Ruark Bluff West

Star4.31
275 reviews
819 Route H.
Summer Destination

Quick Facts

912 ft

Price

$14 - $160/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

74 campsites

Season

Peak season is from ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Ruark Bluff West Campground site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Ruark Bluff West
$14.00 - $160.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees range from $14 to $160 depending on site type and season. Additional reservation fees may apply, including $8 online, $9 call center, and $3...
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Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$160.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
417-637-5279
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What Campers Say

4.31

Recommended

Based on 275 reviews

116 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewsquietcleanlake

Some mention

noise

"Ruark Bluff West has garnered a mix of reviews. Positives include its scenic location, friendly staff, and good amenities like boat ramps and electric hookups. Negative feedback often centers around maintenance issues, such as unkempt facilities and inconsistent water pressure in showers. The campground’s popularity and family-friendly environment are highlighted in many reviews."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

819 Route H.

Ruark Bluff West

819 Route H.

Driving directionsFrom Greenfield, Missouri, take State Highway H north for 6.4 miles and turn left on the park access road. Follow signs into the park area.
The campground is accessible via paved roads from State Highway H. Access road conditions are generally good, but details on seasonal closures or other challenges are not provided.
Nearby places
Greenfield (6.4 miles, approximately 10 minutes), Springfield (approximately 45 miles, estimated 1 hour drive).
Nearby supplies
Several full-service marinas around Stockton Lake provide groceries, gas, tackle, and more.

Best Time to Camp at Ruark Bluff West

The campground truly comes alive from spring through early fall, when mild temperatures and sunny skies create ideal conditions for outdoor adventures. Spring arrives with wildflower blooms and perfect fishing weather, while summer brings warm days perfect for swimming and water sports on the lake. As autumn approaches, crisp mornings give way to comfortable afternoons, making this the perfect season for hiking and wildlife watching as the surrounding forest transforms into a tapestry of gold and crimson.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.5 / 5

Peak season active with boating and swimming, but crowds and maintenance issues can detract.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Autumn leaf color and quieter conditions make fall particularly scenic and pleasant.

Best
Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Spring wildflowers, mild temps and good recreation make spring an attractive season.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
3.0 / 5
Top 14% in MO

Open off-peak with milder winter visits noted, but limited activities/services in winter.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: April 16 to September 30.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Peak season is from April 16 to September 30. The campground is not reservable outside this period.

About Ruark Bluff West

Nestled along the wooded shores of Stockton Lake, Ruark Bluff West beckons outdoor enthusiasts to experience the natural splendor of Missouri's Ozark Mountains. This tranquil campground offers both electric and non-electric sites beneath a canopy of mature trees, providing welcome shade during warm summer days. Whether you're launching your boat at dawn for a day of fishing, setting off on scenic hiking trails, or simply relaxing at your campsite while watching for wildlife, Ruark Bluff West serves as your gateway to adventure. Modern amenities including hot showers, a convenient dump station, and easy boat ramp access ensure comfort meets wilderness in perfect harmony.
Ruark Bluff West caters to a range of camping preferences, including tent and RV camping. Some group camping options are available, as well as campsites with electric hookups.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
4:00 PM
Check-out
4:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is limited to 14 consecutive nights within a rolling 30-day period.

Amenities available

Showers
Potable water
Electricity hookups
Flush toilets
Dump station
Fire rings

Activities you can enjoy

Ruark Bluff West offers a variety of recreational activities that make the most of its location on Stockton Lake. Popular activities include boating, fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The area is known for its serene setting and opportunities to enjoy nature.
HikingHiking trails wind around the shoreline and through the forests, offering scenic views of Stockton Lake and its surroundings. The nearby Stockton Lake Equestrian Trail spans 15 miles between two campgrounds, though this trail is not directly connected to Ruark Bluff West.
FishingThe lake is a popular destination for anglers, hosting species like small and largemouth bass, crappie, white bass, walleye, catfish, and sunfish. Fishing can be done from the shore or by boat.
SwimmingA swimming area is located near the campground, though some reviewers noted it is small, with only about 20 feet from the beach to the rope. The lake water is described as refreshing, especially on hot days.
BoatingBoating is one of the most enjoyed activities at Stockton Lake. The campground provides a boat ramp for easy access, and boaters have the convenience of docking close to campsites. Sail boating is particularly popular, and the lake hosts races annually.
Wildlife viewingWildlife sightings include deer, wild turkey, blue herons, and bald eagles. Winter visitors can attend an annual eagle-watching event. One reviewer noted encounters with deer while walking along the shore.
Beach activitiesBeach activities are accessible near the campground entrance, offering opportunities for sunbathing and water-based recreation. However, rocky terrain on some beaches might require beachgoers to exercise caution.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsHazards include potential wildlife encounters, such as deer and grunting behavior, and rocky terrain near the shore, making walking difficult.

Weather at Ruark Bluff West

Reviews

4.3
275 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Ruark Bluff West is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Ruark Bluff West has garnered a mix of reviews. Positives include its scenic location, friendly staff, and good amenities like boat ramps and electric hookups. Negative feedback often centers around maintenance issues, such as unkempt facilities and inconsistent water pressure in showers. The campground’s popularity and family-friendly environment are highlighted in many reviews.
Review Summaries
Based on 275 reviews

What Campers Love

Many reviewers praised the 'beautiful lake views,' 'friendly camp hosts,' and 'quiet atmosphere.' Others appreciated the clean campsites and availability of recreational activities, especially...
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Based on 275 reviews

Common Concerns

Maintenance issues, such as 'clogged bathroom facilities,' 'grass needing mowing,' and 'electrical system problems,' were common complaints. Overcrowding and lack of shade in some areas were also...
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Based on 275 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

1. Book campsites near the lake for better views and direct water access. 2. Bring a tarp to protect boats from rocky beaches. 3. Visit during the off-season for a quieter experience. 4. Be prepared...
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Based on 275 reviews

Seasonal Insights

During peak summer months, the campground can get crowded, and maintenance issues like unclean restrooms or uncollected trash seem to escalate. The off-season, including spring and autumn, offers a...
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Based on 275 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'This was the most amazing place we've ever camped in Missouri!' 2. 'The lake was beautiful, but the shower house needs an upgrade.' 3. 'Friendly hosts and clean campsites made our stay...
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Based on 275 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 20 is highlighted as exceptionally scenic, located right on the lake with excellent star-gazing opportunities. Site 45 is praised for its proximity to playgrounds and clean shower houses. Site...
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Based on 275 reviews

Accessibility Features

While the campground offers accessible facilities, users commented on the need for more ADA-compliant campsites near the water. Accessible vault toilets were appreciated, particularly for their...
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Based on 275 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, and many campers brought along their pets. However, some reviewers noted issues with pet owners not cleaning up after their dogs and unleashed pets wandering into other campsites.
Based on 275 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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