Stockton Lake, MO has approximately 1.3 million visitors each year and Crabtree Cove Park is becoming more of a favorite destination each and every year.
With its well-manicured campgrounds, new public bathrooms/showers, playground areas, its walking trails, fishing dock, picnic areas, boat ramp and more parking, Crabtree Cove offers an affordable getaway for those that are lake enthusiasts.
See why Crabtree Cove Park might be the place for you and your family to visit or vacation this season.
Crabtree Cove Park campground is truly a diamond-in-the-rough find. Located between Bolivar and Stockton, just off highway 32, the park is on the northern part of the lake, close to the dam.
It has a total of 55 spaces, with 32 spaces for those that like to camp with an RV, up to 50 ft. in length, and 23 primitive sites for those individuals that want the tent camping experience.
Most of the campsites give guests a spectacular view of the lake along with its gorgeous sunsets throughout the season. Because Stockton Lake is rated as one of the best inland lakes in America, campers will routinely experience sailboats small and large cruising past Crabtree Cove campground – a great and colorful sight to see.
When you pull into the campground itself, you will notice on your right the new bathrooms and showers. You will then pass through the attendant check-in point. The attendants are very courteous and will assist you in getting to your site. Motoring to your site is easy as the roads around the campground are all paved.
One thing you will quickly notice is there are numerous areas where you can launch small watercraft and other lake toys. Plus, the park also has playgrounds for the kids.
Adjacent to the campground is the boat ramp, fishing dock and picnic shelter. If you bring a boat that will be launched from the boat ramp and you want to park your trailer there, make sure you get a daily trailer-parking pass in advance. These spots go fast, especially on weekends and holidays.
Many visitors to Crabtree Cove find that the Crabtree Cove Trail is one of the most popular trails on the lake. This family-friendly trail is great for taking walks, jogging, bike riding and for those that want to picnic. It offers easy access off Highway 32 and is just East of the Stockton Lake Dam.
There is a main trail and two additional loops that total a little less than 3 miles. The main trail has several benches along the way with a restroom on each end. The Quarry Loop will take visitors around the waters’ edge at the very popular Crabtree Quarry. From the waters’ edge vantage point you will be able to see all the water fun activities that take place in the Quarry during the day.
Pets are allowed but must be on leashes six feet or less.
If you are visiting Crabtree Cove and you are looking for the ultimate fun on the water, the Quarry is the place. Because of its protection from the winds, the Quarry has become a hotspot for power boaters that want to moor up with others, swimmers, paddleboarders, kayakers and other small watercraft.
If you or your group want to join the fun but don’t have access to a paddleboard or kayak, don’t fret, CRABBY’S Bait Shack & Aquatic Rentals has you covered. CRABBY’S is conveniently located next to Crabtree Cove Park. Visitors can rent watercraft online or come by its location and sign up there.