Free and drive-in accessible, Crooked River Conservation Area sits in forested terrain near the river outside Lawson, Missouri, managed under Missouri Department of Conservation rules. The camping area is mowed and includes pit toilets. It's small. Reviewers note there is effectively one main campsite with room for perhaps four setups, so arriving early matters, especially on weekends when groups can spread across the full area. Fishing and hiking are available on-site, pets are allowed, and campfires are permitted. Anglers and hikers looking for camp sites near Lawson without paying a fee will find this a functional, low-infrastructure option worth checking out.
Description
The Conservation Department purchased Crooked River Conservation Area property in 1983 with funds from the 1/8 of 1% Design for Conservation sales tax. The area includes forest/woodland, several small ponds, and three miles of frontage on Crooked River. The area's diverse habitats create an ideal home for many species of wildlife, including deer, turkey, quail, squirrels, and songbirds.
Reservation Info
Groups of 10 or more need a special use permit. Please call
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsCrooked River Conservation Area is located in Missouri near Lawson
Coordinates
39.40877863133308 N
94.06270600133765 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 6 usersLast on 7/30/26
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 5/14/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 6 usersLast on 7/30/26
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 5/14/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Phone Service
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
Drive Time
- 47 min from Kansas City, MO
- 1 hr 4 min from St. Joseph, MO
- 1 hr 18 min from Lawrence, KS
- 1 hr 40 min from Topeka, KS






