11 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Busiek Wildlife Management Area offers primitive equestrian camping with direct access to horseback riding trails. Located 15 miles south of Springfield and just off Highway 65, this conservation area spans 2,400 acres with rugged, wooded terrain ideal for trail riding. Camping requires a conservation permit obtained in person at the Missouri Department of Conservation office in Springfield. The area features several unmarked camping sites that can accommodate horses and riders, though facilities are minimal with no drinking water, electric hookups, or designated corrals. Campsites include fire rings and are accessible via hike-in trails. The site's popularity among horse riders stems from its extensive trail system and natural landscapes, with breathtaking scenery and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities.
The trail system at Busiek provides multiple loop options for riders of varying experience levels, with several creek crossings and elevation changes throughout. White River Trail and Middle Trail offer particular challenges for riders with moderate to steep terrain. Horses must remain on designated bridle paths, and riders should bring their own water supplies as no horse watering stations exist on-site. Portable corrals or highlines are necessary as no permanent horse containment structures are available. The area experiences high traffic on weekends, particularly during spring and fall when weather conditions are optimal for riding. Many visitors combine shooting range activities with horseback riding excursions. During heavy rain periods, creek crossings may become difficult to navigate, affecting trail accessibility. All camping gear and horse supplies must be packed in as the primitive nature of the site means no on-site amenities for equestrians.
"Driving through Missouri needed a quiet place to stay. We stayed at Honey Berry Hideout, it has metal fire ring and grill."
"Brendan and Teresa are an adotable young couple who are transforming a large area in the midst of Missouri farm country into a small black- and blueberry farm that includes a small RV camp."
from $7 - $48 / night
Check Availability"Gun range, Horse Riding Trails, Camping and a water source. The scenery is so breathtaking and you never want to leave!"
"Busiek isn't to far of the beaten path. It has several trails and camping sites. There is plenty of wildlife available for viewing."
"Located in South Missouri it is an easy day trip into Branson Missouri or Eureka Springs Arkansas. Very well located and very well run by the state."
"Campground 1 was tucked up in an inlet that went back into the valley. It dead ends at a wonderful trailhead. The west side on CG#1 is lined by a beautiful creek that runs into the rotating river."
from $16 - $53 / night
Check Availability"This a horse camp, but there is plenty of space to just pitch a tent if needed. Free site with a beautiful backdrop"
"There are a few tent sites along the road and there is plenty of grassy area near the creek for RVs/trailers."
"Has great dispresed camping, free, creek is accessible, has equestrian area to camp with horses, bout 45 minutes to a hour from Springfield. No service for ATT."
"This particular site was just up the hill from the lake and completely private."
"While Stockton Lake itself brings a lot to the table, with beautiful blue water, cliffs to jump from, and close proximity to town if you are craving some ice cream (I suggest Squeeze Inn), the State Park"
from $10 - $20 / night
Check Availability"Half the sites are close to pool and playground, but not many trees. The other half are an easy 2 minute walk and tree covered!"
"Close to lake Bull Shoals, Taneycomo, and Branson if that's your thing."
from $48 - $251 / night
Check Availability"It offers direct access to the Niangua River, and it is only a short drive from Bennett Springs State Park, where you can fly fish and pull trout from the river from dawn until dusk. "
"atv rentals make getting around a breeze. canoe raft and kayak rentals."
from $250 / night
Check Availability"Cheap full hook ups at a nice lakeside campground, they also have a hotel and cabins that are nice getaways. The food at the restaurant is pretty good as well."
"We had a view of the lake across the road. The bathroom was a several minute walk. Site D37 across from us had water access and looked really nice."
from $20 / night
Check Availability"Access to Table Rock, Game Room, Pool and Jacuzzi. Small cabins and A-frames to rent. They have it all. This is my getaway**!"
"Nice, easy and quiet with a great pool and lake access! We will definitely be coming back. Site 47 has a bit of sun"
from $50 - $60 / night
Check Availability
TravelerThe campsites are well maintained. There are limited primitive sites that book fairly quickly. We stayed at an electric site due to no primitive sites being available. Keep an eye on the weather as several of the campgrounds are at risk of flooding.
RangerWe stopped for the night while passing through MO. Tons of spots open on a Monday in August. Cindy at the park office was so friendly and helpful. She suggested spot 100 in campground 2 since it backs onto the river. Lovely sounds! Lots of trout in the river - at that spot, it’s only about 1 foot deep so it was fun to wade in the water and let the pup run around.
Good park store, dump station, trash and lots of hikes to do. Too bad we simply stayed the night
GuideHost was not aware of our reservation with The Dyrt but was welcoming just the same. (even gave us fresh baked brownies as welcoming gift). We were just passing through and got a peaceful place to sleep. There's many play options like swimming hole, axe throwing, horseshoe throwing, dart throwing, pool table, etc.
GuideBeautiful place, has river float drop point and pick up with kayak and raft rentals. Only reason 4 stars is the very steep grade going down to the main camping area thats on a curve. They did atleast pave the uphill side but definitely need to make sure your brakes are good.
TravelerLarge spots in Campground 1 with a lot of shade. Campground 2 and 3 are a little closer together. Very clean and quiet. Showers could use a little up dating. It has hiking trails and roads to bike on. Plus the huge spring that creates the Roaring River and a large fish hatchery. Fish for trout.
ScoutBeautiful park, clean, cold water
GuideCampground was very nice. good river access and pool area. the store is nice to get a coffee or a smoothie. atv rentals make getting around a breeze. canoe raft and kayak rentals.
GuideNice campsites and lots of shade! Trout fishing is great and swimming holes down stream. Spring fed so the water is cold!
LegendMost popular with trout fishers. Check website for fishing dates. Very pretty area but fishy smelling. Old campground with lots of sites for tents and rvs. Pretty good for biking through the park.
Busiek Wildlife Management Area provides equestrian camping opportunities in Missouri's Ozarks region, approximately 15 miles from Brookline. The conservation area's terrain ranges from 1,000 to 1,200 feet in elevation with typical Ozark topography including limestone outcroppings and oak-hickory forests. Conservation permits are required for all overnight camping activities, which must be obtained directly from Missouri Department of Conservation offices rather than online or by phone.
Trail riding opportunities: Busiek's network of trails accommodates riders of various skill levels. At Bar K Wrangler Camp, located in nearby Garrison, "This a primitive horse camp that is not far off the highway. It is far enough that it is or can be quiet. It is also great for star gazing, hiking, mountain biking and trail rides. Swan Creek runs along side the camp" according to N I.
Creek exploration: Several campgrounds offer water access for cooling off during summer months. At Riverfront Campground and Canoe, "The river has a couple nice gravel bars for swimming," reports Ken K. This provides a refreshing break after riding or hiking the trails.
Fishing excursions: Nearby lakes and streams provide fishing opportunities for campers. Jason W. notes that at Riverfront Campground, "It offers direct access to the Niangua River, and it is only a short drive from Bennett Springs State Park, where you can fly fish and pull trout from the river from dawn until dusk."
Natural privacy: Many equestrian campers appreciate the secluded spots available in the area. Lea B. shares that at COE Stockton Lake Hawker Point, "This particular site was just up the hill from the lake and completely private. The walk to the lake was about 50 yards and a little steep but we managed to carry two kayaks down and up without too much trouble."
Diverse terrain: The varied landscape offers unique camping experiences. At Busiek, Brandon M. notes, "Gun range, Horse Riding Trails, Camping and a water source. The scenery is so breathtaking and you never want to leave!" This combination of activities creates a versatile outdoor experience.
Reliable water access: Campers value the consistent water sources at many campgrounds. Hayley G. remarks about Orleans Trail that "The swim beach was the highlight of this location and very nice!" Water features provide both recreation and practical utility for horse owners.
Permit requirements: Busiek requires conservation permits for camping that cannot be obtained online. Anthony S. explains: "Camping is by permit only, and permits can not be obtained online or by phone, you have to go in person to the Missouri department of conservation office."
Limited amenities: Most equestrian campgrounds near Brookline offer primitive facilities. At Swan Creek, David L. notes it "Has great dispersed camping, free, creek is accessible, has equestrian area to camp with horses, bout 45 minutes to a hour from Springfield. No service for ATT."
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts trail conditions significantly. Josh S. comments about Busiek, "Be wary of the water level, this can impact any hiking you might be looking to do, so be ready." Spring typically brings higher water levels at creek crossings.
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated recreational options. At B Berry Farms & Co., Hannah B. found that "There is so much to do and for all ages. Great family fun activities and very nice layout plus she even brought us freshly baked cookies that I believe to be the best chocolate chip cookie I think I've ever had!"
Safety awareness: Parents should establish clear boundaries around water features. Nikki M. observes about Busiek, "Nice place to walk in the woods, camping by permit, short drive from Springfield, high traffic," indicating the need for supervision in busier areas.
Comfort considerations: Primitive camping requires additional planning for families. Sharon W. shares about B Berry Farms: "The owners were very friendly, informed us amenities, they have coffee pot, small stove to use in a barn in walking distance, bathrooms and showers for small fees. Family friendly with large area for kids to play."
Site selection: RVers should research specific site dimensions before arrival. Angela M. warns about B Berry Farms: "The one site suitable for large RVs is not very level. We have a 40' Renegade Verona and it took 6 tries to find a place near the hookups where our auto-level would find a good position."
Access considerations: Gravel roads can present challenges to larger rigs. Patricia S. cautions about Bar K Wrangler Camp: "There is about a mile of dusty, gravel road that is a little rough." This is particularly important for equestrian campers with horse trailers.
Hookup limitations: Water and electric options vary widely between campgrounds. Carman S. advises about Hawker Point: "Also, fill your rig with water before you go. There are no water hookups." Most primitive equestrian sites near Brookline offer limited or no hookups.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Brookline, MO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Brookline, MO is B Berry Farms & Co. with a 4.8-star rating from 24 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Brookline, MO?
TheDyrt.com has all 11 equestrian camping locations near Brookline, MO, with real photos and reviews from campers.
Keep Exploring
