Rudolf Bennitt Conservation Area provides primitive equestrian camping near Triplett, Missouri, with over 20 sites designed specifically for horse trailers and camping. These sites are distributed throughout the forested conservation area, offering natural shade and protection from the elements. Most equestrian sites are basic with no utilities, though vault toilets are available near the lake area. The conservation land spans approximately 3,000 acres of hardwood forest and open grasslands with an interconnected trail system.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Rudolf Bennitt Conservation Area features a stocked lake with fishing docks and a boat ramp. As Ron R. notes, "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."
Target practice: The conservation area includes a shooting range centrally located within the park boundaries. According to Ron R., there is a "shooting range centrally located in the park," making this an option for campers who enjoy target shooting during their stay.
Forest exploration: Bonanza Conservation Area offers hiking opportunities through dense woodlands. Lloyd W. shares, "Multiple campsites available along the highway, but the marked site is one of the best, right by a great fishing lake. Very quite, no amenities."
What campers like
Natural setting: The conservation areas provide a quiet, natural environment away from developed facilities. Linda H. describes Rudolf Bennitt as "Heavily forested with a lake. Trails and camping areas in woods are setup for equestrian with good trails for hikers, bikers and horses."
Free camping: Equestrian campers appreciate the no-cost camping options in conservation areas near Triplett. Lloyd W. mentions Bonanza Conservation Area as "Awesome free camping in Northern Missouri," which appeals to budget-conscious horse campers.
Multi-use trails: The trail system accommodates various recreational users. Linda H. notes, "Trails and camping areas in woods are setup for equestrian with good trails for hikers, bikers and horses," allowing for diverse outdoor activities beyond horseback riding.
What you should know
Camping restrictions: Conservation areas have specific rules about where camping is permitted. Kevin C. explains, "It is against their rules to camp anywhere but on a gravelly parking lot. We camped just off the road and got a citation. It's not really disbursed camping."
Hunting seasons: Be aware of hunting activity during seasonal periods. Will E. cautions about Rudolf Bennitt Conservation Area: "Deer hunting camp. Lots of city hunters with NO CONCEPT of safety during hunting."
Limited facilities: Conservation areas near Triplett offer primitive camping with minimal amenities. Multiple reviews mention the lack of drinking water, electric hookups, and modern restroom facilities, requiring campers to be self-sufficient.
Tips for camping with families
Weather preparation: When horse camping with family near Triplett, pack for changing weather conditions. Ron R. mentions, "It has been a windy month so I relocated farther up hill to nestle in more with the trees," highlighting the importance of selecting sheltered sites.
Navigation aids: Obtain maps at entrance points to navigate conservation areas properly. Linda H. advises, "Get a brochure with park map at entrance as roads pass through park and private property," which helps families stay on public land.
Extended stays: Plan for potentially longer camping trips if weather permits. Ron R. reports staying for "1.5 weeks" at Rudolf Bennitt, suggesting the area supports extended family camping trips for those with adequate supplies.
Tips from RVers
Parking considerations: RV campers should be aware of parking surface conditions. Linda H. describes camping areas at Rudolf Bennitt as "open gravel or grass," which may present challenges for larger rigs during wet weather.
Site selection: Choose camping locations based on wind protection and proximity to amenities. Ron R. explains, "I relocated farther up hill to nestle in more with the trees," demonstrating the importance of strategic site selection for comfort during longer stays.
Equestrian-specific parking: Horse trailer parking is available at designated equestrian sites throughout the conservation area, with most sites designed to accommodate both camping equipment and horse trailers in the same location.