Tent campsites near Hollister, Missouri offer primitive camping options on public lands managed by state conservation departments and the National Park Service. The region sits at the northern edge of the Ozark Mountains where elevations range from 700 to 1,400 feet, creating dramatic ridge-to-valley transitions. Fall camping season brings temperatures ranging from 40°F at night to 70°F during daytime, making it ideal for tent setups with proper cold-weather gear.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Several conservation areas feature interconnected trail systems with varying difficulty levels. At Busiek, campers appreciate the diverse terrain: "Absolutely beautiful hiking trails and amazing off grid camping for family. Just make sure to bring the bug spray and tikis bc there are tons of bugs." Trail loops range from 1-3 miles with elevation changes of 300-400 feet.
River swimming: Many sites provide direct water access for cooling off during warmer months. The Buffalo River maintains water temperatures around 72°F through September. At Steel Creek Campground, "You can walk to the river from the campground which is very convenient! I'd recommend booking a campsite along the trees and further from the parking lot."
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings and evenings offer prime wildlife spotting opportunities. A camper at Kyles Landing noted: "The camp sites have tables and fire pits and are all next to the river. This camp sees heavy traffic during the day due to being the take out for paddle trips down from the town of Ponca."
What campers like
Seclusion options: Sites vary from open fields to forested areas with more privacy. A recent visitor to Drury-Mincy Conservation Area shared: "One of my favorite camping locations. Maybe 12 sites in all, no amenities for the most part but the peace and quiet is worth more." Weekday camping typically means 50-75% fewer campers than weekends.
Bathroom facilities: While primitive, most campgrounds maintain basic facilities. A camper reported: "It's a nice, basic campground. There's a toilet and dumpster on site, and there are several fire pits with grills and picnic tables. There are a lot of trees to provide shade and the view at sunset it beautiful!"
Affordability: Many conservation area campsites are free or low-cost options. At Swan Creek, a camper noted: "Has great dispersed camping, free, creek is accessible, has equestrian area to camp with horses, bout 45 minutes to a hour from Springfield. No service for ATT."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to primitive sites can be challenging, especially after rain. At Kyles Landing Campground, campers warn: "This campground is quite and beautiful. A real bob Ross of a campground, however the drive down the Arkansas hill to this serene location is a tense frustrating and should not be attempted with a real wheel drive or low profile vehicle."
Site availability: First-come, first-served sites fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. At Drury-Mincy, one camper reported: "Stopped in in the middle of the week, opening week of spring turkey season so expected a few other people there, not a single spot was open, and most looked to have been there longer than 14 days. Had to leave and find somewhere else."
Water sources: Many primitive sites lack potable water. A Drury-Mincy visitor advised: "Because this is a bit more off the beaten path bring everything, there are no stores nearby." Pack 1-2 gallons of water per person per day, as the nearest supply points may be 25-30 minutes away by car.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: When camping with children, sites with gentle water access provide natural entertainment. At Big Bay, a regular visitor mentioned: "This is my favorite campground but it usually is closed. It's primitive camping with only port a potty style bathrooms. No showers are available. Its very wooded and private. Most sites back directly up to the lake."
Bug prevention: The region's humidity supports active insect populations. Bring child-safe repellent with 20-30% DEET concentration. A family camper suggested: "Just awesome" when describing Busiek's camping area, but others emphasize preparation for insects, especially during summer months.
Toilet facilities: Prepare children for primitive bathroom facilities at most locations. Steel Creek offers upgraded options: "Bathrooms with flush toilets cleaned daily, but no showers. Weather and river reports posted at the bathroom daily. Foot paths to the river and access to hiking trails right there at the camp ground."
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Most primitive camping areas have restrictions for larger vehicles. Many conservation areas have turning radiuses under 40 feet and unpaved access roads that become difficult after rain. A camper at Aufderklamm Farm noted: "Beautiful private campground with access to Bull Shoals Lake. The campsite is lake view, and I took my kayak into a private lake cove."
Site surface considerations: RV sites often have limited leveling options. At Steel Creek, one visitor observed: "The sand may be a pain, but the sandy sites drain away rain water faster than the grassy sites that had standing water for a couple days after a big storm."
Generator restrictions: Most conservation areas prohibit generator use to maintain natural soundscapes. Several sites operate under quiet hours from 10 PM to 6 AM, with complete generator restrictions. Fall Creek Resort provides alternatives: "This campground is at the back of the Falls Creek Resort with the river on one side and a mountain on the other. Mature trees are scattered though out the park with a nice green space."
