Looking for the best campgrounds near Lake Ozark, MO? There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.
"Completely free clean and shaded couldn’t ask for better"
"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"
"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"
"An easy and beautiful spot to camp for free near I-70. About 15 minutes of a stunning drive away from the interstate. Plenty of sites, lots, and places to rest for the night. All free and secluded!"
GuideSet 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
RangerLove 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.
RangerStayed 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.
GuideAll 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.
GuidePros: 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.
GuideThere 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.
GuideI 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.
ScoutCompletely free clean and shaded couldn’t ask for better
TravelerThis 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.
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Lake Ozark, Missouri, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy a more rustic and free-spirited outdoor experience. With a variety of locations to choose from, campers can immerse themselves in the serene landscapes and enjoy the tranquility of the great outdoors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find free camping at Lake of the Ozarks?
Free camping near Lake of the Ozarks is available at Pine Ridge Recreation Area in the Mark Twain National Forest. This area offers designated spots with picnic tables, fire pits, and vault toilets. While historically free, recent reports indicate a possible $15 fee implementation. Another excellent free option is Toronto Springs Dispersed, which offers clean, shaded sites at no cost. Both locations provide basic amenities like fire rings, though facilities are minimal. These areas are typically first-come, first-served, so arriving early during peak seasons is recommended.
What are the rules for dispersed camping at Lake of the Ozarks?
At Three Creeks Conservation Area, dispersed camping rules include camping only in designated primitive sites, practicing Leave No Trace principles, and proper waste disposal. There's no reservation system—it's first-come, first-served. Vehicles must remain in designated parking areas, with campsites accessible by short walks from parking lots. Campfires are permitted in established fire rings only. Most dispersed camping areas around Lake Ozark prohibit stays longer than 14 consecutive days. Alcohol consumption may be restricted in some areas. Always check current regulations before your trip, as rules may change seasonally or annually.
Can you tent camp at Lake of the Ozarks without facilities?
Yes, tent camping without full facilities is available in several areas around Lake of the Ozarks. In the Cedar Creek District of Mark Twain National Forest, you can find primitive camping opportunities with minimal amenities. Many tent campers enjoy the secluded spots along hiking trails where you'll find basic vault toilets but no electricity or shower facilities. Backcountry camping is particularly good for hammock camping in forested areas. While potable water is available at some locations like Pine Ridge, you should be prepared to bring your own supplies. These primitive sites typically offer fire rings and sometimes picnic tables, but expect to be self-sufficient with other camping necessities.
Keep Exploring
