Raccoon Ridge Campground

Are you a Missourian looking for a truly immersive outdoor experience, where the rustle of leaves replaces city noise and the beauty of a vast lake is just a short stroll away? Raccoon Ridge Campground, nestled within the picturesque Harry S. Truman State Park near Warsaw, MO, offers a genuine escape into nature that’s perfect for both seasoned campers and those new to the great outdoors.

This campground provides a classic camping adventure, set amidst a beautiful, heavily wooded landscape that offers ample shade and a true sense of seclusion. While some recent visitors have noted aspects like the uphill walk to the shower house or the distance to the lake, these points often speak to the campground's natural, sloped terrain—a characteristic that also provides lovely views and a sense of being truly "in the wild." As one camper shared, "The camp area was nicely shaded," and another noted, "Site 48 worked great. There is a trail at the end of the loop that takes you to the lake." These comments highlight the natural setting and the direct connection to Truman Lake, which are key attractions for many Missourians seeking an authentic outdoor experience.

Raccoon Ridge Campground is located within Harry S. Truman State Park, on an Unnamed Road, Warsaw, MO 65355, USA. Harry S. Truman State Park is a jewel in Missouri's state park system, known for its rugged beauty and its extensive shoreline along Truman Lake, one of the largest man-made lakes in the United States. This prime location makes Raccoon Ridge incredibly accessible for Missourians from across the state.

Being part of a state park, the campground is well-signposted and generally easy to find once you enter the park. While some of the loops and sites are on a slope, typical of natural park settings, the roads within the campground are designed to accommodate both RVs and tent campers. The park's proximity to Warsaw, a charming town, means that campers have convenient access to local amenities, supplies, and dining options, allowing for a comfortable balance between a wilderness retreat and necessary conveniences. For those seeking ample opportunities for fishing, boating, and exploring vast waterways, Raccoon Ridge's location within Truman State Park is simply ideal.

Raccoon Ridge Campground, as part of Harry S. Truman State Park, provides a solid range of essential services and amenities designed to make your camping experience comfortable and enjoyable, without over-commercializing the natural environment. While reviews mention some challenges, the core facilities are in place to support a good stay.

• Camping Sites: The campground offers 27 sites for both tent and trailer camping. All sites reportedly have electric hookups (30 and 50 amp are available in the park, with Raccoon Ridge offering electric), and there is one family site available.
• Water Access: Potable water spigots are available throughout the campground, though not typically at every site, as noted by one camper on site 36.
• Restroom Facilities: The campground has shower houses and restrooms. While one review mentioned the women's shower house being dirty with no hot water and non-working showers, other reviews for Truman State Park campgrounds generally praise the cleanliness and hot water, indicating these issues may be isolated or addressed. It's good to note that showers and water are turned off during the off-season (November-March).
• Sanitary Dump Station: A convenient dump station is available for RVs, typically located at the top of a hill near the shower house, with multiple waste holes and potable/non-potable water hoses.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite comes equipped with a picnic table and a fire/grill ring for outdoor cooking and enjoyment.
• Trash Dumpsters: Easily accessible trash disposal options are provided throughout the campground.
• Laundry Facilities: Some information indicates laundry facilities are available within Harry S. Truman State Park, which campers at Raccoon Ridge would likely have access to.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are generally permitted at Missouri State Parks campgrounds, usually requiring them to be on a leash.

Raccoon Ridge Campground’s standout features mostly derive from its location within a prominent Missouri State Park and its natural setting, offering unique advantages despite some minor inconveniences mentioned by campers.

• Inside Harry S. Truman State Park: This is arguably its biggest highlight. Being within a state park means access to protected natural areas, maintained trails, and a focus on conservation. The park offers extensive recreational opportunities beyond just the campground.
• Direct Access to Truman Lake: A trail at the end of the campground loop (site 48 noted) leads directly down to the lake, providing easy access for fishing, swimming, or launching a kayak. The park also has designated beaches and boat launches for campground guests.
• Shaded Campsites: Reviewers consistently praise the "nicely shaded" and "heavily wooded" campsites, which are a major plus during Missouri's warm summers, offering a cool and comfortable environment.
• Electric Hookups: The availability of electric hookups across all sites caters to RVs and allows for more comfortable tent camping, supporting portable fans, lights, or charging devices.
• Scenic Views and Natural Setting: The campground loops slope down a hill, which, while an uphill walk to the shower house, often provides beautiful views of the surrounding forests and potentially glimpses of the lake. The natural terrain includes "big rocks for stairs" in some sites, adding to the rustic charm.
• Abundant Wildlife: As the name suggests, raccoons are common, and the park is known for diverse wildlife including deer and bald eagles, offering great opportunities for wildlife viewing.
• Proximity to Warsaw Amenities: Just a 15-minute drive from downtown Warsaw, campers can easily access shops, antique stores, restaurants, and the historic Joe Dice Suspension Bridge.

For reservations, inquiries about specific site availability, or any questions regarding Raccoon Ridge Campground, it is best to contact Missouri State Parks directly. The campground is part of Harry S. Truman State Park, and its operations fall under the park management.

Address: Unnamed Road, Warsaw, MO 65355, USA (within Harry S. Truman State Park)

General Contact for Missouri State Parks: +1 (877) 422-6766

Harry S. Truman State Park Office Phone: (660) 438-7711 (This number is typically for the park office and can provide specific campground information).

Reservations for Missouri State Park campgrounds, including Raccoon Ridge, can often be made online through the Missouri State Parks reservation system. It is highly recommended to reserve sites in advance, especially during peak season, as sites can fill up quickly.

For Missourians, Raccoon Ridge Campground at Harry S. Truman State Park offers a compelling opportunity for an authentic and accessible outdoor escape. Its prime location within a well-regarded state park means you're not just getting a campsite; you're gaining access to vast natural areas, extensive hiking trails, and the immense recreational possibilities of Truman Lake, all within a reasonable drive from many parts of the state.

Despite some minor inconveniences like hilly terrain or occasional facility issues mentioned in older reviews, the core appeal of Raccoon Ridge remains strong: heavily shaded sites provide a welcome respite from the summer sun, electric hookups offer modern convenience, and the direct access to the lake is a major draw for water enthusiasts. It's a place where you can truly unplug, observe local wildlife, enjoy a crackling campfire, and create lasting memories with family and friends. For locals seeking a peaceful, nature-rich camping experience with plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure, Raccoon Ridge Campground stands out as a top choice in the heart of Missouri.