Best Dispersed Camping near Wentzville, MO

Dispersed camping near Wentzville, Missouri centers around two main areas: Lone Spring Trail Backpacking Campsite and Silo Access Area at O'Neil Creek. The Lone Spring Trail site provides backpack-accessible primitive camping, while Silo Access Area offers riverfront dispersed camping along the Mississippi River. Both locations permit camping without reservations or fees, though Silo Access Area features designated spots suitable for both tent and RV camping on public land.

Access to these dispersed camping areas varies significantly. Silo Access Area features freshly paved roads leading to approximately 13 primitive sites directly on the Mississippi River. The area has undergone recent improvements including reforestation efforts, though campers should note there are no hookups of any kind. Lone Spring Trail requires hiking in with gear, typical of backpacking campsites. Neither location provides drinking water, and only Silo Access offers trash collection and toilet facilities. Campers must bring all necessary supplies, including water, and practice proper waste disposal.

These primitive areas provide distinct camping experiences characterized by natural surroundings. Silo Access Area's position on the Mississippi River offers unique opportunities for river watching. "This site is a great place to watch that amazing river pass by. You sit and watch the barges and various things float by," notes one review. The proximity to active train tracks means occasional noise disruption, with trains passing 3-4 times daily. Lone Spring Trail offers a more secluded forest experience with established tent areas and a metal fire pit. Mosquitoes are common at the riverside location, particularly during warmer months. Despite minimal amenities, both areas maintain positive ratings from visitors who appreciate the natural settings and accessibility.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Wentzville, Missouri (2)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Wentzville, MO

5 Photos of 2 Wentzville Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Wentzville, MO

6 Reviews of 2 Wentzville Campgrounds


  • Annie C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 1, 2021

    Silo Access Area - O’Neil Creek

    Free river side camping.

    Primitive camping on the Mississippi River. This is mostly a wide gravel bar that you can set up camp on with great views of the big river. But there are no amenities, and few sites. The road through the campground is nicely graded and there is obviously some work being done to restore the flora- trees being planted, areas marked off for restoration. You will be very close to active train tracks, so bring your earplugs. Be sure to be self contained as there is no vault toilet or porta potty currently. The best sites are at the opposite ends of the flat circle where there are large gravel areas ideal for parking RV’s. The boat ramp was a bit of a mess with logs and sandbars, but I suspect the US Army Corps of Engineers are still in the process of cleaning this access area up from flooding from previous years.

  • Cyndy & Selena R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 31, 2023

    Silo Access Area - O’Neil Creek

    Great quiet location ON the Mississippi River

    Very impressed with this beautiful location. The site is right on the Mississippi River!

    There are 13 sites for RVs and Travel Trailers. Three sites are curved to pull in and out easily. Site 13 is large enough for 2 RVs. There is a large boat ramp. The area is freshly paved and undergoing reforestation. However, there are a lot of trees. No water, no electrical hookups, and no bathrooms. There is 1 small trash bin. Mosquitoes are prevalent.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 28, 2022

    Silo Access Area - O’Neil Creek

    great spot to watch the river

    This site is a great place to watch that amazing river pass by.  you sit and watch the barges and various things float by.  really great.  you are close to the RR tracks but there aren't that many trains.  It is not exactly where The dyrt sends you.  on Google maps it's listed as Oneil  Creek, though the entrance is marked as Silo Access.  It's about 1 mile north off RT 79 from Calumet Creek access.  It's a great place.

  • Matthew H.
    Oct. 19, 2021

    Silo Access Area - O’Neil Creek

    Not for tents

    Nice campground with a great view of the Mississippi. You won’t miss the train as it comes by 3-4 times a day. And lots of barges and river boats that are fun to watch not restrooms or hook ups of any kind. So bring your rv, water and a generator. But we will going back again for sure. Can beat free and great views


Guide to Wentzville

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Wentzville, Missouri, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and the freedom of camping without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.

Dispersed campers should check out Lone Spring Trail Backpacking Campsite(s)

Scenic views for dispersed campers at Silo Access Area - O’Neil Creek

  • Located right on the Mississippi River, Silo Access Area - O’Neil Creek provides stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for watching boats and barges pass by.

Top activities while free camping near Wentzville

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find dispersed camping near Wentzville, Missouri?

For dispersed camping near Wentzville, check out Silo Access Area - O'Neil Creek, located on the Mississippi River. This area offers primitive camping on a gravel bar with stunning river views. The site has been upgraded with fresh pavement and has 13 designated sites suitable for RVs and travel trailers, with three curved sites for easy entry and exit. While it's a no-frills experience without hookups or facilities, the beautiful river setting and opportunity to watch barges and boats pass by make it worth the visit.

Are there any free dispersed camping sites with lake access near Wentzville?

While not a lake, Lone Spring Trail Backpacking Campsite(s) offers free dispersed camping in the Wentzville area. The site features several tent setup areas and a metal fire pit, making it suitable for backpackers looking for a primitive experience. For water access, Mark Twain Lake is about 90 minutes northeast of Wentzville with some dispersed options along its shoreline. Always check with the local forest service or conservation department before camping, as regulations can change seasonally.

What are the rules and regulations for dispersed camping around Wentzville?

Dispersed camping near Wentzville follows standard Missouri conservation rules: pack in/pack out all trash, practice Leave No Trace principles, and extinguish fires completely. At most sites, camping is limited to 14 consecutive days. No permits are typically required for dispersed camping, but always check with the land management agency before your trip. Campfires may be restricted during dry seasons. For camping on Missouri Department of Conservation lands, you may need to self-register at designated areas. Camping is typically allowed only in designated sites, not randomly throughout public lands, to protect natural resources.