About OUTLET PARK
Overview Attention Campers! We are looking for volunteers to help us maintain campgrounds. For more information and volunteer applications, call 417-745-6411 and ask for park ranger Heard.Outlet Park, situated below the Pomme de Terre dam, provides a picturesque setting for fishing, canoeing, hiking and wildlife viewing on the Pomme de Terre River. Above the dam lies Pomme de Terre Lake, nicknamed ''the Gem of the Ozarks'' for its deep, clear waters, plentiful activities and scenic views.Recreation Outlet Park is excellent for sports. It marks the trailhead for the 3-mile Healthy Active Community Running River Trail and is also a hot spot for canoeing and kayaking. Fishing is also a popular, with plenty of crappie and bass in the nearby waters.Facilities Outlet Park has 19 water and electric hookups campsites. Amenities include hot showers, a boat ramp, group camping, and a multipurpose playing court, multiple playgrounds, softball/baseball field, horse shoe pits, and a 3 mile walking trail.Natural Features The lake and dam are located in the rugged, tree-topped hills of the west-central Missouri Ozarks. The lake stems from the nearby Pomme de Terre River, the only river in the state that flows northbound. Nearby Attractions Located a few miles away in the town of Wheatland is one of the country's best dirt tracks. There are also multiple trails, a golf course and Anglers Resort is the place to rent your canoes.
How to Get There
From Springfield, MO, take US Highway 65 North to Preston, MO, then Highway 54 west to Hermitage. Go south from Hermitage on Highway 254/64 for approximately 4 miles to Carson Corner. Turn west on 254 toward Pomme de Terre Dam and continue across the dam. At the far end of the dam, turn north on the paved road and follow it to the park below the dam.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
UPF sun shirt (long sleeve)
Cooler than direct sun on bare skin.
- 🩳
Light shorts/skirt
Loose-fit, breathable.
- 🧢
Wide-brimmed sun hat
Plus a buff/bandana you can wet for cooling.
- 🕶
Polarized sunglasses
Critical for glare from sun + sand/water.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection (UV 7)
SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to OUTLET PARK
Heading to OUTLET PARK? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for OUTLET PARK?
No central reservation system listed for OUTLET PARK. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233575) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to OUTLET PARK?
From Springfield, MO, take US Highway 65 North to Preston, MO, then Highway 54 west to Hermitage. Go south from Hermitage on Highway 254/64 for approximately 4 miles to Carson Corner. Turn west on 254 toward Pomme de Terre Dam and continue across the dam. At the far end of the dam, turn north on the paved road and follow it to the park below the dam.
How do I contact OUTLET PARK?
You can reach the park at phone: 417-745-2290 .
References & Official Resources
