Best Dispersed Camping near Edgar Springs, MO

If you're looking for a place to dispersed camp near Edgar Springs, look no further. With The Dyrt, it's easy to find peaceful dispersed camping near Edgar Springs. Whether you're looking for a quiet location in the trees or wide open spaces, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect dispersed campsite.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Edgar Springs, MO (8)

    Camper-submitted photo from Little Scotia Pond 4x4 Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Scotia Pond 4x4 Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Scotia Pond 4x4 Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Scotia Pond 4x4 Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Scotia Pond 4x4 Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Scotia Pond 4x4 Dispersed Site

    1. Little Scotia Pond 4x4 Dispersed Site

    2 Reviews
    6 Photos
    35 Saves
    Bunker, Missouri

    Remember to LNT when dispersed camping. https://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/mtnf/recreation/camping-cabins/?recid=21644&actid=34

    Many people enjoy the solitude and peaceful experience of camping away from large groups of people. Dispersed camping is the term used for free camping anywhere in the National Forest OUTSIDE of a designated campground and at least 100 feet from any administrative site to include trails, buildings and designated recreational areas. Dispersed camping means there are no toilets, no structures, no trash cans, no treated water, and no fire grates. There are extra responsibilities required for this type of camp. It's a must to educate yourself before you try it, but we hope the adventure of dispersed camping in the Mark Twain National Forest calls to you!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Scotia Pond

    2. Little Scotia Pond

    1 Review
    1 Photo
    75 Saves
    Bunker, Missouri
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunklands Conservation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunklands Conservation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunklands Conservation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunklands Conservation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunklands Conservation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunklands Conservation Area

    3. Sunklands Conservation Area

    1 Review
    6 Photos
    24 Saves
    Hartshorn, Missouri

    Few regions today preserve the wild and natural beauty of the Ozarks as well as Sunklands. Sunklands Conservation Area combined the former Sunklands-Burr Oak Basin Natural Area and Skunk Pond, Hartshorn, and Shannondale conservation areas with Kerr-McGee land. Sunklands is valuable for its array of native plant and animal species. The area is the only known habitat in Missouri for monkshood, a showy purple wildflower. Several upland ponds or sinkholes contain water and form a marshy area. The wetlands are rare and important homes to salamanders and other amphibians that require a fish-free habitat. Open Camping - Walk-in/Float-in/Backpack Designated Camping Sites

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Spring Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Spring Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Spring Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Spring Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Spring Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Spring Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway

    4. Blue Spring Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway

    6 Reviews
    15 Photos
    94 Saves
    Mountain View, Missouri

    Backcountry camping on Jacks Forks River

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Dispersed
    • Picnic Table
    Camper-submitted photo from Toronto Springs Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Courtois Creek Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Courtois Creek Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Courtois Creek Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Courtois Creek Dispersed

    6. Courtois Creek Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    4 Photos
    112 Saves
    Davisville, Missouri

    This section is the gateway to the Ozarks--starting at Onondaga Cave State Park and winding through the Huzzah State Forest/Conservation Area, opening into the lead district of Missouri and the Mark Twain National Forest, view variegated wildlife, flora, and scenery and end up at Hazel Creek on the south. This 45-mile long section includes 7.5 miles of state land north of the Narrows Trailhead, crosses private land at the Bass Resort, follows the Berryman Trail from about mile 22 through mile 32, and connects to the Trace Creek Section on the south at the Hazel Creek Trailhead. It is part of the over 220 mile continuous through-trail. Use caution after periods of rain as the creek crossings can be hazardous. This section of trail includes springs, creeks and other water locations, as well as some popular places for trailside camping.

    Dispersed camping is the term used for free camping anywhere in the National Forest OUTSIDE of a designated campground. Dispersed camping means there are no toilets, no structures, no trash cans, no treated water, and no fire grates. There are extra responsibilities required for this type of camp. It's a must to educate yourself before you try it, but we hope the adventure of dispersed camping in the Mark Twain National Forest calls to you!

    Pick a Campsite and follow the Leave No Trace Principles Camp 100 feet away from trails and water sources. Treat any water found in the area before consuming it. Human waste (Feces) must be buried at least 6 inches deep and covered. Pack out all of your garbage.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Brazil Creek Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Brazil Creek Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Brazil Creek Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Brazil Creek Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Brazil Creek Camping Area

    7. Brazil Creek Camping Area

    3 Reviews
    5 Photos
    35 Saves
    Potosi, Missouri

    The campsites are located on the right-hand side of the road. This is part of a trail area - camping is allowed.

    Dispersed camping is allowed along the trail.

    Dispersed camping is the term used for free camping anywhere in the National Forest OUTSIDE of a designated campground.

    Dispersed camping means there are no toilets, no structures, no trash cans, no treated water, and no fire grates.

    There are extra responsibilities required for this type of camp. It's a must to educate yourself before you try it, but we hope the adventure of dispersed camping in the Mark Twain National Forest calls to you!

    Pick a Campsite and follow the Leave No Trace Principles
    Camp 100 feet away from trails and water sources.
    Treat any water found in the area before consuming it.
    Human waste (Feces) must be buried at least 6 inches deep and covered.
    Pack out all of your garbage.
    

    For more information on Dispersed Camping visit our dispersed camping page which has information on picking a campsite, how to protect water quality, and campfires!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • No image available
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    Showing results 1-8 of 8 campgrounds

    Recent Dispersed Reviews in Edgar Springs

    13 Reviews of 8 Edgar Springs Campgrounds


    • Chris J.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Little Scotia Pond 4x4 Dispersed Site
      Apr. 15, 2024

      Little Scotia Pond 4x4 Dispersed Site

      Great site

      Great quiet site. Wasn’t a bad drive in. Decent amount of wild life hanging around. Will probably hear the beaver if you stay at one of the two sites by the pond. Only saw one other group camping here while we did. Be mindful that it is tick season now. We had a few on the dog by the end of the first day.

    • Malik H.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Little Scotia Pond 4x4 Dispersed Site
      Mar. 7, 2024

      Little Scotia Pond 4x4 Dispersed Site

      Great “off the pavement” spot

      Although the old rv park across the water is nice and level, we ended up wanting to be closer to the water and there happened to be a trail. Easy to get in but could be tricky for a small car to get out (boulders, trees, incline and possible rain/mud) 4x4 recommend. Great spot right next to the dam. Very quiet. Lots of beavers in the pond. Fire wood is abundant. A few fire rings in place at location.

    • Pat F.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Courtois Creek Dispersed
      Apr. 7, 2022

      Courtois Creek Dispersed

      Very peaceful and pleasant and very beautiful

      We arrived on Wednesday and camped for a couple of days, very beautiful and peaceful and just gorgeous, no toilets and no electricity and no cell signal but it was amazing

    • Katie B.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Sunklands Conservation Area
      Aug. 13, 2021

      Sunklands Conservation Area

      Great for those who want to be alone

      This is an olen camping area as it’s in a conversation area. There are no sites you just pick your spot. We had a great time exploring the outdoors- saw no other people and only heard nature and airplanes

    • Dave N.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Little Scotia Pond
      Jun. 29, 2020

      Little Scotia Pond

      Paradise for nature lovers

      A beautiful spot. It is an old abandoned forest campground. I believe it was last maintained in the 80's. It is overgrown in some spots, but most are intact, some still with the site numbers. Lots of wildlife. I saw several deer, a couple beavers in the pond, racoons, and on the last day a bear and 2 cubs. So keep that in mind. There's a trail that leads off by the old damn that leads to an old gravesite with stones from the 1800's. Hard to find, bit rewarding. If you like solitude love this place. A small class c or travel trailer might make it into a few sites, best for vans and tents

    • Shelly S.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Blue Spring Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway
      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.


    Drive Time


    Guide to Edgar Springs

    Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Edgar Springs, Missouri, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and abundant wildlife. This area offers a variety of spots perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

    Dispersed campers should check out Little Scotia Pond

    • The Little Scotia Pond 4x4 Dispersed Site is a hidden gem, known for its peaceful atmosphere and proximity to wildlife, including beavers and deer.
    • This site allows campfires, making it ideal for cozy evenings under the stars, but be prepared to bring your own firewood as it is not provided.
    • Access is easy for those with 4x4 vehicles, and the scenic drive in adds to the adventure of your camping experience.

    Top activities while free camping near Edgar Springs

    • Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the trails around Brazil Creek Camping Area, which offers miles of paths suitable for mountain biking and horseback riding.
    • Fishing opportunities abound in the nearby waters, providing a great way to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.
    • The area is also pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry friends along for the adventure.

    Scenic attractions for dispersed campers

    • The Courtois Creek Dispersed area is known for its stunning river views, perfect for those looking to unwind by the water.
    • Wildlife sightings are common here, with visitors often spotting deer and various bird species, making it a photographer's paradise.
    • The lack of amenities means you can truly immerse yourself in nature, enjoying the sounds of the river and the rustle of leaves without distractions.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Edgar Springs, MO?

      According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Edgar Springs, MO is Little Scotia Pond 4x4 Dispersed Site with a 5-star rating from 2 reviews.

    • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Edgar Springs, MO?

      TheDyrt.com has all 8 dispersed camping locations near Edgar Springs, MO, with real photos and reviews from campers.