Poague Conservation Area

SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Poague Conservation Area sits along a lake outside Clinton, Missouri, with open terrain and drive-in access spread across six dispersed sites. The stay limit is 14 days, and camping is free. At least a couple of the sites have enough room to accommodate an RV or pull-behind trailer. The one logged review notes trash at all six sites, so campers should come prepared to pack out more than they bring in. Fishing and kayaking access makes it a functional stop for anglers and paddlers who want campgrounds around Clinton as a base. Cell service is available, and pets, campfires, and alcohol are permitted. Those comfortable with minimal infrastructure and willing to clean up a site will find the free 14-day window useful. Nearby, Poague Campsite #5 offers an alternative within the same conservation area.

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Map & DirectionsPoague Conservation Area is located in Missouri near Clinton

Detail location of campground
Dispersed Camping

Coordinates

38.420422050161534 N
93.85411601778095 W

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Connectivity

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    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 8/1/26
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 9 users
    Last on 8/1/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 8/1/26

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 8/1/26
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 9 users
    Last on 8/1/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 8/1/26

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • Phone Service
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Big Rig Friendly

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.

Contact

General Info

Drive Time


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Reviews1 Camper Review - Poague Conservation Area

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3.0

out of 5

1 Review

Reviewed Feb. 6, 2024

So much trash

6 sites in total, all had trash everywhere. A couple sites are big enough for an rv or pull behind. 14 days free in the Poague Conservation area.

Month of VisitFebruary

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Poague Conservation Area located and how do I get there?

Poague Conservation Area is located in Missouri and is managed by the Missouri Department of Conservation. It's a public conservation area accessible by vehicle. While the exact directions depend on your starting point, the area is typically reached via local roads. It's recommended to use GPS navigation or check the Missouri Department of Conservation website for specific driving directions. The conservation area features accessible camping sites that can accommodate vehicles.

What camping facilities are available at Poague Conservation Area?

Poague Conservation Area offers 6 primitive camping sites in total. Some sites are spacious enough to accommodate RVs or pull-behind trailers. The camping is free with a 14-day maximum stay limit. The facilities are basic, and campers should be prepared for a rustic experience. Be aware that site maintenance can be an issue, as trash has been reported at the sites. No hookups or advanced amenities are available, so campers should come prepared with all necessary supplies including water and waste disposal plans.

Are there any special regulations or permits needed for Poague Conservation Area?

Camping at Poague Conservation Area is free with a 14-day maximum stay limit. No special camping permits are required, though standard Missouri conservation area rules apply. If planning to fish or hunt, you'll need appropriate Missouri fishing or hunting licenses. As with all conservation areas, visitors should follow Leave No Trace principles and properly dispose of all trash. For any specialized activities or to verify current regulations, contact the Missouri Department of Conservation directly. Remember that conservation regulations may change seasonally, particularly regarding hunting seasons and fishing limits.

What recreational activities can I do at Poague Conservation Area?

Poague Conservation Area, being a conservation site, offers various outdoor recreational opportunities typical of Missouri conservation areas. While specific activities aren't detailed, conservation areas in Missouri typically provide fishing opportunities, hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and hunting (during appropriate seasons and with proper permits). The natural setting makes it suitable for nature photography and bird watching as well. For specific activity regulations or seasonal opportunities, check with the Missouri Department of Conservation before your visit.