Montrose Missouri Conservation Area offers primitive camping near Clinton, Missouri on approximately 900 acres of mixed woodland and grassland habitat. The conservation area experiences cold winters with average temperatures in the 30s and hot summers that typically reach the high 80s. Wildlife observation opportunities include beavers, raccoons, cranes, deer and various bird species throughout the different seasons.
What to do
Wildlife photography opportunities: During early mornings at Montrose Missouri Conservation Area, visitors can photograph various native species. "There is loads of wildlife to see and aren't much scared of humans, racoons, beavers, crane, squirrels, deer, owls and much more," notes one camper who regularly visits the area.
Seasonal fruit picking: Fall visitors to Montrose can forage for wild edibles. "There are pecan and walnut trees so watch out for your heads when its fall lol. There's also blackberries in the fall," shares a regular camper who appreciates the natural food sources available.
Stargazing: The remote location offers excellent night sky viewing with minimal light pollution. One camper noted, "The stars were beautiful, the 'sites' were spacious and well spread out, and there is lots of shade."
Arrowhead hunting: This unexpected activity can provide entertainment for history buffs at Poague Campsite #5. A camper shared: "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."
What campers like
Peaceful atmosphere: The quiet environment is ideal for relaxation. "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," reports a visitor who appreciated the seclusion.
Abundant shade: The tree coverage provides relief from summer heat. One camper mentioned, "The area is surrounded by trees but the area is clean, nice soft grass," making it comfortable for setting up camp even during warmer months.
Wildlife encounters: Animal sightings enhance the camping experience at Montrose Missouri Conservation Area. A visitor shared 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."
Convenience to highway: For travelers needing an overnight stop, Poague Campsite #5 offers easy access. "This is great secluded spot, right off the highway. Perfect for what I was looking for to car camp," notes a recent visitor.
What you should know
Seasonal restrictions: The conservation area has important hunting season limitations. "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 one camper who experienced this firsthand.
Variable bathroom conditions: Vault toilet cleanliness fluctuates throughout the season. "Bathrooms were fine. It's free camping so it was great that there were bathrooms at all," notes one camper, contrasting with other reviews that found facilities less maintained.
Water quality considerations: The lake at Montrose Missouri Conservation Area has limitations for recreation. "Shallow muddy water but it does attract wildlife. A bit of road noise but tolerable. Perfect for our one night stay," explains a visitor who camped there briefly.
Limited amenities: Dispersed camping here requires self-sufficiency. "No picnic tables or fire pits. The pit toilet was really gross, but there was toilet paper," reports a camper who found the primitive camping conditions challenging.
Tips for camping with families
Bring water recreation gear: The shallow lake can be enjoyed with proper footwear. "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," advises a regular visitor to Montrose Conservation Area.
Pack extra toilet supplies: Bathroom facilities may not be fully stocked. "Vault toilets were absolutely disgusting, thankfully we brought our own toilet paper," shares one camper who visited during a busy period.
Consider fall camping: This season offers both outdoor activities and foraging opportunities. "Mowed, TP stocked, plenty of firewood and room for dogs to run," notes a mid-October visitor who found the facilities well-maintained during this time.
Tips from RVers
Access considerations: The conservation area has suitable roads for most recreational vehicles. "You could definitely get a big rig in and out of here on the looped gravel roads," explains a camper who noted the accessibility options available.
Site selection flexibility: With no designated camping spots, RVers can choose ideal locations. "Nice city park campground. Location was nice and quiet with beautiful views of lake. Verizon service was good," shares a visitor who appreciated the connectivity while enjoying primitive camping near Clinton, Missouri.
