Big Lake State Park RV & Campground Guide
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Big Lake State Park is located in northwest Missouri and sits on 407 acres of land. Established in 1932, Big Lake State Park sits on the last remaining oxbow lake, Big Lake, in the state. This shallow lake is the main attraction of the park as it offers the opportunity to enjoy numerous activities while simultaneously supporting wetlands for various bird species and migratory waterfowl. Visitors can enjoy camping, canoeing, boating and fishing while relaxing in the park.
Spring 34 - 76 F
Summer 66 - 89 F
Fall 33 - 79 F
Winter 18 - 42 F
RV Resorts & Campsites in Big Lake State Park
Camping is available year-round in the lone campground within the park. Big Lake Campground features 76 campsites with a mix of basic and electrical sites. A total of 16 non-electrical campsites can be found on the shoreline of Big Lake while the remaining sites are set further inland and all have electrical hookups of either 30 amps or 50 amps. The campground includes two showers and restroom facilities as well as water, parking, a dump station and a playground.
What to Do at
Big Lake State Park
Big Lake State Park offers many fun activities throughout the year, especially if you enjoy being on a lake. Visitors can partake in boating, canoeing, kayaking and fishing. Canoes and kayaks are available to rent during the spring and summer months while a boat launch is easily accessible in the park if you head north from the campground.
Fishing
Big Lake offers excellent fishing opportunities throughout the year. Anglers can try their luck from the shore or gain access to the lake via the boat launch in the park. A fishing license is required.
Geocaching
The state of Missouri does allow geocaching in its state parks. If you are looking to hide a cache, you need to obtain a permit, which is good for one year.
Nature Watching
The lake and adjacent wetlands make this park a terrific spot for nature watching. The spring and fall are some of the best times to visit the park as this is when migratory birds and waterfowl stop at the park to rest and feed.
Stargazing
The rural location and lack of a dense forest make this park an excellent stargazing location. The park is free of light pollution, making it possible to spot the most popular constellations in the night sky.
Boating
A paved boat launch can be found at the north end of the park, providing access to Big Lake. If you do not have your own boat, you can rent kayaks and canoes from the park office to use on the water.
Swimming
The park features a swimming pool rather than a sandy beach area. The swimming pool sits in between the campground and the boat launch.
How to Get to
Big Lake State Park
Big Lake State Park is located at 204 Lake Shore Drive, Craig, MO 64437. If you are traveling to the park from Saint Joseph, MO, you will need to take I-229 N until you reach I-29 N. Exit onto I-29 N and continue for 30 miles. Exit the highway when you reach exit 79 for US-159 toward Rulo, NE. US-159 will curve around the Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge and take you toward Big Lake. Turn right onto MO-111 N/Lake Shore Dr. Continue along for 2.4 miles, and then you will see the park entrance on your left.
Entering Big Lake State Park
The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset. As you enter the park, you will pass the park office. If you continue driving straight, you will reach the campground first and then the picnic area followed by the swimming pool and lastly the boat launch. A parking area is located past the boat launch on your way to the marsh area. This parking area is located on the shoreline of the lake.
Big Lake State Park Entry Fee : $0.0
Frequently Asked Questions About Big Lake State Park
If you are a bird lover, spring or fall are the best times to visit the park as this is when migratory birds and waterfowl will be active in the park. If you enjoy boating and being on the water, the summer is the best time to visit.
Visitors can expect to see deer, snakes, turtles, waterfowl, bald eagles and songbirds when visiting the park.
Yes, there are designated RV camping spots in the lone campground. You have the option of staying at a basic campsite or one with a 30-amp or 50-amp electrical hookup.
No, you do not have to reserve a camping spot at Big Lake State Park, although it is recommended. Campsites can be reserved online or over the phone up to 12 months in advance. A basic campsite is $15 per night during the peak season of April 15th through October 31st while a 30-amp electrical site is $25 per night and a 50-amp campsite is $27 per night during that same time frame. During the offseason, which is defined as November 1st through April 14th, basic sites are $14 per night and the electrical sites are $21 and $23, respectively. There is also a reservation fee of $6.50 if you reserve your campsite online and $8 if you do it over the phone.
Yes, pets are allowed at Big Lake State Park. All pets must be kept on a leash and remain under control at all times.