Camping spots near Bolivar, Missouri range from lakeside sites to wooded retreats, with elevations averaging 1,050 feet above sea level. The region experiences distinct seasons with summer highs regularly reaching the 90s from June through August. Local reservoirs typically experience water level fluctuations of 10-15 feet during spring runoff, which can impact shoreline camping access.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Damsite Campground, anglers can access prime fishing locations directly from their campsites. "We even had a private staircase right down to the water. The site was big & level but it was all gravel. There is not a designated swim area so bring your fishing pole and catch crappie from the shore," reports Jon L.
Kayaking adventures: The Cedar Ridge Campground at Stockton Lake offers diverse paddling experiences with marked water trails. "The swim beach is a little far from the camp, but if you walk down the trails there are great places to swim near camp including 'Chicken Rock' a large island out in the lake the kids love to swim to and jump off," notes Bryan C.
Hiking trails: Multiple trail options provide varied terrain and difficulty levels. At Stockton State Park, visitors appreciate the accessible lakeside paths. "The Lake View trail was a well maintained easy trail. The views are fantastic and the shade was welcomed on a hot day," explains Chad K.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Many campers appreciate the roomier sites available at Pittsburg Park Campground. "Most of the sites are fairly private, the facilities are nice and clean, great playground. The swimming area is a little small but still a good area. It also has a Marina with a small store with hand dipped ice cream," says Bryan C.
Lakefront views: Prime waterfront camping locations are highly sought after in the region. "We camped on the bluff loop and had amazing views of the lake! Large sites too. There is also a loop called the point which looked like it also had great views but campsites were closer together," notes GW C. at Damsite.
Privacy options: For those seeking seclusion, certain campgrounds offer more isolated sites. At Crabtree Cove, some campers found unique viewing advantages: "We stayed at campsite 13 gravel lot site and a little uneven where the picnic table and sitting area had a good view of the lake and the plus was we faced away from other campers so it was like you were the only ones there at times," shares Phillip G.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Water levels significantly impact camping experiences throughout the year. "Due to flooding almost all lakeside campgrounds were closed. We arrived at our site and identified that we had 13 inches until our site was to be claimed by the lake," reports Josh S. about his experience at Pittsburgh State Park.
Weather patterns: The region experiences rapid weather changes, particularly in spring and early summer. "Windy lake for sure in the afternoon and had trouble docking and loading. If you get back in a cove it was great for swimming and calm. Best time is in the early morning before the lake gets rough," advises Phillip G. about Crabtree Cove.
Campsite features: Amenities vary significantly between campgrounds. At B Berry Farms & Co., "The site was pretty out in the open, and there was nothing too special about it. Overall I had a nice stay! They supplied wood and were even nice enough to bring me some free samples of the lip balm and fragrances they sell," shares Hannah H.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access planning: Not all campgrounds have designated swimming areas. "The upper sites are nice and open and they all have lamp hooks and firepits. I love the location and hate it at the same time, the lake is currently flooded so most of the shorefront campgrounds are underwater," notes David L. about Pittsburgh Park.
Playground proximity: Families with children should consider sites near recreation areas. At Bennett Spring State Park Campground, "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," reports Amanda R.
Seasonal activities: Different seasons offer varied family experiences. "The kids loved watching the sailboats on this part of the lake. They also love the Sandy Beach," mentions Ashley W. about Cedar Ridge Campground at Stockton Lake.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Full-service sites are limited in the region. At Springfield - Route 66 KOA, "Originally built for park volunteers, we enjoyed 50/30 amp service, water and sewer with amazing views of the lake. The rest of the sites have water and electric," explains Dan & Penny F.
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds require careful setup. "I brought my travel trailer and stayed on lot 28. It was a KOA Patio site (a cement patio area with a table, chairs, and fire pit) that had city water, sewer, and electric. The lot was well cared for and my spot was incredibly flat/level. It's always a nice feeling to pull in and set up with minimal effort," shares Steven N.
Off-season advantages: Shoulder seasons offer better availability and pricing. "From Jan 5th - March 14th campsites are free at Damsite Park. However, there is no electric or water available at that time. During the off season (Oct 1 - Nov.30 & March 14th - Apr 14) all campsites (electric and primitive) are only $10 (limited amenities)," advises Rebecca L.
