The best walks and hikes in Camden County
5.0
(7)
121
hikers
16
hikes
Hiking in Camden County, Missouri, offers trails through diverse landscapes, primarily centered around Lake of the Ozarks State Park and Ha Ha Tonka State Park. The region features forested hills, limestone bluffs, and natural geological formations. Trails often provide views of the Lake of the Ozarks and wind through woodlands and along springs. The terrain includes both gentle paths and some moderate ascents.
Best hiking trails in Camden County
- The most popular hiking route is Rocky Top Trail loop —…
Last updated: April 26, 2026
5.0
(1)
10
hikers
3.92km
01:05
70m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1.39km
00:22
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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20
hikers
3.52km
00:57
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
12
hikers
11.3km
03:10
220m
220m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
11
hikers
3.03km
00:47
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
10
hikers
3.64km
00:59
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
2.37km
00:39
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
2.13km
00:34
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
4.05km
01:06
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1.32km
00:20
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Coakley Hollow Trail is a popular dirt and gravel singletrack path with some roots and rocks. There are interpretive signs alongside the trail that provide information about the plants and animals you can expect to see. This is one of the more primitive paths on the property and usually offers a little more solitude than some of the other trails.
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The Lake View Bend Trail is a short and popular singletrack loop that goes by a great viewpoint of the Grandglaize Arm of the lake. Besides the viewpoint, the majority of the trail stays tucked in the trees.
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This spot off the side of the trail offers a great view of the lake. The viewpoint is through a window in the trees and is of a huge horseshoe bend in the river.
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The Acorn Trail in Ha Ha Tonka State Park is a really popular choice for families and people looking for a shorter, easier option in the park. The trail creates a short loop in the woods, passing numerous informational signs along the crushed-gravel path.
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The Turkey Pen Hollow Trail is one of the outermost trails in Ha Ha Tonka State Park. It's popular for backpacking and day hiking and is connected to the shorter Acorn Trail. There are a couple different trailheads that offer access to this path, so you can start your hike from a couple different spots.
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This section of trail utilizes a wooden boardwalk and steps to get to two of the park's most popular viewpoints. Some parts of the boardwalk are covered by a tunnel of trees and other sections are completely open and offer unobstructed views.
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This view from atop Deers Leap Hill is one of the best in all of Ha Ha Tonka State Park. The viewpoint is at the end of a short spur trail just after passing the castle. There are numerous other viewpoints in the park along the trails.
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This spot on the trail marks the intersection of the Spring Trail and Island Trail. There is a brick bridge across the water along the Island Trail in this spot, along with some informational signs and excellent views of a cove branching off from the Niangua River.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Camden County, Missouri?
Camden County, Missouri, offers a variety of hiking opportunities with over 10 routes documented on komoot. These trails primarily explore the scenic landscapes of Lake of the Ozarks State Park and Ha Ha Tonka State Park.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families in Camden County?
Yes, Camden County has many easy trails perfect for beginners and families. Out of the 14 routes, 13 are rated as easy. A great option is the Rocky Top Trail loop in Lake of the Ozarks State Park, which is about 2.2 miles (3.5 km) long and offers pleasant views.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking in Camden County?
Hiking in Camden County, Missouri, features diverse landscapes including forested hills, limestone bluffs, and natural geological formations. Many trails offer scenic views of the Lake of the Ozarks and wind through woodlands and along natural springs, particularly within Lake of the Ozarks State Park and Ha Ha Tonka State Park.
Are there any trails with historical landmarks or interesting sights?
Absolutely! Ha Ha Tonka State Park is home to the impressive Ha Ha Tonka Castle Ruins. You can explore this historic area on trails like the Deers Leap Hill via Quarry & Castle Trail loop, which leads through the park's natural features and past the ruins.
Which trails offer the best viewpoints in Camden County?
For stunning vistas, consider trails that lead to View from Deers Leap Hill or the View of the Niangua River Cove, both located within Ha Ha Tonka State Park. These spots provide panoramic views of the surrounding natural beauty.
Are there any longer or more challenging hikes in the area?
For a more extended and moderately challenging experience, the Turkey Pen Hollow & Acorn Trail loop in Ha Ha Tonka State Park is a great choice. This route is about 7.0 miles (11.3 km) long and explores varied terrain, including forested areas.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Camden County?
The hiking trails in Camden County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse natural settings, the well-maintained paths within the state parks, and the scenic views of the Lake of the Ozarks and historic landmarks like the Ha Ha Tonka Castle Ruins.
Are there circular hiking routes available in Camden County?
Yes, many of the trails in Camden County are designed as loops, offering convenient circular routes. Examples include the Lake View Bend Trail loop in Lake of the Ozarks State Park and the Spring & Boulder Ridge Trail loop in Ha Ha Tonka State Park.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter on the trails?
Camden County's forested hills and natural areas are home to various wildlife. Hikers might spot deer, various bird species, and other small woodland creatures. The state parks are dedicated to preserving these natural habitats, offering opportunities for wildlife observation.
Is there parking available at the trailheads in Camden County?
Yes, both Lake of the Ozarks State Park and Ha Ha Tonka State Park, where most of the trails are located, provide designated parking areas for visitors. It's always a good idea to check park maps or websites for specific parking locations at individual trailheads.
Are there any less crowded hiking options in Camden County?
While popular trails can see more visitors, exploring some of the slightly longer loops or visiting during off-peak hours (weekdays, early mornings) can offer a more tranquil experience. Trails like the Shady Ridge Trail in Lake of the Ozarks State Park can provide a peaceful escape into nature.
Most popular routes in Camden County
Most popular attractions in Camden County
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