Tent camping near New Franklin, Missouri encompasses several conservation areas and riverfront sites within 30 miles of town. The region features rolling hills with elevations ranging from 580 to 850 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F with high humidity, while spring and fall bring milder conditions and occasional flooding near river access points.
What to do
Explore equestrian trails: Rudolf Bennitt Conservation Area offers extensive trail networks. "Heavily forested with a lake. Trails and camping areas in woods are setup for equestrian with good trails for hikers, bikers and horses," notes a camper at Rudolf Bennitt Conservation Area.
Target practice: Several conservation areas maintain shooting ranges for visitors. Scrivner Road Conservation Area provides "Rivers, Lakes, Gun range, Horses and hiking can all be enjoyed here," according to a review at Scrivner Road Conservation Area.
Wildlife observation: Evening hours offer prime wildlife viewing opportunities. At Slate and Wild Roses, a camper reported, "As the evening wore on I heard barred owls and coyotes, as well as the nearby cows. The fireflies came out at dark and gave me an impressive show."
What campers like
Secluded riverside spots: Pikes Camp offers quiet waterfront camping. A visitor mentioned, "Great little river access. Has a shaded grassy area for camping. No power vault toilets," at Pikes Camp.
Lake access: Several sites provide fishing and boating opportunities on small lakes. At Rudolf Bennitt, "Nice fishing lake with docks, boat ramp and vault toilet and the only one provided. Parked lakeside. Quite night with one fishing boat late morning."
Bushwhacking opportunities: Undeveloped areas allow for off-trail exploration. One camper at Slate and Wild Roses noted, "There are 80 wild acres of treed and logged land to bushwhack and explore that eventually will have some trails to hike, including a pretty creek to dip your toes in."
What you should know
Seasonal flooding impacts: Low-lying areas experience regular inundation. At Franklin Island, a visitor observed, "Great quite and secluded camp sigh. But can muddy due to sessional flooding."
Security concerns: Some access areas report safety issues. Harriman Hill Access received this warning: "Not bad camp spots here, but there are a lot of drug deals going on here. Don't feel very safe at all."
Road conditions: Access roads deteriorate during wet weather. At Slate and Wild Roses, visitors should know that "rain will affect your ability to navigate the farm road which is gravel to a point and then a dirt two track that disappears and reappears in between the wild roses and grasses."
Tips for camping with families
Scout group locations: Some sites offer special arrangements for organized youth groups. Rock Bridge Memorial State Park notes, "they charge non-profit groups and scouts a very small fee per person."
Avoid crowded locations: Popular spots can become noisy during peak times. One camper at Rock Bridge Memorial State Park warned, "Great trails for biking and hiking and the creek is perfect for cooling off. However, this place can get really really busy."
Prepare for insects: Summer brings mosquitoes and ticks to wooded areas. Pack appropriate repellents and conduct regular tick checks after hiking through tall grasses or wooded areas.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most tent camping locations near New Franklin have minimal RV accommodations. Pikes Camp allows RVs but has no hookups or designated RV spaces.
Extended stays possible: Some conservation areas permit longer camping periods. A visitor at Rudolf Bennitt mentioned, "Stayed for 1.5 weeks. Stay at lake for three days, established area with vault toilet and gravel parking."
Navigation assistance: Conservation area maps are essential. "Get a brochure with park map at entrance as roads pass through park and private property," advises a camper at Rudolf Bennitt Conservation Area.
