Top Free Dispersed Camping near Garden City, MO

Planning a dispersed camping trip near Garden City? Find the best information on dispersed campgrounds near Garden City, including photos, reviews, and tips. From secluded to easily reachable, we offer dispersed campsites near Garden City just for you.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Garden City, MO (4)

    Camper-submitted photo from Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping

    1. Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping

    9 Reviews
    29 Photos
    193 Saves

    Camping limited to 14 days

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    • Trash
    • Toilets
    • No image available

      2. Poague Campsite #5

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      1 Save

      • Camping is permitted in posted parking lots. • No littering. • No fireworks. • No open fires except in areas designated open to camping. • No free-running pets. Dogs must be leashed or confined when not being used for hunting. • Motor vehicles are restricted to graveled roadways and parking areas. • Destroying, cutting or removing vegetation is prohibited. Nuts, berries, fruits, edible wild greens and mushrooms may be taken only for personal consumption. • No target shooting allowed. • Trail and game cameras are prohibited.

      • Reservable
      • RVs
      • Tents
      • Standard (Tent/RV)
      • No image available

        3. Poague Campsite #3

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        • Camping is permitted in posted parking lots. • No littering. • No fireworks. • No open fires except in areas designated open to camping. • No free-running pets. Dogs must be leashed or confined when not being used for hunting. • Motor vehicles are restricted to graveled roadways and parking areas. • Destroying, cutting or removing vegetation is prohibited. Nuts, berries, fruits, edible wild greens and mushrooms may be taken only for personal consumption. • No target shooting allowed. • Trail and game cameras are prohibited.

        • RVs
        • Tents
        • Standard (Tent/RV)
        • No image available

          4. Poague Campsite #4

          Be the first to review!

          • Camping is permitted in posted parking lots. • No littering. • No fireworks. • No open fires except in areas designated open to camping. • No free-running pets. Dogs must be leashed or confined when not being used for hunting. • Motor vehicles are restricted to graveled roadways and parking areas. • Destroying, cutting or removing vegetation is prohibited. Nuts, berries, fruits, edible wild greens and mushrooms may be taken only for personal consumption. • No target shooting allowed. • Trail and game cameras are prohibited.

          • RVs
          • Tents
          • Standard (Tent/RV)

        Recent Dispersed Reviews In Garden City

        9 Reviews of 4 Garden City Campgrounds


        • Megan C.
          Camper-submitted photo from Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping
          Jan. 20, 2024

          Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping

          Decent spot

          It was quiet. We enjoyed our stay. I read about the black cat that was found there in the other review. It was still there when we camped in late December and quite hungry. Very friendly and needing love. We brought him home with us and he is the most amazing cat. Took a while to get litter trained but I’m glad we opened up our home to him before the bad weather got here. Thanks to this site, we found our new family member! Thanks to whoever posted.

        • AThe Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping
          Aug. 28, 2023

          Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping

          I Made a Kittah Friend

          There is a super sweet local cat who befriended me here and made my visit so much better. I had some mechanical issues with my car and Kampground Kittah tried to help. 🤣

          Bathrooms were fine. It’s free camping so it was great that there were bathrooms at all.

          One of the locals stopped by my site to look for arrowheads. Apparently, she has found a lot in the area so that’s a good activity if the kids are bored.

          If you’re looking for a good wine, you can find some at the local auto parts store. I am not kidding! I think it’s Rick’s Auto Parts and their liquor is priced very reasonably. 😄 If your car’s broken down and you can’t drive, I guess you might as well drink and Rick’s there to help you out with both. 🤣

        • Lee F.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping
          May. 6, 2023

          Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping

          Stinky toilet

          Large grassy area with plenty of room to set up a tent or camper. Right off the road, so no dirt roads to traverse. Signs were confusing as to whether it is ok to camp, but they didn't explicitly say no camping. The lake is really just a mud bog, so not very appealing unless you came to duck hunt. No picnic tables or fire pits. The pit toilet was really gross, but there was toilet paper.

        • Charles N.
          Camper-submitted photo from Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping
          Apr. 25, 2023

          Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping

          Amazing experience!

          We got to campsite pretty late, so when everyone was unpacked we went straight to bed. shortly after we all passed out from the long and beautiful 16 hour drive, we started hearing all the wildlife and I will never forget waking up in the most beautiful place. Was a picture perfect moment, Colorado springs will forever hold a spot in my, and my family's memories. have fun and safe travels!

        • Leni K.
          Camper-submitted photo from Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping
          Jun. 6, 2022

          Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping

          Great Secluded Dispersed Camping

          There is no camping allowed after October 15 due to hunting season. This was not on the website and was not seeable in dust when arriving late on a small sign in the bushes. Thankfully we were not shot! While free, dispersed sites, there are easily established fire pit areas to choose from Vault toilets were absolutely disgusting, thankfully we brought our own toilet paper. Easily accessible car camping. Not too many other campers at the other site where we spotted some RVs. Overall the remote location, gorgeous scenery and with a couple boats makes for a great weekend.

        • Sarah
          Camper-submitted photo from Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping
          Nov. 29, 2020

          Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping

          montrose conservation area missouri

          this little off the beaten path camp ground his paved roads, boat access for 2 areas 1 near the damn which closes a gate after 10pm, we use the other area near the conservation station(although ive never seen anyone there) park rangers are mostly non existent , they do drive through, they are quite nice an most the time never stop just smile an wave, there some fire spots but be kind an put up rocks that you can find along the shore, there is bathroom facilities and a dumpster behind the conservation building.

          the area is surrounded by trees but the area is clean, nice soft grass, there are pecan an walnut trees so watch out for your heads when its fall lol . you can fish, boat and swim but i recommend  water shoes. the water is very shallow most the time its only chest deep out in the middle. there is loads of wildlife to see an arent much scared of humans, racoons,beavers, crane, squirrels,dear,owls an much more. theres also blackberries in the fall. 

          all in all a very nice quiet little free camp area. we go all the time.



        Guide to Garden City

        Camping near Garden City, Missouri, offers a great mix of outdoor fun and relaxation. With several campgrounds in the area, you can find the perfect spot to enjoy nature and make lasting memories.

        What to do:

        • Fishing: Many campers enjoy fishing at Crow's Creek Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "We had a short walk to the lake for fishing, and the loop had a restroom." This makes it easy to spend a day by the water.
        • Hiking: Explore the trails at Knob Noster State Park Campground. A visitor shared, "Great trail network and very nice stock mo state park campground." The trails are perfect for a family adventure.
        • Swimming: If you’re looking to cool off, head to Camp Branch Campground. One camper noted, "The lake is big with a sand beach for the kiddos." It’s a great spot for family fun.

        What campers like:

        • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Watkins Mill State Park Campground. A reviewer said, "Showers and bathrooms are clean and the hosts are very nice." Clean facilities make for a more enjoyable stay.
        • Friendly staff: Many visitors rave about the helpful hosts at Blue Springs Lake Campground. One camper mentioned, "Good and helpful staff," which can make a big difference in your camping experience.
        • Spacious sites: Campers enjoy the space at Raccoon Ridge — Harry S Truman State Park. A visitor commented, "The campground has its own beach and its own boat launch that are only for campground guests." Spacious sites allow for more privacy and comfort.

        What you should know:

        • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Longview Campground, have fewer amenities. A camper noted, "No electric hookups, no fires allowed." Be prepared for a more rustic experience.
        • Road noise: If you’re sensitive to noise, consider this at Kansas City East-Oak Grove KOA. One reviewer mentioned, "Close proximity to the interstate does come with some traffic noise." It might not be the quietest spot.
        • Wildlife: Be aware of the local wildlife at Raccoon Ridge — Harry S Truman State Park. A visitor warned, "Keep food and bait inside as raccoons rule at night." It’s important to store food properly to avoid unwanted visitors.

        Tips for camping with families:

        • Choose a family-friendly campground: Blue Springs Lake Campground is great for families. One reviewer said, "We had a full hookup site located right by the playground and it was perfect for our family." Proximity to play areas can keep the kids entertained.
        • Plan for activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. A camper at Watkins Mill State Park Campground suggested, "Be sure to get biscuits & gravy at 'The General Store' just down the road from the park entrance." Local eateries can enhance your camping experience.
        • Pack essentials: One camper at Camp Branch Campground mentioned, "Bring a shelter for some relief from the sun." Having the right gear can make your trip more enjoyable.

        Tips from RVers:

        • Check site availability: Before heading to Crow's Creek Campground, one RVer advised, "We’ve stayed here several times without any problems." It’s wise to confirm availability, especially during peak seasons.
        • Bring leveling blocks: At Knob Noster State Park Campground, a visitor noted, "You will need leveling blocks on the gravel." This can help ensure a comfortable stay.
        • Stay connected: If you need to stay connected, check cell service. A camper at Raccoon Ridge — Harry S Truman State Park mentioned, "T-Mobile service with 2-3 bars, no WIFI." Knowing your connectivity options can help you plan better.

        Whether you're looking for a peaceful getaway or a fun family adventure, camping near Garden City, MO, has something for everyone.

        Frequently Asked Questions

        • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Garden City, MO?

          According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Garden City, MO is Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping with a 4.4-star rating from 9 reviews.

        • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Garden City, MO?

          TheDyrt.com has all 4 dispersed camping locations near Garden City, MO, with real photos and reviews from campers.