Dispersed camping opportunities near Bourbon, Missouri provide rustic experiences in the Mark Twain National Forest region at elevations around 900 feet. The Ozark terrain features oak-hickory forests with rocky soil conditions requiring careful tent placement. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, while summer months bring humidity and temperatures regularly reaching 85°F to 95°F.
What to do
Hiking on Berryman Trail: Access the trail system directly from Brazil Creek Recreation Area for day hikes. "Stayed here for the 100 mile race, even busy it provided plenty of space," notes Dave B., referring to the ultramarathon events held on these trails.
Mountain biking: Technical mountain bike sections at Klondike Park offer trails for various skill levels. "The views around the pond are amazing. There is a sandy beach area surrounding the water, making it a great place either lay in the sun or to go fishing," shares Alisha M.
Creek exploration: Courtois Creek offers clear water suitable for cooling off during hot months. One visitor at Taum Sauk Mountain State Park notes, "Beautiful Views with Few People... The hike to Mina Sauk falls and Devil's Toll is always worth it."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Some campgrounds offer better separation than others. At Taum Sauk Mountain State Park, "The sites are all secluded from each other by trees and are very beautiful. The overlook to the valley is beautiful, especially for sunrise," according to Kelsie L.
Wildlife viewing: Many tent campsites near Bourbon allow for animal observation. "Self-service campsites, the closest you can get to backpacking with access to a toilet! The sites are all secluded from each other by trees and are very beautiful," reports a visitor to Taum Sauk Mountain.
Natural swimming areas: Courtois Creek Dispersed provides direct water access. "Very scenic and beautiful right on the river," shares Pat F., while another camper adds, "The water is amazing. Great for fly fishing and cast fishing."
What you should know
Road access challenges: Some camping areas require vehicles with adequate clearance. For Courtois Creek, Nicholas H. warns, "The road to get there isn't a road so much as a ATV trail. All wheel drive and it was too hard on my Subaru. Mostly washed out."
Varying campsite sizes: Space differs between camping areas. "I camped as part of the Big MO Ride and Row event. Campsites are walk in, but a short walk. Some are more private and shaded than others. Our site, 35, like its neighbor sites was small and pretty close to others," notes Shawn M. about Klondike Park.
Rocky terrain for tents: The ground at many sites requires careful tent placement. At St. Charles County Klondike Park, one visitor recommends: "Make sure to store your food securely overnight - the racoons are pretty thick and hungry at night."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with water access: Kids enjoy cooling off in the creeks during summer months. "We stayed at a walk-in site for a night and enjoyed it. Trails are beautiful and perfect for families wanting to just come to a park for a day and hikers," says Jake K. about St. Charles County Klondike Park.
Check for group sites: Some areas accommodate larger family gatherings. At Old Cove, "You get a nice open area with a pavilion, picnic tables, and a fire ring. Each group site is serviced by its own port-a-potty. While this is not an ideal toilet situation, they are clean and stocked."
Consider temperature fluctuations: Evening temperatures can drop significantly even in summer. At Brazil Creek, one camper mentions: "There is only one actual fire ring & picnic table, but folks have built other rock fire rings dispersed throughout the campground."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accommodations: Most primitive sites near Bourbon don't have hookups. The few that accept RVs have strict limitations. "We happened to be there during the week in the fall so there were not many other campers. This gave the park the quiet feel we like so much," notes a visitor to Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park.
Road width concerns: Access roads to many campsites are narrow with tight turns. Another camper advises about Courtois Creek: "I drive a Toyota Highlander and I did the road with no problem. It is not an ATV trail! There was 1 big puddle and 1 sharp rocky turn that I just went slow through. No problem. Probably couldn't do it towing a camper though."
Water access planning: No water hookups means bringing your own supply. "Over all I think it's a great little spot if you're ok with no electricity, light or just wanna get away from it all for a while," shares a visitor about the tent campsites near Bourbon, Missouri.
