Tent campsites near Triplett, Missouri are situated in conservation areas with variable terrain and access conditions. Multiple sites accommodate primitive camping across heavily wooded landscapes interspersed with lakes and clearings. These locations typically lack facilities but provide seclusion for visitors seeking minimalist outdoor experiences within driving distance of regional communities.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Rudolf Bennitt Conservation Area provides extensive wooded trails where campers can observe local wildlife. "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," notes camper Ron R.
Hiking on woodland trails: Backpack Campsites at Long Branch State Park offer hiking trails with varying difficulty levels. One visitor explains: "This was my first time out on Bee Trace Trail and I had a great time. Both the hike into the campsite and out the next morning were pretty easy; the back half of the brown loop was sometimes frustratingly difficult to follow."
Target practice: Rudolf Bennitt Conservation Area includes public shooting facilities. According to reviews, there is a "shooting range centrally located in the park," making this location suitable for campers who want to practice marksmanship during their stay.
What campers like
Secluded fishing access: Hamilton City Lake provides shoreline fishing without crowds. A camper reports, "We were able to fish right from our spot and caught some bluegill and a big crappie. Another visitor reeled in a bass. We also saw several turtles swimming around, which was a nice bonus."
Free camping options: Bonanza Conservation Area offers no-cost camping that appeals to budget-conscious visitors. "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," shares Lloyd W.
Shade coverage: Hamilton City Lake features tree cover that helps moderate temperatures. "The site is shaded with lots of trees, which helped keep things cool, and it's right next to the lake," notes camper Sayler O., highlighting the practical benefits of natural shade during warmer months.
What you should know
Restricted camping areas: Conservation area rules limit where camping is permitted. At Bonanza Conservation Area, one camper warns: "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."
Navigation challenges: Trail marking at Long Branch State Park can be inconsistent. "I had to pull out my phone several times to get reoriented," reports Jon B., though he notes "that stretch isn't very long and the rest of the trail presented zero issues for navigation."
Security concerns: Harriman Hill Access has 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," reports one visitor who later added: "I woke up to find out that the other campers we saw were actually homeless people."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly backpacking: Long Branch State Park offers an accessible introduction to backpacking. "If you're looking to get your feet wet with backpacking (as I was), this is a great spot to do it," states Jon B., suggesting this location works well for families wanting to try overnight hiking with minimal difficulty.
Privacy considerations: Waterfront sites may have boat traffic. At Long Branch State Park, campers should know that "boats out on the lake going by all had full view of the campsite; something to be aware of if you're looking for a super isolated camp."
Seasonal hunting awareness: Franklin Island and other conservation areas become hunting destinations during deer season. Bonanza Conservation Area sees seasonal hunting pressure, with one camper noting: "Lots of city hunters with NO CONCEPT of safety during hunting."
Tips from RVers
Parking limitations: Most tent camping areas near Triplett have restrictions for larger vehicles. Rudolf Bennitt Conservation Area accommodates smaller rigs at the lake area where Linda H. notes: "Camping at lake is open gravel or grass. Quite night with one fishing boat late morning."
Site selection strategy: Conservation areas with equestrian facilities offer more vehicle-accessible options. "There are several equestrian campsites +20 throughout the park," notes Ron R. about Rudolf Bennitt, indicating multiple parking areas suitable for smaller recreational vehicles.
Weather-related access issues: Seasonal conditions affect road accessibility. Franklin Island experiences "muddy due to sessional flooding" according to Benjamin R., potentially creating challenges for vehicles without adequate clearance or four-wheel drive capability.
