Best Dispersed Camping near Lake Lotawana, MO
Free dispersed camping is available at several Missouri Conservation Areas near Lake Lotawana. Montrose Conservation Area permits primitive camping in designated areas with open grassy spaces suitable for tents and campers. Crooked River Conservation Area also allows free dispersed camping on public lands. Additional options include multiple Poague Conservation Area campsites, which feature unmarked primitive sites with drive-in access for both tents and RVs.
Most dispersed sites are accessible via paved or gravel roads that accommodate standard vehicles. Montrose and Crooked River Conservation Areas have basic vault toilets, while the Poague campsites lack facilities entirely. Camping duration is limited to 14 days at conservation areas. Seasonal restrictions apply at some locations, with Montrose prohibiting camping after October 15 due to hunting season. Fire regulations vary, with Montrose permitting campfires while Poague sites prohibit them. None of the areas provide drinking water, hookups, or other amenities.
These primitive camping areas attract visitors seeking free, basic accommodations with varying levels of seclusion. "Large grassy area available for tents or campers. No specific camp locations. No fire rings or picnic tables," notes one Montrose visitor. Wildlife viewing opportunities are common, with several campers reporting encounters with local fauna. The landscape includes shallow lakes that support fishing and boating activities during non-hunting seasons. While sites generally remain uncrowded, facilities receive mixed reviews. According to feedback, "Pit toilets were absolutely disgusting," though some report them as "fine" and note that toilet paper is usually stocked. Trash accumulation has been reported at some Poague sites, though Montrose maintains a dumpster behind its conservation building.
