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Best Dispersed Camping near Rockaway Beach, MO

10 Reviews

Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area in Mark Twain National Forest offers free dispersed camping opportunities near Rockaway Beach, Missouri. Several primitive sites are available at trailheads, particularly at Hercules Glades Watch Tower which features drive-in and walk-in access with basic toilet facilities. Blair Ridge Road provides more secluded off-grid camping options with established fire rings. A visitor noted, "There are two fire rings along this road. Both locations have full bars (Verizon)."

Sugar Camp Lookout Tower Dispersed Area accommodates both tents and RVs with drive-in access and is suitable for high-clearance vehicles and big rigs. Campers described it as "a very large space, with a nice picnic table and a few fire pits." Most dispersed sites in the region adhere to the standard 14-day camping limit. The area offers hiking opportunities with moderate difficulty trails, though visitors should be prepared for rocky terrain and seasonal tick activity. No drinking water is available at any sites, and most locations lack toilets and other amenities.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Rockaway Beach, Missouri (6)

    1. Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area

    4 Reviews
    Bradleyville, MO
    16 miles
    Website

    "This area is a wilderness area so camping is plentiful.  However in this particular are there is no organized campsite specifically.  "

    "Hercules Glades Wilderness Area is part of mark Twain National Forest. It's a bit off the beaten path, but worth it for a day hike or a bit of backpacking."

    2. Hercules Glades (Watch Tower)

    3 Reviews
    Bradleyville, MO
    15 miles

    "We got here on a pretty hilly/twisty road late at night, found a spot close to the trailhead and had a quiet, peaceful night sleep. We saw just one other camper with a trailer close to the inlet."

    "Nice camping spots at the trailhead for Hercules glades. It was a beautiful, quiet area."

    3. Blair Ridge Rd Dispersed

    1 Review
    Greeson Lake, AR
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (573) 364-4621

    "Tried to camp out before backpacking through Hercules Glade Wilderness but the trailheads were packed (weekend). There are two fire rings along this road. Both locations have full bars (Verizon)."

    4. Hercules Lookout Tower Trail

    Be the first to review!
    Bradleyville, MO
    15 miles

    5. Sugar Camp Lookout Tower Dispersed Area

    2 Reviews
    Eagle Rock, MO
    39 miles

    "Completely surrounded by forest, so plenty of shade. Access road was a little rough, as in your typical dirt road, but posed 0 problems for our little economy car. I’ve had much worse for sure."

    "Mark Twain National Forest is always a great getaway. This location is tucked away from the main road and is easy to get to. Could easily get 4 rigs + in the sight."

    6. Pine Hollow 1045 Dispersed Camping

    1 Review
    Eagle Rock, MO
    38 miles

    "Excellent little campsite great for a couple tents at most we camped using a rooftop tent and it was a great spot. Very quite very clean unlike some other sites in the area."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Rockaway Beach, MO

2 Photos of 6 Rockaway Beach Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Rockaway Beach, MO

10 Reviews of 6 Rockaway Beach Campgrounds

  • Crystal C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 1, 2020

    Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area

    Hike in and camp, or just hike for day use!!

    This area is a wilderness area so camping is plentiful.  However in this particular are there is no organized campsite specifically.  Instead there are several areas where you can with permissions hike in and stay.  

    My suggestion for camping along this area are to check with local restrictions, there are some that you will want to make sure you know first hand.   Sometimes fire restrictions do change and these can be found at the beginning of the trails on the kiosks.   Some areas also are not permitted for overnight parking so you want to check those out before venturing into the wilderness for a lengthy time.

    Check with rangers of the area to make sure you are not in a register only or permit only area for camping!!  Very important in this region.

    Bring everything and then plot your course.

    The 4 mile hike is amazing and has many beautiful view points however it is also quite treacherous in some areas.    This area is also one which you will find many snakes lurking during warmer months so beware!!!!   

    I always suggest on wilderness hikes to not hike alone or camp alone but this one I found to be more problematic with limited to no cell service for assistance should you encounter danger.   

    Be careful but have fun!!!

  • T
    Nov. 29, 2017

    Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area

    Nicely private, but not a lot of scenery

    Hercules Glades Wilderness Area is part of mark Twain National Forest. It's a bit off the beaten path, but worth it for a day hike or a bit of backpacking.

    Since it's wilderness area, you can camp just about anywhere with few restrictions. There are a few primitive sites at the trailhead, no water or toilets.

    A few hundred yards from the Coy Bald Trailhead there is a fork in the trail. Going left gets you to the falls and the majority of the camp sites with the shortest route, about three miles.

    The trail is pretty rough and rocky with moderate elevation changes. I'd rate it on the low side of moderate difficulty.

    About a mile in you'll cross the river for the first time. There are camp sites with fire rings on both sides of the river. This is a scenic area with bluffs on one side of the river, but forested, so no views to speak of.

    About three miles in, you'll cross the river the second time. There are a number of camping areas with fire rings along the river.

    Downstream a few hundred feet are the falls that most people go to see. Unfortunately for us, there wasn't enough water for them to be running. There was enough water to wade around in and soak the feet. It was quite nice!

    The area is pretty and quiet, we saw only a handful of people in the two days we were there. The only issue was the ticks, they were the worst I'd dealt with in some time.

    All in all, a nice hike and a nice bit if camping. I'd go back to see the falls again.

  • K
    Jul. 5, 2025

    Sugar Camp Lookout Tower Dispersed Area

    Acessable to all

    Pretty great spot! If you’re fortunate enough to be alone, this is a very large space, with a nice picnic table and a few fire pits. Completely surrounded by forest, so plenty of shade. Access road was a little rough, as in your typical dirt road, but posed 0 problems for our little economy car. I’ve had much worse for sure. The area is pretty secluded, with only a few cars driving through all day, so bear spray is absolutely necessary for peace of mind. Practice good bear prevention measures and you’re good to go for a free night stay, or several, happy camping!

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 27, 2018

    Hercules Glades (Watch Tower)

    Rustic with great hiking

    This is a good place for hiking/backpacking. There are several sites around the access road and miles of hiking trails. The only ammenities are some fire rings and 1 toilet. It's a beautiful area but fairly remote and immediate services. Again, good for backpacking/hiking.

  • ‘Chelle S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 4, 2024

    Sugar Camp Lookout Tower Dispersed Area

    Beautiful and Peaceful

    Mark Twain National Forest is always a great getaway. This location is tucked away from the main road and is easy to get to. Could easily get 4 rigs + in the sight. Established fire ring (be mindful of burn bans). Close to Roaring River and Table Rock lake.

  • Ramie W.
    Sep. 1, 2018

    Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area

    Hercules Glades

    I did the Coy Bald hike and loved it. Most of the trail was fairly easy to navigate, however the areas of open meadows were a little more difficult to find where it picks back up. The falls are a great rock feature when it’s dry and beautiful when they’re flowing.

  • Conceptual S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 6, 2023

    Blair Ridge Rd Dispersed

    Secluded

    Tried to camp out before backpacking through Hercules Glade Wilderness but the trailheads were packed (weekend). There are two fire rings along this road. Both locations have full bars (Verizon). Little to no man made noise but be respectful, there is a private residence at the end of the road.

  • Anna W.
    Aug. 8, 2021

    Hercules Glades (Watch Tower)

    Quiet and easy

    We got here on a pretty hilly/twisty road late at night, found a spot close to the trailhead and had a quiet, peaceful night sleep. We saw just one other camper with a trailer close to the inlet. Just a quick stop on our way, we didn’t hike long in the morning but the trail seemed quiet and secluded; we didn’t see anyone else.

  • Kaci C.
    May. 30, 2019

    Hercules Glades (Watch Tower)

    Lovely secluded area

    Nice camping spots at the trailhead for Hercules glades. It was a beautiful, quiet area.

Guide to Rockaway Beach

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Rockaway Beach, Missouri, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities. This area offers several options for those looking to escape into the wilderness without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Rockaway Beach, Missouri

  • Always check local restrictions before heading out, as some areas may have fire bans or specific camping regulations. For instance, Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area has various hiking trails and camping spots, but it's essential to stay informed about any changes.
  • Bring all necessary supplies, including water and food, since many dispersed sites, like Blair Ridge Rd Dispersed, lack amenities such as toilets and drinking water.
  • Be mindful of wildlife, especially during warmer months when snakes may be more active. Campers at Hercules Glades (Watch Tower) have reported encounters, so it's wise to stay alert.

Scenic hikes while free camping near Rockaway Beach

  • The Coy Bald hike near Hercules Glades Wilderness Area offers stunning views and a chance to explore beautiful meadows, though some areas can be tricky to navigate.
  • For a refreshing experience, the four-mile hike into the glades leads to picturesque shut-ins and swimming holes, making it a favorite among visitors who enjoy both hiking and cooling off in nature.
  • The trails around Hercules Glades (Watch Tower) provide a peaceful escape, with opportunities for solitude and exploration without the crowds.

Dispersed campers should check out Hercules Glades

  • This area allows for camping almost anywhere, giving you the freedom to choose your perfect spot. Just be sure to check for any permit requirements at Hercules Glades Wilderness Area.
  • The scenic beauty of the region is complemented by its remoteness, making it an ideal location for those seeking tranquility away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
  • Campers have noted the lack of facilities, so prepare for a rustic experience at places like Blair Ridge Rd Dispersed, where you can enjoy the natural surroundings without distractions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Rockaway Beach, MO?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Rockaway Beach, MO is Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area with a 4.5-star rating from 4 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Rockaway Beach, MO?

TheDyrt.com has all 6 dispersed camping locations near Rockaway Beach, MO, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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