Cameron Reservoirs
Paddling, Fishing, hiking
The Cameron Reservoirs are a tucked-away treasure for anyone looking to paddle, fish, hike, or just unwind outside. This four-lake system—Century Lake, Sunrise Lake, Eagle Lake, and Grindstone Lake—sits right on the edge of Cameron, Missouri, and offers a mix of history and nature. Century Lake, the tiniest of the bunch, dates back to 1905 and still sits quietly beneath tall trees. Sunrise and Eagle Lakes bring more space to roam, with forested shorelines perfect for birdwatching, shoreline wandering, or a laid-back picnic. Then there’s Grindstone—the big one—nearly 200 acres of calm water that’s ideal for a day of paddling or casting a line with no distractions but the sound of your lure hitting the surface.
Around the lakes, you’ll find a few gravel roads and a mellow 3.3-mile trail that loops along the water, great for walking or trail running when you’re craving something quiet. Eagle Lake is the easiest launch point for kayaks or canoes, with a concrete ramp and plenty of room to park and gear up. While this system mainly exists to serve Cameron’s water needs, it doubles as a peaceful nature spot where you can spend the afternoon watching the light shift across the water or spotting wildlife in the trees. Whether you’re floating solo or bringing the family for a chill outing, the Cameron Reservoirs make for a simple, scenic escape that’s just off the radar.
Learn more about the reservoir system at the Cameron, Missouri website.
Getting there
Getting to the Cameron Reservoirs is super simple, with a handful of access points depending on how you want to spend your day. If you're headed for a walk or a mellow ride, the small paved lot off McElwain Drive is your best bet—it drops you right onto the paved trail that loops along the lake, giving you easy views and a peaceful route through the trees. It’s popular with walkers and cyclists alike, especially in the early mornings and golden-hour evenings.
If you’re hauling a kayak or looking to fish, Grindstone Lake is your go-to. From downtown Cameron, just head west on Highway 36 for a couple miles, then turn north on Southeast Locust Road. After about a mile, you’ll land at the main boat ramp area, which has two parking lots, a solid concrete ramp, and even an accessible dock for anglers with mobility needs. There are also quieter pull-off areas near Century Lake and Sunrise Lake, so no matter where you park, you’re never far from water, woods, and a little fresh air.