Cedar Ridge (Mo)
4.50114 reviews21680 E. CR-1, Aldrich, MO, 65601, USA
Cedar Ridge (Mo)
$14.00 - $24.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$24.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$14.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season rates for campsites range from $14 to $24 per night depending on amenities, including electric and non-electric options. Walk-in sites are priced at $14.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of Stockton Lake, Cedar Ridge Campground beckons adventurers into the heart of Missouri's captivating Ozark Mountains. This scenic retreat features 54 thoughtfully designed campsites, including 12 secluded tent-only spots perfect for those seeking a more intimate connection with nature. Whether you're casting a line into the crystal-clear waters, exploring the lake by boat, or settling in for a cozy evening by the campfire, Cedar Ridge transforms every season into an outdoor paradise. Winter visitors are treated to the spectacular sight of majestic bald eagles soaring overhead during the campground's celebrated eagle-watching events.
Cedar Ridge Park accommodates tent camping, RV camping, and walk-to sites, with 12 sites specifically designated for tents. Group camping and glamping are not mentioned.
Historical SignificanceCedar Ridge has become a cherished winter pilgrimage site for nature enthusiasts who gather annually for the campground's renowned eagle-watching event. This celebrated tradition showcases the vital role the Stockton Lake ecosystem plays in supporting wintering bald eagle populations, connecting visitors with the profound natural heritage of the Ozarks while fostering environmental stewardship for future generations.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the Ozarks' dynamic personality throughout the year at Cedar Ridge. Winter brings crisp mountain air with temperatures dancing between 30°F and 46°F, occasionally dusted with pristine snow that transforms the landscape into a peaceful wonderland. As summer unfolds, the campground comes alive with warm sunshine and the refreshing embrace of occasional rain showers that keep the forests lush and vibrant. The region's characteristic humidity creates those perfect misty mornings that make early hikes especially magical.
ElevationThe campground embraces the characteristic rolling terrain of the Ozark highlands, where gentle slopes and natural contours create intimate camping spaces and stunning vantage points throughout the property.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living landscape painting where hundreds of acres of swaying prairie grasses dance in the breeze, framed by the undulating silhouette of densely forested hills. When autumn arrives, Cedar Ridge erupts in a breathtaking display of crimson and gold that rivals any New England vista. The campground serves as a natural theater where wild turkeys strut through morning mist, white-tailed deer emerge at twilight's edge, and the iconic silhouette of bald eagles commands the sky above the shimmering lake waters.
Geological RegionCedar Ridge claims its place in southwestern Missouri's enchanting Ozark Mountains, where ancient geology meets modern recreation along the shores of Stockton Lake. This remarkable landscape weaves together rolling hills cloaked in thick hardwood forests with expanses of native prairie grasses that whisper stories of the region's pre-settlement past. The unique combination of lake, forest, and grassland ecosystems creates an ecological crossroads that supports exceptional biodiversity and offers endless exploration opportunities.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible camping sites are available. Accessibility extends to features like paved parking and accessible boat ramps.
Sites SizeVaried sizes. Some sites specifically accommodate multiple vehicles, boats, and campers.
Sites PrivacyMixed privacy levels ranging from secluded spots to sites close together. One reviewer described their site as "very private," while another noted "sites are a little close together and could use a little extra TLC."
Total Campsites54 campsites
Recommended CampsitesA Loop sites are mentioned as ideal for water views, while B Loop offers quieter settings.
Best CampsitesUsers recommend site A36 for proximity to water and a private experience.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
4:00 PM
Check-out
4:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay allowed is 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
One wheeled unit and up to three tents are allowed per campsite.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutDivided into loops with wide spacing; gravel and grassy sites available.
Open and Closed SeasonYear-round operation, but peak season is from April 16 to September 30. Out-of-season reservations are not available.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not explicitly described, but first-come-first-served sites may exist as noted in user reviews.
Cancellation PolicyChanges or cancellations should be made as far in advance as possible. A $10 fee applies for changes, and cancellations incur a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first night’s fee if done late.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Cedar Ridge Park supports diverse recreational activities including fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Visitors often praise the campground's proximity to Stockton Lake's scenic shoreline and its well-maintained facilities.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available and include scenic paths surrounding Stockton Lake. Specific trail difficulty or lengths are not described.Fishing
Fishing is highly popular, with Stockton Lake home to species such as smallmouth bass, crappie, and sunfish. One user shared, "Caught walleye and crappie. Great 2 weeks. Going again in September."Swimming
A designated swimming beach is available, often noted for its cleanliness, though reviews suggest the area may be small due to a reduced rope boundary.Boating
Boating and sailing are prominent recreational activities, supported by two boat ramps and a courtesy dock. Users appreciate the ease of launching boats and many highlight picturesque water views. One visitor noted, "Parked the boat on the shoreline nearby, so didn't have to unload and load it on the ramp two or three times a day."Wildlife viewing
Wild turkey, Great Blue heron, deer, and Bald eagles are frequently observed. An annual eagle-watching event is hosted each winter.Beach activities
Beach activities are supported by a sandy swimming beach and pebble beach areas for families. One user commented, "There is an unofficial pebble beach the little ones enjoyed."Winter Activities
Winter wildlife viewing, including Bald eagle observation during the annual eagle-watching event.Water Sports
Boating, sailing, and fishing are popular water sports activities at Stockton Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire pits; firewood must be locally sourced.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly described in authoritative sources.
Hazards
General hazardsLow-hanging trees on access roads may damage tall vehicles. Wildlife like raccoons can be a nuisance as noted in user reviews.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 57%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
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
The nearest emergency services are in Aldrich, MO, approximately 7.5 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 16 to September 30.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is provided; however, user reviews indicate occasional issues with litter left by previous campers.
Proximity to water featuresStockton Lake provides easy access to water-based activities. Two boat ramps are available, and some sites are near swimming areas.
Common complaintsIssues with loud neighbors, barking dogs, unclean bathrooms, and rude campground hosts (based on user reviews).
HostMixed reviews about campground hosts; some praised their friendliness while others faced issues with rudeness.
Campground Map
21680 E. CR-1, Aldrich, MO, 65601, USA
Driving directionsFrom Bona, Missouri, take Highway 245 north for 0.5 miles to RA Highway. Turn left (north) on RA Highway and continue for 0.7 miles to the park.
The road to the campground includes some low-hanging trees that may cause damage to taller vehicles, as noted by user reviews. It is a paved route, but accessibility may be challenging due to these obstacles.Nearby places
Bona, MO (1.2 miles)
Aldrich, MO (7.5 miles)
Springfield, MO (35 miles, approximately 45 minutes by car)
Nearby supplies
Three full-service marinas around Stockton Lake offer boat rentals, fuel, fishing tackle, and restaurants. Grocery and camping supply stores are not within 20 miles according to user reviews.
Camper Reviews
4.5
114 reviews
Cedar Ridge (Mo) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight that Cedar Ridge is a clean, scenic campground with friendly staff, but frequent complaints include disruptive neighbors, barking dogs, and inconsistent cleanliness in restrooms.
Review Summaries
Based on 114 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive feedback includes clean facilities, well-maintained camping areas, and spacious sites with scenic views.
Based on 114 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common criticisms include loud and disrespectful neighbors, barking dogs, inconsistent restroom cleanliness, and issues with campground staff behavior.
Based on 114 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Tips for visitors include bringing soap for restrooms, a bug zapper for swarms of bugs, and ensuring proper trash disposal to deter raccoons.
Based on 114 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Winter months are celebrated for Bald eagle sightings, while summer reviews emphasize water activities and scenic views. Complaints about bugs and disruptive campers peak during warmer months.
Based on 114 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Bathrooms were a disgrace, with mold around the shower areas," "Caught walleye and crappie. Great 2 weeks," "Great campground with scenic water views and spacious sites," "Barking dogs disrupt the...
Based on 114 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Certain sites are praised for privacy and proximity to water, while others are criticized for rocky terrain or poor restroom access.
Based on 114 reviewsAccessibility Features
Reviews frequently praise accessibility features, such as paved parking and boat ramps.
Based on 114 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but issues with barking dogs are a common concern. One review noted, "Is there no limit to the number of dogs that can be brought into a campsite?"
Based on 114 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025