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Best Tent Camping near Lebanon, MO

313 Reviews

Tent campsites near Lebanon, Missouri range from established campgrounds to primitive sites with varying amenities. Fiery Fork Conservation Area offers free tent camping with fire rings, concrete picnic tables, and vault toilets approximately 30 miles northwest of Lebanon. Hermitage State Park Campground at Pomme de Terre State Park provides tent sites with more developed facilities including trash service, drinking water, and toilets about 40 miles west of Lebanon.

Most tent camping areas around Lebanon require campers to bring their own water or have a filtration system for nearby water sources. Fiery Fork Conservation Area features mowed sites with fire pits and some concrete tables, but limited cell service creates true disconnection from urban life. The gravel access road can be challenging during wet conditions, with some reviewers noting high water areas that may require higher clearance vehicles. Vault toilets are available at most conservation areas, though maintenance varies by season and usage. Several sites lack trash receptacles, requiring campers to pack out all waste.

Tent campers at Fiery Fork Conservation Area benefit from river access for fishing, wading, and boat launching. The area provides ample shade trees suitable for hammocks and relatively flat tent pads. Sites typically offer good spacing between campers, though summer weekends can become crowded, particularly near water access points. Hermitage State Park Campground provides more amenities for tent campers seeking a balance between primitive camping and basic services. Wildlife sightings including deer, armadillos, and various bird species enhance the camping experience. A review noted that "the area was mowed, had a rock fire place, concrete picnic tables, a vault toilet, shade, grass for dogs to play frisbee, parking right beside your spot, trails, access to the river, good hammock trees, flat-level surface."

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Best Tent Sites Near Lebanon, Missouri (10)

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Tent Camping Reviews near Lebanon, MO

313 Reviews of 10 Lebanon Campgrounds

  • Rebecca L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 18, 2025

    Damsite

    Another amazing COE campground

    Another wonderful Corps of Engineers campground on Pomme De Terre Lake. There are basic campsites and campsites with full hookups. The campsites are spacious and overlook the lake. This is such a beautiful, well maintained campground. Every campsite is level and has a picnic table and fire ring. During the off season ( Oct 1 - Nov.30 & March 14th - Apr 14 ) all campsites ( electric and primitive ) are only $10. ( limited amenities) From Jan 5th - March 14th campsites are free at Damsite Park. However, there is no electric or water available at that time.
    Please check the Pomme De Terre USACE website for changes and regular season rates. 50% off all rates with America the beautiful/senior access pass at all Corps of Engineers campgrounds.
    I highly recommend this campground. 4g LTE and great cell signal.

  • Josh C.
    May. 20, 2019

    Paddy Creek Recreation Area

    Great for solitude

    $5 recommendation donation for the night. Stayed at this campground as a halfway point hiking the Big Piney Trail loop. Typical primitive campground with toilets, bear-proof trash cans, and camp sites with fire rings and picnic tables, but not much else. Didn’t see any water faucets near our site.

  • Napunani
    Dec. 1, 2023

    Bennett Spring State Park Campground

    Fishing Paradise

    PROS 

    Senior discount 

    Check-in via text was easy and fast 

    Beautifully maintained state park 

    Quiet during week 

    Pull-thru Site 102 level, concrete pad surrounded by grass 

    Site sufficient length for trailer and tow vehicle 

    Metal frame plastic plank picnic table metal fire ring with cooking grate 

    Dark sky friendly except for campsites 101-106 

    Trash dumpsters throughout campground 1 

    Firewood for sale $5 at entrance gate house 

    Huge park store! 

    CONS. 

    1 toilet and 1 shower for 48 campsites in Campground 1. Both door locks did not work. There were lines for the one toilet most of the time!!!

    $6.50 Reservation Fee 

    Site 102 had a wonderful view of the entrance gatehouse that had blaring lights all night, the one lane dump station and a dumpster 

    Campground 101-106 sites slammed together; our campfire ring was 15 feet from neighbors sewer outlet 

    Site 102 campfire ring was 2 feet from site unmovable picnic table 

    No privacy from any other sites 

    No security overnight gate closures 

    Would not recommend Park restaurant

  • Joe J.
    Sep. 9, 2021

    Fishermans Paradise

    Off the beaten path

    For starters the RV park is about 1/4 down a 1 lane gravel road so if you’re pulling a big rig you better hope you don’t meet another vehicle. All the 50 amp full hookup sites seem to be in use by permanent residents. The 30 amp sites are not on level ground. No water or sewer connections for the 30 amp sites. The road also gets a little steep and winding to the 30 amp sites. Nice small lakes make for a nice view once you get into the valley.

  • Abby H.
    May. 18, 2023

    Pittsburg Area Campground — Pomme de Terre State Park

    First Weekend

    My boyfriend and I stayed here for one night at the beginning of may for our first camping trip together. It was at one of 2 basic tent sites. Ours was just a short walk on a (likely camper-made trail) down to the water. The water seemed clean enough to swim but there was a lot of floating moss and seaweed right along the shore. So we opted to just fish even though we were unsuccessful. There were plenty of trees to hang out hammock, a grill grate over the fire, and a decent amount of shade. There were two flat sites for a tent. We chose one that was slightly more on a slope because it was less rocky. Spotted a few poison ivy plants and 2-3 brown recluses but we’re in their habitat so that is to be expected. Not ideal but not unexpected lol we definitely plan to return!

  • Kura O.
    Jul. 14, 2020

    Paddy Creek Recreation Area

    Quiet, easy camping

    Nice long weekend in a relatively primitive campsite. Vault toilets were a plus, but no water source that we saw. Access to swimming, fishing, and hiking trails. We were surprised with how many sites were taken up, but there were still quite a few available. Arrive early for a good spot (We stayed in spot 20 which had its own path to the river). Would definitely camp here again.

    There isn't much in the 20 miles before you get to the campgrounds, but there is firewood for sale (self-serve) 10-15 minutes before.

  • Whitney L.
    Jun. 3, 2022

    Fiery Fork Conservation Area

    open and easy to access camping spot

    We camped at Firey Fork in the autumn of 2021. It was during deer hunting season and we only had one neighbor that looked to be there for quite a while hunting. We could see them with our eyeballs but they were perfect neighbors and we didn’t hear a peep other than their generator for a bit. The area was mowed, had a rock fire place, concrete picnic tables (which were handy), a vault toilet, shade, grass for dogs to play frisbee, parking right beside your spot, trails, access to the river, good hammock trees, flat-level surface!

  • Josh S.
    May. 28, 2019

    Pittsburg Park Campground

    Ranger Review: Icemule Pro X-Large 33L Cooler at Pittsburg State Park

    Campground Review:

    We stayed at this beautiful Missouri State Park on memorial weekend in 2019. This park is park of Pomme De Terre lake and 1 of 2 state parks on the lake, Pittsburgh and Hermitage. There are several local private campgrounds in the area but non match what you'll find at these two campgrounds. Pittsburgh is described as the more secluded of the two and thats just the way we like it. 

    We arrived to find that the normal lake level had risen from 830 ft to 860+. needless to say almost all lakeside camground were closed. We arrived at our site and identified that we had 13 inches until our site was to be claimed by the lake. The campground hosts actually informed us that over half of their sites were flooded or in immediate danger of flooding. They were able to offer us a different site as most people apparently decided to no show. We were relocated to site 323 in the Pittsburgh campground. A side note that almost every loop in this campground had empty sites and all those who were displaced were able to be relocated in the park at NO ADDITIONAL FEE for upgraded sites. 

    Site 323 was simply amazing. A level concrete pad with enough wooded area around to fully eliminate view of neighbors on either side. We camp out of a 95 Coleman Pop up so it was perfect for us. It is on a significant slope so tent camping would be hard. This site is walking distance to vault toilets, and clean water. After an impromptu wiffleball game broke out with the multiple campers across from us we decided to explore the campground.

    Loop 100 is tightly packed RV sites with no real privacy but all your creature comforts . Loop 200 is electric sites well spaced with lake access to most. This appeared to be the most tent and camper friendly loop.  Both 100 and 200 loops are close to shower house and main playground.

    Loop 300 is electric with most sites of the lake side coming with elevated gravel pads for grilling and watching the water. Most sites are on decent grades so the state park pics on their site would be a good idea to look at.

    Loop 400 is the basic loop and from what I could tell stays fairly level with large grassy areas to tent in. 

    All loops have a vault toilet placed evenly on the loop and access to water from a spigot. They all utilize the same road in and the same plumbed bathroom / showerhouse. To my surprise these were all very clean and stayed that way all weekend. 

    There is only 1 trail for hiking and at 3 miles is worth the trip. It goes out to a point overlooking all of the park and most of Pomme De Terre Lake. We got to see this but in a little different way than planned. Due to flooding the trail was almost completely underwater. 

    A small marina with rentals and fishing docks is just across the street. They serve normal pub food and were very happy to serve. Lines there can be long as it is also a very busy boat ramp. 

    The state park has its own swimming beach and due to flooding it was closed. So instead we utilized the parking lot, Playground, and Pavilion as a launch point for our kayaking adventures. All in all this trip went from possible disaster to an amazing adventure on the water. The lake is very clear and paddling through the tree tops normally 20 feet off the ground was surreal. Pittsburgh won us over with customer service and a unique experience we will all remember. 

    Product Review:

    As a Ranger for The Dyrt I sometimes get to test and evaluate quality products from amazing sponsors today I am submitting a review of my new Icemule Pro X-Large Cooler.https://icemulecoolers.com/collections/pro-coolers/products/the-icemule-pro-x-large

    So as I said before I didnt get to hike with this bad boy but it did spend everyday as our family take and use cooler. 

    First and foremost I have to say upon receiving this thing I was shocked at the size. It is definitely extra large. My 7 year old would not be packing this thing around but Icemule has several size options so no real issue there. I chose the xl specifically to use while kayaking on this trip. I would be providing food and drink for up to 8 separate people and would be on the water for  long periods of time. I currently own a Yeti and Wally World Rotomold but cant use them due to their size on our boat.  Well this is where it gets good. I loaded all three coolers and set out with my Icemule in tow. I left the two hard coolers with family at the pavilion. Similar contents and each cooler received 1 bag of ice in the morning. The Icemule stood stride for stride with the yeti in fact I will attach photos to prove it.  The Icemule form fit itself into the storage space on my kayak and at the end of the day had just a little ice left. The Yeti had a little more ice but nothing significant. I will also note that the Icemule was in the open sun on the back of a kayak in 90 degree temps. I was ecstatic with the result. This thing is amazing. 

    Now for the nitty gritty. My Icemule comes in several colors. I chose black as it matched my yak LOL. I can say the 24 can capacity is definitely modest but I wouldn't recommend exceeding it by much as all that weight adds up. Not heeding my own advice I topped this thing off and really put it and my back through the ringer. All the stitching and seam weld held up very well. Not a single issue even when over loaded. All clips and straps are high quality and very durable.

    All in all I made room for 6 different coolers in my garage as they will all be resting comfortably there. The Icemule is now our families go to for all our cooler needs.

  • Kyle H.
    Jul. 4, 2018

    Pittsburg Area Campground — Pomme de Terre State Park

    Our First Popup Adventure

    Our first camping adventure in the popup took us to Pomme de Terre State Park on Father’s Day of 2017. Pomme de Terre State Park is one State Park that is two completely separate campgrounds, split in half by Pomme de Terre lake. When booking pay attention to whether you are on the Hermitage side or the Pittsburgh side. Each campground has it’s own camp store, swim beach, boat launch, and sanitary disposal station.

    We have camped three separate times at Pomme de Terre with all three campsites being in the 400 loop on the Pittsburgh side. This loop has been chosen due to its proximity to the bathrooms and the playground, these are key when having a 4-year-old. This loop is located in the woods with nice spacing between sites. Each site comes with a fire ring and covered picnic table. I will warn you that some of the sites on the left when you first pull into the loop are on an incline, so bring plenty of leveling pads with you if you have a trailer. If you are wanting to be close to the water this loop is not the one you will want to reserve. I would look more in the 300 loop, though those sites are gravel in case that is an issue for you, or look at the Hermitage side. The bathroom and shower house located at the entrance to loop 400 are some of the nicest that we have experience while staying in a state park. They are clean and well maintained. Located throughout the loops are vault toilets if you choose a site farther away from the main bathroom.

    We enjoy the campground and marina on the Pittsburgh side. The marina is stocked with some camp essentials as well as a café for a quick bite. They also have boats, canoes, kayaks, and paddle boards for rent, for a list a prices here is the Marina’s website www.mofunparks.com. This is one of our son’s favorite stops on the trip, they have a nice selection of ice cream. The size of the marina is not large, and if it is busy the inside can be very cramped. We do prefer the swim beach on the Hermitage side it is located along a peninsula with ample room on busy days, as opposed to the Pittsburgh swim beach that is located in a cove without as much space.

    When traveling between the two state parks you will travel through Hermitage, Missouri. They have a Dollar General, gas station, and some restaurants. I cannot speak for the restaurants, but we have used the Dollar General for supplies that did not make the trip. Located at the junction of Hwy 64 and Hwy 64B, just outside of the Pittsburgh side of the park, you will find an old building directly across from White’s Marine Center that is selling camp wood. The person that sells the wood will be out there sometimes, but if they are not, there is drop box mounted to one of the poles to leave money in. I was able to purchase a wheelbarrow load for $8.00, which is a much better deal than the small bundle they sell in the park for $5.00.

    Pomme de Terre State Park has become a family favorite campground. We will be making a voyage here every year to continue exploring.

Guide to Lebanon

Primitive camping options around Lebanon, Missouri offer alternatives to established campgrounds within 40 miles of the city. Situated in the northern Ozark highlands at approximately 1,300 feet elevation, Lebanon experiences seasonal weather variations that affect camping conditions throughout the year. Most conservation areas maintain primitive sites with basic amenities while providing river access for water activities.

What to do

Fishing opportunities: Osage-Tavern Access provides direct river access for anglers. "Right along the river so nice if your looking for water," notes camper Casey who visited in September and found "plenty of sites available" even on a weekend.

Hammock camping: Several conservation areas feature trees suitable for hammock setups. At Fiery Fork Conservation Area, Jenny D. mentions, "Lots of beautiful hammock friendly trees, river access, and creek beds to play in. 30 min from Ha Ha Tonka."

Wildlife observation: Conservation areas support diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. According to Amanda at Fiery Fork, "Armadillos, deer, and a few different bird types could be found easily. Overall it was exactly what we wanted since it was free and not crowded down close to Lake of the Ozarks."

What campers like

Budget-friendly camping: Free camping appeals to cost-conscious outdoor enthusiasts. Shannon M. at Fiery Fork Conservation Area reports, "Nice area to camp not crowded, plenty of space between camp sites, and peaceful. A nice place if your on a budget and just need a get away."

River recreation: Multiple sites offer water access for swimming, wading, and boating. At McCubbins Point, Larry M. notes the "Public boat ramp nice cooking spots" despite finding bathrooms not well maintained.

Natural separation: Site spacing provides privacy at most conservation areas. Nick G. explains about Fiery Fork, "I stayed here for a few days in April. There were a few campers, but I'd be very surprised if this place isn't loud and packed in the summer."

What you should know

Cell service limitations: Remote camping areas have minimal connectivity. At Fiery Fork Conservation Area, Erick H. warns, "be prepared to have no cell signal...had to drive a couple of miles for a signal. That is with Spectrum U believe they use Verizon."

Road conditions: Access roads to primitive sites can present challenges. Ry M. reports about Fiery Fork, "The road down was very sketchy for my 2008 Mazda 3. It's a very simple campground but in a great location near the ozarks."

Trash management: Many conservation areas lack waste disposal facilities. Wally B. notes at Fiery Fork, "Much of the area was covered in trash. Bring extra trash bags!" This reflects a common issue at primitive sites requiring pack-out practices.

Tips for camping with families

Beach play areas: River access points provide natural play spaces for children. Amanda from Osage-Tavern Access decided "it would be a nice place to bring our kids since there is quite a bit of 'beach' at the river access for them to play and see nature."

Pet-friendly options: Many conservation areas allow leashed pets. Fiery Fork provides "grass for dogs to play frisbee" according to Whitney L., making it suitable for family camping with pets.

Seasonal timing: Spring and fall offer more comfortable camping conditions and fewer crowds. Casey visited Osage-Tavern Access "post labor day" and found "plenty of sites available" with "a couple of families/kids here but not too loud."

Tips from RVers

Size restrictions: Primitive camping areas typically accommodate smaller recreational vehicles only. Chrischelle N. at Fiery Fork Conservation Area advises, "I recommend smaller RVs due to the 2 miles of gravel and high water areas you go through to get there."

Water crossings: Seasonal precipitation affects access for larger vehicles. Jenny D. warns about Fiery Fork, "If the waters too high, there's a bridge into the site that could be flooded so watch the weather."

Generator considerations: While some RV campers use generators at conservation areas, their noise impacts other campers. Whitney L. notes hearing a neighbor's generator "for a bit" at Fiery Fork but found them to be "perfect neighbors" otherwise.

Frequently Asked Questions

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