Top Free Dispersed Camping near Stockton Lake

Want to go dispersed camping near Stockton Lake? Find the best information on dispersed campgrounds near Stockton Lake, including photos, reviews, and tips. Search dispersed campsites you've visited before, or discover new spots and read camper reviews.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Stockton Lake, MO (1)


Recent Dispersed Reviews In Stockton Lake

9 Reviews of 1 Stockton Lake Campgrounds


  • Camper-submitted photo from Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping
    January 20, 2024

    Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping

    Decent spot

    It was quiet. We enjoyed our stay. I read about the black cat that was found there in the other review. It was still there when we camped in late December and quite hungry. Very friendly and needing love. We brought him home with us and he is the most amazing cat. Took a while to get litter trained but I’m glad we opened up our home to him before the bad weather got here. Thanks to this site, we found our new family member! Thanks to whoever posted.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping
    August 28, 2023

    Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping

    I Made a Kittah Friend

    There is a super sweet local cat who befriended me here and made my visit so much better. I had some mechanical issues with my car and Kampground Kittah tried to help. 🤣

    Bathrooms were fine. It’s free camping so it was great that there were bathrooms at all.

    One of the locals stopped by my site to look for arrowheads. Apparently, she has found a lot in the area so that’s a good activity if the kids are bored.

    If you’re looking for a good wine, you can find some at the local auto parts store. I am not kidding! I think it’s Rick’s Auto Parts and their liquor is priced very reasonably. 😄 If your car’s broken down and you can’t drive, I guess you might as well drink and Rick’s there to help you out with both. 🤣

  • Camper-submitted photo from Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping
    May 6, 2023

    Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping

    Stinky toilet

    Large grassy area with plenty of room to set up a tent or camper. Right off the road, so no dirt roads to traverse. Signs were confusing as to whether it is ok to camp, but they didn't explicitly say no camping. The lake is really just a mud bog, so not very appealing unless you came to duck hunt. No picnic tables or fire pits. The pit toilet was really gross, but there was toilet paper.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping
    April 25, 2023

    Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping

    Amazing experience!

    We got to campsite pretty late, so when everyone was unpacked we went straight to bed. shortly after we all passed out from the long and beautiful 16 hour drive, we started hearing all the wildlife and I will never forget waking up in the most beautiful place. Was a picture perfect moment, Colorado springs will forever hold a spot in my, and my family's memories. have fun and safe travels!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping
    June 6, 2022

    Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping

    Great Secluded Dispersed Camping

    There is no camping allowed after October 15 due to hunting season. This was not on the website and was not seeable in dust when arriving late on a small sign in the bushes. Thankfully we were not shot! While free, dispersed sites, there are easily established fire pit areas to choose from Vault toilets were absolutely disgusting, thankfully we brought our own toilet paper. Easily accessible car camping. Not too many other campers at the other site where we spotted some RVs. Overall the remote location, gorgeous scenery and with a couple boats makes for a great weekend.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping
    November 29, 2020

    Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping

    montrose conservation area missouri

    this little off the beaten path camp ground his paved roads, boat access for 2 areas 1 near the damn which closes a gate after 10pm, we use the other area near the conservation station(although ive never seen anyone there) park rangers are mostly non existent , they do drive through, they are quite nice an most the time never stop just smile an wave, there some fire spots but be kind an put up rocks that you can find along the shore, there is bathroom facilities and a dumpster behind the conservation building.

    the area is surrounded by trees but the area is clean, nice soft grass, there are pecan an walnut trees so watch out for your heads when its fall lol . you can fish, boat and swim but i recommend  water shoes. the water is very shallow most the time its only chest deep out in the middle. there is loads of wildlife to see an arent much scared of humans, racoons,beavers, crane, squirrels,dear,owls an much more. theres also blackberries in the fall. 

    all in all a very nice quiet little free camp area. we go all the time.



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