Stockton State Park

Nestled along the shores of Stockton Lake in Cedar County, Missouri, Stockton State Park spreads across 2,175 acres of Ozark countryside where rolling hills meet one of the state’s best sailing lakes. The park sits on a peninsula that juts into the lake’s clear, deep waters — a geography that gives nearly every trail and campsite a water view.

Stockton Lake’s consistent winds have earned it a reputation as Missouri’s premier sailing destination, drawing sailors from across the Midwest. But you don’t need a boat to enjoy the water. The park’s swimming beach is a local favorite on summer afternoons, and the marina rents pontoons, kayaks, and fishing boats for exploring the lake’s 298 miles of wooded shoreline. Anglers come for walleye, crappie, and largemouth bass, with spring and fall producing the best catches.

On land, hiking trails wind through cedar glades and hardwood forests typical of the western Ozarks. Birders should watch for bald eagles near the lake, especially during winter months when they congregate around open water.

The campground offers both basic and electric sites, many shaded by mature oaks and positioned within walking distance of the shore. Weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day fill quickly, so reservations are worth planning ahead.

Spring and fall deliver the most comfortable weather for camping and hiking, while summer belongs to the lake. Winter visits are quieter but rewarding — the bare canopy opens up sweeping views across the water that the summer crowds never see.

Explore Nearby

• Mark Twain National Forest — National Forest in Missouri
• Union Covered Bridge — Covered Bridge in Missouri
• Sandy Creek Covered Bridge — Covered Bridge in Missouri
• Thousand Hills State Park — Dark Sky Site in Missouri
• Stacy Park — Dark Sky Site in Missouri