Best Dispersed Camping near Chula, MO

Dispersed camping near Chula, Missouri is available at two primary conservation areas: Grand Trace State Forest and Crooked River Conservation Area. These Missouri Department of Conservation managed lands permit free primitive camping with minimal infrastructure. Grand Trace State Forest, located north of Chula, offers several established sites with fire rings but no other amenities. Crooked River Conservation Area, situated south of Chula, provides similar primitive camping opportunities in a natural setting with designated camping areas.

Access to both conservation areas requires navigating unpaved roads that may present challenges during wet weather. Grand Trace State Forest features approximately 8-13 distinct camping spots suitable for tents and various sizes of camping vehicles, including some areas that can accommodate larger rigs. Neither location provides drinking water, toilets, trash service, or hookups of any kind. Campers must pack in all necessary supplies and follow leave-no-trace principles by packing out all waste. Fire rings are available at established sites, particularly at Grand Trace, but campers should check current fire restrictions before their visit.

These primitive camping areas provide solitude and basic outdoor experiences with minimal development. Grand Trace State Forest remains particularly quiet even during camping season, with one camper noting they "saw only two other campers" during a five-day stay. The camping area features flat spots suitable for various camping setups, with "about 13 distinct spots, 8 tent spots, 4 small camper spots and one large parking lot area that could fit just about anything." Crooked River Conservation Area offers a more developed primitive experience with "pit toilets and mowed area for camping" according to visitor reports. Both areas permit hunting, fishing and other outdoor activities, making them suitable for extended outdoor recreation beyond just camping.