Tent camping near Everton, Missouri offers several dispersed camping options within conservation areas and public lands across the region. Located in the southwestern Ozarks, the area features elevations ranging from 900 to 1,200 feet with mixed hardwood forests and prairie landscapes. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, while nighttime temperatures can drop significantly even in warmer months.
What to do
Bison viewing: At Prairie State Park Campground, campers can observe free-roaming bison herds across the prairie. "Prairie state park isn't very large but it is nice to see somewhere dedicated to preserving the native grassland that the Midwest used to be covered with. The main draw for me other than it being close to where I live is that you get to be around buffalo without fences," notes Luke B.
Target practice: The Busiek conservation area features a gun range alongside multiple hiking trails. "Gun range, Horse Riding Trails, Camping and a water source. The scenery is so breathtaking and you never want to leave!" reports Brandon M. Note that a camping permit is required and must be obtained in person at a Missouri Department of Conservation office.
Creek exploration: Multiple camping areas provide water access for swimming and fishing during warmer months. David L. describes Swan Creek: "Has great dispersed camping, free, creek is accessible, has equestrian area to camp with horses, bout 45 minutes to a hour from Springfield."
What campers like
Spacious primitive sites: Campers appreciate the room to spread out at several locations. At Prairie State Park, Wendy M. notes, "This campsite is not for those who want amenities. There are 4 SPACIOUS sites and they are what I would call primitive. No hookups/no electricity/no running water."
Wildlife encounters: Beyond bison, the region offers diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. "You'll hear the coyotes all night howling and barking...the bison are roaming around which you will be able to see where they've been by the scat droppings around the road and trail system," reports Wendy M. about Prairie State Park.
Stargazing: Limited light pollution makes this area excellent for night sky viewing. Wendy M. notes Prairie State Park is "Good for star gazing. Two sites have a paved pad and two do not...depends what you're looking for."
Backcountry accessibility: Gibson Spring offers an entry-level backcountry experience. Dexter I. explains, "This site would be great for someone just getting in to backpacking as it is a short hike to the campsite from the closest trail head (took me only seven minutes)."
What you should know
Limited amenities: Most tent camping sites near Everton are primitive with minimal facilities. At Robert E. Talbot Conservation Area, campers should be prepared for self-sufficient camping. One camper, Eric O., cautions: "This posting looked good to us, and we put it in our itinerary for a boondock stop. When we got there we found a locked gate across the entrance to the conservation area!"
Weather preparedness: The region experiences rapid weather changes. While camping in Prairie State Park, some visitors have encountered sudden thunderstorms and temperature shifts requiring appropriate gear and clothing layers.
Tick protection: Insect protection is essential, especially during warm months. One camper at Prairie State Park simply states: "Lots of ticks. Good clean campground. Bathroom. Bison roam the park. Ticks also roam the park."
Cellular coverage: Connectivity varies significantly across camping areas. David L. notes about Swan Creek: "No service for ATT." Plan communications accordingly.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Some sites offer easier access for families with young children. Katie R. recommends Prairie State Park: "I think it's probably the most underrated park in the area. It's absolutely beautiful. 45 minutes from Joplin, Missouri. Limited camp sites but the sites are spacious w/ tables, pit, bathroom facility a short walk away with a creek nearby."
Educational opportunities: Several conservation areas provide learning experiences about local ecology. Regarding Prairie State Park, a visitor notes: "The nature center is small but they have two bison, a coyote, and many other learning opportunities inside."
Trail difficulty considerations: Assess trail difficulty before hiking with children. Josh S. says about Busiek: "Be wary of the water level, this can impact any hiking you might be looking to do, so be ready."
Tips from RVers
Site surface variations: At Prairie State Park Campground, Hanna T. advises: "2 sites have paved pads and the others are gravel/dirt. The 2 outer gravel sites back up to a curved stream that runs along the perimeter of the campground but are lower and more shaded and more prone to hovering clouds of bugs."
Water crossing awareness: Some camping areas require navigating water features. "Since you have to drive through this stream to get to the campground beware when there has been heavy rain as it may not be accessible," warns Hanna T. about Prairie State Park.
Solar charging options: For RVers using solar power, site selection matters. "I think I stayed in site 4 and it was great for my solar panel," mentions Hanna T. about Prairie State Park's more open sites.
