Best Dispersed Camping near Rhineland, MO

The Mark Twain National Forest region surrounding Rhineland, Missouri features several dispersed camping options within a 60-mile radius. Pine Ridge Recreation Area in New Bloomfield stands out as a popular year-round destination with basic amenities including vault toilets, potable water, and designated sites with fire pits and picnic tables. Three Creeks Conservation Area offers more primitive camping experiences with walk-in and hike-in access, while Lone Spring Trail provides backpacking campsites for those seeking more remote experiences. Most sites in the area are dispersed camping locations managed by state conservation departments or the U.S. Forest Service, offering varying levels of development and accessibility.

Road conditions vary significantly across camping areas, with some sites requiring navigation on gravel or chalky roads that may be challenging after rain. As one camper noted, "Some roads are gravel and chalky leading there." Seasonal considerations affect availability, with some areas closing during winter months. Many campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations accepted. Pine Ridge Recreation Area previously operated on a donation system but recent reports indicate a possible shift to a $15 per night fee structure with payment envelopes and a lockbox. Most sites have a two-week maximum stay limit, and amenities typically include vault toilets with limited or no shower facilities.

Visitor experiences highlight both the tranquility and occasional challenges of camping in this region. Pine Ridge receives consistent praise for its spacious sites and hiking opportunities, with one visitor describing it as "perfect for a night stay or a backpacking trip." Weekends tend to be busier at most locations, with weekday visits offering more solitude. Several campers mention ambient noise from neighboring properties, including occasional gunshots from nearby ranges. Three Creeks Conservation Area receives mixed reviews, with some visitors noting difficult navigation and poor signage: "There was no signage and Google and Apple Maps couldn't get us there." Wildlife encounters are common, with ticks being a frequent concern during warmer months. Most sites accommodate both tent and hammock camping with ample tree coverage.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Rhineland, Missouri (4)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Rhineland, MO

13 Photos of 4 Rhineland Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Rhineland, MO

14 Reviews of 4 Rhineland Campgrounds


  • Curtis M.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 22, 2018

    Pine Ridge Recreation Area

    Pines Pines Pines impressive

    Set in the Cedar Creek District of the mark Twain National Forest this campground is perfect for a night stay or a backpacking trip. On site camp hostess and privy. Great hammock camping

  • Charlotte B.
    Jul. 9, 2018

    Pine Ridge Recreation Area

    great trails

    Love the trails and the secluded spots. There usually are always people camping, even in the winter. Also, there are no electric sites so dont forget your generator. My husband and I have felt a little unsafe. We once had another camper come into our site and not want to leave.

  • L
    Feb. 9, 2020

    Pine Ridge Recreation Area

    Peaceful

    Stayed 2 nights, blacktop rv site, back in, w table, fire pit, grill on pit as well as seperate on pedestal, covered table for storage  or prep, also picnic table, water faucet, dumpsters, vault toilet.  Stayed in Oct so it was not busy, there were a few tents, hiking trail lots of shade.  Nice country road drive in and out.

  • Michael M.
    Jun. 18, 2021

    Pine Ridge Recreation Area

    Nice semi-quite place to overnight.

    All and all nice place. Some roads are gravel and chalky leading there (my cars still covered and I'm in Colorado now!) Pit Toilets were nice, one for campground. 2 potable water sites. Campsites were not well defined and judging by the beer cans in some site fire rings it might get rowdy on the weekend.

  • Chrischelle N.
    Sep. 8, 2020

    Pine Ridge Recreation Area

    Great Campground

    Pros: Free!! Close to Columbia but far enough away for a getaway. Easy to find from the road, even in the dark. Fire pits and picnic tables are there. Vault toilets and running water available. Hiking trailhead at the entrance of the campground. Camping spots are spaced out enough.

    Cons: Can hear lawn-mowing and Gun shots from neighboring properties in the early morning. Still not the end of the world. Definitely fills up on the weekends.

    I stayed at #3 and it was a very spacious private spot. If you have kids/dogs I recommend spot #4 it has a long strip of playroom for running around without disturbing other spaces. 2 week maximum stay.

  • FThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 6, 2020

    Pine Ridge Recreation Area

    Pine Ridge Dispersed camping at Mark Twain National Forest

    There was easy access to the campground. There were designated spots to camp that had a picnic table and camp grill. Didn't like people just sitting in parked cars in the campground. Quite place to camp for the night.

  • Ron R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 29, 2025

    Pine Ridge Recreation Area

    New rates apply?

    I arrived at the site in April of 2025, and was greeted with a locked gate and signage stating rates are $15 per night. Envelopes and lock box are in place. Beautiful campground with plenty of freshly cut firewood. Excellent spot for overnight or weekends with the family.

  • Jenn L.
    Sep. 27, 2019

    Pine Ridge Recreation Area

    My absolute favorite place close to home.

    This campground is pretty stripped down. There are vault toilets and that's it for amenities. However, it is also one of my favorites close to home to hike. The campsites are always clean, but you almost always find litter in the fire rings. You have to gather your own wood or bring approved stuff in, but it is perfect for a quick overnight trip.

  • Mashleys B.
    Jun. 21, 2021

    Pine Ridge Recreation Area

    Nice campsite!

    Went here on a sunday night. Only two other campers. Toilets, dumpster, and water pump present. Only bummer was lots of ticks and there must be a gun range nearby, which set off our dog's anxiety.


Guide to Rhineland

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Rhineland, Missouri, where nature meets tranquility. With a variety of options available, outdoor enthusiasts can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Rhineland, Missouri

  • Be prepared for a rustic experience; for instance, at Pine Ridge Recreation Area, you'll find clean vault toilets and potable water, but no showers or water hookups.

Scenic spots for nature lovers while free camping near Rhineland

Activities for adventure seekers while dispersed camping near Rhineland

  • Hiking is a popular activity in the area, especially at Three Creeks Conservation Area, where the beautiful scenery is perfect for exploring, though finding designated camping spots can be a challenge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Rhineland, MO?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Rhineland, MO is Pine Ridge Recreation Area with a 3.8-star rating from 13 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 4 dispersed camping locations near Rhineland, MO, with real photos and reviews from campers.