Tent camping near New Bloomfield, Missouri offers sites primarily in the rolling hills of the Ozark border region, with elevations ranging from 600-800 feet. During spring and fall seasons, overnight temperatures often drop below 50°F, creating significant temperature swings compared to daytime highs. Most conservation areas feature oak-hickory forest coverage, providing partial shade at many primitive campsites.
What to do
River access for fishing: The Gasconade River at Fredericksburg Ferry Access provides opportunities for bank fishing near the boat ramp. "Quiet and always kept clean," notes camper Mitzi B., making it a reliable spot for overnight anglers.
Hiking trails: Scrivner Road Conservation Area offers multiple trail options through diverse terrain. A camper describes it as "a Swiss Army knife of rugged off the path camping. Rivers, Lakes, Gun range, Horses and hiking can all be enjoyed here."
Target shooting: Several conservation areas near New Bloomfield maintain shooting ranges with designated hours. Scrivner Conservation Area includes "a handgun, and rifle range with vault toilets," according to reviewer Josh S., making it possible to combine camping and shooting practice in one location.
Stargazing opportunities: Clear nights offer excellent celestial viewing at several sites. One camper at Fredericksburg Access noted, "Lots of trees but still great stargazing at night. We even saw a few meteors!"
What campers like
Riverside camping: Helds Island Access provides direct river access with boat launching facilities. "There's a boat launch here. Saw a decent amount of traffic for this. Grass sites. Road is well maintained," reports Chris J.
Affordability: Free camping options throughout the region make overnight stays accessible. At Ben Branch Lake Conservation Area, camper Pamela B. found "Primitive Free Camping" with "Vault toilets available. Quiet. No water, hook ups or picnic tables, but fire rings."
Privacy at certain locations: Despite limited site numbers, some areas remain underutilized. At Fredericksburg Access, a reviewer noted, "We went on a late July weekend and only 1 other small group was there. It had just rained but wasn't too mucky."
Level tent sites: The terrain at several conservation areas provides natural flat spots. "Ground is very level and not super rocky so this is a great site for tents," notes a camper about Fredericksburg Access, making it easier to set up comfortable sleeping arrangements.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most conservation area campgrounds provide only basic amenities. At Pikes Camp, Josh S. found a "Great little river access. Has a shaded grassy area for camping. No power vault toilets."
Site availability concerns: Several areas have very limited camping spots. Lori S. warns that Ben Branch "camping Spots DO fill up quickly as there are only like 5-7 spots."
Weekend noise levels: Some locations experience increased activity and noise on weekends. "On a weekend, it's gonna be loud! Lots of ATVs up and down the Gravel Road," reports a camper about Ben Branch Lake Conservation Area.
Water access challenges: River access points may require caution. At Fredericksburg Access, the swim "requires crossing a moderately sized river that is relatively swift. This is fine for people who swim well but not recommended for young children or weak swimmers especially without flotation devices."
Tips for camping with families
River safety precautions: Families with children should exercise caution near water. A camper at Osage-Tavern Access reports it's "Right along the river so nice if your looking for water. A couple of families/kids here but not too loud."
Road conditions: Access roads vary in quality. "Drive was safe in our heavy converted camper van. No off road vehicle or AWD needed," reports one camper about Fredericksburg Access, while Osage-Tavern Access has "8 miles of dirt but my Nissan Rogue did fine."
Supply planning: Limited nearby services require advance preparation. One camper notes Fredericksburg Access is "45m to nearest Walmart or tractor supply, so plan ahead. Food, fire starter logs, and lighter fuel available at Thriftway (about 30 min)."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV amenities: Most conservation areas lack hookups or designated RV sites. Water Mountain offers more amenities than most conservation areas, with a camper noting "Lots of open space to camp and plenty of area to hike or use an ATV. Also it's on the river which is nice!"
Suitable for smaller rigs: Sites accommodate modest-sized RVs but typically lack services. A camper at Fredericksburg Access noted it would "Likely be a much tougher trip if you used to full hook-up RV camping/glamping, or require showers, but perfect for primitive camping!"
Waste management: No dump stations exist at conservation area campgrounds. "No sinks nor dumpsters, so plan ahead for hygiene and waste," advises a camper about area facilities.
