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Best Dispersed Camping near Kingdom City, MO

14 Reviews

Pine Ridge Recreation Area in the Mark Twain National Forest offers several free off-grid campsites near New Bloomfield, approximately 30 minutes from Kingdom City. The area features designated primitive sites with fire pits and picnic tables, vault toilets, and potable water access. No electrical hookups or showers are available. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with a 14-day maximum stay.

Three Creeks Conservation Area provides more remote sites accessible by hiking or walking in. According to one visitor, "You have to scope out the area to find a suitable spot to set up camp." The area has conflicting information about camping access, with some recent reviews indicating "Signs posted no camping" while others note primitive camping is possible. Franklin Island offers tent camping with fires allowed but no facilities. Both locations provide true wilderness experiences but require self-sufficiency as they lack amenities and reliable cell service. Seasonal conditions significantly impact access, with muddy terrain common during wet periods.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Kingdom City, Missouri (5)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Kingdom City, MO

11 Photos of 5 Kingdom City Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Kingdom City, MO

14 Reviews of 5 Kingdom City Campgrounds

  • Curtis M.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 22, 2018

    Pine Ridge Recreation Area

    Pines Pines Pines impressive

    Set in the Cedar Creek District of the mark Twain National Forest this campground is perfect for a night stay or a backpacking trip. On site camp hostess and privy. Great hammock camping

  • Charlotte B.
    Jul. 9, 2018

    Pine Ridge Recreation Area

    great trails

    Love the trails and the secluded spots. There usually are always people camping, even in the winter. Also, there are no electric sites so dont forget your generator. My husband and I have felt a little unsafe. We once had another camper come into our site and not want to leave.

  • L
    Feb. 9, 2020

    Pine Ridge Recreation Area

    Peaceful

    Stayed 2 nights, blacktop rv site, back in, w table, fire pit, grill on pit as well as seperate on pedestal, covered table for storage  or prep, also picnic table, water faucet, dumpsters, vault toilet.  Stayed in Oct so it was not busy, there were a few tents, hiking trail lots of shade.  Nice country road drive in and out.

  • Michael M.
    Jun. 18, 2021

    Pine Ridge Recreation Area

    Nice semi-quite place to overnight.

    All and all nice place. Some roads are gravel and chalky leading there (my cars still covered and I'm in Colorado now!) Pit Toilets were nice, one for campground. 2 potable water sites. Campsites were not well defined and judging by the beer cans in some site fire rings it might get rowdy on the weekend.

  • Chrischelle N.
    Sep. 8, 2020

    Pine Ridge Recreation Area

    Great Campground

    Pros: Free!! Close to Columbia but far enough away for a getaway. Easy to find from the road, even in the dark. Fire pits and picnic tables are there. Vault toilets and running water available. Hiking trailhead at the entrance of the campground. Camping spots are spaced out enough.

    Cons: Can hear lawn-mowing and Gun shots from neighboring properties in the early morning. Still not the end of the world. Definitely fills up on the weekends.

    I stayed at #3 and it was a very spacious private spot. If you have kids/dogs I recommend spot #4 it has a long strip of playroom for running around without disturbing other spaces. 2 week maximum stay.

  • FThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 6, 2020

    Pine Ridge Recreation Area

    Pine Ridge Dispersed camping at Mark Twain National Forest

    There was easy access to the campground. There were designated spots to camp that had a picnic table and camp grill. Didn't like people just sitting in parked cars in the campground. Quite place to camp for the night.

  • Ron R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 29, 2025

    Pine Ridge Recreation Area

    New rates apply?

    I arrived at the site in April of 2025, and was greeted with a locked gate and signage stating rates are $15 per night. Envelopes and lock box are in place. Beautiful campground with plenty of freshly cut firewood. Excellent spot for overnight or weekends with the family.

  • Jenn L.
    Sep. 27, 2019

    Pine Ridge Recreation Area

    My absolute favorite place close to home.

    This campground is pretty stripped down. There are vault toilets and that's it for amenities. However, it is also one of my favorites close to home to hike. The campsites are always clean, but you almost always find litter in the fire rings. You have to gather your own wood or bring approved stuff in, but it is perfect for a quick overnight trip.

  • Mashleys B.
    Jun. 21, 2021

    Pine Ridge Recreation Area

    Nice campsite!

    Went here on a sunday night. Only two other campers. Toilets, dumpster, and water pump present. Only bummer was lots of ticks and there must be a gun range nearby, which set off our dog's anxiety.

Guide to Kingdom City

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Kingdom City, Missouri, where nature meets tranquility. With a variety of options available, outdoor enthusiasts can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Kingdom City

  • Enjoy hiking and exploring the scenic trails at Three Creeks Conservation Area, where the natural beauty is especially stunning in the fall.
  • Experience the peacefulness of Pine Ridge Recreation Area, which offers well-maintained sites and clean facilities for a comfortable stay.
  • Engage in birdwatching and wildlife observation at Ranacker Conservation Area, where the open fields and surrounding woods provide a perfect habitat for various species.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Kingdom City, Missouri

  • Be prepared for limited amenities at Franklin Island, as it offers a secluded experience with no free facilities, making it ideal for those seeking solitude.
  • Keep an eye out for ticks and other wildlife when camping at Pine Ridge Recreation Area, especially during warmer months, to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
  • Familiarize yourself with the area before heading to Three Creeks Conservation Area, as some campers have reported difficulty finding designated camping spots due to a lack of signage.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Pine Ridge Recreation Area

  • This location allows for campfires, making it a great spot for evening gatherings and storytelling under the stars at Pine Ridge Recreation Area.
  • With drinking water available and clean vault toilets, Pine Ridge Recreation Area provides essential amenities that enhance the camping experience.
  • Pets are welcome at Pine Ridge Recreation Area, allowing you to bring your furry friends along for the adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Kingdom City, MO?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Kingdom City, MO is Pine Ridge Recreation Area with a 3.8-star rating from 13 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 5 dispersed camping locations near Kingdom City, MO, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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