Daniel Boone Conservation Area encompasses over 3,500 acres of wooded terrain near Warrenton, Missouri, with rolling hills and oak-hickory forests typical of the eastern Ozark foothills. The conservation area sits at approximately 800 feet elevation with gravelly, well-drained soils that maintain relatively stable camping conditions even after moderate rainfall. Most camping occurs in designated gravel lots along maintained service roads.
What to do
Horseback riding: Greensfelder County Park offers excellent equestrian camping near Warrenton, Missouri with dedicated facilities. "There's tie stalls under a roof and a round pen mounting blocks shower and bathrooms in camp. Electricity at each site and water nearby," notes Alicia B., who adds "trails are well marked maps available Awsome views and a cool trail by six flags."
Fishing: Whetstone Conservation Area provides multiple fishing opportunities in a well-maintained setting. Kayla W. mentions, "Super well maintained conservation area, 5 camp sites with fire pits and picnic tables. Several ponds and a larger lake but it was currently being repaired so it's very low."
Hiking trails: Several conservation areas feature interconnected trail systems. Lucas M. says about Greensfelder, "The park is known for its well-groomed trails, which are used by hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians alike. Plenty of stables surround the area, where you may rent a horse and go for a stroll through the woods."
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: McCully Heritage Project offers opportunities for wildlife observation in a natural setting. "A small and not crowded place to camp with all you need and hospitality. Great for tent camping and hiking," according to Luke G. The property features diverse habitats supporting deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species.
Secluded camping spots: Daniel Boone Conservation Area provides peaceful camping options. Tee C. describes it as "Private, pretty, comfortable," noting "I stayed here in June on a Tuesday night. The main pull-in parking area was completely empty. Has a ton of spots, most with their own fire ring. Some have some shade."
Affordability: Free camping at conservation areas appeals to budget-conscious campers. "Ten dollars a night helps maintain land and natural area, all donation, very family oriented," writes Michele G. about McCully Heritage Project, which represents good value compared to commercial campgrounds in the region.
What you should know
Weather considerations: The Warrenton area experiences humid continental climate with seasonal extremes. Summer temperatures regularly reach 85-95°F with high humidity, while winters can drop below freezing with occasional snow. Spring and fall offer more moderate conditions.
Campsite availability: Most conservation area campsites operate on first-come, first-served basis. Jessica from Daniel Boone notes, "When I first pulled in I kept going back further only to realize the spots were located right by the road side. I wish there would have been signs pointing them out more."
Limited amenities: Cuivre River State Park Campground offers more facilities than conservation areas. Maria E. explains, "No electricity but water was conveniently located right across from our site to do dishes and whatnot. Staking the tent wasn't difficult at all. Our site was fairly spacious and a not super close to others which we liked."
Variable cell coverage: Cell service differs between locations. Timmy C. reports about Daniel Boone, "At&t gets decent service." Alexis M. adds, "Great spot. Enjoy the sound of owls and silence. Plenty of dead/down trees for firewood. 2 bars w/Verizon."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly locations: Cuivre River State Park accommodates families with various experience levels. Tracie S. shares, "We have been backpack camping here twice and RV camping once. It's close to our house and there's always something new to do each time. The bathrooms are well maintained and the campsites are fairly large and provide lots of shade."
Water activities: Several locations offer water-based recreation. Chad K. notes, "Cuivre river is about an hour outside St.Louis and offers a multitude of outdoor options from hiking, biking, boating and fishing. The trails are fantastic and have different levels for all."
Proximity to attractions: Some campgrounds provide convenient access to regional attractions. Cody S. mentions about Cuivre River, "Campground is quiet and has big campsites. The campground is close to Lincoln Lake for kayaking."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA provides dedicated RV camping with varying site quality. Danielle C. advises, "Quick one night stop along our road trip. Decent tent sites, standard ones are definitely more private than those with electric and water."
Access considerations: Conservation area roads may present challenges. Matthew H. notes about Greensfelder, "Most sites are great for trailers 26' or less and 1 slide (sites 24-26 can fit a fifth wheel probably no bigger than 36-38 ft)," and adds useful electrical details: "2-20 amp plugs and 1-30amp plug."
Seasonal preparations: RV campers should prepare for regional weather patterns. The area experiences pronounced seasons with potential for severe storms in spring, humidity in summer, and freezing conditions in winter requiring appropriate RV winterization.
