Camping options near Dadeville, Missouri center around Stockton Lake, a 25,000-acre reservoir with 298 miles of shoreline. The area sits at approximately 867 feet above sea level with summer temperatures averaging 75-90°F from June through September. Fall camping season extends through October with cooler nights that can drop to 40°F, while the limestone shorelines provide stable footing for water access in most campgrounds.
What to do
Kayaking on marked trails: Stockton Lake offers designated kayak trails that provide guided paddling routes. At Stockton State Park Campground, visitors appreciate these water-based paths. According to one camper, "Great state park. Cleanest restrooms I've seen. Great trails. Bring the kayaks. They have some pretty cool kayak marked trails on the lake. Beautiful sail boats to see as well!"
Fishing for multiple species: The lake supports crappie, bass, and walleye fishing year-round. Water clarity makes this a preferred spot for anglers, particularly in the coves. A visitor at Crabtree Cove noted, "We love this place always kept up and great park management," while mentioning the excellent fishing conditions.
Swimming at sandy beaches: Several campgrounds maintain swim areas with sandy shorelines rather than rocky access points. One visitor at Orleans Trail commented on the "sandy swim beach is clean and fun, even off-season. Lots of places to hike and fish. Great place for boating."
What campers like
Private water access: Many campers value sites with their own path to the water. At Hawker Point, one visitor described, "Just got home from a weekend stay at site C19 at Hawker Point COE Park. This particular site was just up the hill from the lake and completely private. The walk to the lake was about 50 yards and a little steep but we managed to carry two kayaks down and up without too much trouble."
Affordable rates: Corps of Engineers campgrounds offer competitive pricing compared to private options. A camper at Ruark Bluff East shared, "The campground is beautiful, the people who run it are volunteers and are so sweet. The park is very clean and the camping spots are always clean and ready to go. Very cheap and they have public showers and restrooms near the entrance."
Off-season camping opportunities: Several campgrounds offer free or reduced-cost camping during off-peak seasons. A visitor to Crabtree Cove reported, "Camped in Loop B on Oct 4, 2023. Camping was free at this Corp of Engineer campground since off season began on Oct 1st."
What you should know
Train noise at some locations: If staying farther from the lake, be aware of train tracks. At Springfield - Route 66 KOA, a camper mentioned, "There is a train that goes by once or twice a day, but not enough to really make a deal," while another noted, "I did wake up several times in the night to the sound of trains or planes passing by. The train tracks are right next to the campground."
Limited water hookups: Many campgrounds provide electric service but not water at individual sites. A visitor at Cedar Ridge Campground advised, "Great campground to stay at. Sites are power only, water and dump separate."
Vault toilets in remote loops: More secluded camping areas often have vault toilets rather than flush facilities. At Orleans Trail, a visitor explained, "All of the sites in the D loop are more spaced out and wooded than in the other loops. They also don't have electric and the bathroom is a vault toilet."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds available: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Stockton State Park, a visitor noted, "Both loops had decent playgrounds for the kids."
Swimming locations for kids: Certain areas cater better to families with children. A camper at Cedar Ridge shared, "The kids loved watching the sailboats on this part of the lake. They also love the Sandy Beach."
Natural swimming spots: Beyond designated beaches, there are unique swimming opportunities. A visitor at Orleans Trail reported, "Nice little campground with good facilities. 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."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup details: Most sites offer electric hookups only. A camper at Stockton State Park observed, "Great camping spot with easy access to the lake and marina however there isn't any water or sewer hookup on the camp site. Almost boondocking with electric hookup and a dump station."
Uneven sites at some campgrounds: Prepare for leveling at certain locations. A visitor noted, "The campsites were gravel and unlevel. WiFi and cell service were good."
Senior discounts available: Older campers can take advantage of reduced rates. One visitor at Stockton State Park shared, "Real nice park Especially for what we paid. $8.00 for electric only per night. Senior rate off season, $2.00 discount."
