Tent campsites near Falcon, Missouri span several conservation areas and public lands across the Ozarks region. These primitive camping locations offer access to rivers like the Current River and Osage River, providing opportunities for water recreation and fishing. Most sites sit within forested settings at elevations between 700-1,000 feet, creating natural shade during summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 85°F.
What to do
Trout fishing access: Cedar Grove/Dee Murray Backcountry Camping in Ozark National Scenic Riverway provides direct river access for anglers. "Nice Scenic remote area, good for wading and trout fishing. It is also a beautiful place to float with the family," notes camper Lisa S.
River wading: The shallow areas at Fiery Fork Conservation Area create natural play areas. One visitor explains, "The river access is really amazing. It's a great place to launch a boat from or just to wade in a bit and fish. Fly fishing can be done easily from the bank or just by wading in a bit."
Wildlife observation: Conservation areas offer opportunities to spot native species. At Fiery Fork Conservation Area, campers report seeing "Armadillos, deer, and a few different bird types could be found easily," making it ideal for nature photography and observation.
What campers like
Uncrowded camping: During off-peak seasons, many campgrounds offer solitude. As one camper at Osage-Tavern Access reported, "I arrived at 6 on a Saturday (post labor day) and plenty of sites available. A couple of families/kids here but not too loud."
Level camping surfaces: Finding flat tent spots requires minimal effort. According to a Fiery Fork visitor, the area offers "parking right beside your spot, trails, access to the river, good hammock trees, flat-level surface!"
River beach areas: Natural sandy areas at river access points provide recreational spaces. One camper noted, "We decided it would be a nice place to bring our kids since there is quite a bit of 'beach' at the river access for them to play and see nature."
What you should know
Gravel road conditions: Access roads to campsites can become challenging after rain. One visitor to Fiery Fork Conservation Area cautioned, "The road down was very sketchy for my 2008 Mazda 3. It's a very simple campground but in a great location near the ozarks."
No cell service: Emergency communications require planning ahead. At Fiery Fork, "there was absolutely NO service there which was good to get away, but bad in an emergency. We were able to drive a couple of miles for a signal."
Pack-out requirements: Most campgrounds lack trash service. Campers often report issues like, "Much of the area was covered in trash. Bring extra trash bags!" and "Unfortunately there was some spots with trash, especially around the fire. There is no dumpster so be prepared to take your trash with you."
Tips for camping with families
River access evaluation: Check water levels before bringing children. At Akers Group Campground, one parent shared, "There's a very short path from the site to the current river, which is beautiful," making it convenient for families to enjoy water activities.
Grass conditions: Some areas have inconsistent maintenance schedules. A regular visitor to Akers noted, "My ONLY complaint is that they never seem to cut the grass close to when we come. It's not terrible, just a weedy and a little longer than I'd like it to be for tent camping."
Tick prevention: Prepare for heavy tick activity during warm months. One camper warns, "The down side...ticks galore!" suggesting families bring appropriate repellent and conduct regular tick checks.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for small RVs: Primitive campgrounds accommodate modest rigs. A visitor recommended, "I don't recommend taking [the road] until it gets some maintenance. It is overgrown and HIGH tick contact probability. Did not stay near the river but I believe there are more campsites there. I recommend smaller RVs due to the 2 miles of gravel and high water areas."
Generator considerations: Few restrictions exist on generator use at McCubbins Point, but campers should be mindful of noise levels in these otherwise quiet settings. The boat ramp access makes this location suitable for RVers with watercraft.
Seasonal planning: Spring and fall offer more availability and fewer crowds. A camper shared, "Be prepared to have neighbors. I stayed here for a few days in April. There were a few campers, but I'd be very surprised if this place isn't loud and packed in the summer."
