Camping near Stockton Lake

Stockton Lake is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Missouri camping has to offer. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Stockton Lake, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

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Best Camping Sites Near Stockton Lake (116)

    1. Stockton State Park Campground

    12 Reviews
    Stockton, MO
    5 miles
    Website

    "There was a short walk less than 5 minutes down a trail to the lake that was gorgeous."

    "We camped in campground 1 right next to the play ground. Super clean, had a view of the lake. Within walking distance of the marina. Everyone was very friendly."

    2. Cedar Ridge Campground—Stockton Lake

    7 Reviews
    Dadeville, MO
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (417) 995-2045

    $14 - $24 / night

    "Campground has private boat ramp and parking away from public use so things stay secure overnight. Short walk to beach area is nice. Will be back again"

    "The swim beach is a little far from the camp, but 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"

    3. COE Stockton Lake Hawker Point

    6 Reviews
    Stockton, MO
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (417) 276-7266

    $14 - $20 / night

    "While Stockton Lake itself brings a lot to the table, with beautiful blue water, cliffs to jump from, and close proximity to town if you are craving some ice cream (I suggest Squeeze Inn), the State Park"

    "This particular site was just up the hill from the lake and completely private."

    4. Crabtree Cove

    7 Reviews
    Stockton, MO
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (417) 276-6799

    $14 - $40 / night

    5. Orleans Trail

    3 Reviews
    Stockton, MO
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (417) 276-6948

    $14 - $160 / night

    "Cheap full hook ups at a nice lakeside campground, they also have a hotel and cabins that are nice getaways. The food at the restaurant is pretty good as well."

    "We had a view of the lake across the road. The bathroom was a several minute walk

    Site D37 across from us had water access and looked really nice."

    7. COE Stockton Lake Ruark Bluff West

    3 Reviews
    Greenfield, MO
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (417) 637-5279

    $14 - $160 / night

    "Immediate access to the lake from this site for our kayaks. Short distance from bathrooms/shower house. Plenty of showers and bathrooms (both family style and community style options available)."

    "Easy walk to the lake. Best part: no cell service for the teens! Camped with other families and really enjoyed ourselves. Nice and quiet at night, too."

    8. Kimmys At Caplinger

    3 Reviews
    Stockton, MO
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (417) 955-1233

    $35 - $45 / night

    "If the pond on site is not big enough Stockton Lake is just minutes away or maybe you enjoy kayaking the Sac River is very close as well. Shuttle service is right up the road if needed. "

    "From walking the trails, kayaking, camp fires, swings & play sets for the kids to enjoying the beautiful scenery. They have just about everything you need in the little store/welcome center."

    9. Ruark Bluff East

    1 Review
    Greenfield, MO
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (417) 637-5303

    $14 - $200 / night

    "Very cheap and they have public showers and restrooms near the entrance. We always go back every year. Beautiful place to camp in the fall as well."

    10. The Happy Camper by THC LLC

    2 Reviews
    Collins, MO
    13 miles
    +1 (417) 298-6440

    $15 - $40 / night

    "Off the highway, so good access but the noise wasn’t that bad at night. Fire pit and picnic table there. Stars were lovely at night. Owners were so nice!"

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Recent Reviews near Stockton Lake

400 Reviews of 116 Stockton Lake Campgrounds


  • Hayley G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 3, 2025

    Stockton State Park Campground

    Nicely maintained campground, great hiking trails, no privacy.

    This was a nice campground that was well maintained. The sites are quite close together with little privacy and minimal shade from the trees. We stayed in the East Loop which looked less popular than the West Loop. There was a short walk less than 5 minutes down a trail to the lake that was gorgeous. And a longer hike that went along the edge of the lake that was absolutely lovely and easy enough for the young kids in our group to do. If you don't mind being close to your neighbors it's a nice spot!

    We did check out the walk in sites here, but were not able to stay in them. They looked awesome and were a short 5 minute walk from the parking. A great beginner site for walk in camping and there were carts at the start of the trail for your gear. Both loops had decent playgrounds for the kids.

  • Hayley G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 3, 2025

    Orleans Trail

    Private, wooded campground near the lake!

    We stayed in the D loop at site D37. All of the sites in the D loop are more spaced out and wooded than in the other loops. They also don't have electric and the bathroom is a vault toilet. 

    Site D37 was able to fit our two tents comfortably but I don't think there was a flat space to fit a third. It was also pretty overgrown and unkept. So bring lots of bug spray. Site D39 is pretty close and it would work well for a group needing multiple spots. We had a view of the lake across the road. The bathroom was a several minute walk. 

    Site D37 across from us had water access and looked really nice. Other nearby spots D40 was also quite heavily wooded and didn't look like it had much more than one semi-flat spot for a tent. But it was definitely very private! 

    We used the shower houses(which we had to drive to get to) and they were okay. The water wouldn't get hot, but we didn't take ice cold showers. The swim beach was the highlight of this location and very nice!

  • Dakota Y.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Coastal Country Resorts LLC

    Wonderful sights, friendly staff, beautiful cabins

    Absolutely gorgeous place, Wonderful mordernized cabins, friendliest staff around. An absolute must on your trip if your in the area. If you time it right you might spot a sasquatch

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 25, 2025

    RV Express 66

    One night stay

    Easy access, next to hwy and lots of eating establishments close by. Full water, electric and sewer connections. Level concrete pads.

  • Lisa M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 23, 2025

    Damsite

    Another great COE Campground

    Sites were nice and level. Most sites had water and electric. Five showers and five flushing toilets that were nicely kept. Beautiful view on the lake. Sites 25 through 45 have a little or no shade. FYI. Sites are fairly close together, but they are staggered so you’re not right next-door to your neighbor.

  • E
    Aug. 18, 2025

    Riverfront Campground and Canoe

    The cabins are nothing like website

    Terrible decision to rent a cabin , turns out not a cabin but a room and bath. Nothing at all like site. Ask for explanation and extra coats. Ask for another correct cabin , they said it was cabin? I ask for Someone to come by and explain the situation. No other cabins and no refunds… the bait and switch ! bewared awful service, photos of cabins, we stayed in a room with a bathroom that was in the garage of a cabin? Heard baby crying the 1night when down and agian said this is not the cabin we reserved and also extra charges on my credit card. I ask for someone to explain why the add was nothing at all like payed for and we requested another correct cabin or refund. nothing from anyone , no one came to room , or called me . We went to fish at Bennett spring with grandson 14 birthday. He felt and I felt uncomfortable with baby crying knew we been scammed by internet false photos and prepaid. We left early to stay in lodge just down road from riverfront. We never got refund and excuses that they fixed web page and grandson posted negative review, I said why would we give a good review? was a room not a cabin, payed the mortgage on the cabin that the campground family lived in!! This was the worst experience with renting a cabin. Not one photo online or description was correct. Then overcharged on credit card? I hope this helps someone else who’s thinking of cabin at Riverfront Campground.

  • E
    Aug. 18, 2025

    Riverfront Campground and Canoe

    Was nothing at all like advertised

    Rented a cabin on line but when get there no cabin , photos did not Mach add. Ask for refund but they I gave a bad review so no refund. When trying to find what happened, they said  they fixed photos on line but will not refund money for false advertising. Terrible stay baby crying it was awful

  • The Better H.
    Aug. 11, 2025

    Osceola RV Park & Campground

    Quick stop for night

    We were passing through and decided to check this place out since it was getting late and they offered full hookups. It was only $22.00 for the night and the host was very nice and helpful . The park was clean and we felt safe. It was not noisy. There are large trees that make nice shade. I didn’t use the restrooms so I can’t say anything on that.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 7, 2025

    Crabtree Cove, Stockton Lake, MO

    Many beautiful campsites

    This campground has a wide variety of sites, from fully shaded to partially shaded, some a stone's throw from the water


Guide to Stockton Lake

Camping near Stockton Lake, Missouri, offers a great mix of outdoor fun and relaxation. With beautiful scenery and plenty of campgrounds to choose from, it’s a perfect spot for families, friends, and solo adventurers alike.

What to do:

  • Fishing: Stockton Lake is known for its fishing opportunities. One camper at Damsite mentioned, "The views were great and we even had a private staircase right down to the water." This makes it easy to cast a line and enjoy a peaceful day by the lake.
  • Swimming: Many campgrounds, like COE Pomme de Terre Lake Nemo Park, have swimming areas. A visitor shared, "Clean, well kept, campsites are semi-private but close to the water," making it a great spot for a refreshing dip.
  • Hiking: Explore the trails around the lake. A reviewer at Pittsburg Park Campground noted, "Having a trailhead that close to your site is awesome," highlighting the convenience of accessing nature right from your campsite.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. One visitor at Stockton State Park Campground said, "The cleanest restrooms I’ve seen," which is a big plus for many.
  • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy spots. A camper at Hawker Point Stockton Lake mentioned, "The sites are spacious and shaded," making it comfortable for families and groups.
  • Friendly Staff: Good service can make a trip memorable. A guest at Cooks RV Motor Park said, "The hosts make this place amazing," which adds to the welcoming atmosphere.

What you should know:

  • Train Noise: Some campgrounds, like Springfield - Route 66 KOA, are near train tracks. A reviewer noted, "You will hear a train horn on occasion," so if you're a light sleeper, consider bringing earplugs.
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full hookups. A visitor at Cedar Ridge Campground—Stockton Lake mentioned, "The campground has private boat ramp and parking away from public use," but noted that water and dump stations are separate.
  • Mosquitoes: Depending on the season, bugs can be a nuisance. A camper at Pittsburg Area Campground mentioned, "The mosquitos are thick," so be sure to pack some bug spray.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and swimming areas. A family at Stockton State Park Campground enjoyed, "They have a small gated dog park and a huge open field," perfect for kids to run around.
  • Plan for Rain: Be prepared for changing weather. A camper at Pittsburg Park Campground said, "Even though it rained, the scenery was wonderful," so bring waterproof gear just in case.
  • Group Sites: If camping with a larger group, consider reserving sites close together. A visitor at Hawker Point Stockton Lake noted, "There is plenty of room and the trees make your site feel much more private," which is great for family gatherings.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure to verify the size of your reserved site. A reviewer at Missouri Damsite advised, "All sites have good picnic tables and fire rings," but noted that some sites can be tight for larger rigs.
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Some campgrounds, like Cedar Ridge Campground—Stockton Lake, don’t sell firewood. A camper mentioned, "Disappointed in that," so stock up before you arrive.
  • Plan for Dump Stations: Know where the nearest dump station is located. A visitor at COE Pomme de Terre Lake Nemo Park highlighted, "Easy access to dump station," which is crucial for RV travelers.

Camping near Stockton Lake, Missouri, has something for everyone, whether you're fishing, swimming, or just enjoying the great outdoors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What campgrounds are available at Stockton Lake, Missouri?

Stockton Lake offers several excellent camping options managed by the Corps of Engineers and other entities. COE Stockton Lake Hawker Point is a highly-rated campground with beautiful blue water views and convenient proximity to town for amenities. Cedar Ridge Campground—Stockton Lake is situated on a hill overlooking the lake and features a nice boat launch ramp with plenty of shade, making it ideal when lake levels are high. Other options include Crabtree Cove, Orleans Trail, and Ruark Bluff East, each offering various amenities and access points to the lake. These campgrounds typically provide a mix of tent and RV sites with varying levels of facilities.

Where is Chicken Rock located at Stockton Lake?

Chicken Rock is a popular cliff jumping spot at Stockton Lake known for its beautiful blue water and scenic views. It's located near the cliffs along the shoreline of the lake, making it accessible by boat. While the exact coordinates aren't specified in reviews, Chicken Rock is a well-known landmark among regular visitors to the lake. Crabtree Cove campground provides relatively close access to this area of the lake. For safety, it's best to ask local campground hosts or marina staff for precise directions to Chicken Rock, especially if you're planning to visit for recreational activities.

Are there private campgrounds on Stockton Lake for RV camping?

Yes, there are private campgrounds that accommodate RV camping at Stockton Lake. Kimmys At Caplinger is a highly-rated private campground known for being clean, friendly, and offering various outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and swimming. It's just minutes away from Stockton Lake and provides good accommodations for RV campers. Another option in the broader region is The Happy Camper by THC LLC, which offers drive-in access with reservable sites, water, and toilets suitable for RVs. These private options typically provide more amenities than public campgrounds, making them attractive for RV campers seeking additional conveniences.

What amenities are available at Stockton Lake campgrounds?

Amenities at Stockton Lake campgrounds vary by location. Crabtree Cove offers RV and tent sites arranged in sub-loops with some shade trees, though sites are fairly close together with limited privacy. During off-season (starting October 1st), camping may be free at this Corps of Engineers campground. Orleans Trail provides reservable sites with toilet facilities. Most campgrounds include basic amenities like picnic tables, fire pits, and access to the lake. Some offer electrical hookups, boat ramps, and shower facilities. Water access varies by location, so it's advisable to check specific campground details before your visit, especially if you require full RV hookups or specific amenities.