Riverbanks Park and Camp

Hello, fellow Missourians! Are you looking to reconnect with nature, enjoy some fresh air, and perhaps even delve into a bit of our state's rich history? When you picture a "campground," do you imagine a peaceful setting where you can truly unwind, whether in your RV or under the stars in a tent? If so, then it's time to explore Riverbanks Park and Camp, a key part of the beautiful Lewis and Clark State Park in Lewis Township, Missouri. This isn't just a place to pitch your tent or park your RV; it's a gateway to outdoor adventure and relaxation, steeped in the legacy of America's most famous explorers.

A "campground" is a designated area for temporary outdoor lodging, typically within a natural setting like a state park. Riverbanks Park and Camp, specifically referring to the camping facilities within Lewis and Clark State Park, perfectly embodies this definition. As a state park campground, it provides a structured environment for campers, offering a range of amenities designed for both convenience and enjoyment of the outdoors. Unlike primitive camping, state park campgrounds often feature essential services such as electric hookups, potable water, and modern restrooms with showers, ensuring a more comfortable stay. At Lewis and Clark State Park, the campground is set within a 189-acre green space on the south shore of the 365-acre Lewis and Clark Lake (also known as Sugar Lake). This setting allows visitors to experience the tranquility of nature while having access to recreational activities like boating, fishing, and hiking, all within a well-maintained and historic landscape. It's a place where the spirit of exploration meets modern-day relaxation, offering a versatile outdoor experience for all types of campers in Missouri.

Riverbanks Park and Camp is located within Lewis and Clark State Park, found in Lewis Township, MO 64473, USA. More precisely, it's situated near Rushville, in Buchanan County, in the northwestern corner of Missouri. This location is significant due to its historical ties to the famous Lewis and Clark Expedition, which is believed to have discovered the lake here.

For Missouri locals, the campground offers excellent accessibility. It's conveniently located not far from major highways, making it a manageable drive from various parts of the state. From Kansas City, it's approximately an hour's drive north, making it an ideal destination for a weekend escape without a long journey. From St. Joseph, it's an even closer trip, just a short drive away. While providing a serene natural environment, the park's proximity to towns like Rushville and St. Joseph means that campers have easy access to supplies, gas, and other necessities should they need to resupply. The paved roads leading to and within the campground ensure easy navigation for RVs of all sizes. This blend of natural seclusion and convenient access makes Riverbanks Park and Camp a highly suitable and stress-free option for Missourians looking to enjoy the outdoors close to home.

Riverbanks Park and Camp, as part of Lewis and Clark State Park, provides a comprehensive set of services designed to make your camping experience enjoyable and comfortable:

• Campsites: The campground features 54 campsites in total, offering both basic sites and those with electrical hookups (47 electric sites and 7 basic sites). These sites are spacious, level, and well-maintained, accommodating a range of vehicles from tents to large RVs. Both pull-through and back-in driveways are available, with lengths ranging from 26 to 96 feet. Each campsite typically includes a barbecue grill and a picnic table.
• Modern Restrooms and Showers: The campground provides modern restroom facilities and showers with hot water, ensuring comfort and convenience for all campers. These facilities are noted for being clean and well-maintained.
• Dump Station: A trailer dump station is available for RVers, located near the exit of the campground, along with trash dumpsters for waste disposal.
• Potable Water Access: During the on-season (April 15 - October 31), water is available at individual sites with hookups. During the off-season (November 1 - April 14), potable water can be obtained from a frost-free spigot located at the dump station near the entrance.
• Playground: A playground is centrally located within the campground, making it a great feature for families with children.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: Pets are allowed at campsites, provided they are supervised and kept on leashes no longer than 10 feet at all times. Pet waste bags are often available.
• Reservation System: Campsites are 100% reservable from April 1 to October 31, and reservations can be made online or by phone. Walk-up registration may be available if sites are not reserved.
• On-Season and Off-Season Operations: Full services, including showers and water at individual sites, are available during the main season. Limited services are available during the off-season.
• Picnic Areas: Numerous picnic tables with grills are scattered along Lewis and Clark Lake for day-use visitors or campers looking for a change of scenery. A large picnic shelter is also available for groups.

Riverbanks Park and Camp within Lewis and Clark State Park offers a multitude of features and highlights that make it a compelling destination for Missourians:

• Historic Significance: The park itself is steeped in history, named after the famous explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, who are believed to have discovered the lake (then named Gosling Lake) during their expedition. This adds a unique educational and cultural dimension to your visit.
• Beautiful Lake Access: The campground is located directly on the south shore of the 365-acre Lewis and Clark Lake (Sugar Lake), offering extensive opportunities for water activities such as boating (no motor size restrictions), swimming at the beach, fishing (for crappie, bluegill, bass, catfish, and more), canoeing, and kayaking.
• Spacious and Level Campsites: Reviews consistently praise the "roomy" and "level" campsites, which are easy to maneuver, even for large RVs. Many sites offer shade from the mature trees, enhancing comfort during warmer months.
• Clean and Modern Facilities: Campers frequently highlight the "clean facilities," including well-maintained bathrooms with air conditioning (a rare and appreciated amenity) and hot showers, ensuring a comfortable and hygienic stay.
• Family-Friendly Environment: The central playground, combined with ample open space and paved roads perfect for biking or walking, makes it an excellent choice for families with children, allowing kids to play safely and make new friends.
• Abundant Wildlife: The 189-acre park is home to a variety of wildlife, including white-tail deer, foxes, coyotes, and hundreds of species of birds and waterfowl, offering great opportunities for nature observation.
• Hiking and Biking Trails: A 1.3-mile trail within the park provides a fine place for leisurely hikes and bicycling, allowing campers to explore the natural surroundings.
• Friendly Park Rangers: Reviewers have noted the presence of park rangers who are "always cleaning or doing rounds to make sure everything is okay," contributing to a sense of safety and good management.
• Peaceful Atmosphere: Despite its amenities, the campground is often described as "quiet" and "perfect quite campground," making it ideal for those seeking relaxation and tranquility.

For reservations, inquiries, or to learn more about Riverbanks Park and Camp at Lewis and Clark State Park, you can use the following contact details:

Address: Lewis Township, MO 64473, USA

Phone: (816) 579-5564 (Lewis and Clark State Park Office)

Reservations can typically be made online through the Missouri State Parks website or by calling their central reservation number (often 877-422-6766). It's always best to check the official Missouri State Parks website for the most current information and reservation details.

For Missouri residents, Riverbanks Park and Camp within Lewis and Clark State Park offers an exceptionally suitable and appealing destination for a variety of outdoor activities and camping experiences. Its primary suitability stems from its unique combination of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and historical significance, all conveniently located within our home state. For families, the park's central playground and safe, paved roads for biking provide an ideal environment for children to play and explore, while parents can relax knowing amenities like modern restrooms with air conditioning are nearby.

The highlight for many locals will be the direct access to Lewis and Clark Lake (Sugar Lake). Whether you're an avid angler hoping to reel in some of the lake's diverse fish species, a boater looking to enjoy the open water, or simply someone who enjoys relaxing by the shore, the lake offers something for everyone. This immediate access to water recreation means Missourians don't have to travel far to enjoy quality time on the water. Furthermore, the park's historical connection to the Lewis and Clark Expedition adds an educational layer to the visit, allowing families to learn about a pivotal moment in American history right in their own backyard.

The variety of campsites, including both basic and electric options with spacious, level pads, caters to diverse camping styles, from traditional tent camping to large RV setups. The consistently positive reviews regarding the cleanliness of facilities and the helpfulness of park staff ensure a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere. For Missourians seeking a tranquil escape, a fun family outing, or a historical adventure that combines the comforts of a well-maintained campground with the natural beauty and recreational richness of a state park, Riverbanks Park and Camp at Lewis and Clark State Park truly is an ideal choice for your next Missouri outdoor experience.