Damsite
4.49257 reviews24312 State Hwy 254 Hermitage, MO 65668
Damsite
$14.00 - $26.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$26.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season fees are $26 for standard electric sites, $14 for non-electric sites, and $18 for other options. Tent sites are $14. Out-of-season camping is available from March 15 to April 15 and October 1 to November 30 at $10 per night.
About this campground
Perched dramatically above the dam where Lindley Creek meets the mighty Pomme de Terre River, Damsite Campground offers adventurers a perfect basecamp for exploring Missouri's aquatic playground. Whether you're pitching a tent under the stars or settling in with full electric hookups, this versatile campground accommodates every style of outdoor enthusiast, from minimalist backpackers to RV travelers seeking modern comforts.
Damsite Campground offers a variety of camping accommodations including RV sites, tent sites, and primitive camping options. Group camping is not explicitly mentioned in the provided materials.
Historical SignificanceThe waters here whisper stories of French trappers who once navigated these rivers, leaving behind the poetic name 'Pomme de Terre'—Apple of the Earth—a testament to the area's rich colonial heritage. This linguistic legacy connects modern campers to centuries of exploration and settlement along these historic waterways.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Damsite into a sun-drenched paradise, with warm temperatures beckoning swimmers, boaters, and anglers to the water. Spring can surprise visitors with its dramatic shifts—including occasional April snowflakes that dust the landscape before giving way to wildflower blooms. Even during quieter off-peak months, the region's natural attractions and scenic drives remain open for exploration, offering year-round appeal to those seeking solitude and natural beauty.
ElevationNestled within the varied topography of the Missouri Ozarks, the campground's position above the dam provides commanding views of the surrounding landscape.
Natural Features and SceneryThe breathtaking Ozark Hills cradle Pomme de Terre Lake like a jewel, its crystalline waters reflecting endless skies and verdant hillsides. Dense forests of oak and hickory cascade down to meet the water's edge, creating a tapestry of green that shifts with the seasons. Renowned among anglers for its abundant bass and crappie populations, the lake's pristine waters invite endless days of fishing, swimming, and boating adventures.
Geological RegionSet within the ancient, weathered peaks of the Ozark Hills, the campground overlooks a magnificent aquatic expanse—7,790 acres of shimmering lake surface carved by nature and enhanced by human engineering. The lake's 113 miles of intricate shoreline create countless hidden coves and scenic vistas, each turn revealing new perspectives of this geological wonderland where ancient bedrock meets modern recreation.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible handicapped sites are available. Some user reviews highlight issues with accessing features like the shower house, emphasizing distance for tent campers and those without sewer hookups.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size, accommodating everything from tent setups to large RVs. Specific reviews mention, 'Site 123 was large enough for a 40-foot fifth wheel toy hauler and a second vehicle with a bass boat.'
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary across the campground. Some users noted, 'Sites were close on the hookup side,' while others reported, 'Sites on the East Loop are spacious and well-spaced.'
Total Campsites88 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites near the water provide excellent views but may experience weed overgrowth. Sites with electric hookups are closer to amenities.
Best CampsitesCampsites 116, 123, and 059 are highly recommended for scenic views and spacious layouts.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time not explicitly stated.
Check-out
- Check-out time not explicitly stated
- some reviewers suggest it is 6 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is up to 14 consecutive nights during a visit and 28 total nights within rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Guests allowed depend on site size
- see individual reservation details.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are arranged in loops; Spillway loop noted for its perpendicular layout requiring complex RV maneuvering.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen April 16 through September 30 for peak season. Off-season camping is limited from March 15 to April 15 and October 1 to November 30.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityInformation not explicitly stated; null.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made before your scheduled arrival date. Fees include a $10 cancellation fee and penalty for late cancellations, such as the forfeiture of the first night's use fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Damsite Campground provides diverse recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, swimming, and hiking. The lake boasts one of the best fishing catch ratios in the country, with species like muskie, crappie, largemouth bass, and white bass in abundance. A fireworks display over the dam is held annually during the Fourth of July holiday weekend.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities exist but are inconsistent in terms of trail maintenance. One user noted, 'Some of the hiking trails were overgrown while others were well-maintained,' recommending 'the Outlet Park trail, although it did not appear in searches.'Fishing
Fishing is a standout activity at Pomme de Terre Lake. The lake is stocked with muskie each fall, and crappie, largemouth bass, and white bass are plentiful. A user noted, 'Lakefront sites make it easy to fish right from your campsite.'Swimming
Swimming opportunities are available, though users did not provide detailed information about designated swimming areas or safety measures.Biking
Biking is possible within the campground and surrounding areas, with one review stating, 'The hilly terrain makes for good bike rides.'Boating
Boating is highly popular, with easy access to the lake from many campsites. Several reviews mention kayaking and exploring coves.Wildlife viewing
Birdwatching and wildlife observation are noted, with highlights such as 'watching eagles fly overhead in the morning.'Winter Activities
Winter camping is possible but limited due to seasonal closures of amenities. Snowfall is mentioned in user reviews as enhancing the scenic beauty.Water Sports
Kayaking and other non-motorized water sports are highly recommended. Users frequently praise the ease of launching kayaks directly from campsites.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted; firewood must be locally sourced per 'Don't Move Firewood' guidelines.
- Quiet hours not explicitly stated; null.
Hazards
General hazardsReviews mention tall weeds near the water being a hazard, loose dogs around campsites, and the presence of snakes.
Active alertsNo specific alerts mentioned.
Weather forecast
74
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 36%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.3 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Mainly clear
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Pomme de Terre Project Office (417-745-6411) nearby, Hermitage Medical Center available in Hermitage, MO.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 16 - September 30 annually.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are present, and the grounds are kept clean as noted in multiple user reviews. No recycling options are explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresCampsites are near Pomme de Terre Lake, with some sites offering direct access to the water.
Common complaintsSnakes in the bathrooms, lack of shade in some sites, noisy sewage pumps near certain sites, and occasional flooding.
HostHosts Mike and Barb are praised for their friendliness and helpfulness, handling issues promptly.
Campground Map
24312 State Hwy 254 Hermitage, MO 65668
Driving directionsFrom Springfield, MO, take US 65 north for 60 miles to Preston, MO.. Continue on Highway 54 west to Hermitage, MO., then take Highway 254/64 south to Carsons Corner and follow Highway 254 west toward the dam. The entrance to Damsite Park is on the south side of Highway 254.
The campground is accessible via paved roads. Some reviews mention the Spillway Loop is difficult to navigate due to perpendicular site arrangement and posts complicating backup maneuvers for RVs.Nearby places
Springfield, MO (60 miles, approx. 1 hour drive)
Preston, MO (approx. 10 miles, 15-minute drive)
Hermitage, MO (approx. 5 miles, 10-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
Hermitage, MO (groceries, fuel, camping supplies)
Carsons Corner
MeMaws Ice Cream Shop
Judy's Ice Creamery & Grill.
Camper Reviews
4.5
257 reviews
Damsite is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Damsite Campground are overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing cleanliness, spacious sites, and friendly hosts. Some complaints focus on maintenance issues like overgrown weeds and challenges with water pressure in shower facilities.
Review Summaries
Based on 257 reviews
What Campers Love
Highlights include 'spacious campsites,' 'beautiful views of the lake,' and 'friendly, helpful hosts.' Many users appreciated the site's proximity to the lake for fishing and boating.
Based on 257 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include 'low water pressure in showers,' 'overgrown weeds near campsites,' and 'lack of shade in some areas,' as well as noise from neighboring sites during busy periods.
Based on 257 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Tips from users include bringing a canopy for shade, using a camper with its own bathroom due to distance to shower houses, and exploring the nearby Outlet Park trail.
Based on 257 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews are mixed due to heat and lack of shade. Fall is praised for cooler temperatures, scenic views, and fewer crowds. Winter is less popular due to limited amenities, but some enjoy the...
Based on 257 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Site 123 was large enough for a 40-foot fifth wheel toy hauler and a second vehicle with a bass boat.' 2. 'Watching the eagles fly overhead in the morning was an added bonus.' 3. 'Seeing the sun...
Based on 257 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 123 in the East Loop is frequently praised for its size and views. Site 59 is noted as 'the best campsite on the lake.'
Based on 257 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility is limited for those without an RV bathroom due to the distance of shower facilities from certain areas.
Based on 257 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but loose dogs not on leashes are a frequent complaint, with one user mentioning, 'Two large dogs ran out at me.'
Based on 257 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025