Stockton Lake and Pomme de Terre State Park form the backbone of camping options near Pleasant Hope, Missouri. The Ozark region maintains moderate temperatures from April through October, with summer highs averaging 85-90°F. Fall camping provides comfortable nights around 50-60°F when exploring the limestone bluffs and oak-hickory forests characteristic of the area. Yurt camping near Pleasant Hope, Missouri has grown in popularity as an alternative lodging option.
What to do
Trout fishing in stocked waters: Bennett Spring State Park Campground offers premier trout fishing with daily stockings during season. "This state park is one of most beautiful in the region. 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 Chad K.
Kayaking marked water trails: Stockton State Park Campground features designated kayak routes on the lake. "They have some pretty cool kayak marked trails on the lake. Beautiful sail boats to see as well!" shares Katie R. These water trails range from beginner-friendly 1-2 mile routes to more challenging 5+ mile circuits.
Hiking wooded lake paths: Pittsburg Area Campground at Pomme de Terre State Park provides scenic trail access with lake views. "Only on real hiking trail on Pittsburgh loop but it was filled with bluff views and lots of wildlife as well as a public beach," explains Josh S. Most trails are under 3 miles and rated easy to moderate difficulty.
What campers like
Private water access: Cedar Ridge Campground at Stockton Lake offers campsites with direct lake access. "Each site in the electric loop has a private path to the waters edge. Sites viewable by map next to water," reports Josh S. Many waterfront sites require advance booking 3-6 months ahead during peak season.
Shaded camping areas: Springfield - Route 66 KOA features natural shade throughout the camping areas. "The sites were gravel and unlevel. WiFi and cell service were good. Bathrooms were clean. The kids enjoyed the pizza they make here and they will deliver it to your campsite when ready," shares Jennifer H. Most shaded sites are located in the tent camping areas.
Easy boat access: Stockton State Park Campground provides convenient boat ramps near camping areas. "Real nice park Especially for what we paid. $8.00 for electric only per night. Senior rate off season, $2.00 discount. Two loops East & West. We stayed in the east on a fairly level site, all nicely spaced," writes Gary P.
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Springfield - Route 66 KOA has nearby train tracks. "Clean KOA that is family friendly. This KOA is clean with wonderful parks and a nice pool. It was a great place to stay while driving to our destination. The bonus and downfall was a train track that was close to the campground. We would still stay here again," advises Courtney G.
Limited bathroom facilities: Pittsburg Area Campground has fewer restroom options in some areas. "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," cautions Jessica B.
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds in the Pleasant Hope area operate year-round but with reduced services in winter. From November through March, expect limited water access and fewer amenities. Yurt camping options near Pleasant Hope, Missouri typically require reservations 2-3 months in advance during summer.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Bennett Spring State Park Campground features play areas near camping loops. "Great place to take the family. 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," recommends Amanda R.
Swimming beaches: Hermitage State Park Campground at Pomme de Terre offers dedicated swimming areas. "Great place for camping with the family and dogs! everyone is very pleasant and I felt comfortable letting the kids ride their bikes around, a great presence from the park rangers!" shares Dana Q.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer ranger-led programs on weekends during summer. Children can learn about local wildlife, participate in fishing clinics, or join guided night hikes to observe stars and nocturnal animals. Programs typically run 30-60 minutes and are free with camping fees.
Tips from RVers
Level parking pads: RV Express 66 provides concrete sites with full hookups. "Easy access, next to hwy and lots of eating establishments close by. Full water, electric and sewer connections. Level concrete pads," notes Jackie M. Most sites accommodate RVs up to 45 feet with slide-outs.
Dump station access: Cedar Ridge Campground offers sanitary facilities but limited full-hookup sites. "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," explains cody.
Senior discounts: Many state park campgrounds offer reduced rates for seniors. Seasonal rates typically range from $8-30 depending on hookups and location. Off-season camping (November-March) often provides 30-50% discounts across all regional campgrounds.
