Camping spots near Collins, Missouri center around two major bodies of water—Pomme de Terre Lake and Stockton Lake. The region sits at approximately 850 feet elevation with terrain characterized by limestone bluffs and oak-hickory forests. Winter camping is available at select locations, with some Corps of Engineers campgrounds offering free off-season sites between January and mid-March when water services are suspended.
What to do
Kayaking mapped trails: Stockton State Park Campground offers designated kayak routes on the lake. "Great state park. Cleanest restrooms I've seen. Great trails. Bring the kayaks. They have some pretty cool kayak marked trails on the lake. Beautiful sail boats to see as well!" notes a visitor.
Fishing from shore: At Damsite, campers can fish directly from the rocky shoreline. "A lot of people tie their boats to shore below their campsite. Beautiful sunrises and the sun sets over the dam. I really like this campground. Family friendly and everyone seems to have a dog but people do a good job of picking up after them," explains one reviewer.
Hiking lake views: The Pittsburg Area Campground has scenic trails with wildlife viewing opportunities. "Only on real hiking trail on Pittsburgh loop but it was filled with bluff views and lots of wildlife as well as a public beach," shares a camper who appreciated the natural surroundings.
What campers like
Private water access: Many campers value the direct lake access at Hermitage Area Campground. One camper described their experience: "Beautiful views form the campsite—tent camping on a peninsula in surrounded by Pomme de Terre lake. Nice and quiet this weekend, beautiful clear water waiting to be canoed in."
Secluded camping spots: The 400 loop at Pittsburg Area Campground offers more privacy than other areas. "We chose the 400 loop of Pittsburgh for its secluded spots. Spaces are not stacked on top of each other. You're in the woods so take bug spray. Level paved lots to choose from. Fire rings and covered picnic tables. Lots of shade," notes a reviewer.
Affordable camping options: Winter and off-season rates provide significant savings. At Damsite Campground, "During the off season (Oct 1 - Nov.30 & March 14th - Apr 14) all campsites (electric and primitive) are only $10 (limited amenities). From Jan 5th - March 14th campsites are free at Damsite Park. However, there is no electric or water available at that time."
What you should know
Lake level fluctuations: The Corps of Engineers manages water levels at both lakes, which can affect campsite availability. Damsite Campground offers "another wonderful Corps of Engineers campground on Pomme De Terre Lake. The campsites are spacious and overlook the lake. This is such a beautiful, well maintained campground. Every campsite is level and has a picnic table and fire ring."
Tent site conditions: Some campgrounds have rocky tent pads. At Pittsburg Area Campground, a camper noted: "Cons: Lots of rocks in the tent areas. Lot of vegetation around making some bugs prominent."
Seasonal facility closures: Campground amenities vary by season. "Check in was a little confusing, and we later found out the shop is closed for the season. We've been having to head to town to purchase wood and ice which is slightly inconvenient," reported a visitor to Hermitage Area Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and beaches: Multiple campgrounds offer family-friendly facilities. "We stayed here over the 4th of July holiday, at the Pittsburg campground at the state park. Loop 3 campsite 317. I loved the trail to the lake! The swimming beach was amazing and the bathrooms well-kept," shares a family camper.
Less crowded weekday visits: For a quieter experience with children, Crabtree Cove offers weekday tranquility. "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," mentions a family camper.
Bike-friendly loops: Some campgrounds have ideal biking areas for children. At Hermitage Area Campground, "We stayed in spot 223 and had a nice tree on the left. Behind us was the old road which was perfect for the kids to play on and ride bikes. The lake was just past that, and the view was wonderful."
Tips from RVers
Level site selection: RVers consistently note the importance of choosing level spots. At Arrowhead Point RV Park & Cabins, "Level sites with full hookups. 30,50 amp, water, sewer on every site. Owners are really nice, and keep everything well maintained. Nice small catch and release pond."
Long-term stays: Some campgrounds accommodate extended visits with favorable amenities. "We had reserved a spot that would have been too small for our rig. Owner had already caught my mistake on check in and moved us to a better spot. Shady spots, #22 is best. Full hookups. Cheap laundry at $2.50. Nice quiet setting and the owners are very helpful," reports an RVer at Arrowhead Point.
Big rig accessibility: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger RVs. The Happy Camper by THC LLC offers specific sites for different sized vehicles. "We called ahead of time and they directed us to the site and said they would be by later to pick up payment. It's $20 a night and they have water and electricity. They offer a military discount!"
