Best Dispersed Camping near Hartshorn, MO

Dispersed camping opportunities near Hartshorn, Missouri include several primitive sites within the Ozark National Scenic Riverway and Mark Twain National Forest. Blue Spring Backcountry Camping offers riverside sites with crystal clear water, while Murphy Overlook provides more remote forest settings. Little Scotia Pond features accessible dispersed sites with beaver activity and abundant wildlife. Sunklands Conservation Area and Log Yard Campground round out the free camping options in this region.

Most dispersed sites in this area require appropriate vehicles for access. Murphy Overlook is accessible only via Forest Service Road 2363, with 4WD or AWD strongly recommended due to gravel roads and occasional steep sections. According to reviews, "This site is accessible by AWD and 4x4 but I would hesitate to attempt it with any other car." Little Scotia Pond similarly requires high-clearance vehicles, particularly after rain when conditions deteriorate.

Amenities are minimal at these primitive sites. Vault toilets exist at Whitten River Access and McCormack Lake, but most locations have no facilities. Campers should pack out all trash and prepare for self-sufficient camping. Cell service is extremely limited throughout the region. Several campers noted complete absence of signal at Log Yard Campground and Murphy Overlook, making paper maps essential. Fire rings are present at most sites, though campers must bring their own firewood or collect dead wood responsibly.

Wildlife encounters are common in these remote areas. Black bears have been spotted near Murphy Overlook, and beavers are active around Little Scotia Pond. The Ozark region also hosts reintroduced elk herds. Weather conditions vary dramatically by season, with potential for creek crossings to become impassable after heavy rain. Winter camping is possible but requires additional preparation for freezing temperatures and potentially difficult road conditions.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Hartshorn, Missouri (13)

    1. Blue Spring Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway

    7 Reviews
    Mountain View, MO
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (573) 323-4236

    "This is a primitive camping area and there are a lot of partying people in and around this area plus frequent motorboat traffic. No amenities, many generators. Drive in, pick a spot and set up camp."

    "We visit this campground multiple times a year and it's always a positive experience. My parents have ano rv and they allow us to camp in a tent next to them!"

    2. Sunklands Conservation Area

    1 Review
    Hartshorn, MO
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (573) 226-3616

    3. Little Scotia Pond 4x4 Dispersed Site

    2 Reviews
    Bunker, MO
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (573) 364-4621

    "Although the old rv park across the water is nice and level, we ended up wanting to be closer to the water and there happened to be a trail."

    "Wasn’t a bad drive in. Decent amount of wild life hanging around. Will probably hear the beaver if you stay at one of the two sites by the pond. Only saw one other group camping here while we did."

    4. Log Yard Campground Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway

    8 Reviews
    Van Buren, MO
    32 miles

    "This area has access to the shores of the current river. No campsites, just the open rocky shores. You can park right on the shores and set up camp. Beware!"

    "Pit toilets, dumpster, and water all on site but not at each camp. Great spot to car camp."

    5. Little Scotia Pond

    1 Review
    Bunker, MO
    26 miles
    Website

    "There's a trail that leads off by the old damn that leads to an old gravesite with stones from the 1800's. Hard to find, bit rewarding. If you like solitude love this place."

    6. FS-2363 Dispersed Camping - Murphy Overlook

    11 Reviews
    Black, MO
    47 miles
    Website

    "This was a very good location if you want some remote dispersed camping. I went on a Saturday night in January and only saw two people drive the forest service road."

    "We were the only people along this forest service road and got the prettiest spot towards the end of the road overlooking the mountain across. This camping area is a hidden gem!"

    7. McCormack Lake Rec Area

    4 Reviews
    Alton, MO
    35 miles
    Website
    +1 (573) 364-4621

    "We had a local with his hounds running around with a flashlight looking up trees for about an hour around 9PM. I'm guessing he was raccoon hunting...?"

    "Totally alone with a gorgeous lake."

    8. Cane Bluff River Access

    3 Reviews
    Alton, MO
    36 miles
    Website

    "It's way back on a little dirt road past some farm land and homes."

    9. Sycamore Loop Dispersed

    1 Review
    Willow Springs, MO
    35 miles
    Website
    +1 (573) 364-4621

    10. Whitten River Access

    2 Reviews
    Alton, MO
    44 miles

    "No one around on this 5 degrees F night. Access road is steep but not rough."

    "It has river access via a boat ramp and "dock". There are several level, clear places to camp with enough room for rv's. The road in is rough gravel and a big rv will be slow going."

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Showing results 1-10 of 13 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Hartshorn, MO

37 Reviews of 13 Hartshorn Campgrounds



Guide to Hartshorn

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Hartshorn, Missouri, where nature lovers can immerse themselves in serene landscapes and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. With numerous options available, you'll find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

Top Activities for Nature Lovers While Free Camping Near Hartshorn

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Hartshorn, Missouri

Scenic Spots for Swimming and Relaxation for Dispersed Campers

  • Dive into the refreshing waters at Cane Bluff River Access, where you can enjoy a rope swing and a rocky beach perfect for sunbathing.
  • The picturesque views at Thomasville River Access provide an ideal backdrop for a relaxing day by the water, making it a great spot for swimming and picnicking.
  • For a unique experience, visit Sycamore Loop Dispersed, where you can explore the old campground and enjoy the natural beauty of the area while soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Hartshorn, MO?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Hartshorn, MO is Blue Spring Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway with a 4.3-star rating from 7 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Hartshorn, MO?

TheDyrt.com has all 13 dispersed camping locations near Hartshorn, MO, with real photos and reviews from campers.