Stockton Lake spans 25,000 acres with clear blue waters situated in southwest Missouri at 867 feet elevation. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers manages most camping facilities around the lake, offering a mix of electric and non-electric sites with varying levels of privacy. Winter camping is available at several locations, with reduced services from October through April.
What to do
Fishing from shore or boat: Stockton Lake is known for its walleye, crappie, and bass fishing. At Cedar Ridge Campground, the boat launch ramp provides convenient lake access. "The campground was well kept, mowed, clean" with a "nice place to camp when lake level is high," according to Dean D.
Kayaking along shoreline: Morning paddling trips offer calm waters before afternoon winds pick up. At Hawker Point Campground, "We managed to carry two kayaks down and up without too much trouble (and we are a middle-aged couple), and it was totally worth the effort because it was as if we had our own private cove," reports Lea B.
Swimming at designated beaches: The clear water makes swimming popular throughout summer months. Bryan C. notes that at Cedar Ridge Campground, "The kids loved watching the sailboats on this part of the lake. They also love the Sandy Beach," while also mentioning "Chicken Rock, a large island out in the lake the kids love to swim to and jump off."
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: The D loop at Orleans Trail Campground features "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," according to Hayley G., who adds, "We had a view of the lake across the road."
Shaded camping areas: Many visitors appreciate the natural shade during hot Missouri summers. Charlotte B. notes that at Hawker Point, "There is plenty of room and the trees make your site feel much more private. If it isn't full, I suggest Hawker Point as your first choice when headed to Stockton Lake."
Direct lake access: Several sites permit shoreline camping with immediate water access. Josh S. found that Cedar Ridge "sites are right on the lake water and some are off in the woods a little bit more, which does somewhat provide a dispersed camping experience, although you are still at a camp site near an access road. Lots of room though."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Book early for premium waterfront sites, especially on weekends. Jennifer M. cautions at Cedar Ridge, "They do not sell firewood and tell you to go to the woods to get your own - Disappointed in that."
Water and hookup limitations: Some campgrounds offer only partial hookups. At Ruark Bluff West, Dean D. notes "The RV sites are very crowded and no extra space to park your car or boat. Bathroom and bathhouse is nice. It's a nice place to camp if you don't mind having close neighbors."
Off-season changes: Services decrease after October 1. Fred S. shares that "Camping was free at this Corp of Engineer campground since off season began on Oct 1st... The water station was shut off, but the vault toilet, which wasn't very clean, was open. No camp host on duty during our stay."
Tips for camping with families
Try tent camping in wooded areas: Families seeking privacy should consider non-electric loops. Kenna P. recommends Orleans Trail: "My family has been camping here in October- after winterization, thus no water- for decades. In season, there are nearby showers and running water. Sites are large and heavily shaded."
Consider distance to facilities: At Crabtree Cove Campground, campers find "nice path down to the lake with some seating area to put your feet in the water," according to Phillip G., but facilities may require driving. Laura B. notes at Ruark Bluff West, "Short distance from bathrooms/shower house. Plenty of showers and bathrooms (both family style and community style options available)."
Pack bug spray: Wooded sites can have more insects. Hayley G. warns about Orleans Trail: "It was also pretty overgrown and unkept. So bring lots of bug spray."
Tips for RVers
Level site selection: Many dog friendly campgrounds at Stockton Lake have varying terrain. Laura H. notes at Cedar Ridge, "I noticed several of the tent sites do not have level areas for your tent," which applies to RVs too.
Hookup availability: For full services, check campground details carefully. At The Happy Camper, Erin J. reports, "It's $20 a night and they have water and electricity. They offer a military discount! The sites were clean, quiet and cozy... Fire pit and picnic table there."
Consider access roads: Some dog-friendly campgrounds have limited space for larger RVs. Jason C. found Arrowhead Point RV Park offers "Level sites with full hookups. 30,50 amp, water, sewer on every site. Owners are really nice, and keep everything well maintained."
