Watkins Mill State Park RV & Campground Guide
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Watkins Mill State Park is an excellent spot for those who love history and nature. You will find the Watkins Woolen Mill State Historic Site within the park. This National Historic Landmark shows how industrial innovation shaped the mid-19th century. If you love antiques, make sure to visit the adjacent Watkins Mill Antiques and Auction House. From exploring the historic mill to fishing in the 100-acre lake, Watkins Mill State Park provides plenty of year-round fun.
Spring 50 F - 70 F
Summer 75 F - 90 F
Fall 50 F - 70 F
Winter 20 F - 40 F
RV Resorts & Campsites in Watkins Mill State Park
Watkins Mill State Park has 96 campsites. There are 74 that have electric hookups. Family campsites are also available if you want more space to spread out. In addition, the campground offers ADA-compliant sites. Most of these campsites are conveniently located near the comfort stations and picnic areas. Watkins Mill State Park does have Wi-Fi and is a pet-friendly location. Dump stations are also available on-site.
What to Do at
Watkins Mill State Park
Watkins Mill State Park is a great place to visit if you're looking for fun outdoor activities. If you're a nature enthusiast, make sure to bring your binoculars so that you can enjoy bird watching. For those who want to hit the water, the 100-acre lake is stocked with fish. History lovers will want to take some time and explore the remnants of the old mill. During certain times of the year, you can enjoy special events, including Civil War reenactments and bluegrass music festivals.
Fishing
Anglers will want to check out Williams Creek Lake. Common catches are catfish, bass, crappie, and sunfish. The lake is also home to hybrid stripers. Anglers can cast their lines from the pier or a boat. In addition, night fishing is allowed if you have a permit.
Geocaching
Geocaching is a popular activity at the park. You can use your smartphone or GPS device to find one, sign the logbook, and take a prize.
Nature Watching
Watkins Mill State Park is filled with native animals. White-tailed deer and wild turkeys are commonly spotted in the park. You may also see squirrels, raccoons, and rabbits while exploring. Keep your eyes open to the skies. Cardinals, bluejays, robins, and goldfinches can be found near the forested areas.
Flora and Fauna
Watkins Mill State Park is a forested area, and you will see many different species of trees, including walnuts, bur oaks, white oaks, sycamores, and slippery elms. While on the trail or near your campsite, you may see wild turkeys or white-tailed deer. This park also has historical gardens and orchards. Occasionally, the park will sell seeds or clippings of those plants.
Hiking
You have plenty of opportunities for hiking around this state park. The Watkins Mill Lake Loop will take you around all the historic buildings on the site. The trail does have a moderate grade, but it is an easy route for most hikers. On the path, you will wander through the oak and hickory woodlands.
Boating
The Williams Creek Lake has a boat launching area and an accessible fishing dock. While motorized vessels are allowed, they must be operated on the lake at a slow, no-wake speed.
Swimming
A sandy beach is at the lake's north end. There are restrooms and a changing area close to this swimming area.
Biking
You may want to try the popular paved Bicycle Lake Trail. The route offers scenic views of the lake and will take you over six wooden bridges and one metal truss bridge.
How to Get to
Watkins Mill State Park
Watkins Mill State Park is conveniently located near Kansas City, Missouri. You will want to head north on Interstate 35. Take the exit for MO-92 East toward Kearney. Make sure to stay on MO-92 East and continue driving for approximately 5 miles. The park entrance will be on your right. Look for signs indicating the entrance to Watkins Mill State Park.
Entering Watkins Mill State Park
There are plenty of parking spots for vehicles of all sizes at Watkins Mill State Park. This spot is a very family-friendly and handicap-accessible location. No matter your abilities or family size, you can find ways to enjoy all the attractions and natural beauty of the park. The park is open from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. While there are no restrictions on RV sizes, the camping pads range from 38 feet to 80 feet. Some of the largest pads are located in the full hookup section.
Watkins Mill State Park Entry Fee : $0.0
Frequently Asked Questions About Watkins Mill State Park
Due to mild temperatures, spring and fall are ideal for outdoor activities. However, if you don't mind the warm weather, summer is a popular time for special events and water sports.
Watkins Mill State Park is home to many types of animals, including white-tailed deer, foxes, and wild turkey. Birders can look forward to spotting a variety of waterfowl, raptors, and songbirds.
There are 96 camping spots for RVs in the park. Most of them will have electrical and water hookups. If you need an accessible site, there are five available.
If you are traveling in the summer, consider booking a space in advance. However, some sites are available for same-day reservations. Electric sites start at $26 per night.
Yes, pets are allowed at Watkins Mill State Park. However, you will need to keep them on a leash. In addition, you cannot take them into any of the park's facilities or historic buildings unless they are service animals.