The best camping near Bear Creek Conservation Area

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Bear Creek Conservation Area adventure.

Discover the natural splendor of Bear Creek Conservation Area.  

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Bear Creek Conservation Area

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

  • Papa Chubby's Lakeside Resort
  • Papa Chubby's Lakeside Resort
  • Papa Chubby's Lakeside Resort

Papa Chubby's Lakeside Resort

61 sites · Lodging, RVs10 acres · Sunrise Beach, MO
Papa Chubby’s Lakeside Resort is a relaxing environment with the true Lake of the Ozarks feel. Calm waters are in the back of the Cozy Cove at the 26-mile marker. You will listen to the birds chirp in the morning as you’re sipping your coffee. As the day passes, you and your family will be having fun and creating memories. Enjoy the water’s edge by the restaurant during your vacation at the Lake of the Ozarks. At Papa Chubby’s Lakeside Resort, friendship is the heartbeat of our existence. We believe that every cherished memory, every moment of joy, is amplified when shared with those we hold dear. We welcome you not just as a guest, but as a friend, and we hope that your stay with us becomes a chapter in your own story of friendship and lifelong connections. Our vast resort provides a restaurant & bar with a full menu, live entertainment, fully furnished cabins that sleep six, and an RV Park that are all just steps away from the water’s edge. Whether you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of life, reconnect with nature, or simply indulge in a well-deserved retreat, our resort offers a unique experience that will leave you feeling refreshed and inspired. We take pride in our commitment to hospitality and want to offer the best experience possible. Whether you are renting a cabin or becoming a member of our RV Park, you will have access to the water, restaurant & bar, and other amenities that we have to offer in order to make your stay that much more enjoyable. Enjoy your morning walk near nature and observe the wildlife. If you’re a thrill seeker, we have rental boats and wave runners to cut through the water with or slow down with a paddle board or kayak. If you’re more of a night owl, we hold live concerts every weekend throughout the full swing of the lake season. On Fridays and Saturdays, you can bet you’ll be dancing before the evening’s over. Sunday afternoons you can find yourself with your feet in the sand, cold beverage in your hand, and some soft beach music to vibe out to.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$7.67
 / night
  • Hannah Hills Farm, Away from it all
  • Hannah Hills Farm, Away from it all
  • Hannah Hills Farm, Away from it all
Booked 3 times

Hannah Hills Farm, Away from it all

10 sites · Tents236 acres · Fort Leonard Wood, MO
Learn more about this land:Hannah Hills Farm offers fields, forest, and meadows. Chose your site and explore either the farm or the attached thousand odd acers of the Mark Twain National Forrest. Most of the area is unspoiled and has no marked trails. As you hike through the wilderness, you are all but guaranteed to not see another person! There are three ponds located on this farm and all are secluded and safe for wading in. Or head up to the home stead and see what we are doing establishing our free range farm. Water is available at the home site. If you are visiting the Fort Lenard Wood area, the base is just ten minute drive away, you may even see some Warthog Jets flying by! Site 9 and 10 are not suitable for trailers/campers. All locations are approximate and flexible primitive locations. Each site is secluded enough that you will not be bothered by other campers, or even see their camp fires. Please note that wile all areas are technically accessible by a standard car, wet weather can make it difficult. Trucks are recommended. Much of the farm is very wild and you will not see any influences by man in the land scape.  
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$20
 / night
  • Who needs fancy gym equipment! You can use the manual hydraulic splitter to get a workout and extra firewood!
  • River Bluff Woods
  • Who needs fancy gym equipment! You can use the manual hydraulic splitter to get a workout and extra firewood!
97%
(71)

River Bluff Woods

1 site · RV, Tent25 acres · Buffalo, MO
Many generations of Native American tribes made these Ozark Mountain river bluffs home, long before settlers came from the east. Listen to the music of the wildlife or play your own music in this remote peaceful paradise.Learn more about this land: Firewood is provided! Camp in a peaceful setting above the Niangua River under the canopy of tall oak trees. Enjoy 25 acres of complete privacy and seclusion! It's a pretty steep trail from the campsite down to the banks of the river, and then a short trail to the canoe put-in spot where a 3-person canoe awaits. Contact me for flexible check in/out times.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night
  • Tracks in the snow.
  • Outdoor kitchen.
  • Tracks in the snow.

Alexander Ridge

3 sites · Tents25 acres · Lebanon, MO
Learn more about this land:Settle in among the trees in view of a beautifully manicured pond. Take in the sunset across the neighbor's pasture, and meet the friendly four-legged neighbors that come up to the gate. Make memories under the stars as you enjoy some s'mores. Explore the ridge and valleys on our land, and enjoy the wildlife. Alexander Ridge is only a short drive to Bennett Springs State Park, Lake of the Ozarks, and HaHa Tonka State Park. In nearby Springfield, MO you might also enjoy Fantastic Caverns, Dickerson Zoo, and Bass Pro's Wonders of Wildlife (the aquarium is awesome, and you can't beat petting the stingrays). PLEASE NOTE: We recommend an SUV or pick-up truck because the roads in the woods are not maintained. ALSO: Bring insect repellent for ticks and chiggers from March to October.
Pets
Campfires
Trash
from 
$25
 / night
  • Dry Fork Creek
  • Ozarks primitive camping
  • Dry Fork Creek
86%
(7)

Ozarks primitive camping

7 sites · Tents200 acres · Long Lane, MO
Learn more about this land:There is a large oak forest and other hardwoods, hills and hollers with 1 mile of Dry Fork creek going through it. The creek only runs during the wet seasons. It is possible to see almost every kind of animal native to the Ozarks. You can walk on trails or find your own way around. The Niangua river and Bennett Springs State park are near by. There is also a large natural sinkhole on our adjacent property.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night
  • Relax at the Lake of the Ozarks
  • Relax at the Lake of the Ozarks
  • Relax at the Lake of the Ozarks
80%
(5)

Relax at the Lake of the Ozarks

5 sites · RVs5 acres · Sunrise Beach, MO
Filled with natural wonder, opportunities for recreation and relaxation and a few quirks, the area is a little misunderstood even by many Americans. The Ozarks region is as famous for the Lake of the Ozarks as it is for the mountains that the area is named after, largely because of the sheer size of that particular body of water. With its various arms and nooks and crannies, the lake has 1,100 miles (1,770km) of coastline, which is more than the state of California. It’s no wonder it’s such a popular spot for boating and watersports, with so many places to dock and so much water to explore. The lakes and rivers of the Ozarks are rich with fish, particularly several species of bass and catfish, as well as trout, crappie and carp, all of which attract many recreational fishing boats. There are also more unexpected water creatures like small freshwater jellyfish, which are not believed to be native to North America but do periodically appear in the Lake of the Ozarks, particularly in late summer and early autumn. Looking for a serene getaway with stunning lake views and a touch of green? Look no further than our 5-acre Hipcamp site overlooking the beautiful Lake of the Ozarks. With a dispensary just half a mile down the road, you can unwind and enjoy some fresh greens while taking in the breathtaking scenery. So come kick back, relax, and soak up the tranquility of our little slice of paradise. Book your stay now and let us help you create unforgettable memories! Located close to the store and even a farmers market within 1/2 mile. Lots of Local Attractions and Activities, Privacy, Shade, Views of the Lake of the Ozarks On the west side of the property overlooking the rest of the property you have an amazing advantage of the land. Enjoy the early sun and the late sunset.
Pets
Campfires
Trash
from 
$35
 / night
  • D'Ranch at Clearwater
  • D'Ranch at Clearwater
  • D'Ranch at Clearwater
100%
(106)

D'Ranch at Clearwater

10 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Gravois Mills, MO
D'Ranch at Clearwater is a small, 40 acre hobby farm located on the north side of the Lake of the Ozarks in Central Missouri. What started as a simple love of backyard chickens has now become a dream farm for Tracey Durant and her husband Theodore. Nestled in the valley between two forest covered hillsides, and running adjacent to Clearwater Creek on the east and the lake on the south, D'Ranch could not have been a more perfect location for the Durants to plant their roots and get their feet wet. While they continue their love of backyard chickens with their small egg and hatchery operation know as HeebyJeeby Chickens, they have expanded their interests to an array of friendly farm animals including horses, cows, pigs, goats, sheep, ducks, and an occasional turkey or two. 
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$15
 / night
  • View of the treehouse and deck
  • Welcome to Linwood
  • View of the treehouse and deck
100%
(7)

Welcome to Linwood

2 sites · Lodging11 acres · Hartville, MO
Welcome to Linwood! A great base camp for all your Ozark adventures! Our 11 acre property is bordered on one side by Little Creek and it’s easy to find right off the state highway (no rough Ozark gravel roads!). Expect starry skies, coyote and owl calls and an endless supply of stones to skip in the creek. We are only 20 minutes from the famous Baker Creek Seed Store and Village. A small grocery store and gas stations are only 7 minutes away and lots of fun adventures within an hour’s drive.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$75
 / night

Top-rated campgrounds near Bear Creek Conservation Area

  • Riverbend RV Park and Campground
  • Riverbend RV Park and Campground
  • Riverbend RV Park and Campground
98%
(117)

Riverbend RV Park and Campground

15 sites · RVs, Tents23 acres · Macks Creek, MO
Our small owner operated campground sits high above the Niangua River. Situated below Tunnel Dam and the locally famous Whistle, we have 250’ of Big Niangua River frontage. We offer several full hook-up RV spots and ultra secluded primitive spots and anything in between. We have a bathroom/shower house for campers’ convenience.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night
  • Ozarks Piney Bend Riverfront
  • Ozarks Piney Bend Riverfront
  • Ozarks Piney Bend Riverfront
100%
(9)

Ozarks Piney Bend Riverfront

6 sites · Lodging, Tents7 acres · Dixon, MO
Experience the Missouri Ozarks in all it's glory! Our property sits on 7 acres running on both sides of the beautiful, crystal clear Big Piney River. We sit right at the bottom of a beautiful bluff and just about 100 feet from the water! We have a dry cabin, with outdoor water spigot available. Concrete pad with electric and water hookups perfect for a small camper. We also own a large beautiful sand bar on the Big Piney River perfect for setting up your tent or hammock camping (only accessible by swimming or kayak, which we can provide)
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$15
 / night
  • Campsite Number 1 is on a private point next to the water.
  • DnD Lakefront Campground Lake Ozark
  • Campsite Number 1 is on a private point next to the water.
99%
(75)

DnD Lakefront Campground Lake Ozark

6 sites · Tents15 acres · Sunrise Beach, MO
Pitch your tent in our Lakefront campsites at DnD Lakeside Campground and have access to your own picnic table and fire ring on the shores of the beautiful Lake of The Ozarks, one of the Midwest's premier boating and lake fun destinations. Swim, fish and float in our quiet cove, take walks up our hiking trails and end your day enjoying the night sky sitting next to a fire. We are close to Ha Ha Tonka State Park, Bridal Cave, many lakefront bars and restaurants and The Ozark Amphitheater. We are at the starting line of the LOZ Annual Shootout, a fast-paced boating event benefiting local fire and rescue agencies, held the last weekend in August. Make sure to book early for summer holiday weekends. Discounted prices for weekday rentals available. Limited boat slip rentals available for a fee.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
  • I-44 Rte 66 Bennett Springs Farm
  • I-44 Rte 66 Bennett Springs Farm
  • I-44 Rte 66 Bennett Springs Farm
100%
(14)

I-44 Rte 66 Bennett Springs Farm

20 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Phillipsburg, MO
Great for dry camping or parking near the home for water (with hose) and electrical (with extension cord connected to 15-amp standard household outlet - you need adapter). Functional farm for animal lovers - goats, sheep, ducks, turkeys, guinea fowl, chickens (Animals vary by time of year). Pond has fish. Short drive to Lebanon (all amenities), Bennett Spring State Park, and Springfield. 1.5 hours to Branson, Table Rock Lake, and other state parks. Fresh eggs included with advance request (Max 8 subject to availability) Vehicles + trailers (combined) greater than 30 feet not recommended when grounds are wet. May be difficult to turn around.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night
  • Ready for burgers
  • Natural Farms - Campground
  • Ready for burgers
100%
(14)

Natural Farms - Campground

52 sites · RVs, Tents241 acres · MO
Your Tent, RV, or Camper Trailer camping experience at Natural Farms could be one of your life's ten most-memorable events. Your host is a world renown preparedness expert, and widely popular nationally syndicated radio broadcaster - You will most likely meet him. We are so confident that you will be delighted with your camping experience we back it with a money-back Guarantee (If you leave before noon of the first day). Situated on 241 Acres, Natural Farms is UNIQUE in the world of camping - Serenity, Tranquility, Fun, and Educationally focused. Almost 1,000,000 square feet are dedicated to camping - A private campground on an all-natural cattle farm. Settled six years before the Civil War, the farm has remained natural - No pesticides, insecticides, nor commercial fertilizer. This is a Closed-Herd farm where all cattle are born and raised on this farm. Each campsite is in a pasture along a wooded creek and is approximately 100' wide with it's own fire pit. Hiking trails, fish-feeding pond, Children's playhouse with swings and slide, tire-runs, and horseshoes for the adults are included. Guests may also enjoy the Scavenger Hunt list and a take-home rock of their choosing (up to a softball size) to remember their visit. Guests may purchase Natural Farms USDA inspected beef patties, steaks, beef sticks, and beef jerky – And grill over the wood-fire at your campsite – free grills grates are available for your use. Free tree-limb pickup wood is available or buckets of clean and dry oak is available for purchase. Our pasture-raised and free-range chickens lay the finest brown and blue eggs for our Guests. Have you ever eaten a blue egg? Nature in it's full glory is always on display at the farm. The sounds of nature are soft and omnipresent. And, just in case, Natural Farms has a Full- Service Automotive Repair and Tire Shop - We can service you vehicle while you camp - Jump-starts are free.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$19.75
 / night
  • Wildflower Camp, Hike + Swim
  • Wildflower Camp, Hike + Swim
  • Wildflower Camp, Hike + Swim
100%
(34)

Wildflower Camp, Hike + Swim

3 sites · RVs, Tents60 acres · Eldon, MO
We have a 60 acre property with plenty of space to explore. There are maintained trails throughout and a year-round creek that runs through the valley. Our spring-fed pond is perfect for swimming or paddling around in your canoe. If you're feeling adventurous, you can hike along the creek a ways to a beautiful waterfall.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$45
 / night
  • The view as we were drinking hot cocoa outside the bunkhouse as the snow comes down, the woodstove is keeps us very warm.
  • B Berry Farms & Co.
  • The view as we were drinking hot cocoa outside the bunkhouse as the snow comes down, the woodstove is keeps us very warm.
100%
(110)

B Berry Farms & Co.

14 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents42 acres · Elkland, MO
Would you like to try something different than your everyday routine? Well, then come on out to a little place in the country to unplug, unwind, or just enjoy life that's all around you. Our little spot is called B Berry Farms and Co. We are a 40-acre family U-Pick Berry farm and 24-hour Campground with 5 RV spots with 20 amp or 30 amp electricity your choice. And we are right in the heart of the Missouri Ozarks with over 4,000 you-pick Berry bushes (and fresh produce in 24' )covering, 7 acres we have something for almost everyone. If you want cleaner health products in your life then we can help you with that as well, We are also a natural skin care product manufacturer. Either Bonding by the wood-fired stove in our bunkhouse or cuddling up in the chairs outside enjoying hot cocoa as it snows. Just looking off into the distance and seeing the sun setting with bursting colors over the rows and rows of berries. Experience a darker night sky than most are used to. Or walk the many acres of colored coated diverse trails, enjoy 2 horseshoes pitching areas, pick delicious berries, throw axes at a log target, swing on several adult swings, play an intense game of pool on our table, climb a 12-foot high wall, enjoy our 10' bouncing net hanging from the ceiling, play in the many sandboxes, sweat out a game with a 35' professional Volleyball net (ball provided)and badminton(we have rackets and birdies), play in the water cube as it sprays in all directions or our new WATERPARK play area ( 95' kids Zipline, 9'x9' colored swing net, 2 swings, 14' fireman's pole, monkey bars, rock climbing walls) and so many more things to do. Hot showers,and 2 solar heated shower houses (seasonal frost to frost), 2 restrooms, hand washing station, and hand laundry tube. We sell farm fresh eggs, and baked goods(homemade breads, cinnamon rolls, cookies, muffins, and many fresh seasonal vegetables as well picked to order.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$7
 / night
  • Parker Branch
  • Parker Branch
  • Parker Branch

Parker Branch

5 sites · Tents19 acres · Phillipsburg, MO
Want to disconnect from the stress of daily life? Want to watch wildlife and relax with a hot cup of coffee in the morning? Enjoy the best of Missouri’s wilderness secluded just off I-44! Just 15 minutes from amenities. Lots of available fire wood to roast marshmallows under the stars! Come see what the ozarks has to offer today!
Pets
Campfires
from 
$10
 / night
  • Shadow wings
  • Shadow wings
  • Shadow wings
Saved 4 times

Shadow wings

1 site · Tent60 acres · Lebanon, MO
Learn more about this land:Quaint campsite nestled next to the trees overlooking two ponds with 40 acres of woods to hike in and explore. Camp fires ok. Bennett springs State Park, lake of the ozarks, and HaHa Tonka State park are all within 40 mins for boating, hiking, swimming, fishing, and floating. Old Route 66 runs right through Lebanon and is minutes away. A little bit farther to the South Branson offers multitudinous activities for whatever the heart may desire! With great trout fishing, River floating, swimming, shows, hiking, canoeing, biking, kayaking, and restaurants you can't go wrong with this spot.
Pets
Campfires
Trash
from 
$15
 / night
  • Bent Tree Farm
  • Bent Tree Farm
  • Bent Tree Farm
100%
(5)

Bent Tree Farm

10 sites · RVs, Tents80 acres · Falcon, MO
Learn more about this land: Stocked pond, shooting range, pedal boat, archery, axe throwing, motorcycle/ATV/UTV/equine trails. River access 2 miles from property. Our property borders thousands of acres of national forest. A nature lovers paradise. The trails are gorgeous, with plenty of terrain features to satisfy any hiker. Serene, quiet environment with no light pollution or noise.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
  • Freshly mowed view from the driveway.
  • Picture of the lake from a drone.
  • Freshly mowed view from the driveway.
86%
(14)

Peaceful Tent Camping

2 sites · Tents20 acres · Dixon, MO
Learn more about this land:We offer a peaceful setting with a wonderful lake view. You can fish for crappie, bass, catfish, blue gil, goggleye and perch. Take a hike around the farm and maybe see some cows and wildlife. Or sit around a camp fire telling stories and enjoying the stars.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night
  • Winchester Camp
  • Winchester Camp
  • Winchester Camp

Winchester Camp

6 sites · RVs3 acres · Tunas, MO
Level ground. Open and tree spaces available. Some grass. Swimming pond on site. Close to NRO and Majestic River floating companies. Minutes from Bennett Springs. Directly behind The Pitt 417 BBQ and The Happy Apple Produce Stand. Porta Potty available. No running water. Electrical an option on extension cord.
Toilets
Campfires
Trash
from 
$25
 / night

The best camping near Bear Creek Conservation Area guide

Overview

About

Nestled in the heart of Laclede County, Bear Creek Conservation Area offers a serene escape into nature's embrace. With 720 acres of mixed oak forests, open fields, and diverse wildlife, it's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can immerse themselves in activities like bird watching, hunting, and wildlife photography, all while traversing the scenic trails that crisscross this tranquil landscape.

When to go

The best time to visit Bear Creek Conservation Area is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural foliage is in full display. Summer brings lush greenery, but also higher temperatures. Winter offers a stark beauty, though some trails may be less accessible.

Know before you go

  • Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately for the season to ensure a comfortable visit.
  • Be aware of hunting seasons and wear bright colors for safety during these times.
  • Review the area's regulations on the Missouri Department of Conservation website before your trip.
  • Remember, the area is open from 4am to 10pm, plan your activities within these hours.
  • Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities available on-site.

Top parks near Bear Creek Conservation Area

Mark Twain National Forest
Buffalo National River
Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park
Elephant Rocks State Park
Hot Springs National Park
Ozark-St. Francis National Forests
Shawnee National Forest
Lake of the Ozarks State Park

Top cities near Bear Creek Conservation Area

St Louis
Kansas City
Fayetteville
Springfield
Tulsa
Cape Girardeau
Clarksville
Memphis

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