Orleans Trail
4.3484 reviews15365 E. OT-1
Orleans Trail
$14.00 - $24.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$14.00
Hookup Site Fee$22.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$160.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary based on site type: Standard Electric sites cost $22-$24, Standard Non-electric $14, and Group Standard Electric $160 during peak season.
About this campground
Nestled along the sparkling waters of Stockton Lake, Orleans Trail Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of waterfront adventure and woodland tranquility. This 118-site haven serves as your gateway to endless recreation, where mornings might begin with casting a line into the lake's abundant waters, afternoons are spent exploring scenic hiking trails, and evenings wind down at one of the inviting swimming beaches. Modern amenities including well-maintained shower houses ensure comfort meets wilderness, making this lakeside retreat ideal for both seasoned campers and families seeking their next memorable outdoor escape.
Orleans Trail Campground accommodates various camping styles, including tent camping, RV camping, and group sites with electric hookups.
Weather and SeasonsFrom mid-April through September, Orleans Trail transforms into a sun-drenched paradise where warm days invite endless outdoor adventures and gentle evening breezes provide the perfect backdrop for campfire stories. The peak season brings ideal conditions for all water activities and trail exploration. While the shoulder seasons offer their own charm with fewer crowds and crisp air, visitors should come prepared for nature's more dramatic moods – including brisk winds and cooler temperatures that remind us of the raw beauty of Missouri's changing seasons.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a landscape where rolling hills cascade toward the water's edge, their slopes cloaked in dense forests that whisper with ancient oak and hickory. This natural amphitheater creates an ever-changing canvas of light and shadow throughout the day. Wildlife enthusiasts will find themselves reaching for binoculars as majestic great blue herons glide across the water, wild turkeys strut through the underbrush, and white-tailed deer emerge at dawn and dusk to graze in meadow clearings. Each sunrise and sunset paints the sky in brilliant hues, reflecting off the lake's surface in a daily spectacle that never grows old.
Geological RegionOrleans Trail Campground sits proudly within the enchanting Ozark Mountains of southwestern Missouri, a region where ancient geological forces have sculpted a masterpiece of rolling hills and deep valleys. This timeless landscape weaves together dense hardwood forests with remnants of native prairie grasslands, creating a diverse ecosystem that has captivated visitors for generations. The Ozarks' characteristic terrain provides not just stunning vistas but also the perfect natural playground for hiking, with elevation changes that challenge the body while rewarding the soul with panoramic views of this uniquely American wilderness.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground provides accessible campsites, but specific accessibility features are unclear. One user appreciated the spaciousness and access to water.
Sites SizeCampsites vary significantly in size, with some suitable for large RVs and others more fitting for tents. The group camping area accommodates larger groups.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are generally well-spaced and shaded, offering varying levels of privacy. Some users noted, 'Nice place and a good distance between the campsites to keep private,' while others said, 'The sites are close together and the vibe was a little creepy.'
Total Campsites118 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose lakeside sites for better views. Sites in the North loop (e.g., B15) are preferred for proximity to facilities.
Best CampsitesB01, B17, and C14 are highly recommended for views and privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
4:00 PM
Check-out
4:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limits include 14 nights during any single visit and within rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Guests are permitted to have up to one RV and two tents, or three tents per campsite.
Groups
The group camping area is located in Orleans Trail South and includes electric hookups and space for larger groups.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutDivided into North and South sections with varying amenities. North includes non-electric sites, showers, and beaches, while South features group camping and equestrian facilities.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season runs from April 16 to September 30 for reservations.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov through its website, app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites may be available for walk-ins, but this is subject to availability, especially during peak season.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be modified for a $10 change fee, while cancellations incur a $10 fee plus additional penalties for late cancellations.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
The Orleans Trail Campground offers a diverse range of recreation opportunities on-site and in its surrounding areas. Visitors enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, and wildlife viewing among other activities. The nearby Stockton Lake Equestrian Trail further broadens recreation options.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available, including sections of the Stockton Lake Equestrian Trail, which stretches approximately 15 miles between Orleans Trail and Hawker Point Campgrounds. No specific difficulty levels or trail descriptions are provided.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are abundant, with species such as small and largemouth bass, crappie, white bass, walleye, catfish, and sunfish populating Stockton Lake. One user remarked, 'Pretty and quiet location with good shoreline fishing opportunities.'Swimming
Swimming areas include a public beach located near Orleans Trail North. A user noted, 'There is a beautiful public beach just down the road to the left if you want to swim.' However, reviews mention rocky access to the lake.Boating
Boating is especially popular on Stockton Lake, with sailboat races hosted annually. A boat ramp is available for easy lake access. One user appreciated, 'This campground is close to the lake and you can easily get your boat on the water.'Wildlife viewing
The surrounding area is rich in wildlife, including turkey, deer, great blue herons, and bald eagles. Visitors often participate in the annual eagle-watching event during winter. A reviewer stated, 'Fun for fishing and swimming, lots of deer :-)!'Beach activities
The campground offers access to a swimming beach near Orleans Trail North, praised for its sandy shores. One user highlighted its proximity to their campsite: 'Having the marina and restaurant close is also a plus.'Winter Activities
Eagle-watching events are hosted annually during winter, showcasing the area's bald eagle population.Water Sports
Activities include kayaking and canoeing, as the campground is close to Stockton Lake. One user mentioned, 'It is just a short kayak ride to get to the marina.'Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire pits only.
- Quiet hours are Nighttime quiet hours are enforced by hosts and patrolling rangers.
Hazards
General hazardsBeware of wildlife such as raccoons, which are known to rummage through campsites. "Had some raccoons come check us out the first night," shared one camper.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 52%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.1 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
Call the project office at 417-276-3113 for emergency assistance. Additionally, park rangers and County Sheriffs Deputies routinely patrol this facility.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 16 - September 30
Trash and recyclingTrash collection facilities are available, but recycling facilities are not mentioned. Some users reported issues with trash left by previous campers, stating, 'The previous campers had left the camp site filthy with dirty diapers and bottles everywhere.'
Proximity to water featuresClose to Stockton Lake, with two swimming beaches and a boat ramp.
Common complaintsUser reviews cite concerns about cleanliness of bathrooms, uneven sites, and proximity of campsites: "The site was uneven." Bathrooms were described as "filthy" and "nasty" by multiple reviewers.
HostHosts are noted to be "friendly and helpful," with one camper stating, "Tom and his wife are great caretakers."
Campground Map
15365 E. OT-1
Driving directionsFrom Stockton, Missouri, take State Highway 39 south approximately 1/2-mile to R.B. Road. Take a left and drive approximately 1/2-mile. Turn right on Blake Street, continue about 1/2-mile, and follow signs to the park area.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, but some user reviews suggest it can be tricky to find. "A little tricky to find," noted one camper.Nearby supplies
Supplies, including ice, can be obtained in the nearby town of Stockton, which is a short drive away.
Camper Reviews
4.3
84 reviews
Orleans Trail is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Orleans Trail Campground range widely from glowing endorsements to complaints about cleanliness and maintenance. Positive reviews emphasize the cleanliness, peaceful atmosphere, spacious sites, and friendly camp hosts. Negative reviews often highlight issues with bathroom cleanliness, unkempt sites, and limited access to the lake.
Review Summaries
Based on 84 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean and peaceful campsites, friendly camp hosts, proximity to amenities like a marina and restaurant, spacious sites, and easy access for boating. One user praised, 'This campground is clean,...
Based on 84 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Many users had issues with cleanliness, including filthy bathrooms and uncleaned fire pits. Some complained about tall grass, poor water access, and uneven terrain. One user stated, 'Fire pits full,...
Based on 84 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring extra toilet paper and cleaning supplies as bathrooms may not be maintained regularly. Consider booking early for electric sites and avoid certain spots for uneven ground, as noted by one...
Based on 84 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter months are recommended for eagle-watching events. Summer is popular for boating and swimming, but reviews note increased maintenance issues. Fall offers scenic views as the thick forests turn...
Based on 84 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Orleans Trail is a shady campground located on Stockton Lake in the scenic Ozark Mountains.' (Authoritative Source) 2. 'Fun for fishing and swimming, lots of deer!' (User) 3. 'This campground is...
Based on 84 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site B01 frequently receives high praise for its pull-through capacity and views, although users noted the bathrooms nearby were often dirty. Site A11 had wildlife encounters, including raccoons...
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Accessibility Features
Accessible campsites are available, but detailed reviews of accessibility for disabled visitors are limited. One user noted the spaciousness of their site and the availability of drinking water.
Based on 84 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but one user mentioned disturbance from barking dogs throughout the night. Another complained about loud campers near their site who had a dog barking continuously.
Based on 84 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025