Dispersed camping near Belton, Missouri offers several free options on state conservation lands within a one-hour drive radius. Most camping areas lie within Missouri Department of Conservation properties with varying regulations and amenities. Winter camping often provides more solitude with temperatures averaging 25-45°F December through February, while summer months can reach 85-95°F with high humidity.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Leavenworth Kansas State Fishing Lake, the 160-acre lake attracts many anglers who "slept in their cars and left at first light. I assume they went fishing at the lake," according to Kevin C.
Wildlife viewing: Montrose Conservation Area hosts diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. One camper noted, "There is loads of wildlife to see and aren't much scared of humans, raccoons, beavers, crane, squirrels, deer, owls and much more. There's also blackberries in the fall."
Archaeological exploration: Search for Native American artifacts near the campsites. As one visitor to Montrose Missouri Conservation Area mentioned, "One of the locals stopped by my site to look for arrowheads. Apparently, she has found a lot in the area so that's a good activity if the kids are bored."
Seasonal hunting: Conservation areas permit seasonal hunting which affects camping schedules. A reviewer cautioned, "There is no camping allowed after October 15 due to hunting season. This was not on the website and was not seeable in dust when arriving late on a small sign in the bushes."
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Poague Campsite #5 offers solitude not far from main roads. One visitor described it as a "great secluded spot, right off the highway. Perfect for what I was looking for to car camp."
Stargazing conditions: The remote location of camping areas provides excellent night sky viewing. A Montrose visitor enthusiastically shared, "The stars were beautiful, the 'sites' were spacious and well spread out, and there is lots of shade."
Space between sites: Montrose offers ample room for camping setups without feeling crowded. A camper noted, "Big lake, several sites to choose, good fishing, pit toilets. Mowed, TP stocked, plenty of firewood and room for dogs to run."
Cost-free options: Most conservation areas offer no-fee primitive camping near Belton, Missouri. At Crooked River Conservation Area, visitors appreciate the "free camping in designated camping area per MO Dept of Conservation rules. Pit toilets and mowed area for camping."
What you should know
Bathroom conditions: Facilities at conservation areas are basic and maintenance varies. At Leavenworth, a visitor reported, "Bathroom was a little rough but manageable," while another noted, "The pit toilet is not well maintained."
Stay limits: Kansas sites enforce shorter stays than Missouri locations. One RVer at Leavenworth Kansas State Fishing Lake warned, "I'm starting to think that Kansas has a 7-day limit instead of a 14 because this is the second time that a Kansas park official came to the door and said we need to leave."
Seasonal closure information: Hunting seasons affect camping availability. A Montrose visitor cautioned, "The sign says NO FISHING after Oct.14 because of duck season. Open for camping."
Conflicting signage: Several campers noted confusion about permitted activities. One mentioned, "Signs were confusing as to whether it is ok to camp, but they didn't explicitly say no camping."
Water conditions: Lakes in conservation areas can be shallow and muddy. A visitor observed, "Shallow muddy water but it does attract wildlife. A bit of road noise but tolerable."
Tips for camping with families
Bring portable toilet: Restroom facilities can be unreliable. One camper at Montrose stated, "Vault toilets were absolutely disgusting, thankfully we brought our own toilet paper."
Vehicle access considerations: Road conditions vary seasonally. At Crooked River Conservation Area, "There is really only one campsite, although there is enough room for probably four campsites," which can limit options during busy periods.
Local interactions: Conservation areas often attract local visitors. One camper shared a unique experience: "There is a super sweet local cat who befriended me here and made my visit so much better. I had some mechanical issues with my car and Kampground Kittah tried to help."
Nearby supplies: Small towns near camping areas offer unexpected amenities. "If you're looking for a good wine, you can find some at the local auto parts store. I am not kidding! I think it's Rick's Auto Parts and their liquor is priced very reasonably."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose locations carefully based on size requirements. One RVer noted about Montrose, "You could definitely get a big rig in and out of here on the looped gravel roads."
Parking areas: Level spots are available but not designated. A camper described, "Large grass area available for tents or campers. No specific camp locations. No fire rings or picnic tables."
Limited amenities: Prepare for self-sufficient camping. As one visitor summarized, "7-day limit. No trash cans or water, but it's free."
Road accessibility: RV access varies by location. At Leavenworth, a visitor warned it's "not suitable for larger vehicles," while Montrose has "paved roads, boat access for 2 areas."
