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Best Dispersed Camping near Blue Eye, MO

33 Reviews

Several dispersed camping options exist near Blue Eye, Missouri within Mark Twain National Forest, with Sugar Camp Lookout Tower Dispersed Area and Pine Hollow 1045 Dispersed Camping being the closest options. Both sites are free, primitive, and permit fires. Sugar Camp Lookout features a large clearing suitable for multiple vehicles or tents, while Pine Hollow offers more limited space on uneven terrain. Neither location provides water, toilets, or trash service.

The Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area, located slightly farther north, offers additional primitive camping opportunities along hiking trails. This area requires a hike-in approach and features several established sites with fire rings along the river. A recent review noted, "Since it's wilderness area, you can camp just about anywhere with few restrictions." Access roads to these areas can be challenging, particularly for larger vehicles. The Blair Ridge Road dispersed site provides drive-in access but has limited amenities and is near private property.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Blue Eye, Missouri (10)

    1. Sugar Camp Lookout Tower Dispersed Area

    2 Reviews
    Eagle Rock, MO
    25 miles

    "Completely surrounded by forest, so plenty of shade. Access road was a little rough, as in your typical dirt road, but posed 0 problems for our little economy car. I’ve had much worse for sure."

    "Mark Twain National Forest is always a great getaway. This location is tucked away from the main road and is easy to get to. Could easily get 4 rigs + in the sight."

    2. Pine Hollow 1045 Dispersed Camping

    1 Review
    Eagle Rock, MO
    24 miles

    "Excellent little campsite great for a couple tents at most we camped using a rooftop tent and it was a great spot. Very quite very clean unlike some other sites in the area."

    3. Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area

    4 Reviews
    Bradleyville, MO
    30 miles
    Website

    "This area is a wilderness area so camping is plentiful.  However in this particular are there is no organized campsite specifically.  "

    "Hercules Glades Wilderness Area is part of mark Twain National Forest. It's a bit off the beaten path, but worth it for a day hike or a bit of backpacking."

    4. Blair Ridge Rd Dispersed

    1 Review
    Greeson Lake, AR
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (573) 364-4621

    "Tried to camp out before backpacking through Hercules Glade Wilderness but the trailheads were packed (weekend). There are two fire rings along this road. Both locations have full bars (Verizon)."

    5. Hercules Glades (Watch Tower)

    3 Reviews
    Bradleyville, MO
    30 miles

    "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."

    "Nice camping spots at the trailhead for Hercules glades. It was a beautiful, quiet area."

    6. Sam's Throne Recreation Area

    16 Reviews
    Mount Judea, AR
    48 miles
    Website
    +1 (870) 446-5122

    "There are surrounding trails that lead to some nice spots for a stunning sunset. These seem to be free established campgrounds, not dispersed."

    "There are a few bears in the region so I would hang my food just to be safe. There aren't any specific spots for RV's but there are a few cleared areas with room to park an RV or trailer."

    7. Woolum Dispersed Area — Buffalo National River

    7 Reviews
    St. Joe, AR
    47 miles
    Website

    "So many options to make your home away from home! Grassy meadows or river side oasis, you choose! This is definitely the place to go to enjoy magnificent scenery and not be distracted by technology."

    "I just tried to make a trip up there at the end of April (2022) and the final stretch of access road was blocked off due to erosion according to NPS. Not sure when main road will reopen."

    8. Gene Rush Wildlife Management Area

    4 Reviews
    Vendor, AR
    42 miles

    "This isn’t the national forest, you can’t just pull off and camp anywhere you please."

    "Spoke with Arkansas Game and Fishing Commission Ranger. No despersal camping but you can camp in the 2 designated campsites. Well designated, my post is on the further east site from Carver."

    9. Hercules Lookout Tower Trail

    Be the first to review!
    Bradleyville, MO
    30 miles

    10. Buffalo Creek Trail

    1 Review
    Pettigrew, AR
    45 miles

    "The final half mile of Madison/404 was too steep and rough to proceed. Cavern Mountain Rd 5 was good. Additionally, Google routed us a bunch of dirt roads to get here."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Blue Eye, MO

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Blue Eye, MO

33 Reviews of 10 Blue Eye Campgrounds

  • Crystal C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 1, 2020

    Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area

    Hike in and camp, or just hike for day use!!

    This area is a wilderness area so camping is plentiful.  However in this particular are there is no organized campsite specifically.  Instead there are several areas where you can with permissions hike in and stay.  

    My suggestion for camping along this area are to check with local restrictions, there are some that you will want to make sure you know first hand.   Sometimes fire restrictions do change and these can be found at the beginning of the trails on the kiosks.   Some areas also are not permitted for overnight parking so you want to check those out before venturing into the wilderness for a lengthy time.

    Check with rangers of the area to make sure you are not in a register only or permit only area for camping!!  Very important in this region.

    Bring everything and then plot your course.

    The 4 mile hike is amazing and has many beautiful view points however it is also quite treacherous in some areas.    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.   

    Be careful but have fun!!!

  • T
    Nov. 29, 2017

    Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area

    Nicely private, but not a lot of scenery

    Hercules Glades Wilderness Area is part of mark Twain National Forest. It's a bit off the beaten path, but worth it for a day hike or a bit of backpacking.

    Since it's wilderness area, you can camp just about anywhere with few restrictions. There are a few primitive sites at the trailhead, no water or toilets.

    A few hundred yards from the Coy Bald Trailhead there is a fork in the trail. Going left gets you to the falls and the majority of the camp sites with the shortest route, about three miles.

    The trail is pretty rough and rocky with moderate elevation changes. I'd rate it on the low side of moderate difficulty.

    About a mile in you'll cross the river for the first time. There are camp sites with fire rings on both sides of the river. This is a scenic area with bluffs on one side of the river, but forested, so no views to speak of.

    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. Unfortunately for us, there wasn't enough water for them to be running. There was enough water to wade around in and soak the feet. It was quite nice!

    The area is pretty and quiet, we saw only a handful of people in the two days we were there. The only issue was the ticks, they were the worst I'd dealt with in some time.

    All in all, a nice hike and a nice bit if camping. I'd go back to see the falls again.

  • K
    Jul. 5, 2025

    Sugar Camp Lookout Tower Dispersed Area

    Acessable to all

    Pretty great spot! If you’re fortunate enough to be alone, this is a very large space, with a nice picnic table and a few fire pits. Completely surrounded by forest, so plenty of shade. Access road was a little rough, as in your typical dirt road, but posed 0 problems for our little economy car. I’ve had much worse for sure. The area is pretty secluded, with only a few cars driving through all day, so bear spray is absolutely necessary for peace of mind. Practice good bear prevention measures and you’re good to go for a free night stay, or several, happy camping!

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 27, 2018

    Hercules Glades (Watch Tower)

    Rustic with great hiking

    This is a good place for hiking/backpacking. There are several sites around the access road and miles of hiking trails. The only ammenities are some fire rings and 1 toilet. It's a beautiful area but fairly remote and immediate services. Again, good for backpacking/hiking.

  • ‘Chelle S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 4, 2024

    Sugar Camp Lookout Tower Dispersed Area

    Beautiful and Peaceful

    Mark Twain National Forest is always a great getaway. This location is tucked away from the main road and is easy to get to. Could easily get 4 rigs + in the sight. Established fire ring (be mindful of burn bans). Close to Roaring River and Table Rock lake.

  • Candace R.
    Sep. 28, 2021

    Woolum Dispersed Area — Buffalo National River

    Buggy but Beautiful

    So many options to make your home away from home! Grassy meadows or river side oasis, you choose! This is definitely the place to go to enjoy magnificent scenery and not be distracted by technology. Late September visit means the river is low, nights are cool and days are filled with sunshine. Bring the bug spray and sunscreen.

  • Summer R.
    Jun. 22, 2024

    Sam's Throne Recreation Area

    Title Required: Good. Quiet. Good and quiet.

    Only stayed one night but it was very quiet and peaceful. There are surrounding trails that lead to some nice spots for a stunning sunset. These seem to be free established campgrounds, not dispersed. No trash service but there are vault toilets and fire rings. Great sites either way. Happy to stay again.

  • Miranda M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 7, 2018

    Sam's Throne Recreation Area

    Beautiful location

    Very beautiful place with vault toilets only and no running water. There are a few bears in the region so I would hang my food just to be safe. There aren't any specific spots for RV's but there are a few cleared areas with room to park an RV or trailer. Near the entrance to the facility right off of the highway there is a large gravel parking lot. This facility has day-use for rock climbing. Motorcycle friendly but there is a sign stating no OHV's. No trash cans, pack-in/pack-out facility. Donations are accepted but it is a FREE campsite.

  • J
    May. 2, 2022

    Woolum Dispersed Area — Buffalo National River

    One of the best remote campgrounds in AR

    I have visited this spot multiple times and camped right on the riverbank. Beautiful scenery year-round.  I just tried to make a trip up there at the end of April (2022) and the final stretch of access road was blocked off due to erosion according to NPS. Not sure when main road will reopen. Ended up camping out at bakers ford just a few miles away.

Guide to Blue Eye

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Blue Eye, Missouri, where nature enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the serene wilderness. With a variety of options available, campers can enjoy the freedom of choosing their own sites while exploring the stunning landscapes of the region.

Scenic Hiking Trails for Dispersed Campers

  • The Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area offers a remarkable four-mile hike that leads to breathtaking viewpoints, making it a perfect spot for those who love to explore on foot.
  • For a more challenging experience, the Coy Bald Trail within the Hercules Glades (Watch Tower) provides a mix of easy navigation and rugged terrain, ideal for adventurous hikers.
  • Campers can enjoy the tranquility of the trails while keeping an eye out for local wildlife, including snakes during warmer months, ensuring a thrilling outdoor experience.

Waterfalls and Swimming Holes for Nature Lovers

  • The Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area features stunning rock formations and seasonal waterfalls, perfect for a refreshing dip after a long hike.
  • Visitors to the Hercules Glades (Watch Tower) can find nearby swimming holes that provide a great way to cool off while enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
  • The scenic river crossings along the trails offer picturesque spots for relaxing and soaking in the peaceful surroundings, making it a great destination for families and solo campers alike.

Secluded Spots for a Peaceful Retreat

  • The Sugar Camp Lookout Tower Dispersed Area is tucked away from the hustle and bustle, providing a quiet environment for those looking to escape the noise of everyday life.
  • Campers at the Blair Ridge Rd Dispersed can enjoy the solitude of the area while being respectful of the nearby private residence, ensuring a peaceful camping experience.
  • With limited amenities, these dispersed areas encourage a true connection with nature, allowing visitors to unwind and recharge in a serene setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Blue Eye, MO?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Blue Eye, MO is Sugar Camp Lookout Tower Dispersed Area with a 5-star rating from 2 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Blue Eye, MO?

TheDyrt.com has all 10 dispersed camping locations near Blue Eye, MO, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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