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Kelsey Short Youth Group Camp Area #3 Introduce

For youth organizations, scout troops, and large family gatherings across Missouri, finding the perfect outdoor retreat can make all the difference. Look no further than Kelsey Short Youth Group Camp Area #3, a cherished destination located at 17980 Collins Rd, Smithville, MO 64089, USA. This dedicated group campground offers a serene and functional environment, ideal for fostering camaraderie, outdoor education, and unforgettable memories.

Kelsey Short Youth Group Camp Area #3 is known for its peaceful ambiance and the consistent positive experiences reported by its visitors. It's more than just a camping spot; it’s a canvas for adventure, learning, and bonding, specifically designed to accommodate the unique needs of larger groups. With recent improvements enhancing its value, this campsite stands ready to host your next successful outdoor event in the heart of Missouri. Whether it's a Cub Scout campout or a youth retreat, this area provides the space and setting for a truly enriching experience amidst nature.

Location and Accessibility

Kelsey Short Youth Group Camp Area #3 is conveniently situated at 17980 Collins Rd, Smithville, MO 64089, USA, placing it within the scenic and activity-rich Smithville Lake area. This location offers a perfect balance of natural seclusion for group activities and easy access to the broader recreational opportunities that Smithville Lake provides.

Accessing the campground is straightforward, ensuring a hassle-free arrival for groups of all sizes. From the main roads around Smithville Lake, Collins Road will lead you directly to the Kelsey Short Youth Group Camp Area. Area #3, like its counterparts, is clearly marked, making it easy to identify upon arrival. Its position within the larger Kelsey Short Youth Camp ensures it benefits from the overall management and natural beauty of the area, while still offering a distinct, private space for your group. The ease of access from various parts of Missouri makes it a highly desirable option for local organizations planning a quick weekend trip or a longer retreat.

Services Offered

  • Dedicated Group Camping Space: Kelsey Short Youth Group Camp Area #3 provides a large, designated area specifically designed to accommodate multiple tents and group activities, ensuring ample space for all participants.

  • Shelter with Picnic Tables: Each group area, including Area #3, is equipped with a sturdy shelter. This particular shelter is located approximately 100 yards from the parking area and comes with six picnic tables, offering a covered space for dining, planning sessions, or shelter during inclement weather.

  • Ground Grills: For outdoor cooking, two ground grills are provided at each site, allowing groups to prepare meals over an open fire, enhancing the traditional camping experience.

  • Potable Water Access: A conveniently located water faucet near the shelter provides access to good, clean drinking water for all campers.

  • Pit Latrines: Essential and well-maintained pit latrines are situated close to the camping area, providing necessary restroom facilities.

  • Trash Barrels: To help maintain the cleanliness of the site, trash barrels are readily available for easy waste disposal.

  • Ample Parking: Area #3 features a rocked parking area with space for approximately 25 cars, ensuring sufficient parking for chaperones, leaders, and group vehicles.

  • Recent Improvements: As noted by visitors, recent improvements have been made to the site, adding "great value" and enhancing the overall camping experience for groups.

Features and Highlights

  • Peaceful and Serene Environment: A consistent highlight mentioned by visitors is the peaceful nature of the site. This tranquil atmosphere is ideal for fostering focus, relaxation, and connection with nature, which is crucial for successful youth programs and group retreats.

  • Suitable for Cub Scout Campouts: As highlighted by a satisfied customer, Kelsey Short Youth Group Camp Area #3 is a "cute and fun place for a Cub Scout campout," indicating its suitability for younger groups and structured outdoor activities.

  • Well-Maintained Grounds: The site is consistently kept clean and well-mowed, reflecting the dedication of the staff and ensuring a pleasant and safe environment for all campers.

  • Dedicated for Youth Groups: This campground is specifically designed and designated for youth organizations, ensuring that the facilities, rules, and general atmosphere are geared towards supporting the needs and activities of young people.

  • Proximity to Smithville Lake: Although not directly on the immediate shoreline like some areas, its location within the larger Kelsey Short Youth Camp area means convenient access to the extensive recreational opportunities of Smithville Lake, including fishing, non-motorized boating, and exploring the shoreline.

  • Access to Smithville Lake Nature Center: The nearby Smithville Lake Nature Center, also within the Kelsey Short Youth Camp area, offers an excellent educational resource for groups to learn about local ecology, wildlife, and conservation through exhibits and potential programs.

  • Supportive Staff: Visitors have praised the "great staff," indicating that the management team is helpful, responsive, and dedicated to ensuring a positive experience for all groups.

Contact Information

While Kelsey Short Youth Group Camp Area #3 does not have a direct, individual phone number for the specific site, all reservations and inquiries are managed through the Clay County Parks and Recreation Department, which oversees the entire Smithville Lake area and its camping facilities.

Address: 17980 Collins Rd, Smithville, MO 64089, USA

For reservations, availability, or any questions regarding Kelsey Short Youth Group Camp Area #3, please contact the Clay County Parks and Recreation Department:

Parks & Recreation Phone: 816-407-3400 (This is the primary contact for camping and shelter reservations at Smithville Lake).

It is highly recommended to visit the official Clay County Parks and Recreation website for the most up-to-date information, detailed reservation procedures, and any specific rules or regulations that apply to group camping at Kelsey Short Youth Group Camp Area #3.

Conclusion: Why Kelsey Short Youth Group Camp Area #3 is Suitable for Locals

For organizations and families throughout Missouri seeking an enriching and accessible outdoor experience for youth, Kelsey Short Youth Group Camp Area #3 in Smithville truly stands out. Its suitability for locals is multifaceted, primarily rooted in its dedicated design for group use and its prime location.

The site offers a "peaceful" and well-maintained environment, as attested by consistent positive feedback, making it an ideal setting for educational programs, team-building exercises, and spiritual retreats. For groups like Cub Scouts, as highlighted by a local review, it provides a "cute and fun" atmosphere that is both safe and engaging for younger participants. The recent improvements signify an ongoing commitment to enhancing the value and experience for visitors, ensuring that the facilities remain top-notch.

Furthermore, its location at 17980 Collins Rd within the broader Smithville Lake area means easy access for groups coming from Kansas City and surrounding Missouri communities. This minimizes travel time, allowing more precious moments to be spent on activities and less on logistics. The availability of essential amenities like shelters, picnic tables, ground grills, and potable water simplifies planning for group leaders, enabling them to focus on the program rather than basic necessities.

Kelsey Short Youth Group Camp Area #3 provides a vital local resource for fostering a connection with nature, promoting teamwork, and building lasting memories for Missouri's youth. It’s a place where young minds can explore, learn, and grow in a supportive and beautiful outdoor setting, making it an excellent choice for any local group seeking a memorable and convenient camping adventure.

Location

MissouriClay CountySmithville

Customer Reviews

5.0
3 reviews
d
diana hilton
Jun 15, 2025

Our group rents this every June. We love it here. The site is peaceful, and the staff is great. The recent improvements have added great value.

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Courtney Slater
Sep 17, 2023

Such a cute and fun place for a Cub scout campout.

R
Randy McCleary
Sep 25, 2022

Great campground location for scouts.