Yurt camping near Schell City, Missouri offers campers access to Harry S. Truman Reservoir and its 950 miles of shoreline. The area sits at approximately 850 feet elevation with a humid continental climate featuring hot summers and mild winters. Water levels at nearby lakes fluctuate seasonally, with spring typically bringing higher water that can affect access to some camping areas and water activities.
What to do
Lakeside activities: At Cedar Ridge Campground on Stockton Lake, visitors can enjoy excellent fishing directly from shore. "The kids loved watching the sailboats on this part of the lake. They also love the Sandy Beach," notes one camper about Cedar Ridge Campground—Stockton Lake.
Biking trails: Paved roads through the forests provide shaded routes for cyclists at various parks. "Level area great for bike riding. They only have one hiking trail but it was well marked," reports a visitor at COE Harry S Truman Reservoir Bucksaw Campground.
Swimming spots: Natural swimming areas exist beyond the designated beaches. At Cedar Ridge, "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," explains a reviewer.
Kayaking routes: Stockton State Park has designated water routes for paddlers. "Great state park. Cleanest restrooms I've seen. Great trails. Bring the kayaks. They have some pretty cool kayak marked trails on the lake," shares a camper at Stockton State Park Campground.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Some sites offer more seclusion than others. "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," reports a visitor at Pittsburg Area Campground — Pomme de Terre State Park.
Value for money: Several campgrounds offer economical rates, especially with passes. "Flat level gravel site with plenty of space to spread out with an amazing view of Truman Lake and Long Shoal Marina. With America the Beautiful Senior pass, cost of site was $10 per night," notes a camper at COE Harry S Truman Reservoir Long Shoal Park.
Lakefront access: Many sites provide direct water views or access. "Site 47 right on the water great for kayaking and swimming. Water in the lake is high this time of year but fun is still to be had via fishing, biking, boating and kayaking," explains a Long Shoal Park visitor.
Semi-private accommodations: For those seeking yurt camping near Schell City, Missouri, Hermitage State Park Campground offers clean facilities with several amenities. "We picked a standard non electric site as it was level and not crowded. $8 for seniors so not bad. Lots of fishing activities here on the lake," shares a reviewer.
What you should know
Bathrooms vary widely: Facility quality differs between campgrounds. "Bathrooms could really use an update but the lake access in our group campsite was awesome!" reports a camper at Stockton State Park.
Tent site challenges: Not all tent pads are level or rock-free. "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 handicap parking," warns a Cedar Ridge visitor.
Weather considerations: Strong winds can affect lake activities. "The weather is not under control of Long Shoal unfortunately. Our plans included some kayaking however the relentless rain and wind did not allow it," shares one camper.
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies by location and provider. At Deer Run RV Park & Campground, a visitor notes "No T-Mobile service. Kinda backwoods and could definitely use some updating but pleasant all the same."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds feature play equipment for children. "Loop B also has the playground which is right behind site B47. It's a newer playground and all equipment was nicely maintained. There are no swings," advises a Sparrowfoot camper.
Waterfront safety: Consider sites with gradual water entry points for children. "If you're not into being on the water - this campground may not be for you," cautions a visitor at Pittsburgh Area Campground.
Site selection for shade: Summer heat requires strategic planning. "These spots are very hot and sunny in the morning, but shaded in the afternoon," notes a visitor about certain sites at Sparrowfoot.
Biking-friendly loops: Several campgrounds offer safe riding areas. "The campground is perfect for bike riding as well," reports a camper at Hermitage State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Hookup limitations: Most sites offer electric only, with water and dump stations separate. "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," explains a Stockton State Park visitor.
Site leveling: Some pads require additional work. "Sites are not level and need either more gravel or concrete. Most of the sites are 30 amp and no dump station," advises an RVer at Gunn Park.
Accessibility information: Not all sites accommodate larger rigs. "We stayed in campground 1 right next to the play ground. Super clean, had a view of the lake. Within walking distance of the marina," shares a Stockton State Park visitor.
Upgraded RV options: For those seeking more amenities, private campgrounds provide full facilities. "I know there are new pedestals and hookups for RVs and they have been working on the swimming pool for 2023," reports a visitor at Crossroads RVs and Cabins.
