Rudolf Bennitt Conservation Area offers equestrian camping opportunities near Moberly, Missouri within its 3,300-acre wooded property. The conservation area features both upland forest and open grassland areas situated at approximately 800 feet elevation. North-central Missouri's climate brings humid summers and cold winters, with spring and fall providing the most comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities at horse-friendly campsites.
What to do
Fishing at Mark Twain Lake: Indian Creek Campground provides access to Mark Twain Lake where "Great beach and marina. Mark Twain Lake is beautiful. Lots of hiking trails and greenery between campsites. Many established trees. Ticks galore so prepare for that," shares zannie P.
Kayaking and water activities: Finger Lakes State Park offers unique paddling experiences, as Ashley F. explains: "This park is one of my favorite nearby spots to take the kayak out and just float. Paddling through these channels is such a dreamy experience. Kayaks and canoes are available to rent as well."
Shooting range access: Conservation areas provide designated shooting areas for target practice. At Rudolf Bennitt Conservation Area, Ron R. notes, "Also a shooting range centrally located in the park," making it convenient for campers wanting to practice.
What campers like
Well-maintained trails: The equestrian trail system at horse campgrounds near Moberly offers varied terrain. Linda H. describes Rudolf Bennitt: "Trails and camping areas in woods are setup for equestrian with good trails for hikers, bikers and horses."
Spacious campsites: Frank Russell Campground gets high marks for site quality with Davis F. simply stating it's "Roomy, clean, spacious, affordable." This provides ample room for equipment and comfort.
Peaceful atmosphere: Many campgrounds in the Moberly area offer quiet surroundings. At Cedar Creek Resort & RV Park, Mona/John L. appreciated the "Quiet peaceful place for our overnight stop, would like to have extended stay to enjoy all the amenities."
What you should know
Limited facilities at conservation areas: Most Moberly-area horse camping spots have minimal amenities. At Rudolf Bennitt, Linda H. observes: "Camping at lake is open gravel or grass. Nice fishing lake with docks, boat ramp and vault toilet and the only one provided."
Tick presence: Be prepared for ticks when camping near Moberly, especially during warmer months. At Dry Fork Recreation Area, Meghan B. warns: "We had a fine one-night stay while traveling through, but encountered A LOT of ticks on the overgrown trail. BEWARE of ticks and check yourselves and your pets if staying here."
Campsite navigation: Some conservation areas require good navigational skills. Linda H. advises: "Get a brochure with park map at entrance as roads pass through park and private property."
Tips for camping with families
Fishing opportunities: Lakes and ponds provide fishing options for families. At Whetstone Conservation Area, Kayla W. notes "Several ponds and a larger lake" are available, though currently under repair.
Swimming access: Some campgrounds offer swimming beaches, while others have more limited water access. Heather S. shares about Finger Lakes State Park: "The beach usually is not crowded, which is really nice. I'm not a fan of the motorcross noise, but there is a noise curfew so it's tolerable."
Wildlife viewing: The forested areas around Moberly's horse campgrounds support diverse wildlife. Charlotte B. says Dry Fork Recreation Area is "The place to hike. We love hiking this area. There are fields and wooded areas along with a beautiful creek. It's fun to search for mushrooms and you are guaranteed to see deer and turkey."
Tips from RVers
Level parking pads: Frank Russell Campground offers excellent site conditions for RVers. Doug W. notes: "The sites are all paved and most are well spaced. My only concern is the photos of the sites are a bit deceiving. I thought my site, #6, was dead level. While it was level side to side, it had about 6" of slope front to back."
Water and dump stations: When staying at equestrian campgrounds without hookups, plan for water needs. Jan K. at Frank Russell Campground shares: "Used their dump station and filled the water tank as we exited the park."
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds may be unpaved. Amy E. observed at Cedar Creek Resort: "The only thing I didn't love was the gravel road all the way in. Our truck and camper was covered with gravel dust. So if you had anything exposed, it'll get a bit dusty."
