The area surrounding Morrisville, Missouri features several state parks situated around Stockton Lake and Pomme de Terre Lake at elevations of 850-950 feet above sea level. These lakes serve as focal points for outdoor recreation with consistent water levels maintained by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Winter temperatures typically range from 25-45°F, while summer averages 75-95°F with high humidity.
What to do
Trout fishing at Bennett Spring State Park: Daily trout releases make this a reliable fishing destination with four designated fishing zones. "The trout fishin was amazing and the hiking options were plentiful. The best part about this park is there is something to do for the whole family," notes a visitor to Bennett Spring State Park Campground.
Kayaking on marked trails: Several lakes in the area feature designated water routes for paddlers. A visitor to Stockton State Park Campground mentioned, "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!"
Swimming at developed beaches: Multiple parks offer maintained swimming areas with varying amenities. "The 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," states a camper from Hermitage State Park.
What campers like
Spacious, level sites: Many campgrounds offer well-maintained, flat camping pads. At Cedar Ridge Campground—Stockton Lake, a camper noted: "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, which does somewhat provide a dispersed camping experience."
Lake access from campsites: Several campgrounds provide direct water access. "Each site in the electric loop has a private path to the waters edge. Sites viewable by map next to water," explains a visitor to Pittsburg Area Campground.
Campground amenities: The area offers various comfort levels from rustic to full-service. "This campground was FULL all weekend! The staff was great! The mini donuts they delivered to your site in the morning hit the spot!" shares a camper at Springfield - Route 66 KOA.
What you should know
Train noise: Some campgrounds experience periodic train disturbances. "Because you're going to see and hear a lot of them, as there is a train track very close to the site. If it wasn't for the trains coming by blowing their horns, this would easily be a favorite spot," warns a visitor to Springfield - Route 66 KOA.
Winter camping considerations: Facilities operate with reduced services in colder months. "We stayed in campground one because it is the only one open during the off season. One negative is we only found one toilet for the entire campground. It wasn't a problem at this time because there was hardly anybody there."
Tent site terrain: Rocky ground can be an issue at several locations. "I noticed several of the tent sites do not have level areas for your tent. T01 site does not have close parking unless you are able to park in the handcap parking. Vault toilet by the boat ramp is sketchy (where tent camping is located)."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play equipment for children. "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," mentions a visitor to Bennett Spring State Park.
Swimming options: Most state parks maintain designated swimming areas. A camper at Niangua River Oasis shared: "Well I've went here for many years loved camping and also we did a 14 mile float trip would always get rafts and canoes and kayaks prolly the most family friendly environment."
Kid-friendly attractions: Look for campgrounds with multiple activities in close proximity. "The kids loved watching the sailboats on this part of the lake. They also love the Sandy Beach," notes a visitor to Cedar Ridge Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness: Paved sites provide easier setup for larger rigs. "Level paved lots to choose from. Fire rings and covered picnic tables. Lots of shade," observes a camper at Pittsburg Area Campground.
Convenience locations: Several campgrounds provide easy highway access. "Easy access, next to hwy and lots of eating establishments close by. Full water, electric and sewer connections. Level concrete pads," reports a visitor to RV Express 66.
Hookup variations: Water and electric availability differs between campgrounds. "Great campground to stay at. Sites are power only, water and dump separate. Campground has private boat ramp and parking away from public use so things stay secure overnight."
