About RIVER ROAD PARK
Overview Set on the banks of a calming river, just below the entertaining Clearwater Lake lies River Road Park, known as a jolly ol' place to camp. The beautiful area is enhanced each spring by flowering shrubs and trees like the redbud, hawthorn, dogwood and wild plum. And bald eagles stay year-round and are known to nest near the lake.Recreation Look for wildlife and pretty landscapes on the Black River Hike and Bike Trail. The trail starts at River Road Park and connects with the Blue Heron and Bottomland interpretive trails. Wildlife includes wetland waterfowl, fox, deer and geese.The lake and river below provide excellent fishing, swimming and canoeing. Facilities The majority of campsites have electric and water hookups. Additional amenities include a dump station, hot showers, picnic shelters, a boat ramp, and a playground.Three group picnic shelters are available for reservation, and these also come with electricity. Natural Features River Road Park near Clearwater Lake lies below the dam on the Black River. The lake's shoreline is studded with picturesque bluffs covered in sweet william flowers, indented bays, and serene coves. Nearby Attractions In the area, campers enjoy visiting traditional drive-in movie theaters, the Sam A. Baker State Park, local golf courses, and the historic Civil War site at Fort Benton.
How to Get There
From Piedmont, MO, follow state highway HH for 6 miles. Campground will be located just below Clearwater Lake Dam. Follow signs into campground.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to RIVER ROAD PARK
Heading to RIVER ROAD PARK? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for RIVER ROAD PARK?
No central reservation system listed for RIVER ROAD PARK. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232691) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to RIVER ROAD PARK?
From Piedmont, MO, follow state highway HH for 6 miles. Campground will be located just below Clearwater Lake Dam. Follow signs into campground.
How do I contact RIVER ROAD PARK?
You can reach the park at phone: 573-223-7777 (CLEARWATER LAKE PROJECT OFFICE) RIVER ROAD PARK GATE HOUSE(573-223-4424.
References & Official Resources
