Tent camping near Collins, Missouri includes several conservation areas and established parks situated within Missouri's Ozark border region. The terrain consists of rolling hills, oak-hickory forests, and water features with elevations ranging between 700-900 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions with occasional thunderstorms.
What to do
Fishing access points: Fiery Fork Conservation Area provides direct river access with suitable banks for fly fishing. According to a camper, "It's a great place to launch a boat from or just to wade in a bit and fish. Fly fishing can be done easily from the bank or just by wading in a bit."
Wildlife observation: Fiery Fork Conservation Area offers opportunities to view local wildlife. One visitor reported, "We were able to see some wildlife while staying there as well. Armadillos, deer, and a few different bird types could be found easily."
Water recreation: The river beaches provide natural play areas for children and adults. A camper noted, "The river access is really amazing though... We decided it would be a nice place to bring our kids since there is quite a bit of 'beach' at the river access for them to play and see nature."
What campers like
Affordability: Budget-conscious campers appreciate the free camping options. One camper at Fiery Fork Conservation Area mentioned, "A nice place if you're on a budget and just need a get away."
Peaceful atmosphere: Many tent sites offer relative solitude compared to more developed campgrounds. A visitor observed, "Nice area to camp not crowded, plenty of space between camp sites, and peaceful."
Hammock camping opportunities: Several sites feature suitable trees for hammock camping. One camper shared, "Lots of beautiful hammock friendly trees, river access, and creek beds to play in. 30 min from Ha Ha Tonka."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Prepare for communication challenges. A camper at Fiery Fork Conservation Area warned, "We had AT&T for our cell service and there was absolutely NO service there which was good to get away, but bad in an emergency."
Weather impacts on access: Access roads can become impassable during wet conditions. A visitor noted, "If the waters too high, there's a bridge into the site that could be flooded so watch the weather."
Seasonal crowding: Visitor patterns change dramatically by season. According to one camper, "I stayed here for a few days in April. There were a few campers, but I'd be very surprised if this place isn't loud and packed in the summer."
Trash management: Pack-out requirements apply at many sites. A reviewer mentioned, "There is no dumpster so be prepared to take your trash with you."
Tips for camping with families
Family-friendly water features: Bledsoe Ferry offers lake access suitable for children. A visitor simply stated, "What a great place for the family. Awesome."
Secure food supplies: Limited services require bringing all necessary provisions. One camper mentioned needing to "drive a couple of miles for a signal" when needing supplies.
Insect protection: Parents should pack appropriate tick prevention supplies. A camper warned, "Other downside...ticks galore!"
Basic comfort items: Concrete tables improve the camping experience with children. One visitor appreciated that "The area was mowed, had a rock fire place, concrete picnic tables (which were handy), a vault toilet, shade, grass for dogs to play frisbee."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Farrington City Park accommodates larger vehicles, but other areas have limitations. One reviewer at Fiery Fork noted, "I recommend smaller RVs due to the 2 miles of gravel and high water areas you go through to get there."
Road conditions: Access roads often include unpaved sections requiring appropriate vehicles. A camper observed, "The road down was very sketchy for my 2008 Mazda 3."
Campsite leveling: Many tent camping areas also accommodate small RVs on flat surfaces. One visitor mentioned appreciating the "flat-level surface" at their campsite.
Generator etiquette: Limited separation between sites means generator noise carries. A camper noted, "We could see them with our eyeballs but they were perfect neighbors and we didn't hear a peep other than their generator for a bit."
