Riverbanks Park and Camp

For Missourians seeking an authentic outdoor adventure deeply rooted in the state's natural beauty and historical significance, Riverbanks Park and Camp in Lewis Township offers an inviting escape. Nestled along the shores of Lewis and Clark Lake, a picturesque remnant of the mighty Missouri River, this park and campground provides a unique blend of recreational opportunities and historical intrigue. It's a place where the echoes of the Lewis and Clark Expedition can almost be heard, inspiring a sense of exploration and connection to the land. Whether you're a seasoned camper with a large RV, a family looking for a comfortable cabin, or a minimalist seeking a primitive tent site, Riverbanks Park and Camp is designed to cater to a diverse range of outdoor preferences. The commitment to providing both modern conveniences and untouched natural spaces ensures that every visitor can tailor their experience to their ideal adventure, making it a truly versatile destination for Missouri locals.

Riverbanks Park and Camp is strategically located in Lewis Township, MO 64473, USA. This places it directly within Lewis and Clark State Park, a dedicated space commemorating the historic journey of Meriwether Lewis and William Clark. The park's prime location along Lewis and Clark Lake, a beautiful oxbow lake formed by the Missouri River, offers stunning waterfront views and direct access to various water-based activities. Accessibility to Riverbanks Park and Camp is generally straightforward via well-maintained state and local roads leading into Lewis and Clark State Park. While specific highway numbers may vary depending on your starting point in Missouri, the park is well-marked and easily navigable for vehicles of all sizes, including large RVs. Its location west of Kansas City makes it a convenient drive for many residents in the western and central parts of the state, offering a relatively short journey to a genuine outdoor retreat. The natural setting, combined with good road access, ensures that your focus remains on enjoying the park's offerings rather than enduring a challenging commute.

Services Offered:

• Modern Campsites: A substantial number of modern campsites (e.g., 136 sites) equipped with electricity and water hookups, providing comfort for RVs and trailers.
• Modern Group Campsites: Dedicated modern group campsites with electricity, water, and the flexibility to accommodate multiple units on one site, ideal for larger gatherings.
• Primitive Campsites: Designated primitive campsites for a more rustic, back-to-basics tent camping experience.
• Camping Cabins: Comfortable camping cabins available seasonally (typically May 19-September 30), sleeping up to five people with lights, heat, air conditioning, and mini-fridges. Cabins have outdoor grills and picnic tables but require guests to use nearby comfort stations for restrooms/showers.
• Comfort Stations: Modern restroom and shower facilities strategically located throughout the campground for guest convenience.
• Picnic Areas and Shelters: Numerous picnic areas with tables and grills, along with reservable picnic shelters (some with electricity) for day-use gatherings.
• Boat Ramp and Courtesy Dock: Easy access to Lewis and Clark Lake for boating and fishing enthusiasts.
• Sewage Dump Station: A convenient dump station for RVs, including a frost-free spigot for potable water during the off-season.
• Playground: A dedicated playground area for children.
• Hiking and Bicycling Trails: Maintained trails for various outdoor activities.
• Historical Buildings and Displays: Opportunities to explore historical structures and interpretive displays related to the Lewis and Clark Expedition.
• Rental Facilities: Options to rent various equipment (e.g., canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, kicksleds seasonally).
• Meeting and Event Spaces: Facilities like Akra Hall and the Pioneer Heritage Center Meeting Room for larger events and gatherings.

Features / Highlights:

• Rich Historical Significance: The park is dedicated to explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, offering a unique opportunity to connect with a pivotal piece of American history. Interpretive displays and a full-sized reproduction of their keelboat "Best Friend" provide educational insights.
• Lewis and Clark Lake Access: Direct access to a beautiful 250-acre oxbow lake, a remnant of the Missouri River, provides ample opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. No restrictions are placed on motor size.
• Diverse Camping Options: Whether you prefer the comfort of electricity and water hookups for your RV, a rustic tent site, or a cozy camping cabin, Riverbanks Park and Camp offers a variety of choices to suit different camping styles.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: With a playground, picnic areas, and clear water for swimming, the park is well-suited for families looking for an enjoyable outdoor experience.
• Wildlife and Nature Observation: The park's wetlands and prairie habitats support diverse wildlife, including various bird species (like the Pileated Woodpecker and Western Wood-Pewee), deer, rabbits, and squirrels, offering excellent birdwatching and nature photography opportunities.
• Open Year-Round Camping: The campground at Lewis and Clark State Park (within which Riverbanks Park and Camp is located) is open throughout the year, with reservable sites available April 15 through October 31, allowing for seasonal flexibility.
• Well-Maintained Facilities: Reviewers often note the level and roomy campsites, ease of maneuvering large RVs, and the availability of modern restrooms and showers, contributing to a comfortable stay.
• Scenic Views and Tranquility: Visitors can enjoy a relaxing afternoon in the shade of old oak trees, explore trails with diverse plants and footbridges over streams, and appreciate the peaceful atmosphere.

Contact Information:

Address: Lewis Township, MO 64473, USA (within Lewis and Clark State Park)

For direct inquiries regarding Lewis and Clark State Park and its camping facilities, including Riverbanks Park and Camp, the general contact information for Lewis and Clark State Park is your best resource. While a specific phone number for "Riverbanks Park and Camp" might not be listed separately, all amenities and operations within this area fall under the state park's management. You can typically find their direct contact information and make camping reservations through the Missouri State Parks website or by calling their general reservations line.

Camping reservations can often be made by calling 877-422-6766 or through the Missouri State Parks online reservation system. For park-specific questions, it is advisable to check the official Missouri State Parks website for Lewis and Clark State Park, which usually provides a direct park office phone number for detailed inquiries.

For locals in Missouri, Riverbanks Park and Camp, nestled within Lewis and Clark State Park, stands as an ideal and readily accessible destination for outdoor recreation and historical immersion. Its profound connection to the state's heritage, commemorating the Lewis and Clark Expedition, offers a unique educational and recreational opportunity right in their backyard. This historical context enriches every visit, turning a simple camping trip into an engaging journey through time. The park’s diverse range of camping options—from full-hookup modern sites perfect for RV owners to primitive spots for adventurous tent campers and comfortable cabins for families—ensures that every Missourian can find their ideal outdoor experience, regardless of their preferred style of camping. This versatility makes it easy for individuals, couples, families, and even larger groups to plan a memorable getaway that suits their needs.

Furthermore, the abundance of recreational activities available directly within the park, including boating, swimming, fishing, hiking, and picnicking, means that locals don't need to travel far to find adventure. The presence of a lake remnant from the Missouri River provides excellent water access, a highly valued feature in a landlocked state. The commitment to maintaining clean facilities, including modern restrooms and showers, ensures a comfortable experience even while enjoying the rustic outdoors. For those seeking a peaceful retreat, the tranquil setting amidst open fields and wetlands, with opportunities for wildlife viewing and beautiful sunsets, offers a true respite from daily life. Riverbanks Park and Camp truly embodies the spirit of Missouri's outdoor legacy, offering locals a convenient, versatile, and deeply enriching natural escape that fosters a lasting connection to their state's remarkable landscape and history.

Riverbanks Park and Camp

Lewis Township, MO 64473, USA