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Best Dispersed Camping near Lake Ozark, MO

14 Reviews

Several free dispersed camping areas exist within reasonable distance of Lake Ozark, Missouri. Toronto Springs Dispersed offers primitive, shaded sites with no facilities but permits fires and allows pets. According to a recent visitor, the area is "completely free, clean and shaded." Pine Ridge Recreation Area in the Cedar Creek District of Mark Twain National Forest provides more amenities including vault toilets, trash collection, potable water, and picnic tables. Sites here have designated spots with fire pits and picnic tables but no electrical hookups.

Pine Ridge Recreation Area has a mix of drive-in and walk-in sites suitable for various camping styles. Recent reports indicate some changes to the previously free status, with potential $15 per night fees being implemented. The area features hiking trails through pine forests and meadows. One camper noted it as "perfect for a night stay or a backpacking trip," while another mentioned, "Wonderful open areas for camping. Fire pits aplenty." Three Creeks Conservation Area offers more rugged off-grid camping options with hike-in or walk-in access only, though recent visitors report conflicting information about camping availability, with some noting "no camping" signs posted.

Map showing campgrounds near Lake Ozark, MissouriExplore the Map

Best Dispersed Sites Near Lake Ozark, Missouri (3)

    1. Toronto Springs Dispersed

    1 Review
    Brumley, MO
    15 miles

    "Completely free clean and shaded couldn’t ask for better"

    2. Pine Ridge Recreation Area

    13 Reviews
    New Bloomfield, MO
    47 miles
    Website
    +1 (573) 364-4621

    "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"

    3. Three Creeks Conservation Area

    7 Reviews
    Ashland, MO
    49 miles
    Website
    +1 (573) 815-7900

    "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!"

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Lake Ozark, MO

12 Photos of 3 Lake Ozark Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Lake Ozark, MO

14 Reviews of 3 Lake Ozark 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.

  • ZThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 5, 2024

    Toronto Springs Dispersed

    Primitive camping

    Completely free clean and shaded couldn’t ask for better

  • 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.

Guide to Lake Ozark

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.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Lake Ozark, Missouri

Top activities while free camping near Lake Ozark

  • Hiking is a popular activity in the area, especially at Pine Ridge Recreation Area, where you can explore well-maintained trails and enjoy the natural beauty.

Wildlife watching for dispersed campers

  • Keep an eye out for local wildlife while camping at Three Creeks Conservation Area, as the area is known for its diverse flora and fauna, making it a great spot for nature lovers.

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.

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