Camping options near Miller, Missouri, sit between the Springfield plateau and the Ozark highlands with elevations ranging from 850-1,100 feet. The area experiences hot summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and moderate winters. Campgrounds in this region frequently offer water recreation access with several options surrounding Stockton Lake, where water clarity creates ideal conditions for fishing and kayaking.
What to do
Fishing at Stockton Lake: Several campgrounds provide immediate lake access for anglers. At Cedar Ridge Campground, campers appreciate the dedicated boat facilities: "Campground has private boat ramp and parking away from public use so things stay secure overnight." The lake supports multiple fishing spots, with one camper noting, "Lots of shade! Good place to go when lake level is high."
Explore natural cave systems: Visit Roaring River State Park Campground where you can "walk in where you'll find a pool of water that goes for miles underground." The park also features a working trout fish hatchery where "you can walk the holding tanks and feed the trout from baby to ready to be released into the river."
Kayaking and swimming: COE Stockton Lake Hawker Point offers excellent water access points for kayakers. One camper shared: "The lake is to die for. Water was clear clean and like glass. We have kayaks so our morning trips were accidentally long, peaceful and awesome." Another mentioned the "beautiful blue water, cliffs to jump from, and close proximity to town if you are craving some ice cream."
What campers like
Clean, updated facilities: Big Red Barn RV Park receives consistent praise for its maintenance standards. "The bathrooms were toasty warm and VERY clean. Lavatory hot water got warm quickly, plenty of soap and towels," noted one camper. Another mentioned, "The park is really lovely with plenty of large trees and green grass and spacious sites."
Quiet, peaceful environments: Many campers value the serenity at these campgrounds. At Coachlight Campground, a visitor observed: "It was near the highway but oh so quiet." Similarly, Big Red Barn is described as "very quiet - very peaceful. They have an off-leash dog park area which our dogs loved."
Dog-friendly policies: Dog friendly campgrounds near Miller consistently accommodate pets without breed or size restrictions. Ruark Bluff East on Stockton Lake maintains "beautiful" grounds where "the camping spots are always clean and ready to go," making it comfortable for campers with pets to enjoy the waterfront.
What you should know
Train noise considerations: While Springfield Route 66 KOA offers numerous amenities, multiple reviewers mention the nearby train tracks. One camper notes, "There is a train that goes by once or twice a day, but not enough to really make a deal," while another advises, "No road noise........ but there is a train!"
Tent camping limitations: At Beagle Bay RV Haven Campground, tent campers should be aware that "tent area is undeveloped, but the lawn is fairly level" and "unfortunately no campfire for tent camp sites, but bring a camp stove and you'll be fine." Despite these limitations, the campground offers "bathrooms and showers are only a short walk away."
Reservation requirements: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially on weekends. One camper at Hawker Point advised: "Make reservations early because it is full most of the time. Mon Tues, Wed seem to be the only openings if you wait too long."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: Children particularly enjoy Stockton Lake's swimming areas. At Cedar Ridge, "kids loved watching the sailboats on this part of the lake. They also love the Sandy Beach." The natural swimming opportunities at Hawker Point give families "plenty of room and the trees make your site feel much more private."
Educational opportunities: Roaring River State Park provides learning experiences through its fish hatchery. One camper called it "amazingly beautiful and great for kids" and recommended visiting "the hatchery and play in the river." Another noted: "Our girls had a blast there! For first timers, this place is great! Quiet, relaxing, and a nice hatchery/hiking area!"
Play facilities: Several dog-friendly campgrounds near Miller offer dedicated play areas. Big Red Barn RV Park features "a BBQ our first night which was so gracious and enjoyable after a long day of driving" along with recreation facilities. Beagle Bay RV Haven includes "arcade, swimming pool, kids playground and a pond to fish."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV campers should note varying hookup options. At Hawker Point, a visitor advised: "Also, fill your rig with water before you go. There are no water hookups." Another mentioned that "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."
Level sites: Many RVers appreciate level parking at Big Red Barn where "the pull-through sites are great for our 40' home, and level enough that it required about 2 minutes to setup." This makes overnight stays particularly convenient for travelers passing through the Miller area.
