About DAMSITE
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.Visitors head to Damsite on Pomme de Terre Lake for days of enjoyable boating, fishing and swimming. Just as the name implies, Damsite Park is just above the dam, at the confluence of Lindley Creek and the Pomme de Terre River. The lake is named for the river that feeds it. The phrase "Pomme de Terre" is French for potato or "apple of the earth." Most likely, the river was named by early French trappers and fur traders when they discovered plants resembling potatoes on the riverbanks.Recreation Excellent fishing is found at the lake, which boasts one of the best catch ratios in the country. Each fall the lake is stocked with muskie, but crappie, largemouth and white bass are also found in abundance. Every year on Fourth of July holiday weekend, a fireworks display takes place over the dam.Facilities Damsite Park has 80 sites with electric and water hookups and 7 non-electric sites. Amenities include a dump station, two shower houses, a horse shoe pits, and a playground.Natural Features Pomme de Terre Lake sits in the rolling Ozark hills, with 7,790-acres of sparkling surface area and 113 miles of shoreline. Nearby Attractions One of the best dirt tracks in the country is right down the road or enjoy a round of golf at the nearby golf course. There are also multiple trails located around this part of the lake.
How to Get There
From Springfield, MO, take US 65 north for 60 miles to Preston, MO.. Continue on Highway 54 west to Hermitage, MO., then take Highway 254/ 64 south to Carsons Corner and follow Highway 254 west toward the dam. The entrance to Damsite Park is on the south side of Highway 254.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Moisture-wicking T-shirt
Light color, breathable.
- 🩳
Lightweight shorts or pants
Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
- 🧢
Brimmed sun hat
Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
- 🥾
Trail runners
Breathable mesh uppers.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection (UV 8)
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 DAMSITE
Heading to DAMSITE? 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 DAMSITE?
No central reservation system listed for DAMSITE. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233485) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to DAMSITE?
From Springfield, MO, take US 65 north for 60 miles to Preston, MO.. Continue on Highway 54 west to Hermitage, MO., then take Highway 254/ 64 south to Carsons Corner and follow Highway 254 west toward the dam. The entrance to Damsite Park is on the south side of Highway 254.
How do I contact DAMSITE?
You can reach the park at phone: 417-745-2244, OR CONTACT THE POMME DE TERRE PROJECT OFFICE AT 417-745-6411.
References & Official Resources
