Dispersed camping near Cottleville, Missouri offers primitive outdoor experiences in settings ranging from wooded backcountry to riverside locations. The camping areas provide minimal facilities and require self-sufficiency. Missouri's climate creates distinct camping seasons with summer temperatures averaging 85-95°F and high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions with occasional precipitation.
What to do
**Wildlife watching: Observe native Missouri species while camping at Lone Spring Trail Backpacking Campsite(s). "The site has several areas to setup a tent has a metal fire pit. I will be going back next year," notes Michael M., highlighting the established camping spots.
**Riverboat spotting: Count passing barges and boats from shoreline campsites at Silo Access Area - O'Neil Creek. Many campers report this as a primary activity. "You sit and watch the barges and various things float by. Really great," mentions Jill, who found this a relaxing way to spend camping time.
**Fishing access: Utilize the boat ramp at O'Neil Creek for Mississippi River fishing. The area features "a large boat ramp" according to Cyndy & Selena R., making it suitable for small watercraft launches and shoreline fishing.
What campers like
**No-fee camping: Both dispersed camping areas offer free primitive sites. Bryan T. describes Silo Access Area as a "Hidden Gem! No facilities, short drive into town," making it appealing for budget-conscious campers seeking basic accommodations without cost.
**River views: Mississippi River frontage provides constantly changing scenery. Matthew H. reports: "Nice campground with a great view of the Mississippi. Can beat free and great views," emphasizing the riverside setting that makes the primitive conditions worthwhile.
**Solitude: The remote locations typically have low visitor numbers outside peak seasons. Lone Spring Trail offers isolation from developed areas, making it suitable for those seeking quiet natural settings without crowds.
What you should know
**Train noise: Railroad tracks run near river campsites. "You won't miss the train as it comes by 3-4 times a day," reports Matthew H. about Silo Access Area, indicating that light sleepers should prepare for occasional noise disruption.
**Insect preparation: Mississippi River areas have significant mosquito populations. Cyndy & Selena R. note that at Silo Access Area: "Mosquitoes are prevalent," requiring appropriate repellent and protective clothing, particularly during warmer months.
**Limited facilities: No potable water sources exist at either location. Annie C. advises: "Be sure to be self contained as there is no vault toilet or porta potty currently" at Silo Access, emphasizing the need to bring sufficient water supplies.
**Location clarification: Some navigation systems provide incorrect directions. One camper clarifies: "It's not exactly where The Dyrt sends you. On Google maps it's listed as Oneil Creek, though the entrance is marked as Silo Access. It's about 1 mile north off RT 79 from Calumet Creek access."
Tips for camping with families
**Site selection: Choose end sites at Silo Access for more space. Annie C. suggests: "The best sites are at the opposite ends of the flat circle where there are large gravel areas ideal for parking RVs," providing better separation from other campers.
**Educational opportunity: Use river traffic as learning experiences. The constant barge and boat traffic creates opportunities to teach children about commerce, transportation, and river ecosystems while watching from camp.
**Weather monitoring: Check forecasts for potential flooding near river sites. Previous flooding has affected the area, with one camper noting: "I suspect the US Army Corps of Engineers are still in the process of cleaning this access area up from flooding from previous years."
Tips from RVers
**Self-contained setup: Bring all necessary supplies and power. Matthew H. advises: "No restrooms or hook ups of any kind. So bring your RV, water and a generator," emphasizing the need for complete self-sufficiency.
**Site dimensions: Silo Access Area accommodates multiple vehicle sizes. According to Cyndy & Selena: "There are 13 sites for RVs and Travel Trailers. Three sites are curved to pull in and out easily. Site 13 is large enough for 2 RVs," providing specific information about the parking arrangement.
**Fresh pavement: Recent improvements have enhanced RV access. The same reviewer notes the area is "freshly paved and undergoing reforestation," making navigation easier for larger vehicles despite the primitive designation.
