Tent camping areas near De Soto, Missouri range from primitive sites at 1,772 feet on Taum Sauk Mountain to creek-side spots at lower elevations in Mark Twain National Forest. This region, located in the eastern Ozarks, experiences humid summers with temperatures often reaching 90°F between June and August, while spring and fall offer milder conditions for campers with highs averaging in the 70s.
What to do
Creek exploration: Courtois Creek Dispersed offers direct water access for fishing and cooling off. "The water is amazing. Great for fly fishing and cast fishing," notes a visitor. This primitive area requires navigating forest roads but rewards with water activities during warmer months.
Hiking on highest peaks: Serious hikers can tackle multiple trail systems that connect camping areas. "Taum Sauk Mountain State Park Campground has a portion of the Ozark Trail traversing it's highest point. Highly recommend hiking the small ~4-5 mile loop to catch some of the amazing views and rock formations," explains Loren G.
Mountain biking: Technical trail sections near some campsites provide challenging riding opportunities. At Klondike Park, "there are several technical mountain bike sections that are located in the park. Bring your mountain bike and have a go!"
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Many campers value the privacy found at primitive sites. "Self-service campsites, the closest you can get to backpacking with access to a toilet! The sites are all secluded from each other by trees and are very beautiful," reports Kelsie L. about Taum Sauk Mountain State Park.
Wildlife encounters: The forest setting provides opportunities to observe native species. At Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park, campers should be prepared: "The only issue is the raccoons. They dont give a darn who you are. They will walk right up to, smile, and take your chips. Scandalous!"
Night sky viewing: Clear skies and minimal light pollution create excellent stargazing conditions at several sites. One camper at Courtois Creek Dispersed described "soaking up the stars and the moon and the sound of running water" during their evening at camp.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Some dispersed camping areas require appropriate vehicles. At Courtois Creek, a reviewer warns, "make sure your car can handle terrain and you can handle your car. This is barely a road. It's a trail of moguls for your tires."
Limited amenities: Most primitive sites lack facilities. At Brazil Creek, a camper notes it's "a bare bones campground... it has a place for you to camp and a fire pit, that's it. No facilities, no water, no bathroom, no lights."
Seasonal closures: Facilities at established campgrounds often close during colder months. At Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park, "Not having water available except at the camp host, and no open restrooms and showers until after April 1, regardless of when the last freeze is was inconvenient for a spring break trip."
Tips for camping with families
Easier access sites: For family camping near De Soto, choose established campgrounds with amenities. Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground "is located off I-64 in the chesterfield area about 30 minutes from Saint Louis. The site provides wood, ice, water, shower house and outhouses."
Kid-friendly water spots: Several campgrounds feature safe swimming areas. As one camper at Klondike Park observed, "We were the only people camping there until the next afternoon when a couple families came down with kids to swim and float."
Tent site selection: Choose sites with natural padding when possible. At Taum Sauk Mountain, "Where we camped, the ground was covered in moss. That made for very soft sleeping, except for the few large rocks spread over the area."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Many campgrounds have limited space for larger vehicles. At Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park, "Not all sites are long enough for large RVs and the roads in some loops prevent you from turning around. The camp hosts... have a list of site lengths and can tell you which ones are appropriate for large RVs."
Hookup limitations: Most tent camping areas near De Soto lack RV hookups. One experienced camper notes, "What we liked about this campground was the comfortable feel of being at a state park with plenty of trees, hiking trails, space between sites, but also the convenience of having a level, paved site with electricity and television/phone reception."
