Primitive camping near Lake Winnebago, Missouri offers free sites on conservation lands with varied terrain. Most dispersed camping options sit on Missouri Department of Conservation properties featuring grassland habitats surrounded by mixed forests. The region experiences hot, humid summers and moderate winters, with spring and fall typically providing the most comfortable camping conditions.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Large bass and catfish populate Montrose Missouri Conservation Area, though water levels can be shallow. One visitor mentioned, "The lake is really just a mud bog, so not very appealing unless you came to duck hunt."
Wildlife observation: Conservation areas host diverse species throughout the seasons. A camper at Montrose noted, "There is loads of wildlife to see and aren't much scared of humans, raccoons, beavers, crane, squirrels, deer, owls and much more."
Artifact hunting: Some conservation areas have historical significance. At Leavenworth Kansas State Fishing Lake, locals recommend searching for arrowheads, with one reviewer noting, "One of the locals stopped by my site to look for arrowheads. Apparently, she has found a lot in the area so that's a good activity if the kids are bored."
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: Most dispersed sites near Lake Winnebago stay relatively uncrowded. At Crooked River Conservation Area, a visitor noted, "There is really only one campsite, although there is enough room for probably four campsites."
Stargazing conditions: Rural locations provide minimal light pollution for night sky viewing. At Montrose Missouri Conservation Area, one camper appreciated that "the stars were beautiful, the 'sites' were spacious and well spread out, and there is lots of shade."
Spacious sites: Conservation areas typically offer substantial space between camping areas. A Montrose visitor commented, "Large grass area available for tents or campers. No specific camp locations. No fire rings or picnic tables. Pit toilets are as expected."
What you should know
Seasonal restrictions: Multiple conservation areas impose hunting season limitations. For example, camping policies change during duck hunting season, with one camper at Leavenworth noting, "This is a small remote lake of about 160 acres water area. A county road takes you through the area and across the dam."
Facility conditions: Basic amenities require realistic expectations. One Montrose visitor warned, "Vault toilets were absolutely disgusting, thankfully we brought our own toilet paper."
Stay limits: Conservation areas enforce maximum stays. At Poague Campsite #5, the 14-day limit applies, while at Leavenworth a camper discovered, "I'm starting to think that Kansas has a 7-day limit instead of a 14 because this is the second time that a Kansas park official came to the door and said we need to leave."
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom preparation: Pack sanitizing supplies and toilet paper. A camper at Leavenworth reported, "Poop on the toilet seat in the pit toilet so we waited until we got to a gas station in the morning. People are animals."
Site selection: Some areas offer both sunny and shaded options. A visitor observed, "There's sun by the bathrooms, and there's shade in the forested campground."
Wildlife encounters: Prepare children for possible animal interactions. At Montrose Missouri Conservation Area, one camper had an unexpected companion: "There is a super sweet local cat who befriended me here and made my visit so much better. I had some mechanical issues with my car and Kampground Kittah tried to help."
Tips from RVers
Access considerations: Gravel roads may limit larger vehicles. A Leavenworth visitor cautioned, "There are gravel pull off areas and a lakeside gravel road. Not suitable for larger vehicles."
Levelness assessment: Most conservation areas feature natural terrain. At Montrose, one camper found, "you could definitely get a big rig in and out of here on the looped gravel roads."
Overnight options: Some areas serve well for quick stays. A Leavenworth visitor shared, "Pulled in late and left early. Lots of level grassy space available, and the lake looked really nice. A few other overnighters were there."
