Army Corps of Engineers manages this lakeside campground where gravel sites spread across two distinct loops on Stockton Lake. Loop A provides electric hookups for RVs up to 50 feet, while Loop B offers non-electric sites that keep tent campers away from humming air conditioners. Sites sit relatively close together with limited privacy between neighbors.
The lake dominates the experience here, though conditions vary dramatically by time of day. Phillip G. notes the water is "windy for sure in the afternoon and had trouble docking and loading," but finds calm conditions in protected coves. Early morning provides the smoothest water before afternoon winds pick up. A maintained path leads from the camping area down to shoreline access points with seating areas.
Facilities include clean restrooms, drinking water, and a dump station during the main season, though some amenities shut down after October 1st when camping becomes free. The paved loop roads and gravel sites appear level according to multiple visitors. Each site includes a metal fire ring, picnic table, and lamp post. Sites facing the lake offer water views, while interior sites provide more separation from neighboring campers.
For additional camping options in the area, explore places to camp around Stockton. The campground works well for boat owners seeking direct lake access, though the tight layout and afternoon wind conditions may challenge some visitors.
Description
Overview
Crabtree Cove is a shady campground located on Stockton Lake in the scenic Ozark Mountains of southwestern Missouri. The lake and surrounding landscape offer countless recreational opportunities along its nearly 300 miles of shoreline, providing visitors with many ways to explore one of the most sought-after natural areas in the state.
Recreation
Boating is always a popular pastime at the lake. Sail boating is especially popular and the lake hosts several races each year. The facility provides a boat ramp for easy access to the water. The waters of Stockton Lake are home to several species of fish including small and largemouth bass, crappie, white bass, walleye, catfish and sunfish, making it an ideal area for anglers. Several trails wind around the lake shore and through the landscape. The Stockton Lake Equestrian Trail continues approximately 15 miles between Hawker Point and Orleans Trail Campgrounds.
Facilities
Crabtree Cove Park offers 58 campsites, most of which have electric hookups. Amenities like showers, flush toilets and a dump station create a comfortable camping environment.
Natural Features
The land surrounding the lake contains hundreds of acres of native prairie grasses, rolling hills and thick forests that turn crimson in autumn. An abundance of wildlife lives both in and around the water, including wild turkey, great blue heron, deer and bald eagles. Visitors can learn about the lake's bald eagles by attending an annual eagle-watching event during the winter.
Nearby Attractions
There are three full-service marinas located around the lake, which offer a wide range of services and supplies, including boat rentals, fuel, fishing tackle and restaurants.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundCrabtree Cove is located in Missouri
Directions
From Stockton, Missouri, take State Highway 32 east for 3.5 miles. Turn right onto the access road and follow signs into the park area.
Address
17630 E. CT-1
Stockton, MO 65785
Coordinates
37.6697222 N
93.7530556 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 13 usersLast on 3/29/26
VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 3/29/26- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 13 usersLast on 3/29/26
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 3/29/26
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Pull-Through Sites
- 30 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 51 min from Springfield, MO
- 1 hr 26 min from Joplin, MO
- 2 hrs 5 min from Kansas City, MO
- 2 hrs 16 min from Jefferson City, MO
