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Best Dispersed Camping near Dora, MO

21 Reviews

Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area offers free dispersed camping in the Mark Twain National Forest southwest of Dora. The area features primitive sites with no facilities, accessible primarily via the Coy Bald Trailhead. Campers can set up virtually anywhere with minimal restrictions, though several established sites with fire rings exist along the trails. The terrain includes rocky paths with moderate elevation changes, crossing rivers and featuring scenic bluffs.

Several reviewers note the area's solitude as a primary attraction. A review mentioned, "This is a great place for hiking/backpacking with several sites around the access road and miles of hiking trails." The Blair Ridge Road area provides an alternative when trailheads are crowded, with two established fire rings and cellular service. Noblett Lake area offers additional options, though recent reports indicate some former camping areas have been converted to day-use only. Water availability is limited throughout the region, and ticks can be problematic during warmer months. Most sites remain accessible year-round, weather permitting.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Dora, Missouri (13)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Dora, MO

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Dora, MO

21 Reviews of 13 Dora Campgrounds

  • Crystal C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 1, 2020

    Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area

    Hike in and camp, or just hike for day use!!

    This area is a wilderness area so camping is plentiful.  However in this particular are there is no organized campsite specifically.  Instead there are several areas where you can with permissions hike in and stay.  

    My suggestion for camping along this area are to check with local restrictions, there are some that you will want to make sure you know first hand.   Sometimes fire restrictions do change and these can be found at the beginning of the trails on the kiosks.   Some areas also are not permitted for overnight parking so you want to check those out before venturing into the wilderness for a lengthy time.

    Check with rangers of the area to make sure you are not in a register only or permit only area for camping!!  Very important in this region.

    Bring everything and then plot your course.

    The 4 mile hike is amazing and has many beautiful view points however it is also quite treacherous in some areas.    This area is also one which you will find many snakes lurking during warmer months so beware!!!!   

    I always suggest on wilderness hikes to not hike alone or camp alone but this one I found to be more problematic with limited to no cell service for assistance should you encounter danger.   

    Be careful but have fun!!!

  • T
    Nov. 29, 2017

    Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area

    Nicely private, but not a lot of scenery

    Hercules Glades Wilderness Area is part of mark Twain National Forest. It's a bit off the beaten path, but worth it for a day hike or a bit of backpacking.

    Since it's wilderness area, you can camp just about anywhere with few restrictions. There are a few primitive sites at the trailhead, no water or toilets.

    A few hundred yards from the Coy Bald Trailhead there is a fork in the trail. Going left gets you to the falls and the majority of the camp sites with the shortest route, about three miles.

    The trail is pretty rough and rocky with moderate elevation changes. I'd rate it on the low side of moderate difficulty.

    About a mile in you'll cross the river for the first time. There are camp sites with fire rings on both sides of the river. This is a scenic area with bluffs on one side of the river, but forested, so no views to speak of.

    About three miles in, you'll cross the river the second time. There are a number of camping areas with fire rings along the river.

    Downstream a few hundred feet are the falls that most people go to see. Unfortunately for us, there wasn't enough water for them to be running. There was enough water to wade around in and soak the feet. It was quite nice!

    The area is pretty and quiet, we saw only a handful of people in the two days we were there. The only issue was the ticks, they were the worst I'd dealt with in some time.

    All in all, a nice hike and a nice bit if camping. I'd go back to see the falls again.

  • Elaina M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 22, 2018

    Cane Bluff River Access

    Beautiful, primitive, secluded.

    Stumbled across this site in September (2016). It's way back on a little dirt road past some farm land and homes.

    Only a few campsites, no picnic tables, a fire ring, some heavily shaded spots, a couple sites right on the river (but none are far away). You feel like you are in the wilderness! Water is crystal clear and cool, didn't see another camper all weekend. Had a few folks using the boat ramps, but otherwise very private.

    Great stargazing on the beach and you'll see some bats too! Think they really helped keep the bugs off us all weekend, barely had any problems with those.

    Seriously beautiful campsite, and near some excellent floating & gorgeous springs.

  • Shelly S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 1, 2018

    Blue Spring Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway

    Blue, blue, blue, cold, cold, cold

    Blue Spring is beautiful and cold! Aside from the over zealous teenagers jumping into the spring it was a nice visit.

    This is a primitive camping area and there are a lot of partying people in and around this area plus frequent motorboat traffic. No amenities, many generators. Drive in, pick a spot and set up camp. There are so many areas to visit around the river this would be an excellent base camp or you could use it as a stop off on a float trip.

    Eminence, MO is nearby and a good place to refuel and get stuff you need for your adventures. Make sure you get a paper map because phone signal can be iffy.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 27, 2018

    Hercules Glades (Watch Tower)

    Rustic with great hiking

    This is a good place for hiking/backpacking. There are several sites around the access road and miles of hiking trails. The only ammenities are some fire rings and 1 toilet. It's a beautiful area but fairly remote and immediate services. Again, good for backpacking/hiking.

  • Ramie W.
    Sep. 1, 2018

    Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area

    Hercules Glades

    I did the Coy Bald hike and loved it. Most of the trail was fairly easy to navigate, however the areas of open meadows were a little more difficult to find where it picks back up. The falls are a great rock feature when it’s dry and beautiful when they’re flowing.

  • Conceptual S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 6, 2023

    Blair Ridge Rd Dispersed

    Secluded

    Tried to camp out before backpacking through Hercules Glade Wilderness but the trailheads were packed (weekend). There are two fire rings along this road. Both locations have full bars (Verizon). Little to no man made noise but be respectful, there is a private residence at the end of the road.

  • Anna W.
    Aug. 8, 2021

    Hercules Glades (Watch Tower)

    Quiet and easy

    We got here on a pretty hilly/twisty road late at night, found a spot close to the trailhead and had a quiet, peaceful night sleep. We saw just one other camper with a trailer close to the inlet. Just a quick stop on our way, we didn’t hike long in the morning but the trail seemed quiet and secluded; we didn’t see anyone else.

Guide to Dora

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Dora, Missouri, where nature lovers can find secluded spots to unwind and explore the great outdoors. With a variety of options available, campers can enjoy the tranquility of the wilderness while engaging in activities like hiking, fishing, and stargazing.

Dispersed campers should check out Sycamore Loop Dispersed

  • This area offers a secluded experience, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The Sycamore Loop Dispersed site is surrounded by lush greenery, although some spots may be less camp-friendly due to new tree growth.
  • Campers can enjoy the freedom of no permits required, making it easy to set up camp on a whim. However, be prepared for a lack of amenities, as there are no drinking water or firewood available.
  • The area is accessible by car, allowing for a convenient drive-in experience, but keep in mind that it may feel less remote due to nearby RV residents.

Top activities while free camping near Dora

  • For those who love water activities, Blue Spring Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway is a fantastic choice. The cold, clear waters are perfect for swimming and floating, making it a popular spot during the summer months.
  • Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the trails around the Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area, where you can explore various routes and enjoy breathtaking views. Just be cautious of the terrain, as some areas can be treacherous.
  • If you're seeking a more primitive experience, consider the Blair Ridge Rd Dispersed area, where you can enjoy a peaceful environment with minimal man-made noise, making it ideal for stargazing and unwinding by the fire.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Dora, Missouri

  • Always check local regulations before heading out, especially in areas like the Hercules Glades (Watch Tower), where fire restrictions may apply. Being informed can enhance your camping experience and ensure safety.
  • Bring all necessary supplies, as many dispersed camping areas, such as McCormack Lake Rec Area, lack amenities like toilets and trash disposal. Pack out what you pack in to keep the area pristine.
  • Consider visiting during weekdays or off-peak seasons to enjoy a more secluded experience. Popular spots can get crowded on weekends, so planning your trip accordingly can lead to a more enjoyable stay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Dora, MO?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Dora, MO is Noblett Lake Dispersed Camping with a 4-star rating from 1 review.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Dora, MO?

TheDyrt.com has all 13 dispersed camping locations near Dora, MO, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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