Stockton Lake to close camping at Masters Park

Published Jan. 15, 2014

STOCKTON, Mo.— The Kansas City District U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is scheduled to close the camping area at Masters Park on Stockton Lake due to the under utilization of the campground and projected budget reductions.

In light of fiscal realities, the Corps will implement this operational change to the park area on March 1, 2014. The operational change is being made in an effort to improve park operating efficiencies while still providing a quality recreational opportunity for the public.

Day use facilities at Masters Park will remain open with no operational changes, which include a four-lane boat ramp, swimming beach with picnic shelters, and a fishing dock.

With more than 370 million visits annually, the U.S Army Corps of Engineers is the largest federal provider of outdoor recreation. Changes in the federal budget and increased demand for recreation resources compel the Corps to transform and reposition their recreation program.

The Corps’ Recreation Strategic Plan provides guidance for our recreation program to ensure we continue to provide safe, quality outdoor recreation in light of current and future budget realities. The National Recreation Adjustment Plan is the first step in evaluating the efficiencies and performances of Corps of Engineers recreation areas.

The Kansas City District currently has six areas that have been ranked as poor performing parks among a national list. Those parks include Master's located at Stockton Lake. 

At this time no additional operational changes are planned for any of the other Corps managed campgrounds on Stockton Lake. Visitors that normally camp at Masters Park are encouraged to visit Crabtree Cove, Orleans Trail or Cedar Ridge campground which are near Masters Park.

Any questions regarding this park operational change should be directed to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Stockton Lake at (417) 276-3113.

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Release no. PA-2014-03