David H.
Traveler
TravelerLong Shoal
Beautiful Location
First time out in my new to me Rubicon 1400bh. Loved this location (lot70). Spacious and not too close to any other spots. Short walk down to the water. Easy in and out with water available.
Camping near Stockton Lake
Stockton Lake in Missouri provides a variety of camping experiences with multiple campground options managed by both the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Missouri State Parks. The area features established sites like Hawker Point, Orleans Trail, and Crabtree Cove where campers find a mix of tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin accommodations. Most campgrounds maintain direct access to the lake's clear blue waters, making them popular for boating and fishing activities. The surrounding landscape offers a combination of wooded areas with partial shade and open lakefront sites with views across the water.
Road conditions throughout the Stockton Lake area remain generally accessible for most vehicles, though some of the more remote campgrounds may have rougher access roads. Campgrounds typically operate year-round with peak season running from May through September when amenities like water stations are fully operational. "The campground is setup in 2 loops, non electric and electric, so if you're a tent camper you're not surrounded by noisy air conditioners running," notes one camper about Crabtree Cove. Many campgrounds offer reduced rates during off-season months, though visitors should note that water systems are often winterized after October. Reservations are strongly recommended during summer months when sites frequently reach capacity, especially on weekends.
Lakefront sites consistently receive the highest ratings from visitors due to their proximity to swimming and boating access points. The Corps of Engineers campgrounds like Hawker Point offer more privacy between sites compared to the state park locations, with mature trees creating natural separation. Several visitors highlight the water quality as exceptionally clear, making Stockton Lake particularly attractive for water activities. Sites in the C loop at Hawker Point are noted for offering the best combination of lake access and privacy, with one camper describing their experience as "completely private" with "our own private cove." Bathroom and shower facilities vary considerably between campgrounds, with some requiring drives to reach shower houses while others maintain modern facilities within walking distance of most sites.
Best Camping Sites Near Stockton Lake (123)
1. Stockton State Park Campground
12 ReviewsStockton, MO2 milesWebsite$15 - $44 / night
"There was a short walk less than 5 minutes down a trail to the lake that was gorgeous."
"We camped in campground 1 right next to the play ground. Super clean, had a view of the lake. Within walking distance of the marina. Everyone was very friendly."
2. Cedar Ridge Campground—Stockton Lake
7 ReviewsDadeville, MO5 milesWebsite+1 (417) 995-2045$14 - $24 / night
"Campground has private boat ramp and parking away from public use so things stay secure overnight. Short walk to beach area is nice. Will be back again"
"The swim beach is a little far from the camp, but if you walk down the trails there are great places to swim near camp including "Chicken Rock" a large island out in the lake the kids love to swim to and"
3. COE Stockton Lake Hawker Point
6 ReviewsStockton, MO4 milesWebsite+1 (417) 276-7266$14 - $20 / night
"While Stockton Lake itself brings a lot to the table, with beautiful blue water, cliffs to jump from, and close proximity to town if you are craving some ice cream (I suggest Squeeze Inn), the State Park"
"This particular site was just up the hill from the lake and completely private."
5. Orleans Trail
3 ReviewsStockton, MO3 milesWebsite+1 (417) 276-6948$14 - $160 / night
"Cheap full hook ups at a nice lakeside campground, they also have a hotel and cabins that are nice getaways. The food at the restaurant is pretty good as well."
"We had a view of the lake across the road. The bathroom was a several minute walk. Site D37 across from us had water access and looked really nice."
6. Crabtree Cove, Stockton Lake, MO
2 ReviewsStockton, MO2 miles"Most of the campsites have shade but some of the non electric ones by the lake do not despite what Recreation.gov says."
7. COE Stockton Lake Ruark Bluff West
3 ReviewsGreenfield, MO9 milesWebsite+1 (417) 637-5279$14 - $160 / night
"Immediate access to the lake from this site for our kayaks. Short distance from bathrooms/shower house. Plenty of showers and bathrooms (both family style and community style options available)."
"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."
8. Kimmys At Caplinger
3 ReviewsStockton, MO11 milesWebsite+1 (417) 955-1233$35 - $45 / night
"If the pond on site is not big enough Stockton Lake is just minutes away or maybe you enjoy kayaking the Sac River is very close as well. Shuttle service is right up the road if needed. "
"From walking the trails, kayaking, camp fires, swings & play sets for the kids to enjoying the beautiful scenery. They have just about everything you need in the little store/welcome center."
9. Ruark Bluff East
1 ReviewGreenfield, MO9 milesWebsite+1 (417) 637-5303$14 - $200 / night
"Very cheap and they have public showers and restrooms near the entrance. We always go back every year. Beautiful place to camp in the fall as well."
10. Caplinger Woods RV & Campground
1 ReviewStockton, MO12 miles
Recent Camping Photos near Stockton Lake
121 Photos of 123 Stockton Lake Campgrounds
MCB
Stockton State Park Campground
The Dyrt
Crabtree Cove
Hayley G.
Orleans Trail
Kimberly W.
Kimmys At Caplinger
Deana F.
Lightfoot Landing
Kevin C.
Pittsburg Area Campground — Pomme de Terre State Park
Cate S.
Hermitage Area Campground — Pomme de Terre State Park
Aloha M.
COE Pomme de Terre Lake Pittsburg Park
Josh S.
Pittsburg Park Campground
Ricci F.
COE Pomme de Terre Lake Nemo Park
MickandKarla W.
Osage Prairie RV Park
Laura T.
B Berry Farms & Co.
Recent Reviews near Stockton Lake
416 Reviews of 123 Stockton Lake Campgrounds
Eric K.TravelerB Berry Farms & Co.
Love this place
Upon arrival, I could not find my site. I called the phone number and the owner came out. Very sweet woman. She showed me my spot and explained the entire property to me. Very nice property. I f I'm in the area again, I will definitely stay there.
- BBrittany H.
ScoutRobert E. Talbot Conservation Camping Area
Basic park lot with grill/fire pit
It's just your back to basics camping area. Not much but a campfire grill, a parking spot, and a hiking trail. Campers can stay for 14 consecutive days according to the signs posted by Conservation. I do wish it were a little farther from the fairly busy state highway.
- RRobert F.Scout
Cooks RV Motor Park - Springfield, MO
Nice stay
Nice level site easy in. Excellent hosting. Clean
- AAndrew H.
GuideSpringfield - Route 66 KOA
Nice KOA
I stayed at a tent site and it was close to the bathrooms and shower. There is a shelter area with microwave and tables and chairs. However, there is a railroad adjacent to the campground and the trains blow their horns so it’s a bit loud
- WWinfield S.Scout
Coachlight Campground
First Class
this is a place preferred by the really big rigs, but my Winnebago view fit in just fine.
Brenda Y.
RangerLamar City Park
Great overnight stop for big rigs
Stopped overnight on a Thursday. It's a bit tricky to get to -- as a prior reviewer noted, DO turn right immediately after crossing the railroad tracks. You'll soon see the camping area on your left with a couple of places to pull in. Once there, you'll see a sign (see pic)--I called and left a voicemail with the required info. What makes it tricky is that there's no signage about where to turn. Don't make our mistake and drive into the park and then try to turn right! It was an interesting drive through the narrow roads and skinny stone bridges but we made it unscathed. Just turn right, immediately after the rr tracks, and you're golden.
4 stars just bc of the trickiness of getting there. Two trains went by in the evening, but none during the night, & we kept our windows open.
We didn't use the elec sites ((occupied), but didn't need them as we have solar.
We didn't need to unhook -- our 43' motorhome + tow fit on the pull thru site.
- JJohn C.Guide
Love's RV Hookup-Sarcoxie MO 886
For a road stop
Friendly staff and room for about 8 campers in front away from the trucker section. 3 with hookups. Showers are available.
- MMatthew D.Scout
Mule Shoe Conservation Area
Great remote campground
My brother and I stayed here for a guys getaway, it’s a remote area with a restroom and fire pits. Accessible via most vehicles as all roads are rocked. You will not need 4x4 to get out here.
Guide to Stockton Lake
Camping near Stockton Lake, Missouri, offers a great mix of outdoor fun and relaxation. With beautiful scenery and plenty of campgrounds to choose from, it’s a perfect spot for families, friends, and solo adventurers alike.
What to do:
- Fishing: Stockton Lake is known for its fishing opportunities. One camper at Damsite mentioned, "The views were great and we even had a private staircase right down to the water." This makes it easy to cast a line and enjoy a peaceful day by the lake.
- Swimming: Many campgrounds, like COE Pomme de Terre Lake Nemo Park, have swimming areas. A visitor shared, "Clean, well kept, campsites are semi-private but close to the water," making it a great spot for a refreshing dip.
- Hiking: Explore the trails around the lake. A reviewer at Pittsburg Park Campground noted, "Having a trailhead that close to your site is awesome," highlighting the convenience of accessing nature right from your campsite.
What campers like:
- Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. One visitor at Stockton State Park Campground said, "The cleanest restrooms I’ve seen," which is a big plus for many.
- Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy spots. A camper at Hawker Point Stockton Lake mentioned, "The sites are spacious and shaded," making it comfortable for families and groups.
- Friendly Staff: Good service can make a trip memorable. A guest at Cooks RV Motor Park said, "The hosts make this place amazing," which adds to the welcoming atmosphere.
What you should know:
- Train Noise: Some campgrounds, like Springfield - Route 66 KOA, are near train tracks. A reviewer noted, "You will hear a train horn on occasion," so if you're a light sleeper, consider bringing earplugs.
- Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full hookups. A visitor at Cedar Ridge Campground—Stockton Lake mentioned, "The campground has private boat ramp and parking away from public use," but noted that water and dump stations are separate.
- Mosquitoes: Depending on the season, bugs can be a nuisance. A camper at Pittsburg Area Campground mentioned, "The mosquitos are thick," so be sure to pack some bug spray.
Tips for camping with families:
- Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and swimming areas. A family at Stockton State Park Campground enjoyed, "They have a small gated dog park and a huge open field," perfect for kids to run around.
- Plan for Rain: Be prepared for changing weather. A camper at Pittsburg Park Campground said, "Even though it rained, the scenery was wonderful," so bring waterproof gear just in case.
- Group Sites: If camping with a larger group, consider reserving sites close together. A visitor at Hawker Point Stockton Lake noted, "There is plenty of room and the trees make your site feel much more private," which is great for family gatherings.
Tips from RVers:
- Check Site Sizes: Make sure to verify the size of your reserved site. A reviewer at Missouri Damsite advised, "All sites have good picnic tables and fire rings," but noted that some sites can be tight for larger rigs.
- Bring Extra Supplies: Some campgrounds, like Cedar Ridge Campground—Stockton Lake, don’t sell firewood. A camper mentioned, "Disappointed in that," so stock up before you arrive.
- Plan for Dump Stations: Know where the nearest dump station is located. A visitor at COE Pomme de Terre Lake Nemo Park highlighted, "Easy access to dump station," which is crucial for RV travelers.
Camping near Stockton Lake, Missouri, has something for everyone, whether you're fishing, swimming, or just enjoying the great outdoors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What campgrounds are available at Stockton Lake, Missouri?
What campgrounds are available at Stockton Lake, Missouri?
Stockton Lake offers several excellent camping options managed by the Corps of Engineers and other entities. COE Stockton Lake Hawker Point is a highly-rated campground with beautiful blue water views and convenient proximity to town for amenities. Cedar Ridge Campground—Stockton Lake is situated on a hill overlooking the lake and features a nice boat launch ramp with plenty of shade, making it ideal when lake levels are high. Other options include Crabtree Cove, Orleans Trail, and Ruark Bluff East, each offering various amenities and access points to the lake. These campgrounds typically provide a mix of tent and RV sites with varying levels of facilities.
Where is Chicken Rock located at Stockton Lake?
Where is Chicken Rock located at Stockton Lake?
Chicken Rock is a popular cliff jumping spot at Stockton Lake known for its beautiful blue water and scenic views. It's located near the cliffs along the shoreline of the lake, making it accessible by boat. While the exact coordinates aren't specified in reviews, Chicken Rock is a well-known landmark among regular visitors to the lake. Crabtree Cove campground provides relatively close access to this area of the lake. For safety, it's best to ask local campground hosts or marina staff for precise directions to Chicken Rock, especially if you're planning to visit for recreational activities.
Are there private campgrounds on Stockton Lake for RV camping?
Are there private campgrounds on Stockton Lake for RV camping?
Yes, there are private campgrounds that accommodate RV camping at Stockton Lake. Kimmys At Caplinger is a highly-rated private campground known for being clean, friendly, and offering various outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and swimming. It's just minutes away from Stockton Lake and provides good accommodations for RV campers. Another option in the broader region is The Happy Camper by THC LLC, which offers drive-in access with reservable sites, water, and toilets suitable for RVs. These private options typically provide more amenities than public campgrounds, making them attractive for RV campers seeking additional conveniences.
What amenities are available at Stockton Lake campgrounds?
What amenities are available at Stockton Lake campgrounds?
Amenities at Stockton Lake campgrounds vary by location. Crabtree Cove offers RV and tent sites arranged in sub-loops with some shade trees, though sites are fairly close together with limited privacy. During off-season (starting October 1st), camping may be free at this Corps of Engineers campground. Orleans Trail provides reservable sites with toilet facilities. Most campgrounds include basic amenities like picnic tables, fire pits, and access to the lake. Some offer electrical hookups, boat ramps, and shower facilities. Water access varies by location, so it's advisable to check specific campground details before your visit, especially if you require full RV hookups or specific amenities.
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