Camping near Pittsburg, Missouri centers around Pomme de Terre Lake, which spans 7,820 acres with 113 miles of shoreline at normal pool elevation of 839 feet. The area experiences hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F from June through September, while spring and fall offer milder conditions ideal for tent camping. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, with high water periods typically occurring in spring.
What to Do
Hiking on natural trails: At Pittsburg Area Campground, campers can explore the main trail featuring bluff views and wildlife sightings. "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," notes Josh S.
Swimming at designated beaches: Nemo Park offers a popular swim beach with extensive shoreline. "It has a playground and a great swim beach and lots of shoreline in case the beach is full," says Bryan C., who recommends the campground for its recreational amenities.
Fishing from shoreline spots: Multiple camping areas provide direct water access for fishing without a boat. "This has become our favorite family campground. The sites on the lake are awesome and large... Fishing is great!" reports Tiffany H. about Pittsburg Area Campground.
What Campers Like
Lake views from elevated sites: Many campers appreciate the strategic positioning of sites on higher ground. "Loop 3 campsite 317. I loved the trail to the lake! The swimming beach was amazing and the bathrooms well-kept," Rebecca R. shares about Hermitage Area Campground.
Private water access paths: Several loops feature dedicated routes from individual sites to the water. "Each site in the electric loop has a private path to the waters edge. Sites viewable by map next to water," Josh S. observed at Pittsburg Area Campground.
Off-season value and accessibility: Winter and early spring offer unique camping opportunities with reduced rates. "During the off season (Oct 1 - Nov.30 & March 14th - Apr 14) all campsites (electric and primitive) are only $10 (limited amenities)... From Jan 5th - March 14th campsites are free at Damsite Park," explains Rebecca L. from Damsite.
What You Should Know
Site terrain varies significantly: Many camping areas feature rocky ground that can challenge tent setup. "We had a vault toilet near our site which was nice for middle of the night trips. The site was on quite an incline & there were lots of rocks under our tent. I would not recommend this site," warns Jessica B. about certain locations at Pittsburg Area Campground.
Loop characteristics differ: Each camping loop offers distinct experiences and amenities. "Loop 200 is electric sites well spaced with lake access to most. This appeared to be the most tent and camper friendly loop," notes Josh S. at Pittsburg Park Campground.
Verify site location before booking: Some reservation systems may not accurately represent the actual site position. "On Rec.Gov Site both appeared to be almost waterfront and they were located in a much different spot. We ended up on the main drive path 4 sites above the water," cautions Josh S. about Nemo Park.
Tips for Camping with Families
Choose loops with playground access: Certain areas offer better amenities for children. "The park has a camp store, playground and a great swim beach with places to fish from the shore. The campground is perfect for bike riding as well," suggests Bryan C. about Hermitage State Park Campground.
Consider site privacy levels: Different loops offer varying degrees of seclusion. "We chose the 400 loop of Pittsburgh for its secluded spots. Spaces are not stacked on top of each other. You're in the woods so take bug spray. Level paved lots to choose from," recommends Cindy K.
Look for sites with both shade and water views: The most family-friendly sites balance protection from sun with lake access. "Good room and nice level areas where we stayed in the 400 loop. Cons: Lots of rocks in the tent areas. Lot of vegetation around making some bugs prominent," notes Kevin C.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability is limited: Only select campgrounds offer complete utility connections. "Outlet Park is rated 5 stars because all the sites are on one side of a tree lined lane and all of them are waterfront. The bathrooms and shower house are well maintained, the campground hosts are friendly and available and most of the sites are level and easy to get into," explains Jeremy C.
Site accessibility challenges: Some campground designs make maneuvering larger rigs difficult. "Most of the pads were wide enough for 2 campers yet due to layout you could barely get a truck in the sites let alone a camper. Low power lines, support lines for giant power towers across driveways and the last issue was no room to back in a camper," warns Josh S.
Electric service varies by loop: Different camping areas offer different electrical hookup options. "We set up 'The big Kahuna' our rig here on the 30amp hookup with water. Nice and spacious," shares Aloha M. about COE Pomme de Terre Lake Pittsburg Park.
