Lead Mine Conservation Area provides primitive equestrian camping options near Camdenton, Missouri, with limited facilities but ample trail access. The area sits within the northern Ozark highlands at elevations ranging from 900 to 1,200 feet, creating varied terrain for riders. Weather conditions can change rapidly during spring and fall months, requiring campers to pack appropriate gear.
What to do
Explore riverside campsites: At Riverfront Campground and Canoe, campers can fish or float on the Niangua River. "The float trips on the Niangua are gorgeous. I recommend going on a weekday to avoid the crowds," advises Jason W., who visited in early June when water levels were higher.
Target shooting: Scrivner Road Conservation Area offers a handgun and rifle range with vault toilets nearby. "This Missouri Conservation area is a Swiss Army knife of rugged off the path camping. Rivers, Lakes, Gun range, Horses and hiking can all be enjoyed here," notes Josh S. The area provides a single fire ring in a gravel turnaround.
Horseback trail riding: Several conservation areas around Camdenton allow equestrian use on designated trails. Riders should bring their own containment systems as dedicated horse corrals are rare. Trails often connect to larger public lands, providing extended riding opportunities through diverse terrain.
What campers like
Peaceful riverside settings: Paddy Creek Recreation Area offers a quiet camping experience along spring-fed creeks. "Quite and peaceful very nice camp sites," says Martin K. Aaron T. adds, "Creek is spring fed so water is always cooler than most creeks," making it refreshing during hot summer months.
Spacious campsites: Many campers appreciate the room between sites at conservation areas. "Most sites are well shaded and spacious. Good privacy between sites," reports Cheryl M. about Paddy Creek, where she stayed at site 22. She noted the parking pads are short and lined with boulders, making them better for smaller rigs.
Natural berry picking: B Berry Farms & Co. offers a unique camping experience where visitors can pick fresh berries. "We enjoyed picking black berries right next to our campsite to have with breakfast in the morning," shares Nick S. The farm features various camping options from primitive sites to cabins.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Many conservation areas have limited or no cellular coverage. At Paddy Creek Recreation Area, campers report, "We love being able to have an escape from the world and forced to not have our electronics since there is no service," according to Lyric O.
Vault toilets common: Most conservation areas offer vault toilets rather than flush facilities. Some campgrounds have no restroom facilities at all. "Vault toilet clean and stocked. No fee just donations," notes Cheryl M. about Paddy Creek.
Limited water access: Bring your own water when horse camping in conservation areas. Most primitive sites lack potable water sources for humans or animals. Plan accordingly when horseback riding as summer temperatures regularly reach above 90°F.
Tips for camping with families
Look for designated swimming areas: Berry Bend offers beach access for families. "Great beach with a beautiful view," says Lauri C. The campground provides a welcome respite from technology as she notes, "No internet, no cell, no problem."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Conservation areas support diverse wildlife. At Scrivner Road Conservation Area, campers report seeing numerous species. Kids should be taught proper food storage techniques as raccoons are common visitors to campsites after dark.
Family-friendly activities: Froggys River Resort provides organized activities for families. "They had a fire pit in the middle of the river which was so cool and did a pork steak dinner one of the nights," shares Delanie J. The resort offers river access for cooling off during hot summer days.
Tips from RVers
Site length restrictions: Most conservation areas have limitations for larger rigs. "Parking pads are short and lined with huge boulders. Worked fine for our 16ft TT big rigs probably not so much," warns Cheryl M. about Paddy Creek Recreation Area.
Electric hookup availability: While most primitive camping areas lack facilities, some developed campgrounds offer electric service. "All the RV sites are electric/water so you have to use the on site dump station," explains Ken K. about Riverfront Campground.
Level sites can be challenging: Finding level ground may require patience at conservation areas. The terrain around Camdenton features rolling hills that create natural slopes at many camping areas.
