Pomme de Terre State Park offers yurt camping on both the Hermitage and Pittsburgh sides of the lake. The park sits at approximately 870 feet elevation and covers over 3,000 acres across two sections connected by Highway 254. Water levels in the 7,820-acre lake typically fluctuate 3-4 feet seasonally, affecting shoreline access for campers using the various glamping accommodations.
What to do
Fishing from shoreline: Pittsburgh Area Campground provides direct lake access from multiple sites. "Sites viewable by map next to water. Each site in the electric loop has a private path to the waters edge," notes Josh S., who highlights the fishing opportunities available without a boat.
Kayak exploration: Sparrowfoot campground offers easy water access with minimal crowds. "It was also pretty low, but still had plenty of fun and kayaked through all the little coves," shares Devin M. who visited in July. The coves provide protected areas for beginners to practice paddling.
Swimming beaches: Designated swimming areas provide safer alternatives to shoreline swimming. "We loved the trail to the lake! The swimming beach was amazing and the bathrooms well-kept," shares Rebecca R. about Pittsburgh campground. Many of these beaches have gradually sloping entry points suitable for all swimming abilities.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Hermitage State Park Campground receives praise for its spacious layout. "This campground is very wide open and great for family camping, the main facilities are clean and showers are private," notes Bryan C. The open design allows for better airflow during humid summer months.
Clean facilities: Maintenance standards remain high across the region's parks. "The showers are clean and private. My kids love it too!" mentions a reviewer at Pittsburgh Area Campground. Sparrowfoot campground also maintains high standards with "clean shower house and vaulted facilities," according to Thomas W.
Value for senior campers: Stockton State Park Campground offers significant discounts. "Real nice park Especially for what we paid. $8.00 for electric only per night. Senior rate off season, $2.00 discount," shares Gary P. Many parks in the region honor America the Beautiful Senior Pass for 50% off camping fees.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Not all sites provide the same experience, especially regarding tent placement. "The site was on quite an incline & there were lots of rocks under our tent. I would not recommend this site," cautions Jessica B. about Pittsburgh Area Campground.
Seasonal insect activity: Plan accordingly for bugs, especially in wooded areas. "You're in the woods so take bug spray. Level paved lots to choose from," advises Cindy K. about Pittsburgh Area Campground. Peak mosquito season typically runs May through September.
Varying water conditions: Lake conditions change throughout the season. "When we were here (July) the lake was pretty muddy but I'm not sure if it's always that way or not," reports Devin M. about Sparrowfoot. Water clarity generally improves in spring and fall.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Choose sites near recreation areas when camping with children. At Sparrowfoot, "Loop B also has the playground which is right behind site B47. It's a newer playground and all equipment was nicely maintained," notes Devin M., though they mention "there are no swings."
Bike-friendly parks: Bennett Spring State Park Campground offers excellent biking opportunities. "The roads are all paved so it made biking for our kids easy and enjoyable," shares Amanda R. This creates safe spaces for children to explore independently.
Safety oversight: Parents appreciate the visible presence of park staff. At Hermitage State Park Campground, one camper noted, "I felt comfortable letting the kids ride their bikes around, a great presence from the park rangers!" The ranger station is typically staffed from 8am to 4pm daily.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Select sites carefully based on your rig's requirements. "Good room and nice level areas where we stayed in the 400 loop," reports Kevin C. about Pittsburgh Area Campground, indicating the importance of choosing appropriate loops.
Hookup variety: COE Harry S Truman Reservoir Long Shoal Park offers electric-only sites that work well for self-contained units. "Shaded electric only site with amazing view of the lake," shares Dan & Penny F., who mentioned paying just $10 per night with an America the Beautiful Senior pass.
Size limitations: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. Assess site dimensions before booking, particularly for sites backing to wooded areas. "Our site, like all, came with a picnic table and a fire pit," notes a reviewer at Long Shoal Campground, where most sites can accommodate medium-sized RVs up to 32 feet.
