Tent campsites near Benton, Missouri provide access to a mix of wooded areas and waterfront sites across the Mississippi River valley. The region features elevations ranging from 300-600 feet with a humid continental climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. Most primitive camping areas in this region require campers to pack in their own supplies due to limited facilities.
What to do
Fishing at multiple lakes: Lake Girardeau Conservation Area features a no-wake lake ideal for fishing from boats or kayaks. As Matthew G. notes, it has a "nice sized lake good fishing if you are using a boat, or kayak." Similarly, Apple Creek Conservation Area offers fishing access at the creek.
Hiking nearby trails: Turkey Ridge Campground at Ferne Clyffe State Park offers extensive hiking options with varying difficulty levels. A camper explains, "There are a lot of hiking trails and we really enjoyed them all! There was a ton of wildlife though and it was really neat to listen to all the different species throughout the night."
Water activities: Dutchman Lake Camp provides swimming and paddling opportunities with easy access points. One camper shared, "Great little spot right off the interstate. Lots of nice scenery and decent fishing."
What campers like
Secluded spots: Backpack Campground at Ferne Clyffe State Park offers walk-up primitive sites that provide more privacy than drive-in options. A visitor mentioned the "walk up primitive sites are secluded, wooded, and within a pit toilet and water source."
River views: Donaldson Point Conservation Area provides Mississippi River frontage with sandy camping areas. One review noted, "Very pretty sunset views. Area was flat and sandy... very sandy."
Ease of access: While some sites require hiking in, many camping areas near Benton offer drive-up access with minimal preparation needed. At Whippoorwill Lake Campground Resort, cabins are available for those wanting more comfort, with one camper noting, "It was a double bed and also had a set of bunks. So plenty of room."
What you should know
Limited amenities: Most primitive sites in the region lack running water. Turkey Ridge Campground has outhouses that can be problematic, as one camper noted somewhat colorfully about the facilities: "storm of flies came shooting out the hole like a tornado."
Site conditions: Many tent sites are basic with minimal improvements. At Apple Creek Conservation Area, one camper observed the site was a "level spot with gravel, so it's a 'clean' place in damp weather."
Seasonal considerations: Spring camping often means muddy conditions, particularly after rainfall. Summer brings humidity and insects, especially near water. Fall offers the most comfortable temperatures for tent camping in the region with fewer bugs.
Firewood availability: Several campgrounds have limited natural firewood. A camper at Backpack Campground noted, "Only issue I found at all was firewood is surprisingly difficult to come by."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Whippoorwill Lake Campground Resort offers family-friendly swimming with sandy beaches. A camper observed, "Lake has sandy beaches. Small playset in the water for kids."
Kid-friendly trails: For families with younger children, select shorter loop trails. At Ferne Clyffe State Park, a visitor recommended, "Rebman trail is good for anyone including little kids."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer chances to spot local wildlife. Morning and evening are best for seeing deer, turkeys, and various bird species common to the area.
Bug protection: Particularly in summer months, insect repellent is essential near water. One Donaldson Point camper warned, "Bugs were bad."
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Many primitive sites near Benton have limited RV access due to narrow roads or low clearance. Turkey Ridge Campground can accommodate some RVs, with a visitor noting, "Stayed here 3 nights in travel trailer. Water available to fill your holding tank and in couple of locations in campground."
Site selection: When possible, check site dimensions before arrival. Look for pull-through sites when available, as many campgrounds have limited turning radius for larger vehicles.
Road conditions: Gravel roads are common at most conservation areas. One camper at Whippoorwill Lake Campground Resort mentioned, "All roads are gravel."
