in the winter months ! Very peaceful with level parking areas, picnic tables and fire rings. No water in the off season but 30 amp electical at this campground available year around. $15.00 weekdays and $19.00 weekends during the off season months. $2.00 military and disabled discount. Check website for regular rates.
Weekday in the first week of November finds things nice and quiet here. Easy location to access. Tomorrow I will explore closer to the lake. There seem to be some hiking trails nearby.
Very nice park and very friendly rangers and employees. Convenient access to Warsaw, 10-15 minutes. Looking forward to returning here.
Got site 17 has a lot of room for playing games and it's quiet