Bonanza Conservation Area offers free camping options with multiple sites along the highway. Situated in the rolling terrain of north-central Missouri, this area experiences hot summers with temperatures typically reaching 90°F and mild winters. Campers should note that the conservation area restricts camping to designated gravelly parking lot areas only, with limited amenities but access to fishing lakes.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Bonanza Conservation Area provides access to fishing lakes where visitors can catch various species. According to Lloyd W., there's "a great fishing lake" near one of the marked campsites that offers productive fishing in a peaceful setting.
Wildlife observation: The surrounding conservation lands host diverse wildlife, particularly during migration seasons. Wallace State Park Campground offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Sarah H. notes, "Wildlife was abundant in the evening. We saw many deer, frogs and squirrels. At dark, nature sounds were unbelievable with songs of bullfrogs, owls, and flying creatures of all sorts."
Hiking trails: Several conservation areas and state parks near Chillicothe feature hiking trails through varied terrain. Chad K. states about Wallace State Park: "The trails around Wallace are fantastic. From a casual stroll around the lake to a more vigorous hike up the hill this park provides it all."
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: Many campers appreciate the tranquil settings available at conservation areas. Lloyd W. describes Bonanza Conservation Area as "very quiet, no amenities," making it ideal for those seeking solitude.
Affordability: Free camping at Bonanza Conservation Area is frequently mentioned as a significant benefit. Lloyd W. calls it "awesome free camping in Northern Missouri," while other campsites in the region offer reasonable rates.
Privacy in established campgrounds: Watkins Mill State Park Campground provides more developed sites with good separation. As Sarah H. describes Wallace State Park, "Woodsy tent camping sites were spacious and private. Large camping pads are lined with wood chips and are comfortable enough to sleep on without an air mattress."
What you should know
Hunting season awareness: During deer hunting seasons, safety concerns may arise at conservation areas. Will E. cautions about Bonanza Conservation Area: "Deer hunting camp. Lots of city hunters with NO CONCEPT of safety during hunting."
Parking lot camping restrictions: The Missouri Department of Conservation enforces strict rules about where camping is permitted. Kevin C. reports receiving a citation: "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."
Facility limitations: Most conservation areas lack amenities like toilets and water. For more facilities, Justin S. notes that Wallace State Park provides "a small (6 acre lake) that allows for fishing, swimming, kayaking/canoeing/paddleboarding, as well as several hiking trails" and "the showerhouse and restrooms" are clean.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Watkins Mill State Park offers family-friendly features. Sarah H. mentions, "For entertainment, there was a bustling playground, winding nature trails, horseshoes, lake swimming, and fishing" at Wallace State Park.
Biking options: Paved trails provide safer cycling for children. Janelle M. recalls about Watkins Mill, "We would go out extra early to set up then spend our time on the bike trails until lunch."
Site selection for families: Choose sites with natural boundaries for added safety. At Wallace State Park, Chad K. explains that the basic sites "feature a level framed pad that could accommodate a large tent. The sites are heavily wooded and provide a perfect spot to hang your hammock."
Tips from RVers
Hook-up availability: RV campers should research utilities before arrival as many conservation areas lack hookups. Jason C. notes about Watkins Mill State Park: "Camp ground is great. There are 2 shower houses, 1 new one towards the front and one in the farthest loop."
Level sites: Find campgrounds with level parking areas. Terry reports about Wallace State Park: "Clean campground clean bathrooms. Power hookup no water or sewer at site but both are available in the campground. $21 a night for seniors."
Accessibility information: For horse campgrounds near Chillicothe, Missouri, most conservation areas have limited equestrian accommodations. Doug H. mentions about Watkins Mill State Park: "no water or sewer crowded on weekends," which applies to both regular and equestrian camping.
