Missouri Conservation Commission Mandates Camping Permits for State Areas

The Missouri Conservation Commission approved a new requirement for campers to purchase permits to stay in state conservation areas, effective March 2027. The measure applies to approximately 1,000 conservation areas managed by the state, including over 320 sites that currently offer free camping.

Under the new rules, a $5 permit will cover up to five days of camping for groups of up to 10 people. While camping will remain on a first-come, first-served basis, the Missouri Department of Conservation will require every sleeping unit to be labeled with the permit holder's name, address, or conservation number. To prevent long-term occupancy, individuals are limited to three consecutive permits and a maximum of six permits per year.

Commission officials stated the new system aims to mitigate safety concerns, vandalism, and environmental impacts across the managed lands.