Dispersed camping sites near Urich, Missouri include both conservation areas with primitive facilities and developed campgrounds with additional amenities. The region sits at approximately 850 feet above sea level with a humid continental climate that brings hot summers and moderately cold winters. Fall camping conditions typically feature cooler temperatures in the 50-70°F range, while summer nights remain warm with temperatures rarely dropping below 65°F.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: At Montrose Missouri Conservation Area, campers can observe diverse wildlife throughout the day. "You can fish, boat and swim but i recommend water shoes. The water is very shallow most the time its only chest deep out in the middle," notes one visitor. The shallow lake creates ideal conditions for spotting various bird species.
Fishing access: Multiple camping locations provide fishing opportunities with varying catch potential. "If you're looking for a good wine, you can find some at the local auto parts store. I am not kidding! I think it's Rick's Auto Parts and their liquor is priced very reasonably," shares a Montrose visitor who discovered local amenities while fishing the area.
Arrowhead hunting: Some camping areas have historical significance with artifact potential. "One of the locals stopped by my site to look for arrowheads. Apparently, she has found a lot in the area so that's a good activity if the kids are bored," reports a camper at Montrose Conservation Area, suggesting this as an educational activity.
What campers like
Spacious camping areas: Sparrowfoot offers well-maintained sites with ample room. "Outstanding park! Huge sites, brand new power poles, shaded, and well patrolled for an extra feeling of safety," notes one camper. The concrete pads are particularly appreciated by those with larger equipment.
Privacy between sites: At Blue Springs Lake Campground, the layout provides good separation. "The sites were well situated such that you felt you had plenty of privacy," explains a visitor who appreciated the thoughtful campground design that maintains personal space despite being in a developed area.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain high cleanliness standards. "The whole experience was awesome. The entire place was spotless, the sites were far apart enough that you didn't feel like your neighbors were on top of you. Bathrooms were incredibly clean," reports a Blue Springs Lake visitor who was particularly impressed with facility maintenance.
What you should know
Seasonal closures and restrictions: Hunting seasons significantly impact camping availability. "Big lake, several sites to choose, good fishing, pit toilets. The sign says NO FISHING after Oct.14 because of duck season. Open for camping," notes a visitor at Montrose Conservation Area, highlighting important seasonal considerations.
Wildlife encounters: Knob Noster State Park Campground and other area campgrounds have active wildlife. "We did have a problem with Raccoons, but with our site being on the very edge of the sites I think that may be inevitable," reports one camper who experienced wildlife interactions during their stay.
Bathroom variations: Facility quality varies widely between locations. "Bathrooms were fine. It's free camping so it was great that there were bathrooms at all," notes one camper, while others report less favorable conditions, indicating the importance of bringing personal supplies.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. "Loop B also has the playground which is right behind site B47. It's a newer playground and all equipment was nicely maintained. There are no swings," notes a visitor at Sparrowfoot who appreciated the play options.
Lake activities for kids: Cozy Corner RV Park provides water recreation possibilities. "This park is privately owned. It has a very nice in ground pool along with a storm shelter which gives piece of mind in crazy Missouri weather," explains a visitor, highlighting amenities particularly valuable for families.
Weather safety features: Several campgrounds provide storm shelters, important for family safety during severe weather. "This park is privately owned. It has a very nice in ground pool along with a storm shelter which gives piece of mind in crazy Missouri weather," notes a Cozy Corner RV Park visitor, emphasizing the importance of weather protection when camping with children.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Many campgrounds have uneven sites requiring preparation. "The site slopes to the passenger side and downhill toward the road, so we used a few levelers. Many sites here are sloped. The premium cement pads seemed to be more level than gravel sites," advises an RVer who stayed at Blue Springs Lake Campground.
Interior road conditions: Poague Campsite #1 has size limitations RVers should consider. "Little spots. I'm in a teardrop and it's tight. Tents would be fine. Vehicles under twenty feet should be good. Quiet and peaceful and close to the highway for amenities," notes a visitor, indicating the campground works best for smaller rigs.
Hookup configurations: Understanding utility placement helps with RV positioning. "The utilities were located mid-to-rear on the site, and we had no trouble reaching them," explains an RVer from Blue Springs Lake Campground, providing practical setup information for fellow travelers.
