Dispersed camping options near Moberly, Missouri include free sites at Thomas Hill Reservoir Conservation Area, where campers can find primitive accommodations without electrical hookups. The region sits at approximately 850 feet elevation with rolling terrain that transitions between forest and prairie landscapes. Rudolf Bennitt Conservation Area offers wooded camping areas within a 15-mile drive of Moberly.
What to do
Water activities on Mark Twain Lake: Visitors to Puma Campground enjoy easy lake access for boating and fishing. "The camping spots were level, clean, and spacious... Easy access to the lake," notes one camper. Another mentions "Nice fishing area. All in all a pretty good camp."
Motocross and ATV trails: Finger Lakes State Park features dedicated trails for off-road vehicles. "There are special trails for atvs and motocross if you are into that thing," explains one visitor. Another notes, "Once an old strip mining quarry, finger lakes is full of activities. kayaking, canoeing, motocross, swimming, picnic, campground, fishing."
Paddling through quiet channels: The interconnected waterways at Finger Lakes State Park create excellent canoeing and kayaking routes. "This park is one of my favorite nearby spots to take the kayak out and just float. Paddling through these channels is such a dreamy experience," reports one regular visitor. Canoe and kayak rentals are available for those without their own equipment.
What campers like
Lakefront sites: Long Branch State Park Campground receives praise for its waterfront accommodations. "Great campsites with concrete pads, friendly staff and a decent shower house for a state park," mentions one visitor. Another points out the convenience of waterfront access: "I reserved a walk in site and it was totally worth it... The site is right on the water with beach access so there's no need to drive to the crowded beach area to swim!"
Free camping options: Thomas Hill Reservoir Conservation Area offers no-cost camping with basic amenities. "Great non electric sites on Thomas Hill Lake. Please leave as you found it or better," notes a local camper. Another visitor explains, "Area had car camping sites with covered shelters and picnic tables right by the water and some more primitive sites further from the water. Access is easy peasy."
Historic attractions: The area surrounding Arrow Rock State Historic Site Campground provides cultural interests beyond camping. "The campground is neat and tidy and well maintained. The main appeal is the nearby town of Arrow Rock with its many historic buildings and an excellent interpretation center," explains one visitor. Another adds, "There is a historic town you can tour for free that is within walking distance from the campsites."
What you should know
Bug protection essential: Ticks are prevalent throughout camping areas near Moberly. At Finger Lakes, one camper advises, "I've passed through Missouri numerous times, and their parks are always top notch. Clean and well maintained. As with most 'green' places in the spring and summer, the ticks are outrageous. This time was no exception, use spray to keep the buggers off!"
Campsite leveling challenges: Many sites require equipment for leveling. At Puma Campground, a visitor notes, "Not sure if any campsite is truly level. Be prepared." Another camper confirms: "Our site was pretty unlevel and it took some work and levelers to get it straight."
Limited cell service: Communication can be difficult at some campgrounds. At Arrow Rock, one visitor reports, "No cell phone service really," while explaining the trade-off with the peaceful setting.
Seasonal facility limitations: Rudolf Bennitt Conservation Area and similar conservation areas offer minimal facilities. "Heavily forested with a lake. Trails and camping areas in woods are setup for equestrian with good trails for hikers, bikers and horses... Nice fishing lake with docks, boat ramp and vault toilet and the only one provided."
Tips for camping with families
Consider swimming conditions: Beach quality varies at different locations. At Finger Lakes, one visitor cautions: "I had mostly come for the lake/swimming/camping and it was pretty loud and the lake was unswimable even at the beach access." However, at Puma Campground, families appreciate "Great boat ramp off the beach. Great for kayaks."
Seek noise restrictions: For families with young children, noise levels matter. At Finger Lakes, one camper notes: "I'm not a fan of the motorcross noise, but there is a noise curfew so it's tolerable."
Look for play areas: Several campgrounds feature dedicated recreation spaces. "Mark Twain state Park is an absolute blast... Large playgrounds in the camping area's as well as visitor center areas," reports one family.
Check site spacing: At some campgrounds, privacy can be limited. A visitor to Cottonwoods RV Park & Campground shares: "The only negative thing I would say is the spaces were very close to each other. Our slide nearly went over the patio of the next site over." However, the campground does offer family amenities: "The pool was small but nice."
Tips from RVers
Know your hookup options: Several campgrounds offer full services. At Long Branch State Park, a visitor notes: "Great campsites with concrete pads... The only negative was no water at the campsites."
Watch for site lengths: Many campgrounds accommodate large rigs, but not all sites are equally sized. At Arrow Rock State Historic Site, RVers find "beautiful RV spaces" with good access.
Consider seasonal travel: Missouri summers bring challenges for RVers. One camper shares about a cabin stay that applies to RV camping as well: "The cabin has air conditioning, which is needed in Missouri in August (it was sooo hot)."
Pack leveling equipment: RV sites throughout the region frequently require adjustment. As one visitor to Puma Campground notes, "We rode around the campgrounds on our bikes and most of the other sites seemed level and more even."
