Best Dispersed Camping near Harry S. Truman Lake in Missouri

Searching for a dispersed campsite near Harry S. Truman Lake? Dispersed camping is an excellent way to get away from it all and to disconnect. Find dispersed campsites you've visited before, or discover new spots from other campers.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Harry S. Truman Lake, 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
    • No image available

      2. Poague Campsite #4

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      Clinton, Missouri

      • 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

        3. Poague Campsite #3

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        1 Save
        Clinton, Missouri

        • 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 #5

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          1 Save
          Clinton, Missouri

          • 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)
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        Showing results 1-4 of 4 campgrounds

        Recent Dispersed Reviews in Harry S. Truman Lake

        9 Reviews of 4 Harry S. Truman Lake Campgrounds


        • Megan C.The Dyrt PRO User
          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.The Dyrt PRO User
          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 The Dyrt PRO User
          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.


        Drive Time


        Guide to Harry S. Truman Lake

        Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Harry S. Truman Lake in Missouri, where nature lovers can find serene spots to pitch their tents or park their RVs. This area offers a variety of options for those seeking a more rustic camping experience.

        Tips for free and dispersed camping near Harry S. Truman Lake in Missouri

        • Poague Campsite #3 provides a free and accessible option for campers looking to enjoy the great outdoors without the hassle of reservations.
        • For those who prefer a drive-in experience, Poague Campsite #4 is a great choice, allowing easy access to the surrounding natural beauty.
        • If you're looking for a spot that allows reservations, consider Poague Campsite #5, which offers a blend of convenience and the freedom of dispersed camping.

        Unique wildlife encounters for dispersed campers

        • Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping is known for its friendly local wildlife, including a cat that has become a beloved companion for many visitors.
        • Campers have reported delightful interactions with local fauna, enhancing their outdoor experience at Montrose Missouri Conservation Area.
        • The area is also a great spot for families, as kids can engage in activities like searching for arrowheads, making it a memorable adventure.

        Essential amenities for a comfortable stay

        • While dispersed camping often means fewer amenities, Montrose Missouri Conservation Area offers basic facilities like pit toilets, making it a more comfortable option for campers.
        • The grassy areas at Montrose provide ample space for setting up tents or RVs, ensuring a pleasant camping experience.
        • Although some sites may lack picnic tables or fire pits, the natural surroundings and available firewood at Montrose make it easy to enjoy a cozy evening outdoors.

        Frequently Asked Questions

        • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Harry S. Truman Lake?

          According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Harry S. Truman Lake 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 Harry S. Truman Lake?

          TheDyrt.com has all 4 dispersed camping locations near Harry S. Truman Lake, with real photos and reviews from campers.