Nelson, MO is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Missouri camping has to offer. Find the best campgrounds near Nelson, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.
"When I arrived, I noticed that there were a ton of beautiful primitive trails besides the well-constructed boardwalks. And I also learned that there were even more caves, such as Connor's Cave."
"Great trails for biking and hiking and the creek is perfect for cooling off. However, this place can get really really busy."
"Heavily forested with a lake. Trails and camping areas in woods are setup for equestrian with good trails for hikers, bikers and horses. Camping at lake is open gravel or grass."
"Stay at lake for three days, established area with vault toilet and gravel parking. Has boat ramp and fishing docks."
"The camping area is near a road, so there was some light traffic overnight, but it was not distracting to sleep. There were a number of horse-drawn buggies that came through in the early evening."
"This Missouri Conservation area is a Swiss Army knife of rugged of the path camping. Rivers, Lakes, Gun range, Horses and hiking can all be enjoyed here."
TravelerWe stayed at Camp Takimina on our first shakedown trip with our Popup camper. It was amazing. It was about 5-10 minutes from I-70, super easy to get to. The camp was quiet, private, and peaceful. There are no hookups, but water was right next to us near the parking lot, and the picnic tables near the lodge were shaded most of the day. Portapotties were clean and well stocked. We brought our dog and two children and the had an absolutely fabulous time! We hiked a lot in the woods, played in the creek, and had plenty of time and space to figure out our new to us popup camper. There aren't actual spots for to park in, it is just a big gravel lot with a couple designated areas for campers if the lot is full (it wasn't full at all). We reserved Arrow Hill also, which is a huge site right next to the parking lot, so we had a campfire ring to cook on. Most of the firepits have benches that surround them, which was very handy not to have to move chairs around all the time. The tent sites were huge- easily would fit multiple tents at each site, and we will absolutely be back to tent camp, and with the popup too!
GuideBasic tent site, potable water was right near our site. Bathrooms were clean. There were some families staying nearby but overall was a quiet stay.
ScoutWe stayed in our rv while riding the Katy trail easy check in process. Free use of washer and dryer. Shower was great. Felt super safe here. Nice and quiet. Would definitely recommend to anyone. I noticed bicycle tent campers here and on a rainy night they were able to set up tent in barn to stay dry.
Guide137 acre lake with great fishing, offering rv hookups and basic tent sites with a pavilion and privys
LegendArrived Wednesday evening and had the spot to myself. There’s a stocked vault toilet, 2 camping spots with fire rings and a boat ramp. very simple but works! No other amenities available. It’s about 2 miles off the interstate and very peaceful. You’re surrounded by farm lane and wildlife. There’s a river at the site but didn’t explore it any. I came after a day of rain so the fire areas were flooded but the actual pull in spot was nice and dry!
RangerFirst off there is camping here!!!! This Missouri Conservation area is a Swiss Army knife of rugged of the path camping. Rivers, Lakes, Gun range, Horses and hiking can all be enjoyed here. First come first serve basic camp area on the river. It has 1 fire ring in a gravel turnaround. Don’t let this fool you. This area has an abundance of wildlife equestrian trails and hiking. Getting too hot paddle on the lake located on the left Forck after entering. The area has a handgun, and rifle range with vault toilets. The pictures speak for themselves. Love this spot and will be planning another trip soon.
ScoutGreat location! Parked 30ft travel trailer with no problems! Level ground for the most part! The corn field is really neat! We parked right beside it and all I kept thinking was children of the corn! But it added to the awesome location! We have cricket wireless full signal. A couple locals were camping beside us and were very friendly. I was told to check the weather just to make sure it's not going to flood. It's right beside a river. Used a generator..... So did everyone else. Still quiet enough. There was plenty of space
GuideWe liked this place. It was a good place for an overnight camp on our travels. No restroom that we could find. No water or power. Camp is free. It has an old boat ramp so you can get down the the river easier, but water was way too low for a boat when I was there in September of 2023. Down a gravel road a few minutes off the highway in some corn field area. There are only a handful of spaces on the grass. So hopefully you get one or someone is willing to share. We had the place to ourselves.
ScoutThis is my favorite free camp ground. No showers or electric sites, however, the grounds are well kept, its quiet and has an awsome lake. Picknick table and fire ring at each site on lower loop. First come-first serve.
Nestled in the heart of Missouri, tent camping near Nelson offers a variety of scenic spots for outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape into nature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Nelson, MO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Nelson, MO is Harriman Hill Access with a 1-star rating from 1 review.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Nelson, MO?
TheDyrt.com has all 8 tent camping locations near Nelson, MO, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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