Camping is a great way to unplug, recharge, and connect with nature. More than 300 of Missouri’s conservation areas offer camping for those looking for a more adventurous, primitive experience. All camping on conservation areas is free, and most camping is first come, first served. Be sure to have a backup plan in case the spot where you want to camp is already occupied.
Be aware of hunting seasons. Some areas will be busier during these seasons and may have temporary trail or road closures. Also, some areas expand or restrict camping during firearm hunting seasons.
Sometimes designated campgrounds will provide fire rings, picnic tables, dumpsters, and latrines, but more often camping on conservation areas is primitive with little or no facilities provided. Also, no RV hookups are provided at any department area. Campers should expect to bring their own water.
Before planning a trip in the spring or fall, check Places to Go for information on the specific conservation area where you wish to camp to see if the area allows camping or has restrictions during hunting seasons.
Quiet hours are from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. daily. Visitors who are not occupying a campsite must leave the campground by 10 p.m. During quiet hours, campers should not make any excessive noise, both personally or with mechanical devices, that disturbs other campers.
Know how to keep from starting a wildfire when you camp. Visit Make Your Camp Firewise for guidelines, and remember to use local firewood for campfires to keep from spreading tree-killing pests and diseases across the state.
If no latrine is available at your campsite, follow these steps to properly dispose of human waste:
While black bear attacks are extremely rare, it’s wise to follow a few precautions now that these bears have made a comeback in Missouri. Visit Camping and Hiking in Black Bear Country to learn ways to stay safe when camping and hiking where there might be black bears.
Bring a first aid kit, and have a plan in place in case of emergency. Remember that you are responsible for your safety and the safety of those around you.
To report any misuse of the area, contact the Conservation Agent assigned to the county where you observed the issue.
The compass is an excellent tool to help you reach your destination, identify your location, and map your route. Learn how to do all three by joining us at for this free orienteering program. Included will be a treasure hunt for free giveaways. This event will take place outdoors, so be sure to come prepared with proper footwear, clothing attire for gravel trails, and water.
All planning to attend the event should register separately. Children younger than sixteen years of age must be accompanied by an adult.
This program is one of several in our new Outdoor Skills Series (see detailed list below). Whether you’re seeking to connect more to nature or hone your outdoor skills, these classes are for you. Sign up for some or all and get to meet others that share your interests in the outdoors!
___________________________________________________________________________
Outdoor Skills Series Location Date Time
1. Backpacking Basics Pacific Library 2/27/2025 3:30-4:30
2. Compass and Map Caldwell Memorial WA 3/27/2025 11:00-12:30
3. Bird ID for Beginners Rockwoods Reservation 4/9/2025 9:00-10:00
4. Hike Conservation Area La Barque Creek CA 4/26/2025 10:00-2:00
5. Outdoor Cooking Rockwoods Reservation 5/7/2025 10:00-11:30
6. Discover Nature Fishing 1 Shaw Nature Reserve 5/9/2025 10:00-12:00
7. Tree ID + Guided Hike Caldwell Memorial WA 5/13/2025 10:00-12:00
8. Knot Tying Caldwell Memorial WA 5/23/2025 10:00-11:30
9. Primitive Camping 101 Caldwell Memorial WA 5/23/2025 12:00-1:00
10. Archery Rockwoods Reservation 6/10/2025 10:00-11:00
11. Atlatl Rockwoods Reservation 6/10/2025 11:30-12:30
Join us for a beginner bird ID program and discover the various feathered visitors you’re likely to encounter throughout the year in the state of Missouri. This program reviews 20+ common Missouri birds, their physical characteristics, and what foods they’re attracted to. Also, tips will be provided on how to create a bird-friendly environment to attract birds to your backyard. At the end of the program, an optional bird hike along some of Rockwood Reservation's paths will be offered.
This program is one of several in our new Outdoor Skills Series (see detailed list below). Whether you’re seeking to connect more to nature or hone your outdoor skills, these classes are for you. Sign up for some or all and get to meet others that share your interests in the outdoors!
___________________________________________________________________________
Outdoor Skills Series Location Date Time
1. Backpacking Basics Pacific Library 2/27/2025 3:30-4:30
2. Compass and Map Caldwell Memorial WA 3/27/2025 11:00-12:30
3. Bird ID for Beginners Rockwoods Reservation 4/9/2025 9:00-10:00
4. Hike Conservation Area La Barque Creek CA 4/26/2025 10:00-2:00
5. Outdoor Cooking Rockwoods Reservation 5/7/2025 10:00-11:30
6. Discover Nature Fishing 1 Shaw Nature Reserve 5/9/2025 10:00-12:00
7. Tree ID + Guided Hike Caldwell Memorial WA 5/13/2025 10:00-12:00
8. Knot Tying Caldwell Memorial WA 5/23/2025 10:00-11:30
9. Primitive Camping 101 Caldwell Memorial WA 5/23/2025 12:00-1:00
10. Archery Rockwoods Reservation 6/10/2025 10:00-11:00
11. Atlatl Rockwoods Reservation 6/10/2025 11:30-12:30
Join MDC Staff for our Introduction to Backpacking Program where we will hike in Paddy Creek Wilderness along the Big Piney north loop to the south loop (approx. 11 miles) with primitive overnight camping along the trail. Trail map can be found at: https://usfs-public.app.box.com/v/PaddyCreekWildernessTrails. Please note that the full length of the Big Piney Trail is 17.5 miles. As this is an introductory program, we will hike the north section from Roby Lake and take the connector loop to the south trail - approx. 11 miles - and primitive camp along the southern section.
Expect the Ozark Hills terrain of steeper climbs to beautiful overlooks as well as hikes along ridge tops and down into valleys. We will be camping along an overlook of the southern loop. Participants will need to filter water along the trail and hike their water supply to the campsite on the ridge. There will also be several creek crossings. Be prepared to bring a spare pair of sandals when crossing the creeks.
Since this is an Introductory Backpacking Program, all gear and equipment can be provided for participants. We will conduct a MANDATORY virtual check-in on March 25 (6:30pm-8:00pm) which is around four weeks prior to the trip to introduce the group and discuss trip preparation and logistics.
All family or friend groupings will be responsible for carrying their own gear, including water filter, stove, tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad. You are responsible for packing your own food - this will be discussed in our virtual check-in - and you will be shown how to hang a bear-bag and filter water while on trail. We will be outside for the entirety of this program.
If you have any questions or concerns, please email Sam Stewart the instructor at sam.stewart@mdc.mo.gov.
Thank you and our hope and goal is for each of you to be more inspired to explore the trails around you - whether that is through practicing your backpacking skills during this trip or taking longer day hikes. We want you to know that you have access in many ways to our beautiful natural resources!
Join us for a 3-mile hike through the forests and glades of LaBarque Creek Conservation Area. Take a scenic break with a relaxing lunch near the midway point and test your bird and plant ID skills while exploring the winding paths of this beautiful area. Uneven trails and steep terrain necessitate use of proper footwear. Also be sure to dress adequately for the weather as it could be potentially cold.
This program is one of several in our new Outdoor Skills Series (see detailed list below). Whether you’re seeking to connect more to nature or hone your outdoor skills, these classes are for you. Sign up for some or all and get to meet others that share your interests in the outdoors!
___________________________________________________________________________
Outdoor Skills Series Location Date Time
1. Backpacking Basics Pacific Library 2/27/2025 3:30-4:30
2. Compass and Map Caldwell Memorial WA 3/27/2025 11:00-12:30
3. Bird ID for Beginners Rockwoods Reservation 4/9/2025 9:00-10:00
4. Hike Conservation Area LaBarque Creek CA 4/26/2025 10:00-2:00
5. Outdoor Cooking Rockwoods Reservation 5/7/2025 10:00-11:30
6. Discover Nature Fishing 1 Shaw Nature Reserve 5/9/2025 10:00-12:00
7. Tree ID + Guided Hike Caldwell Memorial WA 5/13/2025 10:00-12:00
8. Knot Tying Caldwell Memorial WA 5/23/2025 10:00-11:30
9. Primitive Camping 101 Caldwell Memorial WA 5/23/2025 12:00-1:00
10. Archery Rockwoods Reservation 6/10/2025 10:00-11:00
11. Atlatl Rockwoods Reservation 6/10/2025 11:30-12:30
