Best Dispersed Camping near Cottleville, MO
Dispersed camping near Cottleville, Missouri includes two primary sites offering primitive options with different environments and amenities. Lone Spring Trail Backpacking Campsite provides free backcountry sites accessible by hiking trails, while Silo Access Area on O'Neil Creek offers riverside camping along the Mississippi. Both locations operate as dispersed camping zones with minimal facilities and no established campground infrastructure. These areas fall under different management systems but provide alternatives to developed campgrounds for those seeking more remote experiences.
Access to Silo Access Area requires navigating to O'Neil Creek, approximately one mile north off Route 79 from Calumet Creek access. The area features a freshly paved road with 13 sites suitable for RVs and travel trailers, though primitive tent camping is also permitted. Lone Spring Trail sites require backpacking access. Neither location provides drinking water, electrical hookups, or full amenities. Fires are permitted at both sites, but campers must pack in all supplies. Pets are allowed throughout these areas, though alcohol is prohibited at Silo Access Area.
The Mississippi River location at Silo Access Area provides distinctive camping opportunities with views of river traffic. "This site is a great place to watch that amazing river pass by. You sit and watch the barges and various things float by," notes one review. Proximity to railroad tracks means occasional train noise, with several reviews mentioning trains passing 3-4 times daily. The area is undergoing reforestation efforts with newly planted trees, though existing tree cover provides some shade. Lone Spring Trail offers a more traditional backpacking experience with metal fire pits available at designated sites. Mosquitoes are prevalent at riverside locations, particularly during warmer months. Neither site requires permits or reservations, making them accessible options for spontaneous camping trips.
