Stockton Lake RV campgrounds offer diverse camping options near Missouri's second clearest reservoir, a 25,000-acre lake surrounded by oak-hickory woodlands. Winter temperatures at Stockton Lake can drop to the 20s, while summer highs reach mid-90s with moderate humidity. Most RV parks maintain open status from March through November with varying levels of accessibility during shoulder seasons.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Osceola RV Park & Campground provides convenient access to Truman Lake where anglers target multiple species. "No frills site with both hilly and flat tent spots within close proximity of finding 'Weaubleau Eggs'," notes camper ML W., referencing the unique spherical rock formations popular with rockhounds.
Equine encounters: Visit the stable at Big Red Barn RV Park where guests can pet the resident horse. Though riding isn't permitted, children enjoy the animal interaction. "This park has level, pull-through shaded lots and a quiet location," reports Jan S., who also appreciated the group facilities.
Mini-golf recreation: Osage Prairie RV Park offers on-site mini-golf for kids and adults, providing entertainment without leaving the campground. "Great site with mini golf for the kids too," shares reviewer Evan L., highlighting the family-friendly amenities that complement lake activities.
What campers like
Budget-friendly rates: Timbercrest Park offers economical camping options within reach of Springfield amenities. "Affordable and right on edge of town," notes camper Kimella W., making it a practical choice for those seeking value while exploring the broader Stockton Lake region.
Quiet, country atmosphere: Several campgrounds around Stockton Lake provide peaceful settings away from highway noise. One Big Red Barn guest explains: "This is a great, friendly campground, off the highway about a mile, so no highway noise. Very pet friendly. Long wide sites that have grass, patios and picnic tables."
Cleanliness standards: RV parks in the area maintain varying levels of cleanliness. At Osage Prairie RV Park, a camper observed: "Old but well kept bathrooms & laundry." Another camper at Big Red Barn noted: "The bathrooms were toasty warm and VERY clean. Lavatory hot water got warm quickly, plenty of soap and towels."
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Stockton Lake experiences rapid weather changes, particularly during spring storm season. "We knew within minutes of check in that we picked the right overnight stop," writes Evan L. about Osage Prairie RV Park, where management helped during unstable conditions.
Noise considerations: Some Stockton Lake area campgrounds experience traffic or train noise. "Next to busy highway and trains," cautions Kevin L. about Osage Prairie RV Park. Conversely, others like Big Red Barn RV Park report: "Convenient to Interstate 49, but virtually no traffic noise and none while inside the van."
Varying standards: Facilities around Stockton Lake range from basic to well-appointed. One candid reviewer described Osage Prairie as "At Best an Overnighter," noting: "The park is convenient to get on/off I-49 but you're going to get highway noise day and night. The CG is about 1/2 short termers and 1/2 long timers."
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly amenities: Select Stockton Lake RV campgrounds feature dedicated pet areas. Big Red Barn RV Park offers an off-leash dog park that receives positive feedback: "They have an off-leash dog park area which our dogs loved and used it 3-4 times the nite we were there."
Community activities: Arrowhead Point RV Park & Cabins Campground offers social activities that families appreciate. "Nice small catch and release pond. Has 2 club houses with large grills and 3 cabins also," mentions Jason C., highlighting features beyond standard accommodations.
Playground access: Several campgrounds near Stockton Lake provide play areas for children, though equipment quality varies. Big Red Barn hosts special events for young campers: "They had a 4th of July celebration for the guests!" reports a satisfied visitor, demonstrating the community atmosphere.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Cooks RV Motor Park, experienced RVers recommend specific sites. "Roomy pull throughs," notes one camper, while another specifies: "Shady spots, #22 is best. Full hookups." Understanding campground layouts helps secure preferred spots.
Leveling requirements: RV sites at Stockton Lake campgrounds vary in levelness. At Osage Prairie, one camper reported: "Needed two blocks to level," useful information for RV setup planning. Big Red Barn receives praise for "level, pull-through shaded lots" that minimize setup challenges.
Cell service reliability: Internet connectivity fluctuates around Stockton Lake. Cooks RV Motor Park offers "excellent WiFi" according to one visitor, while others note: "WiFi was below average for a CG this size" at different locations. Mobile hotspot users report varied success with major carriers throughout the region.
