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Best Dispersed Camping near Butler, MO

11 Reviews

Montrose Missouri Conservation Area offers free dispersed camping on a large grassy area near a lake, about 30 minutes from Butler. The sites have no designated boundaries, allowing campers to select their own spots with ample room for tents and RVs. The area features pit toilets that receive mixed reviews regarding cleanliness, though toilet paper is typically available. No picnic tables, fire rings, or water hookups are provided, though fires are permitted and campers commonly create makeshift fire pits using rocks found along the shoreline.

The conservation area provides both drive-in and walk-in access for tent and RV camping. Visitors should note seasonal restrictions, particularly during hunting season. A camper commented, "No camping allowed after October 15 due to hunting season. This was not on the website and was not seeable in dust when arriving late." The shallow lake offers fishing opportunities until mid-October when fishing closes for duck season. The 14-day free camping limit applies throughout the area. Nearby Poague Conservation Area provides additional dispersed camping options with six free sites, though recent visitors have noted trash issues at some locations.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Butler, Missouri (4)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Butler, MO

8 Photos of 4 Butler Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Butler, MO

11 Reviews of 4 Butler Campgrounds

  • Lee F.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 6, 2023

    Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping

    Stinky toilet

    Large grassy area with plenty of room to set up a tent or camper. Right off the road, so no dirt roads to traverse. Signs were confusing as to whether it is ok to camp, but they didn't explicitly say no camping. The lake is really just a mud bog, so not very appealing unless you came to duck hunt. No picnic tables or fire pits. The pit toilet was really gross, but there was toilet paper.

  • Leni K.
    Jun. 6, 2022

    Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping

    Great Secluded Dispersed Camping

    There is no camping allowed after October 15 due to hunting season. This was not on the website and was not seeable in dust when arriving late on a small sign in the bushes. Thankfully we were not shot! While free, dispersed sites, there are easily established fire pit areas to choose from Vault toilets were absolutely disgusting, thankfully we brought our own toilet paper. Easily accessible car camping. Not too many other campers at the other site where we spotted some RVs. Overall the remote location, gorgeous scenery and with a couple boats makes for a great weekend.

  • Sarah The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 29, 2020

    Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping

    montrose conservation area missouri

    this little off the beaten path camp ground his paved roads, boat access for 2 areas 1 near the damn which closes a gate after 10pm, we use the other area near the conservation station(although ive never seen anyone there) park rangers are mostly non existent , they do drive through, they are quite nice an most the time never stop just smile an wave, there some fire spots but be kind an put up rocks that you can find along the shore, there is bathroom facilities and a dumpster behind the conservation building.

    the area is surrounded by trees but the area is clean, nice soft grass, there are pecan an walnut trees so watch out for your heads when its fall lol . you can fish, boat and swim but i recommend  water shoes. the water is very shallow most the time its only chest deep out in the middle. there is loads of wildlife to see an arent much scared of humans, racoons,beavers, crane, squirrels,dear,owls an much more. theres also blackberries in the fall. 

    all in all a very nice quiet little free camp area. we go all the time.

  • T
    Oct. 15, 2022

    Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping

    Beautiful!!!

    Big lake, several sites to choose, good fishing, pit toilets. The sign says NO FISHING after Oct.14 because of duck season. Open for camping. Mowed, TP stocked, plenty of firewood and room for dogs to run.

  • Mark D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 25, 2025

    Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping

    Enjoyed Our Stay

    Large grass area available for tents or campers. No specific camp locations. No fire rings or picnic tables. Pit toilets are as expected.

    Shallow muddy water but it does attract wildlife. A bit of road noise but tolerable. Perfect for our one night stay.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 28, 2023

    Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping

    I Made a Kittah Friend

    There is a super sweet local cat who befriended me here and made my visit so much better. I had some mechanical issues with my car and Kampground Kittah tried to help. 🤣

    Bathrooms were fine. It’s free camping so it was great that there were bathrooms at all.

    One of the locals stopped by my site to look for arrowheads. Apparently, she has found a lot in the area so that’s a good activity if the kids are bored.

    If you’re looking for a good wine, you can find some at the local auto parts store. I am not kidding! I think it’s Rick’s Auto Parts and their liquor is priced very reasonably. 😄 If your car’s broken down and you can’t drive, I guess you might as well drink and Rick’s there to help you out with both. 🤣

  • Charles N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 25, 2023

    Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping

    Amazing experience!

    We got to campsite pretty late, so when everyone was unpacked we went straight to bed. shortly after we all passed out from the long and beautiful 16 hour drive, we started hearing all the wildlife and I will never forget waking up in the most beautiful place. Was a picture perfect moment, Colorado springs will forever hold a spot in my, and my family's memories. have fun and safe travels!

  • R
    Sep. 26, 2022

    Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping

    One night stop

    Nice city park campground. Location was nice and quiet with beautiful views of lake. Bathrooms were terrible. Verizon service was good. No other amenities. Nice location for an over night stop but not much more.

  • sThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 3, 2025

    Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping

    GORGEOUS

    the stars were beautiful, the “sites” were spacious and well spread out, and there is lots of shade. you could definitely get a big rig in and out of here on the looped gravel roads.

Guide to Butler

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Butler, Missouri, where nature meets tranquility. With a variety of options available, outdoor enthusiasts can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

Unique Wildlife Encounters for Dispersed Campers

  • At Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping, visitors have reported heartwarming encounters with local wildlife, including a friendly cat that has become a beloved companion for campers.
  • The area is known for its serene environment, making it an ideal spot for birdwatching and observing other wildlife in their natural habitat.
  • Campers can enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature, enhancing their experience while relaxing by the campfire.

Activities to Enjoy While Free Camping Near Butler

  • Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunities at Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping, where good fishing spots are available, especially before duck season begins.
  • For those looking to explore, the local area offers arrowhead hunting, a fun activity that can keep kids entertained while connecting with the region's history.
  • If you find yourself in need of supplies, a local auto parts store nearby offers reasonably priced wine, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure.

Essential Amenities for a Comfortable Stay

  • While dispersed camping at Poague Conservation Area, campers should be prepared for a more rustic experience, as there are no toilets or trash services available.
  • The area features several spacious sites suitable for RVs or tents, providing ample room for a comfortable setup.
  • Campers can enjoy the freedom of staying for up to 14 days at this location, making it a great choice for extended getaways.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Butler, MO?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Butler, MO is Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping with a 4.5-star rating from 11 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 4 dispersed camping locations near Butler, MO, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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