Primitive tent campsites near Fulton, Missouri include multiple conservation areas and public access points along the Gasconade and Missouri Rivers. Most sites lack running water and electrical hookups, requiring self-sufficiency from campers. Conservation areas typically maintain vault toilets, though cleanliness varies seasonally, and fire restrictions may apply during dry periods in summer and fall.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Helds Island Access provides a well-maintained boat launch with steady traffic from local anglers. "There's a boat launch here. Saw a decent amount of traffic for this. Grass sites. Road is well maintained. Quiet the one night I spent there," notes a camper at Helds Island Access.
Cave exploration: Rock Bridge Memorial State Park features multiple cave systems beyond the camping areas. "I found the Devil's Icebox and was rejoiced by how remarkably cool it was (56 degrees Fahrenheit to be exact!) compared to the thick, humid summer air," reports one visitor to Rock Bridge Memorial State Park.
Hiking trails: Conservation areas surrounding Fulton offer varied terrain for day hikes. "I explored some of the extensive primitive trails, first by hiking and then by trail running. There are beautiful sights along the way, from wildlife to old, abandoned silos. The trails were marked by distance and difficulty, ranging from easy to challenging."
What campers like
Privacy levels: Some sites offer substantial seclusion despite proximity to towns. "Quiet at night and during the day some local fisherman come to fish," notes a camper about Vandalia Community Lake.
River access: Several sites provide direct access to water for swimming, though conditions vary. At Fredericksburg Ferry Access, "Sites are all within about a 5 min walk from the boat ramp on the Gasconade. Sign reads 'no swimming' but there's a nice gravel bar just downstream from the ramp."
Wildlife viewing: Camp areas often support diverse animal populations. "Gorgeous little lake. Vault toilets. Our camp fire ring was shaped like a heart! Probably not on purpose but we liked it. Very quiet. Lots of fishing. And we actually saw the cat!"
What you should know
Distance to supplies: Most tent camping areas near Fulton require advance planning for provisions. At Ben Branch Lake Conservation Area, campers note "Town of Linn a 20 minute drive to get supplies."
Water crossing considerations: Some river access points require swimming ability. "The swim there requires crossing a moderately sized river that is relatively swift. This is fine for people who swim well but not recommended for young children or weak swimmers especially without flotation devices."
Facility limitations: Most conservation areas have basic facilities only. "Vault toilets available. Quiet. No water, hook ups or picnic tables, but fire rings. Wish people would understand pack in pack out and not leave trash! Otherwise very peaceful experience."
Tips for camping with families
Trail difficulty assessment: Some conservation areas offer multilevel trails suited to different ages. "A number of families with little children ran around enjoying the boardwalks, ascending and descending the stairs built into the hills."
Swimming safety: River access points require careful supervision of children. "It is swift enough to carry you downstream of your target even for good swimmers, so plan for this, especially for your swim back upstream (recommend walking upstream past dock then floating back across to dock)."
Animal encounters: Prepare children for wildlife interactions at Pike's Camp. "Great little river access. Has a shaded grassy area for camping. No power vault toilets. Be prepared for some neighbors and young visitors through the night."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accommodations: Most conservation areas surrounding Fulton primarily support tent camping with few RV amenities. "Very small parking lot that is supposed to be a designated camping area, not ideal unless car camping. Has nice lakes with boat ramps but that's about it."
Alternative terrain options: Water Mountain offers more suitable RV terrain than most conservation areas. "Lots of open space to camp and plenty of area to hike or use an ATV. Also it's on the river which is nice!"
Road conditions: Access roads to conservation areas vary seasonally. "Drive was safe in our heavy converted camper van. No off road vehicle or AWD needed."
