Pomme de Terre Lake camping areas around Wheatland, Missouri offer lakeside accommodations at elevations between 800-900 feet above sea level. The lake spans 7,820 acres with 113 miles of shoreline providing numerous camping possibilities. Weather in this region features hot summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and relatively mild winters, creating a camping season that typically runs from April through October.
What to do
Hiking trails: Pittsburg Area Campground offers trails with lake views and wildlife spotting opportunities. According to Josh S., "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."
Fishing spots: Damsite Campground provides excellent shoreline fishing access. Jon L. notes, "My family and I stayed on the very tip of the campground (site 59). The views were great and we even had a private staircase right down to the water. The site was big & level but it was all gravel. There is not a designated swim area so bring your fishing pole and catch crappie from the shore."
Water activities: The main focus at many campgrounds is lake recreation. Jessica B. explains, "This parks main focus is Lake Pomme de Terra, so if you're not into being on the water - this campground may not be for you."
Seasonal events: During holidays, the lake becomes a celebration center. Karen V. shares, "Every year on the 4th of July there is a fireworks show on the dam and this park is one of the best seats in the house."
What campers like
Waterfront access: Outlet Park features sites with direct lake views. Jeremy C. comments, "All the sites are on one side of a tree lined lane and all of them are waterfront. The bathrooms and shower house are well maintained, the campground hosts are friendly and available."
Level, spacious sites: Most camping areas provide well-maintained spots. GW C. says, "We camped on the bluff loop and had amazing views of the lake! Large sites too. There is also a loop called the point which looked like it also had great views but campsites were closer together."
Privacy options: Certain loops offer more seclusion than others. Cindy K. notes, "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."
Playground facilities: Lightfoot Landing provides recreation options for kids. Deana F. mentions, "Very nice boat ramp and courtesy dock, but no place to keep boat in over night and no dedicated swim area. Good facilities, including a shower house. Small playground."
What you should know
Site selection considerations: Choose camping spots carefully based on shade and proximity to facilities. Natalie C. advises, "Very peaceful campground. It has a peninsula with some nice, shady sites but also another very wooded area on a bluff. The backside of the peninsula has zero shade (sites 26-40)."
Bathroom conditions vary: Facility maintenance differs by location and season. Cate S. reports, "Our only complaint was the vault bathrooms and the showers. It could have just been the end of the month, but the vault bathrooms were unbelievably smelly. The showers had mold on the walls, not ideal."
Wildlife encounters: Pomme Camping Patch and surrounding areas have typical Missouri wildlife. Paul R. states, "Three acres with no adjacent neighbors. Friendly hosts. Good location near boat ramps, bowling, restaurants, hiking and other Pomme activities."
Off-season considerations: Some campgrounds offer significant discounts during slower months. Rebecca L. shares, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites near amenities: Families appreciate proximity to playgrounds and swim areas. Rebecca R. recommends, "W 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."
Beach accessibility: COE Pomme de Terre Lake Nemo Park offers swimming options. Bryan C. notes, "The facilities are nice and clean, it has a playground and a great swim beach and lots of shoreline in case the beach is full."
Pet friendly areas: For families bringing pets, most campgrounds accommodate dogs. Natalie C. observes, "Family friendly and everyone seems to have a dog but people do a good job of picking up after them."
Evening activities: Consider timing for swimming and recreation. Jeremy C. mentions, "We had a group that was not camping show up to do some night swimming at the beach (9:00-9:30). Other than that campsite was extremely clean, bathrooms well maintained, great stay."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Sidetrack RV Park provides complete services for RV campers. Chipper S. states, "Best of all is the sites are full hook ups, so no full sewer tanks when you get home! 5 stars all the way!!!"
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain. Kevin C. observes, "Good room and nice level areas where we stayed in the 400 loop. Cons: Lots of rocks in the tent areas. Lot of vegetation around making some bugs prominent."
Dump station considerations: Plan accordingly for waste disposal. Jon L. advises, "Also make sure you have an extra long sewer hose for the dump station."
Pet friendly camping specifics: Most Wheatland area campgrounds allow pets with standard leash requirements. Never Sitting S. notes about Damsite, "Nice park! Spaces are tight but laid out nicely. Not great for walking dogs, very little grass for each campsite. Would stay again!"
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