Plan your visit
The practical stuff, all in one place — when things are open, what the rules are, and how to reserve. High-traffic answers live here so they're never more than two clicks away.
Hours & ground rules
Camping
- Check-in 1:00 PM · check-out 11:00 AM (Sun 5:00/3:00)
- Two-night minimum on weekends; 15-day max per 30 days
- Up to 6 people, 2 tents or tent + camper per site
- Quiet hours 10:00 PM – 6:00 AM
- Firewood must be burned on site (Emerald Ash Borer)
Beaches
- Open May 1 – September 15, 8:30 AM to sunset
- No lifeguard — swim at your own risk
- No pets, glass, or alcohol on the beaches
- Water quality sampled biweekly in season
Everywhere
- Pets on a 6-ft leash, max 2 dogs (off-leash dog park at the lake)
- No fireworks, golf carts, or ATVs
- Cash, check, Mastercard, Visa & Discover accepted
- 911 emergency markers along all trails
Summarized from the county's published policies — the official rules pages (external site) govern.
Frequently asked questions
What are campground check-in and check-out times?
Monday through Saturday, check-in is 1:00 PM and check-out is 11:00 AM. On Sundays, check-in is 5:00 PM and check-out is 3:00 PM.
Is there a minimum stay for weekend camping?
Yes — weekend reservations require a two-night minimum. The maximum stay is 15 days within any 30-day period.
How many people and tents are allowed per campsite?
Up to six people per site, with two tents or one tent plus one camper. Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Can I bring my own firewood?
Firewood must be burned on site and should not be transported out of the park — this slows the spread of the Emerald Ash Borer.
Are pets allowed?
Pets are welcome on a 6-foot leash, with a maximum of two dogs per site. Pets are not allowed at the swim beaches. An off-leash dog park is located at Smithville Lake.
When are the swim beaches open?
Camp Branch Beach and Little Platte Beach are open to the public May 1 through September 15, from 8:30 AM to sunset. There is no lifeguard on duty. Glass, alcohol, and pets are not permitted on the beaches.
How do I reserve a campsite or shelter?
Reservations are handled through the county's WebTrac system online, or by phone at 816-407-3400 (option 3). Walk-in sites are first-come, first-served.
What payment types are accepted?
Cash, check, Mastercard, Visa, and Discover are accepted in the parks. Off-season, some areas use honor envelopes at self-pay stations.
Are fireworks, golf carts, or ATVs allowed?
No — fireworks, golf carts, and ATVs are not permitted anywhere in Clay County parks.
Still have a question?
The parks team is at 17201 Paradesian, Smithville — 816-407-3400 or parks@claycountymo.gov. For historic sites, call 816-736-8500.