Campsite options near Portland, Missouri include basic primitive sites to full-service campgrounds along the rural Gasconade and Missouri River corridors. Locations range from river bottomland to densely wooded ridges with elevation changes of 300-500 feet between valley floors and ridgetops. Summer humidity peaks from June through August, with temperatures often exceeding 90°F while creating challenging mosquito conditions in conservation areas.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Fredericksburg Ferry Access provides river fishing along the Gasconade. "Quiet and always kept clean," notes one camper about this free primitive camping area with vault toilets.
Explore hiking trails: Daniel Boone Conservation Area features stocked fishing ponds and hiking trails. "I camped in the gravel lot by my car under the stars. Nothing special about the place. 2 bar LTE Verizon," reports a visitor who stopped while traveling.
Visit historic Hermann: Located near several campsites, this German heritage town offers wineries and historical sites. A visitor to Hickory Ridge Campground mentioned, "Nice Campground, Convenient Location. Though campground is close to interstate, noise was minimal (I think because of the trees)."
Katy Trail access: Several campsites provide access to the trail for cycling. "We rode the Katy Trail which is only 3.5 miles down the hill from here," mentioned a camper at Hickory Ridge.
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: Conservation areas provide secluded camping. "When I first pulled in I kept going back further only to realize the spots were located right by the road side," noted a Daniel Boone visitor, adding "It's quiet and peaceful!"
Clean facilities: Lazy Day Campground consistently receives praise for maintenance. "Very clean, great restrooms, clean. Has laundry room. Nice level sites," wrote one satisfied visitor.
Convenient overnight stops: Many travelers use the area as a rest point during longer journeys. A visitor to Kan-Do Kampground reported, "After 4 days driving & 3 nts of boondocking, this was a welcomed stopover; clean, quiet, and level gravel pad."
Seasonal camping options: Year-round availability at most locations with varying amenities. "Open year-round. There are some full-timers," notes a Kan-Do Kampground review, making it reliable for winter travelers.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to conservation areas requires awareness of recent weather. "Gravel roads to the campsites are well maintained," reports a Daniel Boone visitor, but conditions change after heavy rain.
Limited cell service: Coverage varies significantly by location and provider. "I had between 2-3 bars of 5G via AT&T and could work efficiently," notes a visitor to Danville Conservation Area, which features primitive camping with vault toilets.
Ticks and insects: Prepare for significant tick presence in wooded areas. "Lovely wooded spot... We had a lovely night but woke up covered in ticks! Lots of ticks here," warns a Danville Conservation Area camper.
Limited signage: Navigation can be challenging for first-time visitors. "I wish there would have been signs pointing them out more. It looks like I wasn't the only one to continue on as there were tire tracks already and then turn arounds," notes a Daniel Boone visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Graham Cave State Park Campground offers developed sites near hiking trails. "Heavily wooded with lots of shade at most of the campsites. We stayed in Site 48, which was a back-in site that backed-up to a large green area that our kids truly enjoyed playing in," reports a family camper.
Seasonal activities: Fall camping provides comfortable temperatures and fewer insects. "The weather in early October was perfect for a camp fire and the stars really stood out at night," mentions a Graham Cave visitor.
Dog-friendly areas: Multiple conservation areas welcome pets. "The 1/2-acre dog park was especially impressive," noted a visitor to Lazy Day Campground about their pet facilities.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience intermittent noise from highways or other campers. "When I stayed there only 1 other small group was there," reports a camper at Fredericksburg Ferry Access, noting its typically quiet atmosphere.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring preparation. "Sites were tight and noise from other sites carries easily," cautions a Graham Cave visitor.
Hookup locations: Check utility placement before setting up. "The gravel pad was fairly level, and although the utilities were toward the back of the site, we had no trouble connecting. There were two sewer hookups—a nice touch," reports a Lazy Day visitor.
Generator policies: Rules vary across locations. "Driving through the area and needed a place to park and sleep. We didn't use any of the facilities, but my impression was good! The campground is clean and there are lots of spaces. We had site 30- nice pull through spot with no length issues at all with our 40 ft toy hauler," notes a Kan-Do Kampground visitor.
Seasonal availability: Some RV parks operate with limited services in winter. "After taxes and AAA disc $31.43 w/ full-hookups (30-amp). Verizon 4 bars," reports a Kan-Do visitor about their year-round operation.
