Lakeview Park Campground

The Great Outdoors

Along the banks of the mighty Mississippi River is the Ted Shanks Conservation Area near Louisiana, Missouri. Not only is the Mississippi River to the north and east, but the conservation area is also bordered by the Salt River to the south and west, creating a perfect wetland environment. This prime location has created marshland, wetlands, oxbow lakes, and even a few dry grasslands. With this fertile variety, the Ted Shanks Conservation Area has become home to an abundance of wildlife, such as white-tailed deer, bald eagles, snapping turtles, and so much more. Whether you want to observe wildlife, try your skill at some fishing, or even go hunting, there is plenty to experience and enjoy.For a truly unique landscape, spend the day at Reform Conservation Area near Kingdom City. The area known as Reform was once a community, originally settled in 1830 and growing to its height in 1884. However, in the 1970s, an energy company came in and bought up most of the land and turned the area into a nuclear power plant. Per an agreement with the Missouri Department of Conservation, the area around the nuclear power plant has been turned into a nature conservancy. Here, you can explore the open grasslands and the small sections of forest and keep your eye out for a variety of wildlife, such as white-tailed deer and rabbits. If you’re visiting the area in the summer, you can delight in the sunflower fields and are welcome to pick wild blackberries.Lovers of lakes can head to Long Branch State Park in Macon, Missouri. With Long Branch Lake being the centerpiece of this state park, there is something for every water lover to indulge in and enjoy. You can rent a kayak or paddleboat to explore the beauty of Long Branch or get your hands on a motorized boat to enjoy some water skiing opportunities. If you’d rather stay on dry land, you can slather on some sunscreen and relax on the beach, take a stroll around the lake, or explore the prairies. If you’re traveling with a motorhome rental in the spring or summer, the meadows come to life with wildflowers, creating beautiful and colorful mosaics across the landscape.

Explore the City

Those interested in learning some local history should visit the Graceland Museum Complex in Mexico. While this isn’t the Graceland of “The King” Elvis Presley, there is still a rich tapestry of history woven throughout the grounds of the house museum. This mansion is made up of nine rooms and was used by Ulysses S. Grant during the Civil War. You can see a variety of rotating exhibits that are housed in the many rooms and learn some genuinely unique local history.Lovers of all things performance will appreciate an evening show at the Presser Performing Arts Center. This semi-professional, semi-community center focuses on the local mid-Missouri community. With productions appropriate for all ages, there is never a dull moment. When you book an RV in Audrain County, you can also check in advance to see if your travel plans line up with any of the classes offered here.History buffs will be delighted by the nearby National Churchill Museum. Just south of Mexico, MO, the museum is on the campus of Westminster College and welcomes visitors to learn more about one of Britain’s most fearless leaders. The site of the famed “Iron Curtain” speech, the museum contains more than 10,000 objects (including part of the Berlin Wall) ready to be viewed. The museum also hosts a variety of temporary exhibits that are worth checking out.As you explore the beauty of the Great Plains with your Mexico RV rental, you might need to restock your supplies. Luckily enough, there are plenty of options for both gas stations and grocery stores around Lakeview Park and throughout Mexico.At the end of a busy day, you are sure to have an appetite as big as the Great Plains. Lucky for you, you are in the birthplace of St. Louis BBQ. These saucy grilled spare ribs are a treat, especially when served with a side of creamy coleslaw or baked beans.