Pomme de Terre State Park spans across two distinct areas—Pittsburg and Hermitage—with the Pittsburg section serving as the primary camping destination. Located at approximately 900 feet elevation, the park sits in the Ozark Highland region where summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity. The lake covers 7,820 acres with 113 miles of shoreline, offering multiple access points for water activities.
What to do
Fishing from shore: At Pittsburg Area Campground, each electric site features a private path to the water's edge. "Each site in the electric loop has a private path to the waters edge. Sites viewable by map next to water," notes Josh S. The fishing quality makes this a popular destination, with multiple species available year-round.
Hiking options: The Pittsburg area features limited but scenic trail options. "Only one real hiking trail on Pittsburgh loop but it was filled with bluff views and lots of wildlife as well as a public beach," explains a camper. For more extensive hiking, Bennett Spring State Park Campground offers "great walking trails, clean campgrounds and the smells of fish fry in the evening air."
Swimming: Most campgrounds provide lake access with designated swimming areas. "The swimming beach was amazing and the bathrooms well-kept," reports Rebecca R. about her stay in Loop 3, campsite 317 at Pittsburg Area Campground. Many beaches are within walking distance of campsites, allowing for easy water access.
What campers like
Spacious lakeside sites: The layout at many campgrounds prioritizes water views and privacy. "The sites on the lake are awesome and large. The showers are clean and private. Fishing is great! My kids love it too!" shares Tiffany H. about her experience at Pittsburg Area.
Clean facilities: Stockton State Park Campground maintains high standards for its amenities. "Great state park. Cleanest restrooms I've seen. Great trails. Bring the kayaks. They have some pretty cool kayak marked trails on the lake," comments Katie R. This attention to cleanliness extends to shower facilities at most parks.
Level camping pads: Many campsites feature paved or gravel surfaces that simplify setup. At Cedar Ridge Campground, "Beautiful views from many of the sites. I noticed several of the tent sites do not have level areas for your tent," reports Laura H. Sites with electric hookups tend to have the most level surfaces.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer temperatures routinely reach into the 90s with high humidity levels. Spring and fall offer milder conditions, while winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that can drop below freezing.
Site selection matters: Not all sites offer the same experience. "We stayed in the 400 loop of Pittsburgh for its secluded spots. Spaces are not stacked on top of each other. You're in the woods so take bug spray. Level paved lots to choose from," advises Cindy K. from her experience at Pittsburg Area Campground.
Train noise: At Springfield - Route 66 KOA, the proximity to railroad tracks impacts the camping experience. "Because you're going to see and hear a lot of them, as there is a train track very close to the site," warns Steven N. He adds, "If it wasn't for the trains coming by blowing their horns, this would easily be a favorite spot."
Tips for camping with families
Bike-friendly options: For families with children, paved campground roads provide safe cycling areas. "The roads are all paved so it made biking for our kids easy and enjoyable. The campsite was spacious and shaded. The kids loved playing in the creek and hiking the trails," shares Amanda R. about her experience at Bennett Spring State Park.
Swimming beaches: Most parks offer designated swimming areas with varying amenities. "W stayed here over the 4th of July holiday, at the Pittsburg campground at the state park. Loop 3 campsite 317. I loved the trail to the lake! The swimming beach was amazing," notes Rebecca R.
Playground access: Hermitage State Park Campground offers family-friendly amenities beyond water recreation. "This campground is very wide open and great for family camping, the main facilities are clean and showers are private. It has a camp store, playground and a great swim beach with places to fish from the shore. The campground is perfect for bike riding as well," explains Bryan C.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited but available at select campgrounds. "We pulled in this weekend to find out they are being completely restored," notes Jeremiah K. about Bennett Spring State Park. Many campgrounds offer electric-only sites with centralized water and dump stations.
Site leveling: RV sites vary in preparation quality across the region. "Great campground to stay at. Sites are power only, water and dump separate," explains Cody about Cedar Ridge Campground. Some parks offer paved sites while others have gravel or dirt pads that may require additional leveling.
Off-season options: Several campgrounds remain open year-round with reduced services. "Real nice park Especially for what we paid. $8.00 for electric only per night. Senior rate off season, $2.00 discount," shares Gary P. about his experience at Stockton State Park in the off-season, noting the value pricing available.
