Camp Bagnell

In the late 1850's the village that gave Bagnell Dam its name was formed on the banks of the Osage River. The population of the area grew steadily to over 3000 people by the time Bagnell Dam was being built in the late 1920's and early 30's. Around the turn of the century Bagnell enjoyed the title of 'The Railroad Tie Capital of the World' with tie yards located where the present campground is now located. Ties were floated down the Osage River or brought by wagon and then loaded on the Missouri Pacific Railroad, whose depot stood where the present swimming pool is located, and shipped across the nation. A ferry crossed the Osage River and connected Highway 54 to Bagnell. The ferry crossing is still visible from the lower side of the campground.