Dispersed camping near Forsyth, Missouri offers campers access to the rugged terrain of the Ozarks at no cost. Multiple free camping locations exist throughout Mark Twain National Forest, situated at elevations ranging from 700 to 1,400 feet. Weather conditions vary significantly by season, with summer temperatures often exceeding 90°F and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing.
What to do
Hiking through diverse terrain: The Hercules Glades area features trails with varying difficulty levels through different ecosystems. "I did the Coy Bald hike and loved it. Most of the trail was fairly easy to navigate, however the areas of open meadows were a little more difficult to find where it picks back up," notes a visitor to Hercules Glades (Watch Tower).
Wildlife observation: Early mornings provide optimal viewing opportunities for deer, turkey, and various bird species. During hunting seasons, wear bright colors for safety. "Practice good bear prevention measures and you're good to go for a free night stay, or several," advises a camper at Sugar Camp Lookout Tower Dispersed Area.
Water activities: Several creek crossings in Hercules Glades offer wading opportunities during warmer months. One camper mentions, "About a mile in you'll cross the river for the first time. There are camp sites with fire rings on both sides of the river. This is a scenic area with bluffs on one side of the river, but forested, so no views to speak of."
What campers like
Secluded sites: Free camping near Forsyth provides solitude away from developed campgrounds. A visitor to Blair Ridge Rd Dispersed notes, "There are two fire rings along this road. Both locations have full bars (Verizon). Little to no man made noise but be respectful, there is a private residence at the end of the road."
Accessible wilderness: Despite feeling remote, many sites are relatively easy to reach. "We got here on a pretty hilly/twisty road late at night, found a spot close to the trailhead and had a quiet, peaceful night sleep. We saw just one other camper with a trailer close to the inlet," shares a visitor about their experience at Hercules Glades Watch Tower.
Established campsites: Multiple areas feature existing fire rings and cleared spaces. At Sugar Camp Lookout Tower, one camper found "a very large space, with a nice picnic table and a few fire pits. Completely surrounded by forest, so plenty of shade."
What you should know
Permit requirements: Some areas require specific documentation. At Gene Rush Wildlife Management Area, "100% of Wildlife Management Areas in the state of Arkansas require a Hunting license or WMA camping permit purchased though Arkansas Game and Fish. WMA Regulations are very easy to find on the AGFC website."
Limited facilities: No dispersed sites provide potable water or waste disposal. "The only ammenities are some fire rings and 1 toilet. It's a beautiful area but fairly remote and immediate services. Again, good for backpacking/hiking," explains a camper at Hercules Glades Watch Tower.
Trail navigation challenges: Some routes require careful attention. A hiker at Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area shares, "The trail is pretty rough and rocky with moderate elevation changes. I'd rate it on the low side of moderate difficulty."
Tips for camping with families
Tick prevention: Apply repellent and check frequently for ticks, especially in warmer months. A visitor to Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area noted, "The only issue was the ticks, they were the worst I'd dealt with in some time."
Safety preparation: Cell service varies dramatically across dispersed camping areas. "This area is also one which you will find many snakes lurking during warmer months so beware! I always suggest on wilderness hikes to not hike alone or camp alone but this one I found to be more problematic with limited to no cell service for assistance should you encounter danger."
Kid-friendly trails: The shorter routes at Hercules Glades can accommodate younger hikers. One long-time visitor recalls, "Our daughters, now in their forties grew up hiking those trails."
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Access roads to dispersed sites vary in quality. At Sugar Camp Lookout Tower, a camper reports, "Access road was a little rough, as in your typical dirt road, but posed 0 problems for our little economy car. I've had much worse for sure."
Site capacity: Some areas can accommodate multiple vehicles. "'Chelle S." notes that at Sugar Camp Lookout Tower Dispersed Area, they "Could easily get 4 rigs + in the sight. Established fire ring (be mindful of burn bans). Close to Roaring River and Table Rock lake."
Seasonal considerations: Hunting activity affects campsite availability. At Gene Rush Wildlife Management Area, a camper advises, "Know the seasons and be courteous. There is pretty much at least one open hunting season from September each year through the following May."
