Tent camping opportunities near Chillicothe, Missouri range from basic dispersed camping to established campgrounds with essential facilities. Located in northern Missouri's rolling terrain, the area experiences distinct seasons with humid summers and cold winters. Camping sites within driving distance offer access to fishing lakes, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing in conservation areas.
What to do
Fishing for multiple species: At Hamilton City Lake, visitors can fish directly from their campsite. "We were able to fish right from our spot and caught some bluegill and a big crappie. Another visitor reeled in a bass. We also saw several turtles swimming around, which was a nice bonus," reports camper Sayler O.
Hunting during season: Bonanza Conservation Area serves as a base for deer hunting. One visitor noted, "Used to stay here as a kid during deer season, recently came back to it to explore some more." However, another camper cautions about safety concerns: "Deer hunting camp. Lots of city hunters with NO CONCEPT of safety during hunting."
Campfire gatherings: Evening campfires are popular at Honey Grove Campground, where designated fire rings are provided. "Had a big fire outside one of the cabins today! Great company, warm flames, and hot dogs makes for a wonderful night, but the stars and beautiful weather seriously enhanced it like none other!" shares Adam M.
What campers like
Secluded fishing access: Hamilton City Lake offers peaceful tent camping right next to water. One camper mentions, "We had plenty of room to spread out without worrying about noisy neighbors—it wasn't crowded at all, and we were the only campers overnight."
No-cost camping options: Budget-conscious campers appreciate free tent camping sites. A Bonanza Conservation Area visitor called it "Awesome free camping in Northern Missouri" and noted there are "Multiple campsites available along the highway, but the marked site is one of the best, right by a great fishing lake."
Natural shade protection: Tree coverage makes summer tent camping more comfortable. At Hamilton City Lake, "The site is shaded with lots of trees, which helped keep things cool," according to a recent visitor, making it suitable for tent camping near Chillicothe during warmer months.
What you should know
Designated camping rules: Some conservation areas strictly enforce camping locations. A Bonanza Conservation Area visitor warns, "It is against their rules to camp anywhere but on a gravelly parking lot. We camped just off the road and got a citation. It's not really disbursed camping."
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some camping spots. At Hamilton City Lake, a reviewer noted, "the site is fairly close to Highway 36, so you can hear some road noise."
Limited amenities: Most free tent camping sites have minimal facilities. A Bonanza visitor described it as having "no amenities" and being "very quite [sic]," requiring self-sufficiency for tent campers around Chillicothe, Missouri.
Tips for camping with families
Comfort facilities: For families needing more amenities while tent camping near Chillicothe, Missouri, Honey Grove Campground offers 24 established sites with water and electrical hookups, making it easier for longer stays with children. One family camper shared, "The campground really felt comfortable and my whole family really enjoyed our stay!"
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children can enjoy turtle and fish spotting from shorelines at local lakes. A Hamilton City Lake camper mentioned seeing "several turtles swimming around, which was a nice bonus."
Safety awareness: When camping during hunting seasons, maintain extra vigilance with children. A visitor to Bonanza Conservation Area cautioned about "city hunters with NO CONCEPT of safety during hunting," suggesting families might prefer non-hunting seasons or sites with designated camping areas only.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: RV accommodations vary widely at tent camping areas near Chillicothe. At Bonanza Conservation Area, one camper mentioned only "gravelly parking lot" camping is allowed, making it suitable for smaller rigs rather than large motorhomes.
Multi-use flexibility: Some campers use their vehicles for both transportation and shelter. A Bonanza visitor described returning to a site they used "as a kid during deer season," suggesting longtime popularity among hunters with basic camping setups.
Hookup availability: For RVers needing utilities, check established campgrounds. Honey Grove Campground provides electric hookups and water access, with 24 designated sites that accommodate both tent and RV camping needs.
