Best Dispersed Camping near Odessa, MO

Are you planning a dispersed camping trip to Odessa? We've got you covered. Dispersed camping gets you off the grid so you can disconnect from the hecticness of everyday life. Each dispersed site offers quick access to one or more of Odessa's most popular destinations.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Odessa, Missouri (5)

    Gary S.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Crooked River Conservation Area near Lawson, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Crooked River Conservation Area near Lawson, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Crooked River Conservation Area near Lawson, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Crooked River Conservation Area near Lawson, MO

    1. Crooked River Conservation Area

    1 Review
    4 Photos
    11 Saves
    Lawson, Missouri

    The Conservation Department purchased Crooked River Conservation Area property in 1983 with funds from the 1/8 of 1% Design for Conservation sales tax. The area includes forest/woodland, several small ponds, and three miles of frontage on Crooked River. The area's diverse habitats create an ideal home for many species of wildlife, including deer, turkey, quail, squirrels, and songbirds.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    Sarah's photo of a dispersed camping area at Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping near Urich, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping near Urich, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping near Urich, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping near Urich, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping near Urich, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping near Urich, MO

    2. Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping

    9 Reviews
    29 Photos
    199 Saves
    Urich, Missouri

    Camping limited to 14 days

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Equestrian
    Camper-submitted photo at Poague Campsite #5 near Clinton, MO

    3. Poague Campsite #5

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    1 Save
    Clinton, Missouri

    • Camping is permitted in posted parking lots. • No littering. • No fireworks. • No open fires except in areas designated open to camping. • No free-running pets. Dogs must be leashed or confined when not being used for hunting. • Motor vehicles are restricted to graveled roadways and parking areas. • Destroying, cutting or removing vegetation is prohibited. Nuts, berries, fruits, edible wild greens and mushrooms may be taken only for personal consumption. • No target shooting allowed. • Trail and game cameras are prohibited.

    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo at Poague Campsite #3 near Clinton, MO

    4. Poague Campsite #3

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    1 Save
    Clinton, Missouri

    • Camping is permitted in posted parking lots. • No littering. • No fireworks. • No open fires except in areas designated open to camping. • No free-running pets. Dogs must be leashed or confined when not being used for hunting. • Motor vehicles are restricted to graveled roadways and parking areas. • Destroying, cutting or removing vegetation is prohibited. Nuts, berries, fruits, edible wild greens and mushrooms may be taken only for personal consumption. • No target shooting allowed. • Trail and game cameras are prohibited.

    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo at Poague Campsite #4 near Clinton, MO

    5. Poague Campsite #4

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    Clinton, Missouri

    • Camping is permitted in posted parking lots. • No littering. • No fireworks. • No open fires except in areas designated open to camping. • No free-running pets. Dogs must be leashed or confined when not being used for hunting. • Motor vehicles are restricted to graveled roadways and parking areas. • Destroying, cutting or removing vegetation is prohibited. Nuts, berries, fruits, edible wild greens and mushrooms may be taken only for personal consumption. • No target shooting allowed. • Trail and game cameras are prohibited.

    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
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Showing results 1-5 of 5 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews near Odessa, Missouri

10 Reviews of 5 Odessa Campgrounds


  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Crooked River Conservation Area
    Jul. 18, 2024

    Crooked River Conservation Area

    Missouri Department of Conservation Area, free camping

    Free camping in designated camping area per MO Dept of Conservation rules. Pit toilets and mowed area for camping. Hunting, fishing and other outdoor activities inside the area.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping
    Aug. 28, 2023

    Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping

    I Made a Kittah Friend

    There is a super sweet local cat who befriended me here and made my visit so much better. I had some mechanical issues with my car and Kampground Kittah tried to help. 🤣

    Bathrooms were fine. It’s free camping so it was great that there were bathrooms at all.

    One of the locals stopped by my site to look for arrowheads. Apparently, she has found a lot in the area so that’s a good activity if the kids are bored.

    If you’re looking for a good wine, you can find some at the local auto parts store. I am not kidding! I think it’s Rick’s Auto Parts and their liquor is priced very reasonably. 😄 If your car’s broken down and you can’t drive, I guess you might as well drink and Rick’s there to help you out with both. 🤣

  • Sarah The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping
    Nov. 29, 2020

    Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping

    montrose conservation area missouri

    this little off the beaten path camp ground his paved roads, boat access for 2 areas 1 near the damn which closes a gate after 10pm, we use the other area near the conservation station(although ive never seen anyone there) park rangers are mostly non existent , they do drive through, they are quite nice an most the time never stop just smile an wave, there some fire spots but be kind an put up rocks that you can find along the shore, there is bathroom facilities and a dumpster behind the conservation building.

    the area is surrounded by trees but the area is clean, nice soft grass, there are pecan an walnut trees so watch out for your heads when its fall lol . you can fish, boat and swim but i recommend  water shoes. the water is very shallow most the time its only chest deep out in the middle. there is loads of wildlife to see an arent much scared of humans, racoons,beavers, crane, squirrels,dear,owls an much more. theres also blackberries in the fall. 

    all in all a very nice quiet little free camp area. we go all the time.

  • Leni K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping
    Jun. 6, 2022

    Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping

    Great Secluded Dispersed Camping

    There is no camping allowed after October 15 due to hunting season. This was not on the website and was not seeable in dust when arriving late on a small sign in the bushes. Thankfully we were not shot! While free, dispersed sites, there are easily established fire pit areas to choose from Vault toilets were absolutely disgusting, thankfully we brought our own toilet paper. Easily accessible car camping. Not too many other campers at the other site where we spotted some RVs. Overall the remote location, gorgeous scenery and with a couple boats makes for a great weekend.

  • Charles N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping
    Apr. 25, 2023

    Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping

    Amazing experience!

    We got to campsite pretty late, so when everyone was unpacked we went straight to bed. shortly after we all passed out from the long and beautiful 16 hour drive, we started hearing all the wildlife and I will never forget waking up in the most beautiful place. Was a picture perfect moment, Colorado springs will forever hold a spot in my, and my family's memories. have fun and safe travels!

  • Megan C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping
    Jan. 20, 2024

    Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping

    Decent spot

    It was quiet. We enjoyed our stay. I read about the black cat that was found there in the other review. It was still there when we camped in late December and quite hungry. Very friendly and needing love. We brought him home with us and he is the most amazing cat. Took a while to get litter trained but I’m glad we opened up our home to him before the bad weather got here. Thanks to this site, we found our new family member! Thanks to whoever posted.

  • Lee F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping
    May. 6, 2023

    Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping

    Stinky toilet

    Large grassy area with plenty of room to set up a tent or camper. Right off the road, so no dirt roads to traverse. Signs were confusing as to whether it is ok to camp, but they didn't explicitly say no camping. The lake is really just a mud bog, so not very appealing unless you came to duck hunt. No picnic tables or fire pits. The pit toilet was really gross, but there was toilet paper.


Guide to Odessa

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Odessa, Missouri, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy the great outdoors without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With a variety of options available, campers can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with nature.

Dispersed campers should check out Crooked River Conservation Area

  • Crooked River Conservation Area offers free camping in a designated space, making it an attractive option for those looking to save on fees while enjoying the outdoors.
  • Campers can engage in various outdoor activities such as hunting and fishing, providing ample opportunities for adventure and relaxation.
  • While amenities are limited, the area allows campfires, making it perfect for cozy evenings under the stars.

Top activities while free camping near Odessa

  • At Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping, visitors can enjoy fishing and exploring the local wildlife, enhancing the camping experience.
  • The area is known for its friendly local wildlife, including a cat that has become a beloved companion for many campers, adding a unique touch to the experience.
  • With access to pit toilets and trash disposal, this location provides some essential conveniences while still embracing the essence of dispersed camping.

Unique features of Poague Conservation Area for dispersed campers

  • Poague Conservation Area is big rig friendly, accommodating larger RVs and trailers, which is a rarity in dispersed camping spots.
  • Despite the lack of amenities like drinking water and toilets, the area allows campfires, making it a great place for evening gatherings.
  • Campers can stay for up to 14 days for free, giving plenty of time to explore the surrounding nature and enjoy the peace and quiet.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Odessa, MO?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Odessa, MO is Crooked River Conservation Area with a 4-star rating from 1 review.

  • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Odessa, MO?

    TheDyrt.com has all 5 dispersed camping locations near Odessa, MO, with real photos and reviews from campers.