Stockton State Park sits at an elevation of 867 feet on Missouri's western edge, offering a mix of forest and prairie landscapes around Stockton Lake. The area experiences hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and mild winters, making camping possible year-round with proper preparation. Water levels in local lakes fluctuate seasonally, affecting boat ramp access during different times of year.
What to do
Kayaking marked trails: Stockton Lake features designated water trails accessible from multiple points around 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!" shares Katie R. about Stockton State Park Campground.
Lakeside hiking: Several campgrounds offer trails with lake views and wildlife spotting opportunities. At Pittsburg Area Campground, one camper notes: "Scenic Views overlooking the beautiful lake. Each site in the electric loop has a private path to the waters edge. Only one real hiking trail on Pittsburgh loop but it was filled with bluff views and lots of wildlife as well as a public beach."
Swimming spots: For families wanting water recreation beyond standard beaches, some areas offer unique swimming experiences. At Cedar Ridge Campground, one visitor recommends: "Nice little campground with good facilities. 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 jump off."
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: Campers frequently mention clean restrooms and well-kept grounds as highlights. At Long Shoal Park, a guest comments: "Sites are spaced a good distance apart, nice clean lots with fire ring, picnic table and 30 amp. The flush restrooms are cleaned everyday and very nice."
Lake access: Direct water access from campsites ranks highly among visitor priorities. One Cedar Ridge camper noted: "Great campground to stay at. Sites are power only, water and dump separate. Campground has private boat ramp and parking away from public use so things stay secure overnight. Short walk to beach area is nice."
Affordability: Budget-conscious campers appreciate reasonable rates for quality facilities. A visitor to Sparrowfoot Campground shared: "Nice COE campground. Sites were spacious with 50 Amp hook ups. We were on our way to Branson so it was just a one night stop. Clean rest rooms and showers. We camped at Sparrowfoot in a Travel Trailer. $12.00@ Night with America The Beautiful pass."
What you should know
Site selection matters: Many campgrounds have varying degrees of shade, levelness, and privacy. At Stockton State Park, a visitor advises: "This was a nice campground that was well maintained. The sites are quite close together with little privacy and minimal shade from the trees. We stayed in the East Loop which looked less popular than the West Loop."
Walk-in options available: For a more secluded glamping experience near Walker, Missouri, some campgrounds offer walk-in sites. "We did check out the walk in sites here, but were not able to stay in them. They looked awesome and were a short 5 minute walk from the parking. A great beginner site for walk in camping and there were carts at the start of the trail for your gear."
Cell service varies: Connectivity can be unreliable across the area. A guest at Osage Bluff Campground notes: "Hidden gem, south of Warsaw, near the Osage Bluff Marina on Truman Lake. Shaded electric only site with amazing view of the lake. Bathrooms clean. Quiet location. No cell coverage, more time to relax."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. A visitor to Pittsburg Area Campground observes: "Both loops had decent playgrounds for the kids."
Beach selection: Not all water access points are equally child-friendly. "Several beach access spots but very rocky with no sand beaches near the state park campground," notes Lauren H. about Stockton State Park.
Quiet loops: For families needing peaceful settings, seek out less populated areas. At Sparrowfoot, a camper recommends: "This campsite is beautiful. Loop B is much quieter with fewer guests. Loop A is a little more busy. Loop B is where the shower house and flushable toilets are. Showers were clean and water was hot. Loop B also has the playground which is right behind site B47."
Tips from RVers
Hook-up limitations: Many campgrounds in the area offer electric-only sites with dump stations. "Great camping spot with easy access to the lake and marina however there isn't any water or sewer hookup on the camp site. Almost boondocking with electric hookup and a dump station," reports Joe J. about Stockton State Park.
Site leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at some locations. At Linn County Park, visitors can find "paved roads with gravel sites having W/E, mostly 30A but a few 50A like ours. Check in at the Marina to see which ones are available at this all first come first serve cg. They even have a few FHU sites but I imagine they are all taken by the residents."
Budget options: RVers seeking affordable luxury glamping near Walker, Missouri can find good values at certain times. One Stockton State Park visitor shared: "Real nice park Especially for what we paid. $8.00 for electric only per night. Senior rate off season, $2.00 discount. Two loops East & West. We stayed in the east on a fairly level site, all nicely spaced."
