Within Mark Twain National Forest, FS-2363 Dispersed Camping - Murphy Overlook provides free camping along a 6-mile forest service road accessible only by AWD or 4WD vehicles. The gravel road requires traction on steep sections, and Kevin C. notes that both camping spots are "very small where only expert drivers can turn around a trailer."
Campers find two small sites along Forest Service Road 2363, with the main spot featuring a stone fire ring and southwestern valley views. Reviews consistently mention the isolated atmosphere - visitors often see no other vehicles during multi-day stays. Wildlife activity includes black bears, coyotes, and various bird species, while occasional gunshots echo from the surrounding area. Dead wood for campfires lies scattered throughout the forested terrain.
Cell service varies by carrier, with AT&T coverage particularly spotty according to multiple reports. The overlook provides sunset viewing opportunities toward the valley below. Campers seeking additional forest camping can explore campgrounds around Mark Twain National Forest for developed alternatives with easier road access and standard amenities.
Description
Many people enjoy the solitude and peaceful experience of camping away from large groups of people. Dispersed camping is the term used for free camping anywhere in the National Forest OUTSIDE of a designated campground. Dispersed camping means there are no toilets, no structures, no trash cans, no treated water, and no fire grates. There are extra responsibilities required for this type of camp. It's a must to educate yourself before you try it, but we hope the adventure of dispersed camping in the Mark Twain National Forest calls to you!
Picking a Campsite
If you are going to an area where others have camped, pick a site that's been used before. If there is no existing campsite, then follow these Leave No Trace guidelines:
Camp on bare soil if possible, to avoid damaging or killing plants and grass. Camp 100 feet away from any water source - plants near water and water sources are fragile. Camp 100 feet away from any administrative site (Trails, Recreational Areas and/or Building). Campfires
Many wildfires are caused by human activity, including escaped fires from dispersed campers. Campfires are allowed UNLESS there are fire restrictions in effect-know before you go!
Use camp stoves when possible
Use existing fire rings if they exist; NEVER LEAVE A FIRE UNATTENDED.
When ashes are COLD and DEAD OUT, scatter outside of the campsite before you leave.
If you don't bring wood, collect only dead/downed wood. Please never cut any live trees.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Dispersed CampingFS-2363 Dispersed Camping - Murphy Overlook is located in Missouri
Coordinates
37.6111603 N
90.93684097 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage
VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/2/26
AT&T5GGood CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 4/2/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/2/26
- AT&T5GGood CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 4/2/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- Phone Service
- Pets
- Fires
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if FS-2363 Dispersed Camping - Murphy Overlook needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 53 min from Cape Girardeau, MO
- 1 hr 57 min from St. Louis, MO
- 2 hrs 15 min from Jefferson City, MO
- 2 hrs 45 min from Columbia, MO
