Dispersed camping opportunities dot the Mark Twain National Forest surrounding Brookline, Missouri, with numerous sites located along forest service roads and trail access points. Most sites sit at elevations between 1,200-1,600 feet in oak-hickory forests with occasional grassy glades. Rustic campers should prepare for temperature fluctuations, as summer highs regularly exceed 90°F while spring and fall bring cooler temperatures with frequent rainfall.
What to do
Swimming and wading: The falls area along Coy Bald Trail in Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area provides natural swimming holes during wetter periods. "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," writes Tyson B. about Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area. Even when water levels drop, the area remains pleasant: "There was enough water to wade around in and soak the feet. It was quite nice!"
Backpacking and hiking: The wilderness area contains over 40 miles of interconnected trails with varying difficulty levels. "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," notes Debra G. about her experiences at Hercules-Glades. Multiple trailheads provide access to this trail network, with some trails connecting to dispersed camping areas.
Wildlife viewing: The forest and glade ecosystem supports diverse wildlife including deer, turkey, and numerous bird species. Campers should practice proper food storage. "The area is pretty and quiet, we saw only a handful of people in the two days we were there," reports one visitor to Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area. Early morning or evening hours provide the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
What campers like
Solitude and quiet: The dispersed sites offer significant privacy from other campers. "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," writes Anna W. about Hercules Glades (Watch Tower). Many campers specifically mention the lack of noise pollution as a major benefit to the area.
Accessibility with preparation: Most sites can be reached with standard vehicles during dry conditions. "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," notes Kameron B. about Sugar Camp Lookout Tower Dispersed Area. This accessibility makes the area suitable for those new to dispersed camping but still seeking solitude.
Natural beauty: The mix of forests and glades creates scenic camping spots. "Mark Twain National Forest is always a great getaway. This location is tucked away from the main road and is easy to get to," explains 'Chelle S. about Sugar Camp Lookout Tower Dispersed Area. Seasonal changes dramatically affect the landscape, with spring wildflowers and fall foliage drawing many visitors.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most sites have no amenities beyond established fire rings. "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," explains Jeremy R. about Hercules Glades Watch Tower. Campers must bring all necessary supplies including water, as no reliable water sources exist at trailheads.
Seasonal considerations: Spring brings potential flooding at river crossings while summer introduces tick concerns. "The only issue was the ticks, they were the worst I'd dealt with in some time," cautions one visitor about Hercules-Glades. Fall offers more moderate temperatures but increased competition for sites during peak foliage season.
Navigation challenges: Trail markings can be inconsistent, particularly in open areas. "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," notes Ramie W. about Hercules Glades. Paper maps are recommended as cell service is unreliable throughout the area.
Tips for camping with families
Safety precautions: Wildlife encounters require proper preparation when camping with children. "Practice good bear prevention measures and you're good to go for a free night stay, or several," recommends a camper at Sugar Camp Lookout Tower. Families should establish clear boundaries for children and maintain a clean campsite to minimize wildlife interactions.
Trail difficulty assessment: Some trails contain steep or rocky sections unsuitable for young children. "The trail is pretty rough and rocky with moderate elevation changes. I'd rate it on the low side of moderate difficulty," explains a visitor regarding the Coy Bald Trail. Families should research specific trail conditions before planning hikes with children.
Camping near trailheads: For families new to wilderness camping, sites closer to access points provide easier bailout options. "There are a few primitive sites at the trailhead, no water or toilets," notes a camper at Blair Ridge Rd Dispersed. These locations offer a compromise between accessibility and wilderness experience for families.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed areas accommodate smaller rigs only due to narrow access roads and limited turnaround space. "Could easily get 4 rigs + in the sight," notes a camper about Sugar Camp Lookout Tower Dispersed Area, one of the few areas with room for multiple vehicles or larger setups. RVers should scout locations before attempting access with larger vehicles.
Communication concerns: Cell coverage varies widely throughout the area. "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," reports Conceptual S. about Blair Ridge Rd Dispersed. RVers should download offline maps and inform others of planned locations when staying in areas with unreliable coverage.
