Dispersed camping near Ashburn, Missouri centers around the Mississippi River corridor, where public lands offer primitive camping in a rural setting. The area sits at approximately 500 feet above sea level in Missouri's eastern region, characterized by rolling hills and river bottomlands. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing with summer highs regularly exceeding 90°F, making spring and fall optimal for camping.
What to do
River exploration: The Mississippi River provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing at Silo Access Area. Bryan T. describes it as a "Hidden Gem!" noting the "short drive into town" makes supply runs convenient despite the remote feel.
Barge watching: Position your camp to observe river traffic along the Mississippi. According to one visitor at Silo Access Area, "This site is a great place to watch that amazing river pass by" and you can "watch the barges and various things float by."
Hiking: Primitive trails wind through conservation areas offering bird watching and seasonal wildflower viewing. At Lone Spring Trail Backpacking Campsite(s), Michael M. notes, "The site has several areas to setup a tent has a metal fire pit. I will be going back next year."
What campers like
River views: Camping directly on the Mississippi River provides unique perspectives. Annie C. describes Silo Access Area as "Primitive camping on the Mississippi River. This is mostly a wide gravel bar that you can set up camp on with great views of the big river."
Quiet atmosphere: Despite occasional train noise, the relative isolation appeals to many visitors. "Very impressed with this beautiful location. The site is right on the Mississippi River!" reports Cyndy & Selena R. about Silo Access Area.
No reservation required: The ability to arrive without planning ahead appeals to spontaneous campers. Matthew H. notes about Silo Access Area, "Can't beat free and great views," highlighting the value proposition of dispersed camping options near Ashburn.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Come prepared with all supplies. Annie C. advises about Silo Access Area, "Be sure to be self contained as there is no vault toilet or porta potty currently," and notes "there are no amenities, and few sites."
Train noise: Railway lines run adjacent to some camping areas along the river. Matthew H. mentions, "You won't miss the train as it comes by 3-4 times a day" at Ranacker Conservation Area.
Road conditions: Access roads may be affected by seasonal flooding or maintenance work. Annie C. observed, "The road through the campground is nicely graded and there is obviously some work being done to restore the flora- trees being planted, areas marked off for restoration."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children often enjoy spotting river wildlife and watching boat traffic. Matthew H. notes "lots of barges and river boats that are fun to watch" from the campground.
Insect protection: Bring appropriate repellents and clothing, particularly for evening hours. Cyndy & Selena R. caution that "Mosquitoes are prevalent" at dispersed camping areas near Ashburn.
Site selection: Choose camping spots strategically for comfort. According to Annie C., "The best sites are at the opposite ends of the flat circle where there are large gravel areas ideal for parking RV's."
Tips from RVers
Self-contained setups required: Bring water reserves and waste management solutions. Matthew H. advises RVers to "bring your rv, water and a generator" since there are "not restrooms or hook ups of any kind."
Site accessibility: Some areas offer pull-through options for easier maneuvering. Cyndy & Selena R. note that at Silo Access Area, "There are 13 sites for RVs and Travel Trailers. Three sites are curved to pull in and out easily. Site 13 is large enough for 2 RVs."
Generator use: Plan for power needs as hookups are unavailable at dispersed camping locations near Ashburn. Matthew H. emphasizes this point, stating camping areas have "no hook ups of any kind" but the experience is worth it.
