FISHING
Try your luck at this popular fishing spot, which offers a wide variety of fish species. Common types caught are crappie, bass and catfish. Fishing is allowed in all areas of the park except at or near boat ramps and the swimming beach. Even though most areas close at dark, the facility allows night fishing at specific locations throughout the park. The best fishing months at this park tend to be February, March, April, May, June, September and October.
A fishing report is provided by the Missouri Department of Conservation.
Camp Store
Lake Wappapello’s newly renovated camp store is open and located just off of Marina Road! The camp store has a range of items to ensure your stay at Lake Wappapello is a memorable and enjoyable. Take a piece of Lake Wappapello home with you!
Hours of Operation:
Monday- Thursday: Closed
Friday and Saturday: 10:00am – 6:00pm
Sunday: 10:00am – 5:00pm
BOATING
Canoes are a great way to explore Lake Wappapello. Canoes are available to rent at our Camp Store and are available to rent during these hours.
Monday- Thursday: Closed
Friday and Saturday: 10:00am – 6:00pm
Sunday: 10:00am – 5:00pm
Launch your boat from one of three concrete boat launches in the park. They are located at Asher Creek Campground, on Marina Road and just past Cabin 8 at the Allison Point day-use area. There is a courtesy dock located at the old marina launch. There are no launch fees or motor restrictions. Temporary closings will be posted on the Park and Site Status Map.
SWIMMING
Cool off at the park’s swimming beach, located at the Allison Cove Day-Use Area. Swim at your own risk.
The initial opening of the beach and temporary closings during the on-season depend upon the lake level. Any temporary closings will be posted on this website.
2023 Season: Memorial Day – Labor Day
Sunrise to sunset
CAMPING
Lake Wappapello State Park offers basic and electric campsites. For a little extra space, try one of the park’s family campsites.
You are now able to reserve your Missouri State Parks campsite up to 12 months in advance, expanding from the previous six-month window. To make a reservation or view campsites details, photos and availability, go to the reservation website by clicking the “Make a Reservation” link below and start planning your trip today. Reservations may also be made by calling toll free 877-ICampMO (877-422-6766).
IMPORTANT CAMPING INFORMATION:
- Reservable sites may be available to first-come, first-serve users on a day-by-day basis if the site is not reserved. Before occupying a site, check with the park staff or follow the directions on the posted card.
- Campers planning to carry in firewood must comply with current firewood advisories.
- Parking of watercraft or all-terrain vehicle (ATV) trailers off of the campsite pad (usually in the grass) is permitted at this facility.
HIKING & BIKING
For quick reference, a map and trail information for each trail is available to download below. For more information about trails in Missouri State Parks, please visit here.
Allison Cemetery Trail
Asher Creek Trail
Lake View Trail
Lake Wappapello Trail
PICNIC AREAS
Pack up the kids and a picnic lunch and spend the day outdoors at one of three picnic areas. Picnic sites are located in the Allison Cove Day-Use Area, at the Allison Point boat ramp area and near Shelter 1.
PICNIC SHELTERS
Two shelters, featuring picnic tables and an outdoor grill, make the park a perfect venue for family gatherings and special outings. Picnicking at the shelter house areas is accessible to people with disabilities.
PLAYGROUNDS
Children’s playgrounds are located at the Allison Point Day-Use Area near the beach and at Shelter.