Best Dispersed Camping near Hollister, MO

Hollister is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Hollister. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Missouri camping adventure.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Hollister, Missouri (7)

    1. Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area

    4 Reviews
    7 Photos
    121 Saves
    Bradleyville, Missouri

    Hercules Glades Wilderness Area is 12,413 acres of the most scenic and unique country in the Midwest. Its combination of open grassland, forested knobs, steep rocky hillsides, and narrow drainages offers unusual beauty and a measure of solitude within easy reach of wilderness lovers. The area is characterized by shallow droughty soils and limestone rock outcroppings. Eastern red cedar and oak trees are interspersed with open glades supporting native tall prairie grasses. Redbud and dogwood provide beautiful spring flowers, while smoke tree and maple put on vivid fall colors. A variety of wildlife species live within the Hercules Glades including white-tailed deer, raccoons rabbits, squirrels, turkey, quail, songbirds, lizards and snakes. Copperheads and rattlesnakes may be encountered. Roadrunners, collared lizards, tarantulas, wild hogs and black bears are some of the more uncommon wildlife residents. Limit your party size to 10 persons. No camping within 100 feet of trails, water sources and other camps.Practice Leave No Trace outdoor ethics; Never tie stock directly to trees. No motorized or mechanized equipment allowed. Trails: From the trailheads there is 32 miles of maintained trails which follows along open glades, forested ridgetops and Long Creek, the primary drainage of the area. Cross country hiking in other parts of the area is allowed. Key attractions along the trail include Long Creek Falls, panoramic views of the Ozarks countryside, and a variety of native communities including open limestone glades and mixed forests. Rating: More Difficult to Most Difficult with steep terrain, stream crossings, sparsely marked trail, and elevations from 600 to 1200 feet. Length: 32 miles Best Seasons: Fall, winter, and spring. Leave No Trace: Pack out what you pack in. Restrictions: Foot and Horse only. Safety: No drinking water is available at parking areas or along the trail; bring what you will need, or be prepared to sterilize water you find. During temperate months, be prepared for biting insects, poison ivy and high temperatures. Be advised of hunting seasons. Avoid using the trail during excessively wet periods. Surface Type: Unsurfaced, native material.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol

    2. Hercules Glades (Watch Tower)

    3 Reviews
    1 Photo
    52 Saves
    Bradleyville, Missouri
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • Picnic Table
    • Toilets

    3. Blair Ridge Rd Dispersed

    1 Review
    1 Photo
    26 Saves
    Greeson Lake, Arkansas

    Many people enjoy the solitude and peaceful experience of camping away from large groups of people. Dispersed camping is the term used for free camping anywhere in the National Forest OUTSIDE of a designated campground and at least 100 feet from any administrative site to include trails, buildings and designated recreational areas. Dispersed camping means there are no toilets, no structures, no trash cans, no treated water, and no fire grates. There are extra responsibilities required for this type of camp. It's a must to educate yourself before you try it, but we hope the adventure of dispersed camping in the Mark Twain National Forest calls to you!

    Picking a Campsite

    If you are going to an area where others have camped, pick a site that's been used before. If there is no existing campsite, then follow these Leave No Trace guidelines:

    Camp on bare soil if possible, to avoid damaging or killing plants and grass. Camp 100 feet away from any water source - plants near water and water sources are fragile. Camp 100 feet away from any administrative site (Trails, Recreational Areas and/or Building).

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • WiFi
    • Alcohol

    4. Sugar Camp Lookout Tower Dispersed Area

    1 Review
    2 Photos
    16 Saves
    Eagle Rock, Missouri

    You can not camp in the tower - it is closed off - but there is area around the tower for off grid primitive camping.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Dispersed

    5. Woolum Dispersed Area — Buffalo National River

    6 Reviews
    23 Photos
    163 Saves
    St. Joe, Arkansas

    Woolum Campground is a large open field at the Woolum access to the Buffalo River near St. Joe AR. There are no amenities at Woolum. There are no designated sites. A vault toilet is available. Fees are not charged at Woolum. Woolum serves as overflow when Tyler Bend campground is full.

    • Fires
    • Dispersed
    • Toilets
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Showing results 1-7 of 7 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews near Hollister, MO

15 Reviews of 7 Hollister Campgrounds



Guide to Hollister

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Hollister, Missouri, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities. With several well-reviewed spots in the area, campers can find the perfect escape into the wilderness.

Dispersed campers should check out Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area

  • Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area offers a unique experience with the freedom to camp almost anywhere, making it ideal for those seeking solitude and adventure.
  • Hikers will appreciate the stunning four-mile trail that features beautiful viewpoints and challenging terrain, perfect for those looking to explore the great outdoors.
  • Be mindful of local regulations regarding fires and overnight parking, as these can change frequently, ensuring a safe and enjoyable stay.

Coy Bald Trail for dispersed campers

  • The Hercules Glades (Watch Tower) provides access to the Coy Bald Trail, which is known for its scenic beauty and relatively easy navigation.
  • Campers can find several primitive sites near the trailhead, making it a convenient spot for those looking to hike and camp in one trip.
  • The area is quiet and secluded, allowing for a peaceful night under the stars, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Great hiking opportunities while free camping near Hollister

  • The Blair Ridge Rd Dispersed area is perfect for those who want to enjoy a more secluded camping experience with minimal man-made noise.
  • With fire rings available, this spot is great for cooking and gathering around the fire after a day of hiking through the beautiful Mark Twain National Forest.
  • Campers can expect to find a variety of wildlife and natural beauty, making it an excellent choice for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Hollister, MO is Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area with a 4.5-star rating from 4 reviews.

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

    TheDyrt.com has all 7 dispersed camping locations near Hollister, MO, with real photos and reviews from campers.