Best Dispersed Camping near Theodosia, MO

Theodosia is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Theodosia is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Find the best campgrounds near Theodosia, MO. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Theodosia, Missouri (10)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Theodosia, MO

4 Photos of 10 Theodosia Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Theodosia, MO

17 Reviews of 10 Theodosia Campgrounds


  • Crystal C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 1, 2020

    Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area

    Hike in and camp, or just hike for day use!!

    This area is a wilderness area so camping is plentiful.  However in this particular are there is no organized campsite specifically.  Instead there are several areas where you can with permissions hike in and stay.  

    My suggestion for camping along this area are to check with local restrictions, there are some that you will want to make sure you know first hand.   Sometimes fire restrictions do change and these can be found at the beginning of the trails on the kiosks.   Some areas also are not permitted for overnight parking so you want to check those out before venturing into the wilderness for a lengthy time.

    Check with rangers of the area to make sure you are not in a register only or permit only area for camping!!  Very important in this region.

    Bring everything and then plot your course.

    The 4 mile hike is amazing and has many beautiful view points however it is also quite treacherous in some areas.    This area is also one which you will find many snakes lurking during warmer months so beware!!!!   

    I always suggest on wilderness hikes to not hike alone or camp alone but this one I found to be more problematic with limited to no cell service for assistance should you encounter danger.   

    Be careful but have fun!!!

  • T
    Nov. 29, 2017

    Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area

    Nicely private, but not a lot of scenery

    Hercules Glades Wilderness Area is part of mark Twain National Forest. It's a bit off the beaten path, but worth it for a day hike or a bit of backpacking.

    Since it's wilderness area, you can camp just about anywhere with few restrictions. There are a few primitive sites at the trailhead, no water or toilets.

    A few hundred yards from the Coy Bald Trailhead there is a fork in the trail. Going left gets you to the falls and the majority of the camp sites with the shortest route, about three miles.

    The trail is pretty rough and rocky with moderate elevation changes. I'd rate it on the low side of moderate difficulty.

    About a mile in you'll cross the river for the first time. There are camp sites with fire rings on both sides of the river. This is a scenic area with bluffs on one side of the river, but forested, so no views to speak of.

    About three miles in, you'll cross the river the second time. There are a number of camping areas with fire rings along the river.

    Downstream a few hundred feet are the falls that most people go to see. Unfortunately for us, there wasn't enough water for them to be running. There was enough water to wade around in and soak the feet. It was quite nice!

    The area is pretty and quiet, we saw only a handful of people in the two days we were there. The only issue was the ticks, they were the worst I'd dealt with in some time.

    All in all, a nice hike and a nice bit if camping. I'd go back to see the falls again.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 27, 2018

    Hercules Glades (Watch Tower)

    Rustic with great hiking

    This is a good place for hiking/backpacking. There are several sites around the access road and miles of hiking trails. The only ammenities are some fire rings and 1 toilet. It's a beautiful area but fairly remote and immediate services. Again, good for backpacking/hiking.

  • Candace R.
    Sep. 28, 2021

    Woolum Dispersed Area — Buffalo National River

    Buggy but Beautiful

    So many options to make your home away from home! Grassy meadows or river side oasis, you choose! This is definitely the place to go to enjoy magnificent scenery and not be distracted by technology. Late September visit means the river is low, nights are cool and days are filled with sunshine. Bring the bug spray and sunscreen.

  • J
    May. 2, 2022

    Woolum Dispersed Area — Buffalo National River

    One of the best remote campgrounds in AR

    I have visited this spot multiple times and camped right on the riverbank. Beautiful scenery year-round.  I just tried to make a trip up there at the end of April (2022) and the final stretch of access road was blocked off due to erosion according to NPS. Not sure when main road will reopen. Ended up camping out at bakers ford just a few miles away.

  • Ramie W.
    Sep. 1, 2018

    Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area

    Hercules Glades

    I did the Coy Bald hike and loved it. Most of the trail was fairly easy to navigate, however the areas of open meadows were a little more difficult to find where it picks back up. The falls are a great rock feature when it’s dry and beautiful when they’re flowing.

  • Conceptual S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 6, 2023

    Blair Ridge Rd Dispersed

    Secluded

    Tried to camp out before backpacking through Hercules Glade Wilderness but the trailheads were packed (weekend). There are two fire rings along this road. Both locations have full bars (Verizon). Little to no man made noise but be respectful, there is a private residence at the end of the road.

  • Anna W.
    Aug. 8, 2021

    Hercules Glades (Watch Tower)

    Quiet and easy

    We got here on a pretty hilly/twisty road late at night, found a spot close to the trailhead and had a quiet, peaceful night sleep. We saw just one other camper with a trailer close to the inlet. Just a quick stop on our way, we didn’t hike long in the morning but the trail seemed quiet and secluded; we didn’t see anyone else.

  • WThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 24, 2025

    Woolum Dispersed Area — Buffalo National River

    Love this place

    Right on the river with both a rock and sand beach currently. Fire rings. Only one other camper that’s at the other end of the campground on memorial weekend. Vault toilets. Good Solar.


Guide to Theodosia

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Theodosia, Missouri, where nature lovers can immerse themselves in the serene wilderness. With a variety of options available, campers can enjoy the freedom of setting up camp in stunning locations.

Enjoy Scenic Hikes while Free Camping Near Theodosia

  • The Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area offers a remarkable four-mile hike that leads to breathtaking viewpoints and unique rock formations, perfect for those who love to explore.
  • For a more secluded experience, the Hercules Glades (Watch Tower) provides access to miles of hiking trails, allowing you to enjoy the tranquility of nature without the crowds.
  • The Coy Bald Trail, located in the Hercules Glades Wilderness Area, features open meadows and scenic waterfalls, making it a great spot for both hiking and camping.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Unique Features

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Theodosia, Missouri

  • Always check local regulations before heading out, as some areas may have specific restrictions regarding fires and camping, especially in the Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area.
  • Be prepared for limited amenities; for instance, the Hercules Glades (Watch Tower) has only basic facilities, so bring everything you need for a comfortable stay.
  • Keep an eye out for wildlife, especially snakes during warmer months, particularly in areas like the Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area, where encounters can be common.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Theodosia, MO is Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area with a 4.5-star rating from 4 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 10 dispersed camping locations near Theodosia, MO, with real photos and reviews from campers.