Dispersed camping options near Ava, Missouri provide no-cost backcountry experiences within the Mark Twain National Forest. The terrain features rocky limestone outcroppings, seasonal waterfalls, and mixed oak-pine forests with elevations ranging from 700 to 1,400 feet. Camping permissions vary by specific location, with most dispersed sites requiring proper waste management and adherence to Leave No Trace principles.
What to do
Hiking the trail system: Hercules Glades Wilderness Area contains over 30 miles of hiking trails through varied terrain. According to Ramie W., "I did the Coy Bald hike and loved it. Most of the trail was fairly easy to navigate, however the areas of open meadows were a little more difficult to find where it picks back up."
Swimming in natural pools: Several water features provide opportunities for cooling off during warmer months. Debra G. mentions, "This is a short four mile hike into cool shut ins that provide a swimming hole and water falls. Along the way on the ridge you can see all the way down into Arkansas."
Wildlife observation: The wilderness areas contain diverse habitats supporting numerous species. Crystal C. advises caution during certain seasons: "This area is also one which you will find many snakes lurking during warmer months so beware! I always suggest on wilderness hikes to not hike alone or camp alone but this one I found to be more problematic with limited to no cell service for assistance should you encounter danger."
What campers like
Seclusion from crowds: Hercules Glades (Watch Tower) provides quieter camping experiences away from busier areas. Anna W. reports, "We got here on a pretty hilly/twisty road late at night, found a spot close to the trailhead and had a quiet, peaceful night sleep. We saw just one other camper with a trailer close to the inlet."
Established fire rings: Many dispersed sites come with basic stone fire rings. Tyson B. notes, "About three miles in, you'll cross the river the second time. There are a number of camping areas with fire rings along the river. Downstream a few hundred feet are the falls that most people go to see."
Reliable cell service: Blair Ridge Rd Dispersed offers connectivity despite remote location. "There are two fire rings along this road. Both locations have full bars (Verizon). Little to no man made noise but be respectful, there is a private residence at the end of the road," writes Conceptual S.
What you should know
Trail conditions vary seasonally: Trails can become difficult to follow in certain areas. Ramie W. mentions, "Most of the trail was fairly easy to navigate, however the areas of open meadows were a little more difficult to find where it picks back up."
Limited facilities: Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area offers minimal amenities. Jeremy R. confirms, "The only ammenities are some fire rings and 1 toilet. It's a beautiful area but fairly remote and immediate services."
Changing camping regulations: Some formerly dispersed camping areas have been converted to day-use only. Josh notes about Sycamore Loop Dispersed: "Ok place to camp, pretty secluded, old campground but most spots no longer seemed camp friendly, as new tree growth has taken over."
Site conditions vary: When seeking free camping near Ava, Missouri, prepare for varying site conditions. Jen observed at Noblett Lake Dispersed Camping: "They're nothing special, some of them are overgrown. Mostly all of them don't have any kind of fire ring. Looks like nobody really ever comes out here. There's a big one at the very end of the road where the circle is. It does have a rock fire ring and it's probably the nicest one available."
Tips for camping with families
Plan for extended hiking: Reaching ideal camping spots requires moderate hiking ability. Crystal C. advises, "The 4 mile hike is amazing and has many beautiful view points however it is also quite treacherous in some areas."
Pack complete supplies: No services exist near most dispersed sites. According to Crystal C., "Bring everything and then plot your course."
Consider seasonal camping: Families may prefer cooler seasons when insect activity decreases. Tyson B. mentions, "The only issue was the ticks, they were the worst I'd dealt with in some time."
Check trail accessibility: Hercules Glades (Watch Tower) offers shorter access points. Kaci C. notes, "Nice camping spots at the trailhead for Hercules glades. It was a beautiful, quiet area."
Tips from RVers
Road accessibility challenges: Access roads to dispersed camping areas have varying conditions. Jeremy R. describes Hercules Glades Watch Tower as "a good place for hiking/backpacking. There are several sites around the access road and miles of hiking trails."
Limited turnaround space: Many dispersed sites lack adequate space for larger vehicles. Jen explains, "We did find this small road with a loop at the end that have pull-in campsites."
Proximity to private property: Respect boundaries when accessing no-cost camping sites. Conceptual S. notes when camping at Blair Ridge Road, "be respectful, there is a private residence at the end of the road."
