Best Tent Camping near Aurora, MO
Searching for a tent campsite near Aurora? The Dyrt helps you find campsites near Aurora with tent camping. Each tent site offers quick access to one or more of Aurora, Missouri's most popular destinations.
Best Tent Sites Near Aurora, Missouri (13)
3. Gibson Spring Back Country Site - Fort Crowder Conservation Area
1 Review•11 Photos•17 SavesNeosho, Missouriort Crowder Conservation Area, located in southern Newton County, was once part of the old, World War II Camp Crowder Army Base. The U.S. Army selected the Neosho site for the base because of its proximity to water, railroads, and highways. Visitors to the area can still see foundations, fruit trees, open fields and other remnants of many of the hundreds of small farms purchased by the federal government for the 60,000-acre base. Camp Crowder was named for Judge Advocate General and U.S. Ambassador to Cuba Enoch H. Crowder. Thousands of soldiers went through basic training here before the camp was decommissioned in the mid 1950s, including Mort Walker, who immortalized the Camp as Camp Swampy in his syndicated comic strip, Beetle Bailey. Fort Crowder Conservation Area, encompassing 2,362 acres, is approximately 60 percent forested. Primary species include white, black, post, blackjack and red oaks, hackberry, elm, black cherry, black walnut, and ash. The remainder of the area is open and includes 200 acres of native warm-season grasses, 100 acres of crop fields and 600 acres of fields maintained in an early successional stage. The area hosts various game species, including quail, rabbits and doves in the open areas and large numbers of deer and squirrels. Turkeys have been stocked here and are now present in good numbers. During your visit to Fort Crowder Conservation Area you may view various forest and wildlife improvement projects in progress from the 11 miles of multiuse trails that wind through the area. These trails are open to hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
Area map: https://mdc.mo.gov/sites/default/files/mo_nature/downloads/conservation-areas/6510map.pdf
- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Alcohol
4. Drury-Mincy Conservation Area
6 Reviews•15 Photos•69 SavesKirbyville, MissouriDrury-Mincy Conservation Area is in southern Taney County, southeast of Branson, off of Route J. The area, located in the heart of the White River glade region, was the Conservation Department's first deer refuge. The area is named for early landowner Frank Drury and the settlement of Mincy. The Commission leased the land in 1939, then purchased it in 1987. At present, the area is comprised of 5,599 acres which includes a portion of Bull Shoals Lake managed lands. By the turn of the century, deer numbers had dwindled to the point that Missouri could claim only 14 herds. One of these lived in the Drury-Mincy area. The area was purchased by a private landowner in 1929, who worked with the Department to increase deer numbers. From 1939 through 1959, Drury-Mincy deer were successfully used to restore populations statewide. The Drury-Mincy area, one of three areas that supported flocks of native wild turkeys, provided 300 turkeys for statewide restoration projects during the 1960s. Bluestem glades and post oak woodlands dominated the rolling hills. Mincy, Fox, and Bee creeks meander through stands of wild cane on their way to Bull Shoals Lake. Purple beardtongue, fringetree, and Ashe juniper are among the unusual plants found on the area.
Primitive camping is permitted in designated camping area only. Campers are limited to 14 consecutive days in a 30-day period. Groups of more than 10 campers are required to obtain a special use permit.
- Fires
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
- Trash
- Picnic Table
5. Fall Creek Resort
1 Review•13 Photos•1 SaveHollister, Missouri- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Trash
6. Swan Creek
1 Review•5 Photos•105 SavesChadwick, MissouriSwan Creek is an 8,488 acre area that provides for year-round nonmotorized dispersed recreation use as it is a designated Semi-Primitive Nonmotorized (SPNM) Area. There are approximately 20 miles of moderately used riding, hiking, and mountain bike trails available. Swan Creek itself offers swimming, fishing, and a non-potable water supply. For more detail of the trail visit Map of the Trail System. Trail System Map (printable) and Trail System Map GEO Referenced for use with Map Apps
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Group
- Equestrian
7. Robert E. Talbot Conservation Area
Be the first to review!•6 SavesMiller, MissouriRobert E. Talbot Conservation Area is in north-central Lawrence County, 12 miles northwest of Mt. Vernon. In 1980, the Conservation Department purchased 246 acres to maintain and protect riparian habitat along Spring River. Between 1980 and 1986, an additional 4,113 acres were purchased from six landowners, increasing the area to its present size. Originally named after Spring River, which flows unchannelized through the area's southern portion, the area was renamed in 1983 in honor of the late conservation commissioner, Robert E. Talbot from Joplin.
Talbot CA lands vary from the rich bottomland soil along Spring River to rocky, upland soils. Presently, the area is 69 percent open land and 31 percent wooded. Fishing opportunities can be found at the four acre or seven acre lake. Numerous smaller ponds can also be found on the area. The Conservation Department has sharecrop agreements with local farmers to provide food for wildlife. Harvested crops also benefit the local farm economy. Some of the timbered areas on Talbot CA have been thinned in recent years to restore the savanna and woodland natural communities that historically existed there. Periodic prescribed burning is used to maintain these restored natural communities. Prescribed burning is also an important management tool used on the area to benefit quail, rabbit, wild turkey, and a host of other wildlife species.Cattle grazing occurs from April - August on portions of the area. The grazing program is used to improve habitat for grassland obligate wildlife including Bobwhite quail.
Along with high quality upland habitat, visitors will find several miles of multiuse trails that are open to hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Camping is allowed only in the spot designated on the area map. No facilities are provided at the campground. The campground is best suited for tents or small travel trailers/RVs.
Brochure: https://mdc.mo.gov/sites/default/files/mo_nature/downloads/conservation-areas/8037.pdf
Camping is allowed only as designated in the "Things To Do When You Visit" section for this department area. If camping is not listed as an activity in this section, camping is prohibited on the area. Designated camping areas may or may not have defined campsites. Seasonal closures and restrictions may apply to all camping on department areas. On department areas where camping is allowed, camping is limited to a period of 14 consecutive days in any 30-day period. Personal property must be removed at the end of the 14-day period. Unless a special use permit is obtained, total camping days on all department areas are limited to a total of 30 days within one calendar year. Groups of more than 10 people must obtain a special use permit prior to camping. To obtain a special use permit, contact the area manager at the phone number listed for this area in the area details section. Quiet hours are in effect in camping areas from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. daily. Visitors who are not occupying a campsite are required to leave the campground by 10 p.m. On camping areas with established campsites, only two camping or sleeping units are permitted in each site.
- Fires
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
8. Outdoor Resorts Of The Ozarks
1 Review•8 Photos•4 SavesBlue Eye, Missouri- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Reservable
- Tents
- Cabins
9. Mountain View Camping
1 Review•2 PhotosEureka Springs, ArkansasQuite wooded campsites.
Tent cabins and tent camping only.
Canoe trips available from several local outfitters.
Close to historic Eureka Springs.
- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- Tents
- Tent Cabin
- Glamping
$35 - $55 / night
Recent Tent Reviews near Aurora, Missouri
677 Reviews of 13 Aurora Campgrounds
- Laura H.
Scout
Cedar Ridge Campground—Stockton Lake
Tent Camping
Beautiful views from many of the sites. I noticed several of the tent sites do not have level areas for your tent. T01 site does not have close parking unless you are able to park in the handcap parking. It is a quite park in the evening. Camp host is polite and shower house is kept clean. Vault toilet by the boat ramp is sketchy (where tent camping is located). Will stay here again.
Inez W.
Guide
Branson KOA
Great location but not for tents
This is one of the largest KOAs I've stayed at and the kampground itself is very nice. The staff were great ands check in was super quick. Also, there's a rugged little trail that goes behind the kampground. It was a great little walk for the dog and I to stretch our legs after our long drive.
The tent sites are all located at the back of the kampground around a circular pavillion. Each tent site has its own water facet, electricity, and fair internet which are somewhat redeeming for the negatives below. It's nice to have a covered picnic table and the lattice provides some privacy from the picnic tables of the other campers. Other than the traffic is very quiet in by 7:30 or so. Everyone seems respectful of each other.
The tent sites are disappointing to me. They're small, close together, and nearer to the highway than makes for a good night's sleep in a tent. That makes them kind of pricey for what you get.
I'm tent camping because I want to be distanced from other people. I put mine up as far to the side as I can go, but I'm still literally only 10 feet from the next tent. Other users mentioned grass on the sites. I haven't seen any grass around and site 5 has only stones on the tent pad. This site also has probably the worst view. It faces out toward one of the kampground roads and is in full view of the street light. The back sites seem darker.
I'd highly recommend this KOA if you're visiting Branson in a trailer or RV. The kabins also look really cute (and there are lots of them!). If I visited here again in a tent, I'd pick one of the two sites that face the woods.
Crystal C.
Legend
KOA Campground Branson
Smaller camping area
After reading from some this was not equipped for tent campers I would have to beg to differ. The campground is great for those camping in a tent!!
I spoke to someone before checking it out and they were more than welcoming but did mention that the grassy spaces were a bit limited. They did however openly welcome tents!!
The ground without grass does pose a bit more of a challenge should you get one of those spaces but with proper padding it is a great location to visit. The water front is great and they do have a dock to access the water for fishing and an area for launching kayaks which is very nice.
Alex B.
Traveler
Beagle Bay RV Haven Campground
Wonderful place to relax
Tent area is undeveloped, but the lawn is fairly level, bathrooms and showers are only a short walk away. Nicole showed me to the site and was a wonderful help. Great spot that most people might pass up because its right next to the highway, but honestly you can barely tell aside from the hum of trucks. Bathrooms are beautiful and clean, 2 toilets, 2 showers and a sauna in each. The place is quiet and seems like a lot of people here are long term residents. We are in a tent on the back lawn by a small fishing lake. Nice playground for younger kids and you cant beat the atmosphere and the birds. Free on-site laundry which I took advantage of when I needed to wash and dry my blanket on a cold night. Unfourtunately no campfire for tent camp sites, but bring a camp stove and you'll be fine. They are actively doing renovations and the office isnt open yet, so you have to call the park manager, Kim, for info and she is wonderful. All the staff is. Kim came by and took my son and 2 other kids on a golf cart ride on the trail behind the lake and they had a blast. We are loving it here and are sad to be leaving after the weekend. Update: I have just been informed they have a Willie Nelson impersonator doing a show here tonight, this place would get 6 stars if I could.
- BBarrett C.Traveler
Roaring River State Park Campground
Beautiful Place
Went tent camping with the family (6 of us ages 1-33) during the offseason. Just a beautiful place. Kids had a blast.
- Michael V.Scout
Baxter
Great view of lake, lots to do
We stopped in at Baxter Campground for a few days on our way to Rogers. We were at site 18, right on the water. We camp in a tent, so the tent pad was really appreciated, just a little too close to the fire ring. There were plenty of trees with shade, we had plenty of room for a hammock to enjoy the breeze and lake view.
My only complaint is the shower /washrooms were HOT! There were fans there, but wow you take a shower and then sweat as you are getting dressed. Lol
Would stay again
- kkiScout
The Farm - Campground & Events
Very quite and clean
The groundskeeper was pleasant. The bathrooms very clean and super cute! So many places to tent camp and the view is amazing! I loved all the art work around as well.
- Erin-Frannie R.Guide
Prairie Creek (AR)
Quiet sites on Beaver Lake
We stayed in tent site 107 because it looked the most secluded on the park map. It definitely is the most secluded but the drop-off from the asphalt to the site ranges from 6-12+". Only parking for this site is on the loop. Thankfully it is the only site on the loop so no one needs to drive down there. We enjoyed the privacy and the view of the marina. The swimming area is rocky so take some wet shoes. Will definitely be staying in one of the smaller, level tent sites every time we go back to Bentonville/Rogers.
Kevin C.Traveler
Springfield - Route 66 KOA
a Nice KOA, but still a KOA
Perfectly nice place, very friendly staff, and really not much to complain about. The wifi signal was very weak in the tent sites, but useable. There is a train that goes by occasionally, but didnt bother me. Nice little fenced dog runs, was a cute touch. But at the end of the day it is basically like all KOA’s an RV parking lot with trees. Close to Springfield which is nice, and there arent a lot of great options around this area so it was fine for a one night stay over. Bonus points for being able to get a pizza delivered to my tent site.
Jewlia T.TravelerKOA Campground Branson
Very cute campsite!
I went with my family to go tent camping here. Nice tent spots that are flat. Ground is somewhat hard to get spikes into and depending on the season, expect rain! The woods behind are non threatening, you don’t really have to worry about animals. Fire pits are great too.
Wendy M.Guide
Blowing Springs RV Park & Campsites
Ozark Gem
I’ll start my review by saying I’ve never pitched my tent in this park but have visited many times. They added tent sites in 2019- they appear to be primitive and include a fire ring. The nice thing is the tent sites are far from the RV sites so no unwanted noises for tenters in the night.
Trails abound in and around blowing springs which connect into the back 40 trail system...you can hike the B40 but remember this is a shared trail and you will come across many mountain bikers enjoying the trails system. There is also a arbortrarium in the park towards the back, a couple caves, and a creek.
If you are in need of snacks etc it’s a quick 2 minute drive to the grocery store / sonic/ Pizza Hut.
- JJess C.Guide
Lake Leatherwood City Park
Quiet Lake
Camping was closed due to Covid, but we strolled thru the campgrounds. The tent camping area was spacious and close to the water. The handful of RV sites were very close together and up the hill from the water, without much view.
The lake is nice and quiet, allowing kayak, canoe, and SUP.
- BBarrett C.Traveler
Tall Pines Campground
Crowded Holiday Weekend
Place was fine and well kept. Convenient store and pool and playground were nice. Went on a holiday weekend so I expected it to be crowded. Didnt expect such small tent sites so close together. If it isn't crowded not a big deal.
- Kate S.Guide
Cobb Ridge
Great side trip on route 66
While this is mostly an RV campground there are some tent campsites that are out of the way and usually free. It is an off-roading park so be aware of the noise.
- JJenny O.Traveler
Aunts Creek
Beautiful campground!
We loved this campground. My parents brought their camper and we tent camped. The park was beautiful, the facilities were very clean, and the people were friendly! It was nice and quiet, close to the lake, and our children loved the pool! Just a short drive to Branson or to do some mountain biking in the state park! We will be back!
Lindsey R.Guide
Campbell Point
July 4th weekend bash
6 of us went down for a 3 night tent camping long weekend. Weather was for casted to be rainy all weekend, luckily it help off except for at night for 2 nights. Campground was great! Unfortunately due to recent flooding the swimming area wasn't as great as normal but still nice. Bathrooms and showers are decent and close to campsites. Lots of tent and rv camping spots. Campground is located right by a marina.
- PPhillip G.Guide
Blowing Springs RV Park & Campsites
Great Hiking and Mountian Biking Trails
- Many Trail Heads right at the RV park! No need to drive anywhere but close to local restaurants and attractions if you want.
Friendly and helpful Staff!
Nice Facility's
Full RV Hook-ups and many tent sites plus 1 Cabin!
Will be back when the leaves start to change!
John F.
Ranger
Beaver Lake Hide A Way
Great summer get away
This camp ground is pretty decent as a Destination and is close to Rocky Branch park and boat launch. There is a store and swimming pool and they have a laundry and shower house. Sites are good size and can handle large RV busses . There are plenty of small camper and tent sites.
Cliff J.TravelerLake Leatherwood City Park
Will be very nice
We went in the off season and got a creek March snowstorm our group sampled a little of everything they had to offer. Some tent camping, some staying in the cabins and some in the new bike cabins. They were working on renovating the cabins and adding new tent pads when we were there. Overall was a good place showers were ok but showing their age. Direct access to trails and lake very nice. Had nice group bonfire. Good times overall.
- Mike H.Ranger
Joplin KOA
Nice enough
Clean and well maintained KOA. Friendly personnel. Shaded, pull thru sites as well as back-ins, cabins, and tent sites. Sites are very level with crushed stone pads. Good water pressure. Lots of grass. Patio sites are available. Internet is poor, as typical of most RV parks. Cable tv with about 30 channels. Good stopover park.
Savannah T.GuideBlowing Springs RV Park & Campsites
Can’t wait to go back!
This is our go-to when we go to the area!! Blowing Springs is fantastic! Tent sites do not have electric but it’s so worth it! Such easy access to the Back 40 and Slaughter Pen mountain bike trails! We get on our bikes and ride all day and then come back and enjoy the peaceful campground! Totally recommend!
Katie R.TravelerLake Leatherwood City Park
Not too shabby
We had a electric site with a pop up. We arrived and realized it's mostly set up for tent camping. The employees weren't exactly the most welcoming, or informative. It's a neat area though, playground, pretty lake and trails. When we went it looked like they were making some major improvements on the sites, which is great. If you're in a tent or in the bike cabins, go for it. It's totally for you guys. For an rv? I wouldn't do it again. Showers and restrooms weren't awful.
- Calan G.Scout
Shady Beach Camp & Canoe
Decent but a little run down
Not a bad place to go camp and float. Bathrooms are a little run down and small, the sand volleyball court was ruined by the recent flooding and still has yet to be repaired. The tent camping was decently set up and good sized. Fit 2 8 person and 1 4 person tent on one site, with tons of room to spare. There is a wash station to wash any dishes you use in the little store at the front. Overall a good option for floating and camping.
- Graham B.Traveler
Eagle Rock
Great place to relax
The campground is split by highway 86 with the east side being all paved sites for RVs. It also has the marina. The west side is more wooded and has several sites for tent camping. The sites down by the beach and boat launch are non electric. As mentioned in the other review, the traffic noise is noticeable as is the boat launch traffic, but if you can ignore that this is a great place to relax and enjoy the water.
Donna H.RangerLake Leatherwood City Park
Very Pretty Lake and Park
Busy little older park on a lovely lake near Eureka Springs, AR. Great birdwatching opportunities, nice hiking trails. Mostly tent camping, some with electric. Sites lower and closer to the lake subject to flooding and can get quite boggy after a lot of rain. Reservations must be made via Reserve America, and you'll need to look at the map to get the site number since only a few sites have identifiers. Drive into the park is very beautiful, hilly and curvy!
Annie C.LegendBlowing Springs RV Park & Campsites
Great hiking as well as super cool springs
What I like about this campground is that the tent sites are separate from the RV area, and RV’s don’t have to go through the tents to get to their area. However, the RV’s have actual loops off the main road and the tent sites are right on that main road. The main road goes all the way through the park to the actual springs, a picnic area, and a nice arboretum. There are great hiking trails in wooded hills on either side of the campground. The RV area has dedicated parking spots for each RV with picnic tables and fire pits. The keypad coded bathhouse and laundry are also located in this area(keeps out the general public). The tent area is more or less a strip of mown grass with a few picnic tables and fire pits on either side of the road, with the creek and run off channels on either side. Obviously, you want to get a site on the creek side. Definitely hike back to Blowing Springs, LOTS of flowing water. The hiking trails up top are really pretty and surprising. I came across a cemetery up on a bluff, and found another small spring. It’s easy to get turned around and confused on the trails as they seem to overlap and some trail names seem to appear on several trails.
- JJess C.Guide
Lake Leatherwood City Park
Quiet Lake with good hiking
I didn’t get to stay here, camping was closed due to COVID. However, we did get to see the campgrounds. Tent sites were nice and relatively spacious and close to the water. The hand full of RV sites were underwhelming and close together, and not near the water.
The lake is pretty and quiet, just canoes, kayaks and SUPs allowed.
Also bring your mtn bike, as the downhill park is just outside the park.
Guide to Aurora
Tent camping near Aurora, Missouri offers a variety of scenic spots where nature enthusiasts can unwind and enjoy the great outdoors. With options ranging from primitive sites to well-equipped campgrounds, there's something for everyone.
Tips for tent camping near Aurora
- Robert E. Talbot Conservation Area provides a free camping experience with no electric hookups, making it perfect for those looking to disconnect and enjoy nature.
- Gibson Spring Back Country Site - Fort Crowder Conservation Area is ideal for beginners, featuring a short hike to the campsite and a natural spring for water, though it's essential to treat the water before use.
- Swan Creek offers dispersed camping with access to a creek, making it a great spot for those who enjoy a more rugged camping experience.
Tent campers like these nearby activities
- At Big Bay, campers can enjoy primitive camping with direct access to the lake, perfect for fishing or kayaking during the warmer months.
- Holiday Island Camp Ground features a walking trail leading to Table Rock Lake, providing opportunities for hiking and exploring the beautiful surroundings.
- Outdoor Resorts Of The Ozarks offers a gated community with a boat dock, making it easy for campers to launch their boats and enjoy water activities.
Tent campers appreciate these amenities
- Fall Creek Resort is well-maintained and offers full hookups, including showers and laundry facilities, ensuring a comfortable stay for all campers.
- Drury-Mincy Conservation Area has picnic tables and fire pits available, allowing for enjoyable meals and evening campfires under the stars.
- Mountain View Camping provides access to drinking water and clean showers, making it a convenient choice for those who want a bit more comfort while camping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Aurora, MO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Aurora, MO is Holiday Island Camp Ground with a 4-star rating from 3 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Aurora, MO?
TheDyrt.com has all 13 tent camping locations near Aurora, MO, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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