Best Dispersed Camping near Koshkonong, MO

Several dispersed camping areas exist within driving distance of Koshkonong, Missouri, primarily located along river access points and conservation lands. Cane Bluff River Access, McCormack Lake Recreation Area, and Whitten River Access provide primitive camping opportunities with minimal amenities. The Ozark National Scenic Riverway includes multiple backcountry camping locations such as Blue Spring and Log Yard Campground, where visitors can establish campsites along riverbanks without formal designated areas.

Many access roads to these dispersed sites consist of dirt or gravel surfaces that may become challenging during wet conditions. Some locations, particularly Log Yard Campground, may require crossing creeks or navigating steep grades, with several campers recommending high-clearance vehicles or 4WD capability. Most sites lack drinking water, requiring campers to pack in their own supplies. While some areas like McCormack Lake and Blue Spring offer vault toilets, many locations provide no sanitation facilities. Camping is generally free at most sites, though Blue Spring now charges $10 per night.

The region attracts visitors seeking riverside camping experiences with clear water access. Sites along the Current River and Eleven Point River offer swimming and fishing opportunities directly from primitive campsites. Several locations provide stargazing opportunities due to minimal light pollution. According to one visitor, Log Yard Campground features "lots of space on the bank to have privacy from other campers, the river was blue and super pretty." Another noted that Cane Bluff River Access offers "Beautiful, primitive, secluded" camping where "you feel like you are in the wilderness." Weekday visits typically provide more solitude, as boat traffic and local visitors increase on weekends.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Koshkonong, Missouri (12)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Koshkonong, MO

17 Photos of 12 Koshkonong Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Koshkonong, MO

26 Reviews of 12 Koshkonong Campgrounds


  • Elaina M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 22, 2018

    Cane Bluff River Access

    Beautiful, primitive, secluded.

    Stumbled across this site in September (2016). It's way back on a little dirt road past some farm land and homes.

    Only a few campsites, no picnic tables, a fire ring, some heavily shaded spots, a couple sites right on the river (but none are far away). You feel like you are in the wilderness! Water is crystal clear and cool, didn't see another camper all weekend. Had a few folks using the boat ramps, but otherwise very private.

    Great stargazing on the beach and you'll see some bats too! Think they really helped keep the bugs off us all weekend, barely had any problems with those.

    Seriously beautiful campsite, and near some excellent floating & gorgeous springs.

  • Shelly S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 1, 2018

    Blue Spring Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway

    Blue, blue, blue, cold, cold, cold

    Blue Spring is beautiful and cold! Aside from the over zealous teenagers jumping into the spring it was a nice visit.

    This is a primitive camping area and there are a lot of partying people in and around this area plus frequent motorboat traffic. No amenities, many generators. Drive in, pick a spot and set up camp. There are so many areas to visit around the river this would be an excellent base camp or you could use it as a stop off on a float trip.

    Eminence, MO is nearby and a good place to refuel and get stuff you need for your adventures. Make sure you get a paper map because phone signal can be iffy.

  • Dave N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 15, 2020

    Log Yard Campground Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway

    Camping on river

    This area has access to the shores of the current river. No campsites, just the open rocky shores. You can park right on the shores and set up camp. Beware! The gravel settles if wet and many trailers and campers have gotten stuck here. 4wd is recommended. While their are no amenities, the location is beautiful. Very secluded

  • Linda C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 21, 2025

    Whitten River Access

    Spent a cold night here

    Arrived after dark. Found a level spot by the river, ground was frozen or it would have been muddy. No one around on this 5 degrees F night. Access road is steep but not rough.

  • A
    Oct. 31, 2020

    Log Yard Campground Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway

    Good place to stop for a few days

    There is a small designated campground above the river bank sites described in the other review. The site typically costs 5 dollars a day but a sign up at the campground says fees are waved due to less services for COVID. Pit toilets, dumpster, and water all on site but not at each camp. Great spot to car camp.

  • H
    May. 7, 2022

    Log Yard Campground Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway

    Hidden gem

    This site was a fantastic spot hidden pretty far off the beaten path. We had to fjord an overflowing stream that went across the road but didn’t have any trouble in our Jeep Wrangler. When we arrived we saw a couple tents at a site before we reached the water and only one vehicle by the water at the first “site”. We drive along a path past that first site and parked in another partially hidden water access site. It was perfect. Never heard or saw anyone else. Beautiful sunrise hitting the trees and the stone along the opposite side of the river in the morning. Highly recommend. Just be aware you will not have cell service.

  • VThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 21, 2024

    Log Yard Campground Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway

    Beautiful spot, noisy campers

    The scenery of this dispersed camping area is definitely a five star for the area. Nice view and access to the Current River. Plenty of stars out at night. There is an area of more traditional campground spaces you come across first but the dispersed style spots are further down the road. There’s still a $10/night fee. Even though there are fire rings all along the rocky beach, locals use this area as a boat launch and park their trucks and trailers in the camping areas. The campers who came in late on our last night destroyed the peaceful ambiance; loud kids running all over and pulling branches down from living trees, loud music past quiet hours and most running generators. That downgraded my rating from five stars overall. This would be a great place midweek or off season but definitely not going back during peak times due to the discourteous people.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 17, 2023

    Whitten River Access

    Great place for kayakers

    It has river access via a boat ramp and "dock". There are several level, clear places to camp with enough room for rv's. The road in is rough gravel and a big rv will be slow going. However, I've seen so good size rv's there. It's free and first come camping. There's a vault toilet. It's otherwise primitive camping. Our group kayaks in during trout fishing trips and have never had a problem finding a place to camp. The Eleven Point River is beautiful and cold. Some of the best outdoor fun for adventurous people.

  • Joseph A.
    Aug. 7, 2024

    Log Yard Campground Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway

    Remote camp on the river

    Log yard is a Backwoods camping area on the current river. 4 wheel drive is recommended. You have to cross a creek to get to this location. If the weather moves in. It would be wise to pack up and move out while you can. If the creek comes up, you may not be able to cross it again. There is one good established campsite at this location and 2 not so good ones. The area changes after a flood, and the campsites have to be reestablished. There is a boat ramp at this location that is a favorite hang out of the locals. They will drink, play loud music, and leave trash lay around. This stretch of the current is 25-hp boat territory. There will be boat traffic on the river on the weekends. Log yard is part of the Ozark scenic river ways, which is FEDERAL LAND. You may have an encounter with a forest ranger at this campsite. If you do, they will ask for your info and have you establish a Backwoods campsite. Be respectful and don't upset the Rangers. They don't play in the Ozark scenic river ways. This camp is beautiful and wild. NO CELL SERVICE. If you're lucky, you may see the local elk herd. They reintroduced elk in this area a few years ago. Get out and enjoy what Missouri has to offer


Guide to Koshkonong

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Koshkonong, Missouri, where nature lovers can find secluded spots to unwind and connect with the great outdoors. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, you'll be sure to find the perfect escape.

Dispersed campers should check out Cane Bluff River Access

  • This site offers a primitive experience with only vault toilets, making it ideal for those seeking solitude in a picturesque setting.
  • Enjoy the crystal-clear waters and shaded spots, perfect for a relaxing weekend away from the hustle and bustle.
  • With no permit required and pets allowed, Cane Bluff River Access is a great choice for families and furry friends alike.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Koshkonong, Missouri

  • Always pack out what you pack in, especially at places like McCormack Lake Rec Area where amenities are limited and cleanliness is essential.
  • Be prepared for primitive conditions; sites like Whitten River Access offer basic facilities but no drinking water or trash services, so bring your own supplies.
  • Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially during peak seasons, as some areas can get busy, like Blue Spring Backcountry Camping.

Top activities while free camping near Koshkonong

  • Kayaking and fishing are popular at Thomasville River Access, where you can enjoy the serene waters and catch some local fish.
  • Stargazing is a must at Log Yard Campground, where the remote location offers a stunning view of the night sky away from city lights.
  • Hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the Ozarks can be enjoyed at Sunklands Conservation Area, where you can immerse yourself in nature without the distractions of modern life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Koshkonong, MO?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Koshkonong, MO is Cane Bluff River Access with a 4.3-star rating from 3 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 12 dispersed camping locations near Koshkonong, MO, with real photos and reviews from campers.