Glamping near Collins, Missouri centers around Stockton and Pomme de Terre lakes, with options ranging from basic tent sites to full-service RV pads. The area sits in the northern Ozark region at elevations between 800-1,000 feet, characterized by deciduous forests and limestone bluffs. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall provide milder conditions with occasional severe weather.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: 0.5-mile access paths from most sites at Pittsburg Area Campground — Pomme de Terre State Park lead directly to prime fishing spots. "This has become our favorite family campground. The sites on the lake are awesome and large. The fishing is great! My kids love it too!" notes Tiffany H.
Kayaking: Marked water trails at Stockton State Park Campground offer guided routes for paddlers of all skill levels. "They have some pretty cool kayak marked trails on the lake. Beautiful sail boats to see as well!" explains Katie R. The marina rents equipment for hourly or daily use.
Hiking: Diverse terrain options from easy lakeside paths to moderate forest trails with elevation changes. "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," according to Josh S. Most trails range from 1-5 miles and connect multiple camping areas.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Good separation between camping spots at Cedar Ridge Campground—Stockton Lake provides privacy even during busy periods. "We camped overnight here on a bit of a whim and we were pleasantly surprised by the amount of space some of the sites have between them. Some spots are right on the lake water and some are off in the woods a little bit more," reports Josh S.
Clean facilities: Regularly maintained bathrooms and shower houses across most campgrounds. "The showers are clean and private," according to Tiffany H. at Pittsburg Area Campground. At Stockton State Park, one visitor observed it had the "Cleanest restrooms I've seen."
Lake views: Direct water access from select sites at Hermitage State Park Campground provides scenic vantage points and convenient boat access. "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," describes Bryan C.
What you should know
Site selection: Research carefully before booking as terrain varies significantly. "We checked out the walk in sites here, but were not able to stay in them. They looked awesome and were a short 5 minute walk from the parking. A great beginner site for walk in camping and there were carts at the start of the trail for your gear," reports Hayley G. at Stockton State Park.
Weather considerations: Summer heat makes water access important. At Pittsburg Area, Josh S. notes, "Amazing trip and we will return for sure." However, Jessica B. cautions, "This parks main focus is Lake Pomme de Terra, so if you're not into being on the water - this campground may not be for you."
Off-season availability: Reduced services but increased privacy during winter months. "We stayed in campground one because it is the only one open during the off season. You can make reservations online before going to ensure you have the spot you want," explains Nathan P. about Bennett Spring State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple options for children at Long Shoal Park provide entertainment beyond water activities. "Both loops had decent playgrounds for the kids," mentions Hayley G. These areas typically include climbing structures and open space for games.
Bike-friendly roads: Paved surfaces throughout most campgrounds allow for safe cycling. "The roads are all paved so it made biking for our kids easy and enjoyable," Amanda R. shares about her experience. Loop roads are typically under 5 mph speed limits.
Swimming beaches: Designated areas with gradual entry points suitable for various ages. "We 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," reports Rebecca R.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Electric-only sites are common at Sparrowfoot, with water available at central locations. "Sites were spacious with 50 Amp hook ups. Some sites had been receantly redone, new grass, rock pads and elec pedestals," Jay M. explains. Most sites accommodate up to 40-foot rigs.
Leveling considerations: Check site descriptions as some areas have significant slopes. "The site was on quite an incline & there were lots of rocks under our tent. I would not recommend this site," cautions Jessica B. about certain spots at Pittsburg Area Campground.
Dump station locations: Centralized facilities typically located near campground entrances. "Dump station and fresh water fill station at camp ground entrance," notes Dan & Penny F. about Long Shoal Park. Most require a separate stop during departure.
