Dry Fork Recreation Area offers primitive camping facilities with eight equestrian-focused sites located near New Bloomfield, Missouri. The equestrian camping area provides basic amenities including water access and a pit toilet, primarily serving riders exploring the surrounding trail system. Ticks are common on the trails, particularly during warmer months when vegetation is dense. The conservation area contains extensive riding paths through varied terrain with historical features visible along routes. Non-equestrian campers can use the facilities but are encouraged to check other nearby campgrounds first. No reservations are required as all sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
What to do
Fishing access: Whetstone Conservation Area includes several ponds and a larger lake where visitors can fish. "Super well maintained conservation area, 5 camp sites with fire pits and picnic tables. Several ponds and a larger lake but it was currently being repaired so it's very low," notes Kayla W.
Hiking and wildlife viewing: Daniel Boone Conservation Area offers hiking trails with opportunities to spot local wildlife. "There's a little pond with wildlife like rabbits and frogs. You get there after about 5 miles on a well maintained, wide gravel road," reports Tee C. The area provides a natural habitat for various species.
Horseback riding: Rudolf Bennitt Conservation Area features dedicated equestrian facilities with multiple camping options. "There are several equestrian campsites +20 throughout the park. Also a shooting range centrally located in the park," shares Ron R. These sites cater specifically to those seeking horse-friendly camping near New Bloomfield.
What campers like
Peaceful environment: Campers appreciate the quiet setting at many conservation areas. At Daniel Boone Conservation Area, one visitor mentions, "Enjoy the sound of owls and silence. Plenty of dead/down trees for firewood. 2 bars w/Verizon," according to alexis M.
Water activities: Finger Lakes State Park Campground offers multiple water recreation options. "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. Kayaks and canoes are available to rent as well," shares Ashley F.
Historical features: The conservation areas contain remnants of earlier settlements. Curtis M. notes that Daniel Boone Conservation Area has a "Great primitive campground with old homestead foundation along the trail. Perfect stop during you back packing trekk."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most conservation areas offer minimal amenities. At Scrivner Road Conservation Area, Josh S. explains, "First come first serve basic camp area on the river. It has 1 fire ring in a gravel turnaround."
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds can become dusty. At Cedar Creek Resort & RV Park, Amy E. notes, "The only thing I didn't love was the gravel road all the way in. Our truck and camper was covered with gravel dust. So if you had anything exposed, it'll get a bit dusty."
Wildlife concerns: Ticks are prevalent during warmer months. At Finger Lakes State Park, Robert R. advises, "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!"
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Cedar Creek Resort & RV Park provides family-friendly water activities. "Free rentals on pontoon boats, kayaks, and paddle boats. We will be back again, especially since they just built more cabins!" mentions Jason R.
Multiple activities: Lost Valley Lake Resort offers diverse recreational options for families. "There is swimming year round with 2 indoor pools, hot tubs and sauna. Summer time swimming at 1 outdoor pool and 2 swimming beaches at the lake. You can rent paddle boats, canoes, kayaks and fishing boats," says Cyndi O.
Site selection for families: Choose camping areas away from heavily used trails. At Finger Lakes State Park, Charlotte B. advises, "Everything from fishing, shooting, and bicycling, but not a huge fan of the area to camp— it is just a giant concrete pad."
Tips from RVers
Level sites: For RV camping, look for areas with level pads. At Finger Lakes State Park, Robert R. notes, "This one was easy in/out, plenty of room between campsites. Most sites looked level, but some are a bit wacky."
Campsite spacing: Rudolf Bennitt Conservation Area offers spacious camping areas. Linda H. describes, "Camping at lake is open gravel or grass. Nice fishing lake with docks, boat ramp and vault toilet and the only one provided. Parked lakeside."
Primitive options: Erik R. explains that Daniel Boone Conservation Area offers "entirely primitive camping. No services at all but the grounds are neat and clean. We camped in the RV area. There were a couple of other tents and a popup."
