Free dispersed camping within Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area requires a hike to reach any site, with no water or toilet facilities available at any point along the route. The wilderness sits inside Mark Twain National Forest outside Bradleyville, and the nearest trailhead is Coy Bald, where a handful of primitive sites with fire rings are available before the trail begins. Overnight parking restrictions apply in some zones, and fire restrictions can change seasonally; the kiosks at trailhead entrances post current rules.
The Coy Bald Trail covers roughly four miles to the falls and crosses the river twice. First crossing comes about a mile in, where bluffs rise on one side and fire rings mark campsites on both banks. The second river crossing arrives around mile three, with additional camping areas spread along the water. Campers report the falls may run dry depending on seasonal water levels, though the rock feature and wading area remain accessible. The open meadow sections of trail can be harder to navigate, as the path becomes less defined where forest cover breaks.
Cell service is limited to nonexistent in the backcountry here. Ticks are a documented concern, particularly in warmer months, and snakes have been noted by visitors during summer. The area sees light foot traffic, though not complete solitude. Nearby options include Hercules Glades (Watch Tower) and Hercules Glades Wilderness Trailhead Dispersed — Mark Twain NF for campers who want trailhead-adjacent alternatives. This area makes the most sense for self-sufficient backpackers comfortable navigating unmarked terrain without emergency communication.
Description
This area is surrounded by private property - please ensure you are not on private land while hiking or camping - or if you intend to be, ask permission before doing so. And respect any "private property" signs you see.
Hercules Glades Wilderness Area is 12,413 acres of the most scenic and unique country in the Midwest. Its combination of open grassland, forested knobs, steep rocky hillsides, and narrow drainages offers unusual beauty and a measure of solitude within easy reach of wilderness lovers. The area is characterized by shallow droughty soils and limestone rock outcroppings. Eastern red cedar and oak trees are interspersed with open glades supporting native tall prairie grasses. Redbud and dogwood provide beautiful spring flowers, while smoke tree and maple put on vivid fall colors. A variety of wildlife species live within the Hercules Glades including white-tailed deer, raccoons rabbits, squirrels, turkey, quail, songbirds, lizards and snakes. Copperheads and rattlesnakes may be encountered. Roadrunners, collared lizards, tarantulas, wild hogs and black bears are some of the more uncommon wildlife residents. Limit your party size to 10 persons. No camping within 100 feet of trails, water sources and other camps.Practice Leave No Trace outdoor ethics; Never tie stock directly to trees. No motorized or mechanized equipment allowed. Trails: From the trailheads there is 32 miles of maintained trails which follows along open glades, forested ridgetops and Long Creek, the primary drainage of the area. Cross country hiking in other parts of the area is allowed. Key attractions along the trail include Long Creek Falls, panoramic views of the Ozarks countryside, and a variety of native communities including open limestone glades and mixed forests. Rating: More Difficult to Most Difficult with steep terrain, stream crossings, sparsely marked trail, and elevations from 600 to 1200 feet. Length: 32 miles Best Seasons: Fall, winter, and spring. Leave No Trace: Pack out what you pack in. Restrictions: Foot and Horse only. Safety: No drinking water is available at parking areas or along the trail; bring what you will need, or be prepared to sterilize water you find. During temperate months, be prepared for biting insects, poison ivy and high temperatures. Be advised of hunting seasons. Avoid using the trail during excessively wet periods. Surface Type: Unsurfaced, native material.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsHercules-Glades Wilderness Area is located in Missouri near Bradleyville
Dispersed CampingDirections
Three trailheads provide entry to the Hecules Glades Wilderness. The Hercules Tower Trailhead is located along Highway 125 8.5 miles south of Bradleyville, MO. There is a vault toilet, space for camping and parking at this location. The first part of the trail is mostly level, then it descends a slope to Long Creek. Or, take the 4-mile Pea's Hollow loop north along the hollow bottom, then back along the ridge. The Blair Ridge Trailhead is located 9.5 miles south of Bradleyville, MO on Highway 125; turn right onto Forest Road 155, go approximately 2 miles. There is only parking available at this location. The Coy Bald Trailhead is located off of Highway 160 east of Forsyth, MO 9 miles, turn left onto Forest Road 566 and go approximately 4 miles. There is parking available at this location.
Coordinates
36.68000043 N
92.8800004 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 8/22/26
VerizonLTESome Coverage- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 8 usersLast on 8/22/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 8/22/26
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 8 usersLast on 8/22/26
Access
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- 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.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 8 min from Springfield, MO
- 2 hrs 6 min from Joplin, MO
- 2 hrs 27 min from Fayetteville, AR
- 3 hrs 12 min from Fort Smith, AR
