Best Dispersed Camping in Missouri

Looking for the best Missouri dispersed camping? Find everything from dispersed backcountry camping to boondocking with The Dyrt. Search nearby dispersed sites or find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Dispersed Sites in Missouri (44)

    Josh S.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Pine Ridge Recreation Area near New Bloomfield, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Pine Ridge Recreation Area near New Bloomfield, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Pine Ridge Recreation Area near New Bloomfield, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Pine Ridge Recreation Area near New Bloomfield, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Pine Ridge Recreation Area near New Bloomfield, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Pine Ridge Recreation Area near New Bloomfield, MO

    1. Pine Ridge Recreation Area

    12 Reviews
    35 Photos
    134 Saves
    New Bloomfield, Missouri

    This area is located in a pine forest and provides a campground and picnic area while serving as a trailhead to the 36-mile Cedar Creek Trail. Four picnic sites and 8 campsites are provided. Larger grassy area can provide small groups such as scouts.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Dispersed
    • Trash
    Ryan G.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at FS-2363 Dispersed Camping - Murphy Overlook near Black, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at FS-2363 Dispersed Camping - Murphy Overlook near Black, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at FS-2363 Dispersed Camping - Murphy Overlook near Black, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at FS-2363 Dispersed Camping - Murphy Overlook near Black, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at FS-2363 Dispersed Camping - Murphy Overlook near Black, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at FS-2363 Dispersed Camping - Murphy Overlook near Black, MO

    2. FS-2363 Dispersed Camping - Murphy Overlook

    10 Reviews
    29 Photos
    271 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
    Leni K.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping near Urich, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping near Urich, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping near Urich, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping near Urich, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping near Urich, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping near Urich, MO

    3. Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping

    9 Reviews
    29 Photos
    199 Saves
    Urich, Missouri

    Camping limited to 14 days

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Equestrian
    Malayna F.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Log Yard Campground Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway near Van Buren, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Log Yard Campground Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway near Van Buren, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Log Yard Campground Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway near Van Buren, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Log Yard Campground Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway near Van Buren, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Log Yard Campground Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway near Van Buren, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Log Yard Campground Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway near Van Buren, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Blue Spring Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway near Mountain View, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Blue Spring Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway near Mountain View, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Blue Spring Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway near Mountain View, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Blue Spring Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway near Mountain View, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Blue Spring Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway near Mountain View, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Blue Spring Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway near Mountain View, MO

    5. Blue Spring Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway

    6 Reviews
    15 Photos
    94 Saves
    Mountain View, Missouri

    Backcountry camping on Jacks Forks River

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Dispersed
    • Picnic Table
    Richard M.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Robert's Bluff near Nelson, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Robert's Bluff near Nelson, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Robert's Bluff near Nelson, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Robert's Bluff near Nelson, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Robert's Bluff near Nelson, MO

    6. Robert's Bluff

    5 Reviews
    3 Photos
    63 Saves
    Nelson, Missouri
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo at Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area near Bradleyville, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area near Bradleyville, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area near Bradleyville, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area near Bradleyville, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area near Bradleyville, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area near Bradleyville, MO

    7. Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area

    4 Reviews
    7 Photos
    121 Saves
    Bradleyville, Missouri

    Hercules Glades Wilderness Area is 12,413 acres of the most scenic and unique country in the Midwest. Its combination of open grassland, forested knobs, steep rocky hillsides, and narrow drainages offers unusual beauty and a measure of solitude within easy reach of wilderness lovers. The area is characterized by shallow droughty soils and limestone rock outcroppings. Eastern red cedar and oak trees are interspersed with open glades supporting native tall prairie grasses. Redbud and dogwood provide beautiful spring flowers, while smoke tree and maple put on vivid fall colors. A variety of wildlife species live within the Hercules Glades including white-tailed deer, raccoons rabbits, squirrels, turkey, quail, songbirds, lizards and snakes. Copperheads and rattlesnakes may be encountered. Roadrunners, collared lizards, tarantulas, wild hogs and black bears are some of the more uncommon wildlife residents. Limit your party size to 10 persons. No camping within 100 feet of trails, water sources and other camps.Practice Leave No Trace outdoor ethics; Never tie stock directly to trees. No motorized or mechanized equipment allowed. Trails: From the trailheads there is 32 miles of maintained trails which follows along open glades, forested ridgetops and Long Creek, the primary drainage of the area. Cross country hiking in other parts of the area is allowed. Key attractions along the trail include Long Creek Falls, panoramic views of the Ozarks countryside, and a variety of native communities including open limestone glades and mixed forests. Rating: More Difficult to Most Difficult with steep terrain, stream crossings, sparsely marked trail, and elevations from 600 to 1200 feet. Length: 32 miles Best Seasons: Fall, winter, and spring. Leave No Trace: Pack out what you pack in. Restrictions: Foot and Horse only. Safety: No drinking water is available at parking areas or along the trail; bring what you will need, or be prepared to sterilize water you find. During temperate months, be prepared for biting insects, poison ivy and high temperatures. Be advised of hunting seasons. Avoid using the trail during excessively wet periods. Surface Type: Unsurfaced, native material.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Cyndy & Selena R.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Silo Access Area - O’Neil Creek near Clarksville, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Silo Access Area - O’Neil Creek near Clarksville, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Silo Access Area - O’Neil Creek near Clarksville, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Silo Access Area - O’Neil Creek near Clarksville, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Silo Access Area - O’Neil Creek near Clarksville, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Silo Access Area - O’Neil Creek near Clarksville, MO

    8. Silo Access Area - O’Neil Creek

    4 Reviews
    15 Photos
    58 Saves
    Clarksville, Missouri
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • Trash
    • Toilets
    Camper-submitted photo at Courtois Creek Dispersed near Davisville, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Courtois Creek Dispersed near Davisville, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Courtois Creek Dispersed near Davisville, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Courtois Creek Dispersed near Davisville, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Courtois Creek Dispersed near Davisville, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Courtois Creek Dispersed near Davisville, MO

    9. Courtois Creek Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    12 Photos
    116 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
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Lucille W.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Three Creeks Conservation Area near Ashland, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Three Creeks Conservation Area near Ashland, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Three Creeks Conservation Area near Ashland, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Three Creeks Conservation Area near Ashland, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Three Creeks Conservation Area near Ashland, MO
    Camper-submitted photo at Three Creeks Conservation Area near Ashland, MO

    10. Three Creeks Conservation Area

    6 Reviews
    8 Photos
    51 Saves
    Ashland, Missouri

    Walk-in primitive camping is allowed year round except during modern firearms deer season. During modern firearm deer season, hunters may camp along roads and around parking lots. Camping along roads and in-and-around parking lots is otherwise prohibited. Groups of more than 10 campers require a special use permit.

    Three Creeks Conservation Area is in Boone County (halfway between Columbia and Ashland). The area takes its name from the three creeks that run through the area: Turkey Creek, Bass Creek, and Bonne Femme Creek. The rugged forest features scenic bluffs, intermittent streams, geologic formations, and old eastern red cedar trees. Three Creeks Conservation Area was considered for purchase as a result of substantial public input and interest in protecting the general Three Creeks area from further urban development, which would destroy its appearance and natural features. Moreover, Three Creeks Conservation Area was acquired to maintain and manage representative plant and animal communities and to provide outdoor recreational and educational opportunities in an urbanizing region of central Missouri. Much of the land in the general area was purchased by freed slaves following the Civil War. Generally, the tracts were small (usually 40 or 80 acre parcels). Land which could be seeded to pasture for grazing or plowed with a horse was farmed into the 1930's when many families could no longer support themselves on the small tracts of land. Many had to sell their property due to the economic conditions during the Depression. The reduction in the number of landowners has continued up to the present time. Seven identifiable house sites have been located on the initial 685 acres.

    • Pets
    • Fires
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Showing results 1-10 of 44 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews in Missouri

86 Reviews of 44 Missouri Campgrounds


  • Hannah H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Log Yard Campground Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway
    Aug. 28, 2022

    Log Yard Campground Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway

    One of a kind

    This was definitely one of, if not my favorites campsites I’ve stayed at! There is a small campground on by the bathrooms with designated sites, and then dispersed camping on the beach. Super pretty spot and great for swimming, but people are pretty bad about cleaning ups free themselves so quite a bit of litter on the beach. Overall a great stay!!

  • Kevin C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from FS-2363 Dispersed Camping - Murphy Overlook
    Jul. 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.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sycamore Loop Dispersed
    Mar. 15, 2024

    Sycamore Loop Dispersed

    Ok place

    Ok place to camp, pretty secluded, old campground but most spots no longer seemed camp friendly, as new tree growth has taken over. Seems to be a guy living in a rv at the end of the road which is really close to the one camping friendly spot, kinda kills the dispersed camping vibe.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Robert's Bluff
    Jun. 10, 2023

    Robert's Bluff

    Quiet and nice place

    Nice free camping to overnight if you are travelling on your RV, close to the highway but without noise. No toillets. Verizon signal works good.

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Crooked River Conservation Area
    Jul. 18, 2024

    Crooked River Conservation Area

    Missouri Department of Conservation Area, free camping

    Free camping in designated camping area per MO Dept of Conservation rules. Pit toilets and mowed area for camping. Hunting, fishing and other outdoor activities inside the area.

  • Greg H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Beaver Lake Recreation Area
    Sep. 8, 2021

    Beaver Lake Recreation Area

    Nice place, well off the beaten path.

    Way back off of a gravel road... There's at least two pull-offs that I've seen, I'm sure there's more. Disperse camping no facilities but it's nice back here... Fire pit... Not much company & free

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Robert's Bluff
    Sep. 4, 2023

    Robert's Bluff

    Good for over night

    Decided to take my time heading from Southern WA to Southern IN and this is the best dispersed camping I’ve seen on this trip. I’ll definitely stop here again if I’m ever heading down I-70, and hopefully I’ll have my RV with me.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping
    Aug. 28, 2023

    Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping

    I Made a Kittah Friend

    There is a super sweet local cat who befriended me here and made my visit so much better. I had some mechanical issues with my car and Kampground Kittah tried to help. 🤣

    Bathrooms were fine. It’s free camping so it was great that there were bathrooms at all.

    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.

    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. 😄 If your car’s broken down and you can’t drive, I guess you might as well drink and Rick’s there to help you out with both. 🤣

  • Curtis M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Ridge Recreation Area
    May. 22, 2018

    Pine Ridge Recreation Area

    Pines Pines Pines impressive

    Set in the Cedar Creek District of the mark Twain National Forest this campground is perfect for a night stay or a backpacking trip. On site camp hostess and privy. Great hammock camping

  • ‘Chelle S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sugar Camp Lookout Tower Dispersed Area
    Nov. 4, 2024

    Sugar Camp Lookout Tower Dispersed Area

    Beautiful and Peaceful

    Mark Twain National Forest is always a great getaway. This location is tucked away from the main road and is easy to get to. Could easily get 4 rigs + in the sight. Established fire ring (be mindful of burn bans). Close to Roaring River and Table Rock lake.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitten River Access
    Jun. 17, 2023

    Whitten River Access

    Great place for kayakers

    It has river access via a boat ramp and "dock". There are several level, clear places to camp with enough room for rv's. The road in is rough gravel and a big rv will be slow going. However, I've seen so good size rv's there. It's free and first come camping. There's a vault toilet. It's otherwise primitive camping. Our group kayaks in during trout fishing trips and have never had a problem finding a place to camp. The Eleven Point River is beautiful and cold. Some of the best outdoor fun for adventurous people.

  • Sarah The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping
    Nov. 29, 2020

    Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping

    montrose conservation area missouri

    this little off the beaten path camp ground his paved roads, boat access for 2 areas 1 near the damn which closes a gate after 10pm, we use the other area near the conservation station(although ive never seen anyone there) park rangers are mostly non existent , they do drive through, they are quite nice an most the time never stop just smile an wave, there some fire spots but be kind an put up rocks that you can find along the shore, there is bathroom facilities and a dumpster behind the conservation building.

    the area is surrounded by trees but the area is clean, nice soft grass, there are pecan an walnut trees so watch out for your heads when its fall lol . 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. there is loads of wildlife to see an arent much scared of humans, racoons,beavers, crane, squirrels,dear,owls an much more. theres also blackberries in the fall. 

    all in all a very nice quiet little free camp area. we go all the time.

  • VThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Log Yard Campground Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway
    Jul. 21, 2024

    Log Yard Campground Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway

    Beautiful spot, noisy campers

    The scenery of this dispersed camping area is definitely a five star for the area. Nice view and access to the Current River. Plenty of stars out at night. There is an area of more traditional campground spaces you come across first but the dispersed style spots are further down the road. There’s still a $10/night fee. Even though there are fire rings all along the rocky beach, locals use this area as a boat launch and park their trucks and trailers in the camping areas. The campers who came in late on our last night destroyed the peaceful ambiance; loud kids running all over and pulling branches down from living trees, loud music past quiet hours and most running generators. That downgraded my rating from five stars overall. This would be a great place midweek or off season but definitely not going back during peak times due to the discourteous people.

  • T
    Camper-submitted photo from Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area
    Nov. 29, 2017

    Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area

    Nicely private, but not a lot of scenery

    Hercules Glades Wilderness Area is part of mark Twain National Forest. It's a bit off the beaten path, but worth it for a day hike or a bit of backpacking.

    Since it's wilderness area, you can camp just about anywhere with few restrictions. There are a few primitive sites at the trailhead, no water or toilets.

    A few hundred yards from the Coy Bald Trailhead there is a fork in the trail. Going left gets you to the falls and the majority of the camp sites with the shortest route, about three miles.

    The trail is pretty rough and rocky with moderate elevation changes. I'd rate it on the low side of moderate difficulty.

    About a mile in you'll cross the river for the first time. There are camp sites with fire rings on both sides of the river. This is a scenic area with bluffs on one side of the river, but forested, so no views to speak of.

    About three miles in, you'll cross the river the second time. There are a number of camping areas with fire rings along the river.

    Downstream a few hundred feet are the falls that most people go to see. Unfortunately for us, there wasn't enough water for them to be running. There was enough water to wade around in and soak the feet. It was quite nice!

    The area is pretty and quiet, we saw only a handful of people in the two days we were there. The only issue was the ticks, they were the worst I'd dealt with in some time.

    All in all, a nice hike and a nice bit if camping. I'd go back to see the falls again.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from FS-2363 Dispersed Camping - Murphy Overlook
    Jan. 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.

  • Shelly S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Spring Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway
    Nov. 1, 2018

    Blue Spring Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway

    Blue, blue, blue, cold, cold, cold

    Blue Spring is beautiful and cold! Aside from the over zealous teenagers jumping into the spring it was a nice visit.

    This is a primitive camping area and there are a lot of partying people in and around this area plus frequent motorboat traffic. No amenities, many generators. Drive in, pick a spot and set up camp. There are so many areas to visit around the river this would be an excellent base camp or you could use it as a stop off on a float trip.

    Eminence, MO is nearby and a good place to refuel and get stuff you need for your adventures. Make sure you get a paper map because phone signal can be iffy.

  • Annie C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Silo Access Area - O’Neil Creek
    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.

  • Chrischelle N.
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Ridge Recreation Area
    Sep. 8, 2020

    Pine Ridge Recreation Area

    Great Campground

    Pros: Free!! Close to Columbia but far enough away for a getaway. Easy to find from the road, even in the dark. Fire pits and picnic tables are there. Vault toilets and running water available. Hiking trailhead at the entrance of the campground. Camping spots are spaced out enough.

    Cons: Can hear lawn-mowing and Gun shots from neighboring properties in the early morning. Still not the end of the world. Definitely fills up on the weekends.

    I stayed at #3 and it was a very spacious private spot. If you have kids/dogs I recommend spot #4 it has a long strip of playroom for running around without disturbing other spaces. 2 week maximum stay.

  • Michelle H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Ridge Recreation Area
    May. 31, 2021

    Pine Ridge Recreation Area

    I loved it

    It was a nice quiet area designated camping spots and not too far from any stores very clean working bathrooms we really enjoyed ourselves there we'll be looking forward to going back

  • Dave N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Log Yard Campground Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway
    Jul. 15, 2020

    Log Yard Campground Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway

    Camping on river

    This area has access to the shores of the current river. No campsites, just the open rocky shores. You can park right on the shores and set up camp. Beware! The gravel settles if wet and many trailers and campers have gotten stuck here. 4wd is recommended. While their are no amenities, the location is beautiful. Very secluded

  • Leni K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping
    Jun. 6, 2022

    Montrose Missouri Conservation Area Dispersed Camping

    Great Secluded Dispersed Camping

    There is no camping allowed after October 15 due to hunting season. This was not on the website and was not seeable in dust when arriving late on a small sign in the bushes. Thankfully we were not shot! While free, dispersed sites, there are easily established fire pit areas to choose from Vault toilets were absolutely disgusting, thankfully we brought our own toilet paper. Easily accessible car camping. Not too many other campers at the other site where we spotted some RVs. Overall the remote location, gorgeous scenery and with a couple boats makes for a great weekend.

  • Joseph A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Log Yard Campground Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway
    Aug. 7, 2024

    Log Yard Campground Backcountry Camping — Ozark National Scenic Riverway

    Remote camp on the river

    Log yard is a Backwoods camping area on the current river. 4 wheel drive is recommended. You have to cross a creek to get to this location. If the weather moves in. It would be wise to pack up and move out while you can. If the creek comes up, you may not be able to cross it again. There is one good established campsite at this location and 2 not so good ones. The area changes after a flood, and the campsites have to be reestablished. There is a boat ramp at this location that is a favorite hang out of the locals. They will drink, play loud music, and leave trash lay around. This stretch of the current is 25-hp boat territory. There will be boat traffic on the river on the weekends. Log yard is part of the Ozark scenic river ways, which is FEDERAL LAND. You may have an encounter with a forest ranger at this campsite. If you do, they will ask for your info and have you establish a Backwoods campsite. Be respectful and don't upset the Rangers. They don't play in the Ozark scenic river ways. This camp is beautiful and wild. NO CELL SERVICE. If you're lucky, you may see the local elk herd. They reintroduced elk in this area a few years ago. Get out and enjoy what Missouri has to offer

  • Matt S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Big River Primitive Campground
    Sep. 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.

  • Charlotte B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Ridge Recreation Area
    Jul. 9, 2018

    Pine Ridge Recreation Area

    great trails

    Love the trails and the secluded spots. There usually are always people camping, even in the winter. Also, there are no electric sites so dont forget your generator. My husband and I have felt a little unsafe. We once had another camper come into our site and not want to leave.


Guide to Missouri

Missouri offers a wealth of opportunities for those seeking the tranquility of dispersed camping, allowing adventurers to immerse themselves in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.

Dispersed campers should check out Pine Ridge Recreation Area

  • Enjoy the clean, updated vault toilets and potable water at Pine Ridge Recreation Area, making it a convenient choice for a rustic getaway.
  • This area allows campfires and welcomes pets, perfect for families looking to enjoy the outdoors together.
  • With no permit required and free access, it’s an ideal spot for spontaneous camping trips.

Top activities while free camping in Missouri

  • Experience the beauty of the Ozarks at Blue Spring Backcountry Camping, where you can swim in crystal-clear waters and explore the surrounding trails.
  • For those seeking solitude, Murphy Overlook offers a peaceful environment with minimal traffic and stunning views, perfect for hiking and wildlife watching.
  • Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunities at McCormack Lake Recreation Area, known for its secluded spots and serene lake setting.

Tips for free and dispersed camping in Missouri

  • Be prepared for a primitive experience at Log Yard Campground, where you’ll need to bring your own water and firewood.
  • Keep an eye out for wildlife, as areas like Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area are home to various animals, including the occasional black bear.
  • Always check local regulations and conditions, especially in remote spots like Cane Bluff River Access, where access can be affected by weather and road conditions.