Stockton Lake sits at an elevation of 867 feet in southwestern Missouri and spans over 24,900 acres with 298 miles of shoreline. The lake's clear blue waters and limestone bluffs create natural swimming areas with sandy bottoms. Summer temperatures typically reach the mid-80s during day and cool to mid-60s at night, with afternoon winds common across the main lake.
What to do
Kayaking peaceful coves: Visit Hawker Point where campers enjoy morning paddling when the lake is calm. "Water was clear clean and like glass. We have kayaks so our morning trips were accidently long, peaceful and awesome," notes one camper at COE Stockton Lake Hawker Point.
Fishing from shore: Cedar Ridge provides multiple fishing spots from the shoreline. "There is a very nice boat launch ramp in the camp ground. Lots of shade! Good place to go when lake level is high," according to a review at Cedar Ridge Campground—Stockton Lake.
Hiking maintained trails: Explore the trails at Kimmy's At Caplinger, which are regularly maintained for guest use. A camper shares: "The trails they maintain for their guests are top notch. You have to check out the lake they're created for their campers to enjoy!"
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: Hawker Point offers privacy even during busy periods. "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, and it was totally worth the effort because it was as if we had our own private cove."
Clean swim beaches: Orleans Trail features a popular sandy beach area. "The sandy swim beach is clean and fun, even off-season. Lots of places to hike and fish. Great place for boating," writes a reviewer at Orleans Trail.
Free off-season camping: Crabtree Cove offers no-cost camping during winter months. "Camping was free at this Corp of Engineer campground since off season began on Oct 1st. The Loop B campground has several RV/tent sites arranged in sub-loops in an open field; some trees for shade," notes a camper at Crabtree Cove.
What you should know
Weather patterns affect water conditions: Mornings offer the calmest water for activities. "Windy lake for sure in the afternoon and had trouble docking and loading. If you get back in a cove it was great for swimming and calm. Best time is in the early morning before the lake gets rough."
Campsite selection impacts tent comfort: Sites vary significantly in terrain. "I noticed several of the tent sites do not have level areas for your tent. T01 site does not have close parking unless you are able to park in the handicap parking," advises a camper from Cedar Ridge.
Water access varies by site: Many campsites require walking to reach the lake. "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," shares a visitor at Ruark Bluff West.
Tips for camping with families
Look for designated family loops: Crabtree Cove has separate camping areas. "The campground is setup in 2 loops, non electric and electric, so if your a tent camper your not surrounded by noisy air conditioners running. Although the nicer facilities and playground are situated on the electric side."
Consider off-peak camping: For quieter pet friendly camping near Stockton, Missouri, visit during weekdays. "Mon Tues, Wed seem to be the only openings if you wait too long," explains a Hawker Point visitor.
Choose campgrounds with kid-friendly swimming: The Pittsburgh Area Campground at Pomme de Terre State Park offers good swimming options. "The swimming beach was amazing and the bathrooms well-kept," notes a camper at Pittsburgh Area Campground.
Tips from RVers
Book full-hookup sites early: The most desirable RV sites fill quickly at pet-friendly camping near Stockton, Missouri. "Level sites with full hookups. 30,50 amp, water, sewer on every site. Owners are really nice, and keep everything well maintained," explains a camper at Arrowhead Point RV Park.
Check site size before booking: Some RV sites are better suited for smaller rigs. "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."
Be prepared for limited amenities in off-season: Winter camping requires additional preparation. "We had been camping here in October- after winterization, thus no water. In season, there are nearby showers and running water. Sites are large and heavily shaded."
