Montrose Missouri Conservation Area provides free primitive camping for equestrian travelers about 30 miles southwest of Butler, Missouri. The terrain consists of open grasslands with scattered wooded areas at approximately 850 feet elevation. Weather patterns include hot, humid summers with temperatures frequently exceeding 90°F, while spring and fall offer more moderate conditions for outdoor recreation and horse camping.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Montrose Conservation Area features a shallow lake where visitors can catch various fish species. According to Mark D., "Shallow muddy water but it does attract wildlife. A bit of road noise but tolerable. Perfect for our one night stay."
Wildlife observation: The conservation area supports diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. Sarah shares, "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."
Arrowhead hunting: Local history enthusiasts can search for Native American artifacts. As Andi P. notes at Montrose Missouri Conservation Area, "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."
Lake activities: Berry Bend offers more developed water recreation options on Truman Lake. "If fishing boating of all types is your thing this is it. This is a very large campground very well maintained. Showers flush toilets and pit," notes reviewer N.I.
What campers like
Spacious camping areas: The grassy fields at Montrose provide plenty of room for setting up camp. According to Leni K., "While free, dispersed sites, there are easily established fire pit areas to choose from."
Star gazing: Clear night skies offer excellent celestial viewing. As camper Sav notes, "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."
Accessible locations: Linn County Park offers another option for equestrian travelers at about 45 miles from Butler. Ryan R. reports, "Lots of trees lots of wildlife. Had deer walk right through the campground when we were there."
Quiet surroundings: Most horse-friendly camping areas near Butler provide peaceful settings. At Montrose, T.N. mentions, "Big lake, several sites to choose, good fishing, pit toilets... Mowed, TP stocked, plenty of firewood and room for dogs to run."
What you should know
Seasonal restrictions: Hunting seasons affect camping availability in conservation areas. "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," warns Leni K.
Bathroom conditions: Facilities at free camping areas receive limited maintenance. Lee F. notes, "The pit toilet was really gross, but there was toilet paper."
Limited amenities: Most equestrian campgrounds near Butler, Missouri lack developed facilities. Mark D. observes, "No specific camp locations. No fire rings or picnic tables. Pit toilets are as expected."
Cell service variations: Connectivity can be unreliable in rural camping locations. At Lake Jacomo - Fleming Park, about 90 miles from Butler, Steve C. reports, "Cell service on AT&T and Verizon are great," while other conservation areas have minimal coverage.
Tips for camping with families
Bring entertainment: Rural camping areas offer limited built-in activities. Andi P. shares a unique experience: "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."
Pack essentials: Conservation areas near Butler require self-sufficiency. Ron P. advises, "Nice location for an overnight stop but not much more," highlighting the need to bring supplies.
Consider weather timing: Seasonal conditions affect camping comfort significantly. As noted by campers at Russell Crites Primitive — Hillsdale State Park, approximately 70 miles from Butler: "This campground is close to home for us, but we love it as a quick get away. It has beautiful, tree-covered campsites that offer direct access to the lake."
Plan for privacy: Site selection impacts family camping experience. Dwminph recommends, "Beautiful Campsites on the opposite side of the boat drops and free," for more secluded spots at Montrose.
Tips from RVers
Water access points: RV campers should note where to fill tanks. At Bourbon County Fairgrounds Campground, about 45 miles south of Butler, Rick G. explains, "Water spigot was located near the gravel access road and we filled our freshwater tank on the way out. The dump station has easy access and allowed for a good black tank flush."
Electric hookups: Power availability varies at equestrian campgrounds near Butler. According to Bran P., Linn County Park offers "Paved roads with gravel sites having W/E, mostly 30A but a few 50A like ours."
Level parking: Horse trailers require stable parking surfaces. Multiple reviewers note Montrose's "large grassy area available for tents or campers" with relatively level ground for rigs.
Distance planning: Destination spacing matters for travel with horses. Sarah recommends Montrose as "a very nice quiet little free camp area. we go all the time," noting its convenient location about 30 miles from Butler makes it accessible for weekend trips with horses.
