Stockton State Park Campground #1

For Missourians, the lure of our state parks is undeniable, offering pristine natural beauty and a wealth of recreational opportunities right in our backyard. Among these gems, Stockton State Park stands out, particularly for those who love lake life and outdoor adventure. Stockton State Park Campground #1, nestled on the shores of Stockton Lake in Stockton, Missouri, provides an ideal base for exploring this vibrant area. It's a place where the fresh air, clear waters, and extensive trail systems beckon campers of all kinds.

As a local, you appreciate a well-maintained and welcoming campground that serves as a gateway to new experiences or a return to beloved traditions. Stockton State Park Campground #1 is known for its excellent facilities and direct access to Stockton Lake, renowned for its sailing, fishing, and water sports. While enjoying the natural surroundings, campers can also find modern conveniences, making it a comfortable and enjoyable stay for families, solo adventurers, and groups alike. It's a testament to Missouri's commitment to providing accessible and high-quality outdoor recreation for its residents and visitors.

Stockton State Park Campground #1 offers a fantastic camping experience within the beautiful Stockton State Park, overlooking the expansive and clear waters of Stockton Lake. This campground is a popular choice for its balance of natural beauty and well-maintained facilities. Guests consistently commend the cleanliness of the campground, especially the restrooms, and appreciate the overall enjoyable camping atmosphere. It provides a variety of site types to accommodate different camping preferences, from RVs to tents, making it versatile for diverse groups of outdoor enthusiasts.

Beyond just a place to stay, the campground acts as a hub for activity, with connector trails leading directly to larger mountain biking and hiking networks. This integration with the park's wider recreational offerings enhances the value of a stay here. While the park is fantastic overall, some common challenges in public campgrounds, such as occasional issues with pet waste, are mentioned in feedback, highlighting the importance of camper responsibility. Despite this, the overwhelming sentiment is positive, with many visitors noting the friendly atmosphere among campers and the general sense of peace found within the park's well-kept grounds.

Stockton State Park Campground #1 is conveniently located at State Hwy J, Stockton, MO 65785, USA. This address places it directly within Stockton State Park, which is situated on a peninsula overlooking Stockton Lake. The park's design takes advantage of the lake's unique features, including the "perpetual southwest breeze" that makes Stockton Lake a nationally recognized sailing destination.

Access to the campground is generally straightforward via State Highway J. For Missourians, Stockton is a manageable drive from many parts of the state, making it an excellent weekend getaway or a longer vacation destination. The park's well-marked roads ensure easy navigation for RVs and vehicles towing trailers. Once inside the park, the campground is clearly signposted. Its location provides excellent access to Stockton Lake's two boat ramps (one at the marina, one at Hartley Cove), a swimming beach, and accessible fishing docks. The park's direct connection to extensive trail systems means that visitors can literally step out of their campsite and onto a path for hiking or mountain biking. While some areas of the park may have varying shade cover, the overall accessibility to both land and water-based activities is a significant advantage of this prime location.

Stockton State Park Campground #1 is equipped with a range of services designed to enhance the comfort and convenience of your camping experience:

• Campsite Variety: The campground offers a mix of basic (non-electric) and electric campsites, accommodating both tents and RVs. There are also reservable family campsites for those needing extra space, and some walk-in sites for tent campers seeking a more secluded experience.
• Electric Hookups: RV sites are available with 30-amp and 50-amp electric service, catering to various RV power needs.
• Water Access: Potable water is available throughout the campground, with spigots for filling fresh tanks, particularly during the on-season (April through October). During the off-season, a spigot near the park office ensures water availability.
• Dump Station: A convenient dump station is available for campers to dispose of wastewater, crucial for RVers.
• Shower Houses and Restrooms: The park features clean and well-maintained shower houses and restrooms. Feedback frequently praises the cleanliness of these facilities, with one reviewer noting "The cleanest restrooms I've seen."
• Reservable Campsites: Campsites can be reserved up to a year in advance, which is highly recommended, especially for popular weekends and during peak season. A two-night minimum stay is required for weekend reservations (Friday/Saturday).
• Pet-Friendly Environment: Well-behaved pets on a leash are welcome in the campground and throughout the park, allowing you to bring your furry companions along for the adventure.
• Firewood Sales: Firewood is available for purchase at the marina store, ensuring compliance with firewood advisories to protect Missouri's forests.
• Year-Round Operation: The campground is open and reservable year-round, offering opportunities for camping in all seasons.

Stockton State Park Campground #1 offers several features that make it a standout choice for campers in Missouri:

• Exceptional Lake Access: Directly on Stockton Lake, the park provides easy access to the water for swimming (with a designated beach), fishing (known for bass, crappie, walleye, catfish, and bluegill), and all forms of boating. Stockton Lake is particularly famous for sailing, with a nationally recognized sailing school at the marina.
• Extensive Trail System: The campground offers "connector trails" that lead to the park's larger network of mountain biking and hiking trails. These trails cater to various skill levels and offer scenic views of the lake and surrounding woodlands, often showcasing diverse flora and fauna.
• Clean and Well-Maintained: Visitors consistently highlight the cleanliness of the campground and its facilities, including the restrooms and showers, contributing significantly to a pleasant stay.
• Spacious and Level Sites: Many sites are described as "paved asphalt, very leveled and lots of space between sites," providing comfort and privacy for campers.
• Friendly Atmosphere: Campers often note the friendly disposition of fellow visitors, creating a welcoming and communal environment.
• On-Site Marina and Grill: The park features a marina where visitors can rent sailboats, fishing boats, pontoons, kayaks, and canoes. There's also a grill on-site, offering convenient dining options like catfish and sandwiches.
• Nature Watching Opportunities: The park is home to deer, rabbits, squirrels, various bird species (including turkeys, doves, quails, and waterfowl), and even bald eagles in the winter, making it ideal for wildlife observation and nature photography.
• Safety Measures: The presence of park rangers and clear park rules helps maintain a safe and enjoyable environment for all visitors.

Stockton State Park Campground #1, as part of the Missouri State Parks system, operates with a clear fee structure and specific reservation policies. While typical "promotions" like commercial discounts are not widely advertised, there are distinct pricing tiers and benefits:

• Seasonal Rates: Camping fees vary by season, with "Regular Fee Season" typically from April through September and "Shoulder Season" in March, April, October, and November. Camping may even be free during certain off-peak periods (December through February).
• Site Specific Pricing: Rates vary based on the type of site (non-electric, 30 amp, 50 amp) and whether it's a "Basic" or "Prime" site. For example, Basic Non-Electric might be $14/night, while Prime 50 amp Electric could be $24/night during the regular season.
• Senior Citizen Discount: State Parks often offer discounts for senior citizens, usually a few dollars off the regular nightly rate.
• Military Discount: Similar to senior discounts, military discounts may be available.
• Group Camping: Group camping areas are available for larger gatherings, typically at a flat rate per night.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on fees and any applicable discounts, it is best to visit the official Missouri State Parks website for Stockton State Park or call the campground directly using the contact information provided. Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend and peak-season visits.

To plan your visit, make reservations, or inquire about specific details for Stockton State Park Campground #1, please use the following contact information:

Address: State Hwy J, Stockton, MO 65785, USA

Phone: (417) 276-5329

Mobile Phone: +1 417-276-5329

The Missouri State Parks website is also an excellent resource for detailed information on reservations, fees, and park amenities.

For Missourians, Stockton State Park Campground #1 is an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended destination for a wide array of outdoor interests. Its prime location on Stockton Lake, one of the nation's premier sailing lakes, provides unparalleled access to water sports, fishing, and scenic beauty right at your doorstep. Whether you own a boat, enjoy kayaking, or simply love swimming, the lake offers endless opportunities for recreation and relaxation.

Beyond the water, the park's extensive network of hiking and mountain biking trails makes it an ideal spot for land-based adventurers looking to explore the Ozarks' natural landscape. The consistently praised cleanliness of the facilities, from restrooms to campsites, ensures a comfortable and pleasant stay, which is a significant factor for many campers. While there are sometimes minor issues like pet waste from inconsiderate campers, the overall atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, reflecting the hospitable spirit often found among Missouri's outdoor community. The convenience of amenities like firewood sales at the marina, a dump station, and diverse site options (including family sites) further enhances its appeal. For those seeking a well-rounded outdoor experience that combines lakeside fun, challenging trails, and a peaceful environment, Stockton State Park Campground #1 offers a truly fantastic escape for any local looking to connect with Missouri's natural treasures.