Missouri to require $5 camping permits at conservation areas starting in March

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (KBSI) – Campers at Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) areas will be required to purchase a $5 camping permit beginning in March 2027.

The Missouri Conservation Commission approved the new regulations during its Oct. 23 meeting at the Cape Girardeau Nature Center.

Under the changes, each $5 permit will allow up to 10 people to camp for five days, or four nights. Camping will remain available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Campers will be limited to three consecutive permits and six permits per calendar year.

Each tent, camper or other sleeping unit must display a durable label with the permit holder’s full name and address or conservation number. The information must be visible from outside the unit.

Groups of more than 10 people will need an additional special-use permit.

According to MDC, the new requirements are intended to address increasing concerns about campsite safety, vandalism, illegal activity and environmental damage.

MDC manages approximately 1,000 conservation areas statewide, including more than 320 that offer camping.

Camping permits will be available for purchase beginning in March through MDC’s online permit system, authorized permit vendors or by phone.

The commission also approved changes allowing campers to collect dead and downed firewood for personal campfires, provided the wood remains within the conservation area.

For more information about camping regulations and locations, visit MDC’s camping webpage.