Top Free Dispersed Camping near Wappapello Lake

Searching for the perfect place to dispersed camp near Wappapello Lake? Dispersed camping gets you off the grid so you can disconnect from the hecticness of everyday life. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campgrounds for your Missouri camping adventure.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Wappapello Lake, MO (5)

    Camper-submitted photo from Brazil Creek Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Brazil Creek Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Brazil Creek Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Brazil Creek Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Brazil Creek Camping Area

    1.

    Brazil Creek Camping Area

    2 Reviews
    5 Photos
    28 Saves
    Potosi, Missouri

    The campsites are located on the right-hand side of the road. This is part of a trail area - camping is allowed.

    Dispersed camping is allowed along the trail.

    Dispersed camping is the term used for free camping anywhere in the National Forest OUTSIDE of a designated campground.

    Dispersed camping means there are no toilets, no structures, no trash cans, no treated water, and no fire grates.

    There are extra responsibilities required for this type of camp. It's a must to educate yourself before you try it, but we hope the adventure of dispersed camping in the Mark Twain National Forest calls to you!

    Pick a Campsite and follow the Leave No Trace Principles
    Camp 100 feet away from trails and water sources.
    Treat any water found in the area before consuming it.
    Human waste (Feces) must be buried at least 6 inches deep and covered.
    Pack out all of your garbage.

    For more information on Dispersed Camping visit our dispersed camping page which has information on picking a campsite, how to protect water quality, and campfires!

    • Pets
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Toilets
    Camper-submitted photo from Courtois Creek Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Courtois Creek Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Courtois Creek Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Courtois Creek Dispersed

    2.

    Courtois Creek Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    4 Photos
    105 Saves
    Davisville, Missouri

    This section is the gateway to the Ozarks--starting at Onondaga Cave State Park and winding through the Huzzah State Forest/Conservation Area, opening into the lead district of Missouri and the Mark Twain National Forest, view variegated wildlife, flora, and scenery and end up at Hazel Creek on the south. This 45-mile long section includes 7.5 miles of state land north of the Narrows Trailhead, crosses private land at the Bass Resort, follows the Berryman Trail from about mile 22 through mile 32, and connects to the Trace Creek Section on the south at the Hazel Creek Trailhead. It is part of the over 220 mile continuous through-trail. Use caution after periods of rain as the creek crossings can be hazardous. This section of trail includes springs, creeks and other water locations, as well as some popular places for trailside camping.

    Dispersed camping is the term used for free camping anywhere in the National Forest OUTSIDE of a designated campground. Dispersed camping means there are no toilets, no structures, no trash cans, no treated water, and no fire grates. There are extra responsibilities required for this type of camp. It's a must to educate yourself before you try it, but we hope the adventure of dispersed camping in the Mark Twain National Forest calls to you!

    Pick a Campsite and follow the Leave No Trace Principles Camp 100 feet away from trails and water sources. Treat any water found in the area before consuming it. Human waste (Feces) must be buried at least 6 inches deep and covered. Pack out all of your garbage.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from FS-2363 Dispersed Camping - Murphy Overlook
    Camper-submitted photo from FS-2363 Dispersed Camping - Murphy Overlook
    Camper-submitted photo from FS-2363 Dispersed Camping - Murphy Overlook
    Camper-submitted photo from FS-2363 Dispersed Camping - Murphy Overlook
    Camper-submitted photo from FS-2363 Dispersed Camping - Murphy Overlook
    Camper-submitted photo from FS-2363 Dispersed Camping - Murphy Overlook

    3.

    FS-2363 Dispersed Camping - Murphy Overlook

    10 Reviews
    29 Photos
    244 Saves
    Black, Missouri

    Many people enjoy the solitude and peaceful experience of camping away from large groups of people. Dispersed camping is the term used for free camping anywhere in the National Forest OUTSIDE of a designated campground. Dispersed camping means there are no toilets, no structures, no trash cans, no treated water, and no fire grates. There are extra responsibilities required for this type of camp. It's a must to educate yourself before you try it, but we hope the adventure of dispersed camping in the Mark Twain National Forest calls to you!

    Picking a Campsite

    If you are going to an area where others have camped, pick a site that's been used before. If there is no existing campsite, then follow these Leave No Trace guidelines:

    Camp on bare soil if possible, to avoid damaging or killing plants and grass. Camp 100 feet away from any water source - plants near water and water sources are fragile. Camp 100 feet away from any administrative site (Trails, Recreational Areas and/or Building). Campfires

    Many wildfires are caused by human activity, including escaped fires from dispersed campers. Campfires are allowed UNLESS there are fire restrictions in effect-know before you go!

    Use camp stoves when possible Use existing fire rings if they exist; NEVER LEAVE A FIRE UNATTENDED.
    When ashes are COLD and DEAD OUT, scatter outside of the campsite before you leave. If you don't bring wood, collect only dead/downed wood. Please never cut any live trees.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Big River Primitive Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Big River Primitive Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Big River Primitive Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Big River Primitive Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Big River Primitive Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Big River Primitive Campground

    4.

    Big River Primitive Campground

    2 Reviews
    9 Photos
    31 Saves
    Belleview, Missouri

    Backcountry Primitive Campsite next to a water source with a fire ring. All garbage must be carried out

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Dispersed

Recent Dispersed Reviews In Wappapello Lake

14 Reviews of 5 Wappapello Lake Campgrounds


  • Camper-submitted photo from FS-2363 Dispersed Camping - Murphy Overlook
    July 14, 2024

    FS-2363 Dispersed Camping - Murphy Overlook

    Nice private location

    Nice road and very isolated camp sites. I only found two camping spots. Both are very small where only expert drivers can turn around a trailer. We were here two days and did not see or hear anyone.

  • Camper-submitted photo from FS-2363 Dispersed Camping - Murphy Overlook
    July 31, 2023

    FS-2363 Dispersed Camping - Murphy Overlook

    Pretty and Remote (Saw a black bear)

    I'd recommend something AWD or be comfortable with momentum style driving, don't need clearance just need the traction on some of the hills. Once there you see no one, hear nothing and have the place to yourself. Great view. Not large, this is not a multi-car big group place. I'd say 2 small car MAX.

    Saw an adult black bear when we left, only about 0.5 a mile from camp. Ran across the road in front of us. Keep that in mind!

  • Camper-submitted photo from FS-2363 Dispersed Camping - Murphy Overlook
    January 29, 2023

    FS-2363 Dispersed Camping - Murphy Overlook

    Very quiet and remote

    This was a very good location if you want some remote dispersed camping. I went on a Saturday night in January and only saw two people drive the forest service road. One on the Saturday afternoon I arrived and one on the Sunday morning I departed. There is a nice fire pit made of stones on the site and someone left some leveling blocks for your car as well. It had one of the best sunsets I’d seen in awhile. Being that far from civilization, there was no light pollution so seeing the stars and getting some night photos is possible. There was plenty of dead wood around the area so if you don’t bring enough firewood you can round up some.

    One complaint about the site was I definitely heard gunshots in the area. Not sure if there was a gun range nearby or just some other campers further down the road having a good time. Just wasn’t the most comfortable thing since I was solo camping.

    Like the previous review says it’s a 4x4 or AWD gravel road. I would not attempt with any other car.

    AT&T service was spotty - basically nonexistent. So if you’re looking for a place to escape and unwind, this is a great location.

  • Camper-submitted photo from FS-2363 Dispersed Camping - Murphy Overlook
    August 12, 2022

    FS-2363 Dispersed Camping - Murphy Overlook

    Gorgeous solitude

    This site is accessible by AWD and 4x4 but I would hesitate to attempt it with any other car. The drive to the site from highway 32 is just over 6 miles on a forest service road (2363). There is a beautiful view of the valley to the south west and we were treated to an incredible sunset. Reasonably close to Johnson Shut Ins and Elephant Rock State park. This is a keeper.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Courtois Creek Dispersed
    April 7, 2022

    Courtois Creek Dispersed

    Very peaceful and pleasant and very beautiful

    We arrived on Wednesday and camped for a couple of days, very beautiful and peaceful and just gorgeous, no toilets and no electricity and no cell signal but it was amazing

  • Camper-submitted photo from Big River Primitive Campground
    September 21, 2017

    Big River Primitive Campground

    OZARK TRAIL: Make sure you stay at Big River

    OZARK TRAIL: I backpacked 50 miles during spring break on the Ozark Trail between Council Bluff Lake and Johnson Shutins State park. When I planned the trip the only information for camping that was available were regulations requiring you to camp 100 feet from the trail.

    I have to admit that the Ozark Trail Association provides amazing resources about the Ozark Trail but they fail to describe what has become primitive backcountry campsites all along the trail. Many of these sites are marked on the detailed National Geographic maps provided for free by the Association as water holes, but they are also clearly set up as campsites as well.

    Make sure you bring a water purifier. It is some of the best tasting water I have ever had.

    BIG RIVER: Make sure you plan your trip so that you can spend the night at Big River. It is an easy hike from Council Bluff Lake and is at the bottom of a hill. Big River isn't really a river but it is a reliable creek with a beautiful setting. It has a nice fire pit with plenty of large logs for seating. It can hold about ten campers comfortably. Tip: Dig your cat hole before you go to sleep and make sure it is at least 100 feet from the water.



Guide to Wappapello Lake

Camping near Wappapello Lake, Missouri, offers a mix of outdoor fun and relaxation. With several campgrounds in the area, you can find the perfect spot to enjoy nature, whether you're in a tent, RV, or cabin.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Meramec State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "The Cub Scouts loved the site, the Natural Wonders Trail, and the visitors’ center." This park has beautiful scenery and plenty of paths to wander.
  • Fishing: Head to St. Francois State Park Campground for some fishing. A visitor shared, "The campground has many access points to its anchor, the Big River, picnic areas, and multiple pavilions." It’s a great spot to cast a line and enjoy the water.
  • Caving: Check out Onondaga Cave State Park Campground for a unique experience. One reviewer said, "Onondaga Cave is amazing with the new lighting; it just reopened." The cave tours are a must-see for adventurers.

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Washington State Park Campground. A visitor noted, "Very clean campsites with lots of shade for tent campers & nice level lots." Clean restrooms and showers make for a comfortable stay.
  • Friendly staff: Many campers rave about the helpful staff at Onondaga Cave State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "The host was very nice and was available at the check-in booth to receive guests." Friendly faces can make a big difference in your camping experience.
  • Secluded spots: Campers enjoy the privacy at Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground. A reviewer said, "The sites themselves are very clean and well kept. Our site, 32, was huge and grassy!" Spacious sites allow for a more relaxed atmosphere.

What you should know:

  • Limited cell service: If you rely on your phone, be prepared for spotty reception at Onondaga Cave State Park Campground. One camper warned, "No cell service from Verizon or T-Mobile." It’s a good idea to plan ahead and download maps or information before you arrive.
  • Tight campsites: Some campgrounds, like Ozark Outdoors-Riverfront Resort, have sites that are close together. A visitor commented, "Everything is like sitting on top of your neighbor." If you prefer more space, consider booking a site further away from the main areas.
  • Weather considerations: Be mindful of the weather, especially at Meramec Caverns. One camper noted, "We happened to pick days where Missouri had a cold front." Always check the forecast before your trip.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose family-friendly campgrounds: St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA has a pool and activities for kids. A camper said, "The campsite was very nice with lots of trees. It had a pool for the kids." It’s a great way to keep the little ones entertained.
  • Plan for quiet hours: Many campgrounds enforce quiet hours, which can be a plus for families. At St. Francois State Park Campground, one visitor mentioned, "Quiet time is at 10pm and fellow campers are certain to enforce that rule." This helps ensure a peaceful night’s sleep.
  • Pack games and activities: Bring along games or outdoor activities to keep everyone engaged. Campers at Berryman Trail & Campgrounds enjoyed the peaceful surroundings, making it a perfect spot for family bonding.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site levels: Some sites may not be level, so it’s good to check before setting up. A camper at Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground noted, "Some sites were not as level as others." Bring leveling blocks just in case.
  • Look for full hookups: If you want all the comforts of home, choose campgrounds with full hookups. Meramec State Park Campground offers these amenities, making it easier for RVers to enjoy their stay.
  • Plan for dump stations: Make sure to know where the nearest dump station is located. Campers at Ozark Outdoors-Riverfront Resort mentioned the convenience of having facilities nearby, which can save time during your trip.

Camping near Wappapello Lake, Missouri, has something for everyone. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or family fun, the campgrounds in this area provide a great experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Wappapello Lake?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Wappapello Lake is Brazil Creek Camping Area with a 4.5-star rating from 2 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Wappapello Lake?

    TheDyrt.com has all 5 dispersed camping locations near Wappapello Lake, with real photos and reviews from campers.