Tent camping near Salisbury, Missouri offers options within conservation areas, state parks, and along the Missouri River. Most sites provide primitive conditions with limited amenities across elevations ranging from 600-800 feet above sea level. During summer months, campers should prepare for temperatures averaging 85-90°F with high humidity and occasional thunderstorms that can create muddy trail conditions.
What to do
Explore cave systems: Rock Bridge Memorial State Park features fascinating caves including Connor's Cave where the temperature remains a consistent 56°F. "I found the Devil's Icebox and was rejoiced by how remarkably cool it was (56 degrees Fahrenheit to be exact!) compared to the thick, humid summer air," notes one Rock Bridge Memorial State Park visitor.
Wildlife watching: Evening hours offer excellent wildlife spotting opportunities at Slate and Wild Roses campground. "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," reports a camper at Slate and Wild Roses.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple access points for fishing exist throughout the region's conservation areas and lakes. "Great for fishing and horseback riding. Stayed for 1.5 weeks. Stay at lake for three days, established area with vault toilet and gravel parking. Has boat ramp and fishing docks," explains a Rudolf Bennitt Conservation Area visitor.
What campers like
Trail variety: The region offers trails suitable for various experience levels and activities. "I used the Reservation System on TheDyrt.com to secure a night here during the holiday weekend when many other campgrounds were booked solid," notes a camper about their experience finding space during busy periods at Slate and Wild Roses.
Beginner-friendly backpacking: The backpack campsites at Long Branch State Park provide an excellent introduction to overnight hiking. "If you're looking to get your feet wet with backpacking (as I was), this is a great spot to do it. If you're a seasoned backpacker and are just looking for a quick out-and-back, I think you would be equally pleased," explains a visitor at Long Branch State Park.
Secluded camping spots: Many locations offer privacy away from developed areas. "Franklin island, great quite and secluded camp sigh. But can muddy due to sessional flooding," warns a camper at Franklin Island about potential conditions to prepare for.
What you should know
Seasonal flooding: River proximity means certain sites experience periodic flooding that affects access. "We had some crazy hard rain overnight and Brian and Kristina thoughtfully checked in via phone in the morning," mentions a Slate and Wild Roses camper about management's attentiveness during weather events.
Variable road conditions: Access to some sites requires navigating unpaved roads that deteriorate in wet weather. "If you are familiar with 'gumbo' dirt, you will understand that it will be tricky to bring anything but four wheel drive if it might rain," cautions a visitor about access at Slate and Wild Roses during wet periods.
Safety considerations: Some camping areas have reported safety issues. "Not bad camp spots here, but there are a lot of drug deals going on here. Don't feel very safe at all," warns a visitor to Harriman Hill Access from September 2023.
Tips for camping with families
Creek exploration: Several parks feature creeks where children can cool off during summer months. "Great trails for biking and hiking and the creek is perfect for cooling off. However, this place can get really really busy," notes a Rock Bridge Memorial State Park visitor about managing crowds.
Educational opportunities: Several conservation areas provide educational materials about local ecosystems. "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," describes a visitor at Slate and Wild Roses.
Campfire cooking: Practice outdoor cooking skills with family-friendly amenities at select sites. "I used the Grub Forks to cook Italian sausages and the Grub Cage to cook veggies for dinner as well as the forks for cooking bacon for breakfast," shares a camper about their cooking experience.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accommodations: Most tent camping sites near Salisbury lack facilities for larger vehicles. "Camping at lake is open gravel or grass. Nice fishing lake with docks, boat ramp and vault toilet and the only one provided," explains a visitor at Rudolf Bennitt Conservation Area about the basic amenities available.
Resource planning: No hookups exist at most sites, requiring self-sufficiency. "Parked lakeside. Quite night with one fishing boat late morning. Get a brochure with park map at entrance as roads pass through park and private property," advises a Rudolf Bennitt Conservation Area camper about navigation.
