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| Family Camping amongst the shortleaf pines at Peck Ranch Conservation Area |
Though many conservation areas allow camping, some do not, and it should be noted that pretty much all the camping areas on MDC conservation area land are in the category of "primitive."
Many at least have outhouse type restrooms, but few if any even offer running water, let alone shower facilities like many state parks offer. If that does not scare you off, then you just expanded your camping choices greatly in the Show-Me State!
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| Peck Ranch Campground |
The main part of the campground is nestled into one of the most pristine stands of shortleaf pine trees that you will find anywhere in a campground setting. Recreation opportunities in the surrounding areas abound. The wildlife refuge now has an elk population. A short drive away is one of Missouri's best swimming holes - Rocky Falls. Within a 20 minute drive is some of
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| View from firetower Stegall Mountain |
Just to bookend things, in the northern part of the state and a little west of Kirksville is Union Ridge Conservation Area. It is one of the larger conservation areas in the northern part of Missouri at around 8000 acres. There is fishing, hiking, hunting, and of course camping opportunities across this beautiful area.
Before you go, do a bit of research. As mentioned before, some of these areas are open to camping and others are not. Also, quite a few have shooting ranges, which are fine, but may not fit into the tranquility you desire on a camping trip into nature. To start research, visit the conservation atlas.
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| Rolling hills of Union Ridge Conservation Area |
Next, our series will begin to shift gears as we hone in on some unique areas, some of which we have mentioned already. The next in the series will come out June 21st, 2016.
I do the same thing! Nice view of Thorny Mountain from Stegall! There's a debate on which one is higher. All Topo maps give Thorny a different elevation.
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