Stockton Lake sits at approximately 867 feet above sea level in southwest Missouri, covering 24,900 acres with 298 miles of shoreline. The lake features numerous coves and inlets, creating diverse camping environments ranging from wooded sites to open lakefront areas. Water levels typically fluctuate seasonally, affecting shoreline camping conditions from spring through fall.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Stockton Lake offers excellent fishing for walleye, crappie, and bass. At COE Stockton Lake Hawker Point, campers report successful fishing trips. "The lake is clear clean and like glass. We have kayaks so our morning trips were accidently long, peaceful and awesome," notes Carman S.
Hiking and nature observation: The surrounding conservation areas provide trails for hiking and wildlife viewing. Visitors to Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping enjoy abundant wildlife. "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," reports Sarah.
Water recreation: Swimming, kayaking, and boating are popular activities. At Montrose Conservation Area, while "shallow muddy water but it does attract wildlife," according to Mark D., the water access provides opportunities for basic water activities during warmer months.
What campers like
Privacy and space: Many campsites offer seclusion and natural buffers. At Orleans Trail, "All of the sites in the D loop are more spaced out and wooded than in the other loops," notes Hayley G., who appreciated the privacy despite some areas being "pretty overgrown and unkept."
Lake views: Numerous campsites provide direct lake access or views. At Hawker Point, one camper shared, "Just got home from a weekend stay at site C19 at Hawker Point COE Park. This particular site was just up the hill from the lake and completely private. The walk to the lake was about 50 yards and a little steep but we managed to carry two kayaks down and up without too much trouble."
Shaded camping areas: The wooded environment provides natural cooling. At Long Shoal, "We always camp in a tent and the spots were nicely wooded and spaced. This is now our second favorite place for camping," writes Angela F., highlighting the natural shade that helps during hot Missouri summers.
What you should know
Limited shower facilities: While most campgrounds have toilets, showers can be sparse. At Hawker Point, Dean D. notes, "The bath houses leave a little to be desired. You have drive half a mile to get to them."
Seasonal closures and hunting impacts: Some areas have restricted access during hunting seasons. At Montrose Conservation Area, Leni K. discovered, "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."
Equestrian accommodations: None of the major public campgrounds near Stockton Lake feature dedicated horse corrals. For those seeking horse campgrounds near Stockton, Missouri, portable corrals and highlines are essential. Grassy areas at Montrose Conservation Area can accommodate trailers and temporary containment systems, making it one of the few options for equestrian camping near Stockton.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access for children: Several campgrounds offer swimming areas suitable for families. At Berry Bend, Lauri C. appreciated the "great beach with a beautiful view," making it ideal for families with children who enjoy swimming.
Off-peak quieter experience: Consider camping during weekdays for a less crowded experience. Berry Bend "is not nearly as busy as the state park which is awesome!!" according to Kendall K., making it good for families seeking more space and quiet.
Activity options: Some campgrounds offer additional recreation beyond water sports. At B Berry Farms & Co, "This place has everything from axe throwing to free coffee and the property is engineered and planned very nicely," shares Joshua P., noting the family-friendly activities available.
Tips for RVers
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary by campground. At Orleans Trail, Chris G. notes they offer "Cheap full hook ups at a nice lakeside campground," though not all sites have these amenities.
Leveling challenges: Some sites require significant effort to level larger rigs. At B Berry Farms & Co, an RVer with a 40-foot Renegade Verona reported "it took 6 tries to find a place near the hookups where our auto-level would find a good position."
Dump station access: Plan your stay around dump station locations. Long Shoal provides "electric only with easy access to fresh water and dump station as you enter the facility," according to Dan F., making it convenient for RV waste management.
Equestrian RV considerations: For those looking for horse-friendly RV camping near Stockton, Missouri, bring portable containment systems as dedicated equestrian facilities are minimal. The more flexible arrangements at dispersed camping areas like Montrose Conservation Area may better accommodate horse trailers than established campgrounds with defined parking pads.
