Before you go
Plan your visit
Hours, fees, maps, pets, and accessibility, the practical answers up front, so a first-time visitor and a regular both find what they need fast.
The essentials
Everything you need before you go
Getting here
The Park Office & Nature Center is at 17201 Paradesian St, Smithville, MO 64089, on Smithville Lake in northwestern Clay County, about 30 minutes north of downtown Kansas City.
Hours & seasons
The lake is open for recreation every season. Campground, marina, and historic-site hours vary, the live site shows current hours by place, kept up to date by staff.
Fees & passes
Camping, shelters, and marina slips have their own rates through the reservation system. Day use of the parks is welcoming and family-friendly.
Maps
Park, campground, trail, and marina maps live with each place, ready to open on your phone at the trailhead or boat ramp.
What to bring
Layers for the water and the trail, sun protection, and plenty of water. Leashed dogs are welcome across the parks, and there’s a dog park at the lake.
Accessibility
Smithville Lake has an ADA fishing dock and accessible facilities. See our accessibility commitment and how to report a barrier.
AccessibilityHave a specific question?
Ask the site directly, “where can I camp with my horse?” or “are the boat ramps open?”, and get an answer from the park records.
Ask Clay County ParksReady when the County is