Plan & Prepare
Everything to sort out before we go—and how to run a smooth camp once we’re there.
Before the Trip
| Guide | What’s covered |
|---|---|
| Pre-Trip Game Plan | Timeline, who-does-what, group coordination |
| The Drive from Columbia | Route, stops, and the last grocery run |
| Packing Lists | Gear by category, plus a per-family checklist |
At Camp
| Guide | What’s covered |
|---|---|
| Camp Setup & Living | Our sites & rigs, expert arrival cleanup, layout, heat, dogs |
| Camp Cooking | Stoves, griddles, air-fryers, coordination, meal-prep link |
| Camp Jobs & Chores | Coffee station, breakfast crews, snack pantry, cleanup schedule |
| Savvy Camper & RV Tips | Eco-friendly pest control, campfire cooking, knots, RV know-how |
Quick Reference
Key Contacts
| Contact | Number |
|---|---|
| Park office | (636) 528-7247 |
| Naturalist / programs | (636) 528-7427 |
| Nearest hospital | Mercy Hospital Lincoln, Troy (~10 min) |
| Emergency | 911 |
Nearest Services
| Service | Location | Distance |
|---|---|---|
| Gas, Walmart, groceries | Troy, MO | ~10–15 min |
| Last big grocery from Columbia | Wentzville/Warrenton | On the drive |
| Hospital | Troy (Mercy Lincoln) | ~10 min |
| Pharmacy | Troy | ~10–15 min |
Already Been?
If you’re planning a repeat trip, start with Lessons for Next Time — what worked, what didn’t, and what to change before you dive back into the game plan.