Equestrian camping near Bolivar, Missouri offers varying options throughout the Ozark foothills region. The area sits at approximately 1,050 feet elevation with rolling terrain and hardwood forests characteristic of southwest Missouri. Summer temperatures typically range between 70-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall provide milder camping conditions with temperatures between 50-75°F.
What to do
Swimming at Stockton Lake: The clear waters at COE Stockton Lake Hawker Point provide excellent swimming opportunities with a clean beach area. "The lake is to die for. Water was clear clean and like glass. We have kayaks so our morning trips were accidently long, peaceful and awesome," notes Carman S.
Berry picking: At B Berry Farms & Co., visitors can harvest fresh berries right next to campsites. Nick S. shares, "We enjoyed picking black berries right next to our campsite to have with breakfast in the morning," making for a unique camping activity.
Trout fishing: The Niangua River offers prime trout fishing opportunities. Jason W. from Riverfront Campground and Canoe reports, "It is only a short drive from Bennett Springs State Park, where you can fly fish and pull trout from the river from dawn until dusk."
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the privacy at Stockton Lake. According to Lea B., "C19 has no electricity or water and the closest vault toilet is a good walk down the road. The site is very spacious and shaded with plenty of trees for our hammocks and clothesline. Lots of level places for tents."
Farm-based recreation: Lead Mine Conservation Area offers a combination of hiking trails and dispersed camping. Vegan T. notes, "There is some good hiking here. There is a dispersed spot and a formal campground. The formal campground is the better spot to stay at."
Family activities: B Berry Farms provides numerous recreational options. James G. shares, "The farm is beautiful and trails are a wonderful walk through some beautiful nature. There is a bathroom on site and beautiful campsites with all that is needed for a great stay!"
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Some campgrounds have limited seasons. Orleans Trail at Stockton Lake operates "May 15 to September 15," while others remain open year-round.
Water access variations: Not all waterfront sites have equal access. Charlotte B. states, "While Stockton Lake itself brings a lot to the table, with beautiful blue water, cliffs to jump from, and close proximity to town if you are craving some ice cream, the State Park and several of the other campground sites offered by the Corps of Engineers or by private citizens are always jammed together with few trees."
Hookup limitations: Some campgrounds lack full hookups. According to Carman S., "Also, fill your rig with water before you go. There are no water hookups" at Hawker Point.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Berry Bend offers family-friendly amenities and space. Kendall K. confirms it's "a great family campground! It's not nearly as busy as the state park which is awesome!"
Farm experiences: B Berry Farms provides unique agritourism opportunities. Hannah B. describes, "The camp sites are spread out so there's plenty of room. We stayed in the quaint little bunkhouse with an air conditioner and all the amenities that we needed... There is so much to do and for all ages."
Swimming beaches: Several campgrounds feature designated swimming areas. Lauri C. from Berry Bend recommends, "What a nice getaway. No internet, no cell, no problem. Great beach with a beautiful view."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some sites require extra effort for larger RVs. Angela M. mentions at B Berry Farms, "The one site suitable for large RVs is not very level. We have a 40' Renegade Verona and it took 6 tries to find a place near the hookups where our auto-level would find a good position."
Dump station locations: Plan accordingly for waste disposal. As Ken K. notes about Riverfront Campground, "All the RV sites are electric/water so you have to use the on site dump station."
Site selection: For RVs requiring lake access, consider specific loops. Lea B. advises, "We drove through the rest of this park to check out A and B campground loops. A loop consists of full hookup sites and many sit right on the water. Little shade and crowded, but if you like to play on the lake all day these might be for you."
