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.
This event will cover simple fire making methods, cooking utensils, food options and how to cook using a tin can. Toward the end of the program, participants will have an opportunity to put into practice what they’ve learned.
All planning to attend the event should register separately. Children younger than fifteen years of age must be accompanied by an adult. If you have any questions, please contact the host.
We look forward to having you join us!
MEET AT LITTLE COMPTON LAKE CONSERVATION AREA for an evening of outdoor fun with an overnight camping option. Enjoy archery, fishing, (dinner break), a slide show on dark skies and a tour of the stars with telescopes from the Astronomical Society of Kansas City.
*This is a (Class 3) dark sky area. For comparison, the Blue Springs area is Class 5-6, two-three classes brighter. Little Compton Lake CA is about a 2-hour drive northeast of Blue Springs, MO. *Archery/fishing equipment will be provided by MDC for this program. BRING YOUR OWN FOOD, WATER AND CAMPING GEAR IF YOU CHOOSE TO CAMP FOR THE NIGHT. MO fishing rules apply: 65 and older and under 16 don’t need a license. There is a privy and large gravel parking lot with larger flat mowed area around it (NO ELECTRICITY). It is an MDC area, so no fees to camp. Area regulations say dogs must be leashed.
Archery and fishing programs offered from 5:00PM - 6:30PM. Then, we break for dinner.
People may chose to fish again after they eat.
Dark Skies/Astronomy program from 8:30-10:30PM.
People may choose to camp or drive home after that.
Missouri Disabled Sportsem will be hosting eight (8) mobility impaired individuals for a weekend of trout fishing at Montauk State Park.
Mentors, track chairs, daily trout tag, fishing equipment, and room & board will be provided for the selected participants.
Our group will be staying at a near by campground Friday night through Sunday morning. Selected participants can book their own accomidations if camping is not an option for them.
The eight selected participants will be notified of their inclusion to the event approximately two-weeks prior.
Singing songs by the campfire? Roasting marshmallows? Listening to crickets from inside a tent? The wonderful world of camping is waiting for Missourians to enjoy, and little ones can begin learning about this wonderful pastime in their early years. In this month’s program, learn all about camping and participate in some fun camping-related activities and crafts. Babes in the Woods programs are designed to empower parents to introduce babies and toddlers ages 0–2 years to the sights, sounds, and textures of nature.
Singing songs by the campfire? Roasting marshmallows? Listening to crickets from inside a tent? The wonderful world of camping is waiting for Missourians to enjoy, and little ones can begin learning about this wonderful pastime in their early years. In this month’s program, learn all about camping and participate in some fun camping-related activities and crafts. Babes in the Woods programs are designed to empower parents to introduce babies and toddlers ages 0–2 years to the sights, sounds, and textures of nature.
