Best Dispersed Camping near New Bloomfield, MO

Pine Ridge Recreation Area offers dispersed camping opportunities approximately 10 miles from New Bloomfield, Missouri, within the Cedar Creek District of Mark Twain National Forest. The area features a mix of pine and hardwood forest at approximately 800 feet elevation, with camping sites distributed around a central loop. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-95°F with high humidity, while spring and fall provide milder conditions.

What to do

Hiking trails access: Pine Ridge Recreation Area provides trailheads at the campground entrance for day hikes through pine forests. "Love the trails and the secluded spots. There usually are always people camping, even in the winter," notes Charlotte B. at Pine Ridge Recreation Area.

Creek exploration: The conservation areas contain multiple stream access points for wading and water activities. A visitor to Three Creeks Conservation Area mentions, "Following the trails down, there are plenty of access points to creeks to purify water! Pretty views along the trails as well."

Wildlife observation: The forest areas support diverse bird species and wildlife viewing opportunities. "Spent two weeks totally submersed in nature," reports Ron R. about his experience at Three Creeks Conservation Area, though he notes "the Columbia Regional Airport is about 4-5 miles from this location. There is air traffic overhead."

What campers like

Seclusion from crowds: Many sites offer privacy with adequate spacing between camping areas. Ruby W. shares that at Three Creeks Conservation Area, "Camping spots are distant, clean, large, and quaint. We as two young women felt extremely safe."

Firewood availability: Some areas provide cut wood for campers to use. At Pine Ridge Recreation Area, Ron R. found a "Beautiful campground with plenty of freshly cut firewood. Excellent spot for overnight or weekends with the family."

Overnight interstate access: Sites serve as convenient stops for travelers passing through on I-70. "An easy and beautiful spot to camp for free near I-70. About 15 minutes of a stunning drive away from the interstate," notes Ruby W. about Three Creeks.

What you should know

Fee structure changes: Some previously free areas now charge fees. "I arrived at the site in April of 2025, and was greeted with a locked gate and signage stating rates are $15 per night. Envelopes and lock box are in place," reports Ron R. about Pine Ridge Recreation Area.

Seasonal closures: Campgrounds may close during winter months. One visitor simply noted, "Closed for the season" when attempting to visit in October.

Navigation challenges: Finding designated camping areas can be difficult without proper directions. As Hailey W. experienced at Three Creeks Conservation Area: "There was no signage and Google and Apple Maps couldn't get us there. When we found the trailhead there was no designated camping spot on the maps."

Trail conditions: Some areas have overgrown trails requiring careful navigation. "Trails were over grown and definitely needed some maintenance," reports AC about Three Creeks.

Tips for camping with families

Site selection for activities: Choose sites with open areas for children to play safely. Chrischelle N. recommends: "If you have kids/dogs I recommend spot #4 it has a long strip of playroom for running around without disturbing other spaces."

Weekend planning: Arrive early on weekends to secure preferred sites. "Definitely fills up on the weekends," warns Chrischelle N. about Pine Ridge Recreation Area.

Water safety considerations: Creek areas provide natural play spaces but require supervision. Gary C. notes about Three Creeks: "It can be very muddy but.... what do you expect with all the water? Great for hiking!"

Tips from RVers

Surface conditions: RV sites vary in quality and surface type. Lula L. reports from Franklin Island: "Great quite and secluded camp sigh. But can muddy due to sessional flooding."

Road accessibility: Access roads may present challenges for larger vehicles. Michael M. warns about Pine Ridge: "Some roads are gravel and chalky leading there (my cars still covered and I'm in Colorado now!)"

Amenities overview: Facilities are basic at most free camping near New Bloomfield, Missouri. Lula L. describes Pine Ridge amenities: "blacktop rv site, back in, w table, fire pit, grill on pit as well as seperate on pedestal, covered table for storage or prep, also picnic table, water faucet, dumpsters, vault toilet."