Camping at Pomme de Terre Lake State Park

Overview of Pomme de Terre Lake State Park

Pomme de Terre Lake State Park, located in southwestern Missouri, is a popular destination for campers, fishermen, and water sports enthusiasts. The park is named after the Pomme de Terre Lake, which means "apple of the earth" in French. It is well-known for its clear waters and scenic beauty. The park offers a variety of outdoor activities including swimming, boating, hiking, and wildlife watching.

Camping Information

Campground Options: The state park offers two campgrounds - the Pittsburg area and the Hermitage area. Each area has its own characteristics and amenities. Visitors can choose from basic and electric campsites, as well as more developed sites with water, sewer, and electrical hookups.

Basic Campsites: Basic campsites typically include a cleared area for camping, a fire ring, and a picnic table. These sites don’t have direct water or electricity hookups but usually are near communal facilities.

Electric Campsites: Electric sites are similar to basic campsites, but they include electrical hookups to power your camping vehicles and equipment.

Full Hookup Campsites: These sites cater to RV camping and offer full hookups, including electricity, water, and sewer service.

Reservation Information: Reservations can be made up to 12 months in advance and are highly recommended, especially during the high season and for holiday weekends. Reservations can be made online through the Missouri State Parks reservation system or by calling the park office.

Campground Amenities: The campgrounds generally have modern restrooms, hot showers, and laundry facilities. Some areas may have playgrounds, picnic pavilions, and swimming beaches.

Safety and Rules:

• Quiet hours are enforced to ensure a peaceful environment for all campers.
• Pets must be kept on leashes and are not allowed on the beaches.
• Alcoholic beverages are prohibited in specific areas of the park.
• Campfires are allowed only in designated fire rings or pits.
• It’s important to store food properly to avoid attracting wildlife.

Additional Activities and Facilities

Marinas:

• The park has full-service marinas where you can rent boats, purchase supplies, and get fishing permits.

Fishing:

• Pomme de Terre Lake is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, including species such as bass, walleye, catfish, and crappie.

Trails:

• Hiking trails of varying lengths and difficulties are available, offering picturesque views and wildlife observing chances.

Swimming:

• Designated swimming areas are provided for visitors to cool off during the warmer months.

Events:

• The park may host events and educational programs throughout the year, focusing on the natural and cultural aspects of the area.

Wildlife:

• The park is home to a variety of wildlife, and visitors are encouraged to enjoy viewing them from a distance and not disturb their natural habitats.

For the most up-to-date information about Pomme de Terre Lake State Park, it is recommended to visit the official Missouri State Parks website or contact the park directly. This ensures you receive current details on availability, any restrictions or advisories, and specific rules that may pertain to the park.