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Water Mountain

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Water Mountain Overview

Rating

Phone (573) 723-1630

Address 219 Mildred Mile Ln, Belle, MO 65013, USA

Website https://www.hipcamp.com/en-US/land/missouri-water-mountain-4kk9hv6z?adults=1&children=0&srid=5393c6e1-ee87-456f-a513-1585e7001f1d

Hours Monday, 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Tuesday, 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Wednesday, 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Thursday, 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Friday, 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday, 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Sunday, 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Water Mountain Location & Map

MissouriOsage CountyBelleMildred Mile Lane

Water Mountain About

Welcome, outdoor adventurers and nature enthusiasts in Missouri! If your idea of a perfect getaway involves disconnecting from the everyday and immersing yourself in a truly private and remote natural setting, Water Mountain campground in Belle, MO, offers a unique experience. We understand that for many, camping is about finding solitude, embracing rustic conditions, and exploring challenging natural landscapes.

Water Mountain is designed for those who come prepared to enjoy the wilderness, offering a distinct alternative to more developed campsites. This article will provide you with a clear, factual, and engaging overview of what makes Water Mountain a suitable destination for locals seeking an authentic, back-to-nature camping and hiking adventure. We’ll delve into its specific location, the key features that define its rustic appeal, and what you can expect when you visit this secluded Missouri gem.

Our goal is to present a true picture of this spot, highlighting its natural charm and the level of preparedness required, so you can decide if it aligns with your ideal outdoor escape in Missouri. Whether you're looking for a challenging hike, a quiet place to pitch a tent, or simply a truly private retreat, Water Mountain offers an unfiltered outdoor experience that is increasingly valued by those who seek genuine wilderness.

Location and Accessibility

Water Mountain is located at 219 Mildred Mile Ln, Belle, MO 65013, USA. This address places the campground in Belle, a rural community in Missouri known for its natural beauty and quieter pace of life. The designation of "Mildred Mile Ln" suggests a more secluded and private approach to the property, aligning with the "very private and remote" description provided by visitors.

Belle, MO, itself is situated in an area rich with outdoor opportunities, particularly those related to rivers and forests. While Water Mountain offers a deeply secluded experience, it's important to note its distance from larger towns. The nearest town is approximately 6 miles away, meaning visitors should arrive well-prepared with all necessary supplies, as quick trips for forgotten items are not convenient.

Accessibility within the campground is a crucial point. The primary access to the water (likely a river or stream) is described as a "very steep, rocky and deeply rutted road that's impassable for regular vehicles." This means that accessing the water requires a 4-wheel drive or ATV, or a "very, very LONG way" (at least 20 minutes) walk that is "not at all an easy walk." This level of challenge is a significant aspect of its accessibility and should be considered by all prospective visitors. Despite the challenging internal access, the initial drive to the campground in Belle is typically on established roads, leading to the remote Mildred Mile Lane. This balance of being remote yet reachable by standard vehicles to the main camping area is part of its unique charm for those seeking a true wilderness experience.

Services Offered

Water Mountain, being a very private and remote campground, offers a minimal and rustic set of services designed for those who embrace a self-sufficient outdoor experience. The emphasis here is on providing a natural setting rather than extensive amenities. Based on visitor reviews, here's what you can expect:

  • Private Camping Areas: The core service is providing very private and remote spots for camping. This caters to individuals or groups looking for seclusion and a personal connection with nature, away from crowded campsites.

  • River Access (Challenging): While access to water (likely a river, such as the Gasconade which flows through the area) is offered, it's crucial to understand the nature of this service. It is a "very, very LONG way" via a "very steep, rocky and deeply rutted road," requiring a 4-wheel drive or ATV, or a challenging 20+ minute walk. This access is for those willing to brave the journey for swimming or river activities.

  • Basic Restroom Facilities: The campground provides "a few porta-potties." A significant positive is that the one used by a reviewer was "clean and stocked with toilet paper," which is a valuable amenity in a rustic setting.

  • Designated Fire Rings (Limited Furnishings): Visitors can find "a fire ring" for building campfires and roasting marshmallows. However, traditional picnic tables are absent, with only "empty wooden cable spools that might double as a standing only table" available. This necessitates bringing your own tables and chairs.

  • Friendly Property Owners: While not a direct service, the "genuinely nice people, very friendly" who own and run the campsite are a highlight, suggesting a welcoming and pleasant interaction with the hosts.

It is explicitly stated that there is "no 'office' that offers snacks or drinks or anything else," reinforcing the need for campers to "go well prepared."

Features / Highlights

Water Mountain distinguishes itself with several unique features and highlights that appeal specifically to campers seeking a truly rustic and secluded experience in Missouri:

  • Extreme Privacy and Remoteness: This is the paramount feature. The campground is described as "very private and remote," offering an unparalleled sense of seclusion. For those looking to escape crowds and enjoy nature in solitude, this is a significant draw.

  • Challenging Hiking Opportunities: The "very steep, rocky and deeply rutted road" leading to the water, while challenging, presents a "great hike" for adventurous individuals. This appeals to hikers looking for a demanding trek rather than a leisurely stroll.

  • Authentic Rustic Camping: Water Mountain offers a true back-to-basics camping experience. There are no fancy amenities, encouraging campers to be self-sufficient and fully immerse themselves in the natural environment. This stripped-down approach is a highlight for seasoned or purist campers.

  • Clean Porta-Potties: A notable positive for a rustic campground is the availability of "clean and stocked with toilet paper" porta-potties. This basic yet essential amenity significantly enhances comfort.

  • Genuine and Friendly Owners: The "genuinely nice people, very friendly" owners are a consistent highlight. Positive interactions with the people managing the property contribute significantly to the overall experience, even in a primitive setting.

  • Fire Rings for Campfires: The presence of fire rings allows for traditional camping activities like building a small fire for warmth or roasting marshmallows, an integral part of the camping experience.

  • Natural Surroundings: While not explicitly detailed, the mention of a long, challenging walk to water access suggests the campground is surrounded by natural terrain, likely forests, contributing to the remote and wild feel.

It is important to note that the very features of remoteness and challenging access, while highlights for some, are also aspects that require significant preparation and might not suit all campers.

Promotions or Special Offers

As a truly private and remote campground offering a rustic and primitive experience, Water Mountain does not typically engage in formal "promotions or special offers" in the commercial sense. Its value proposition is inherently tied to its unique features: extreme privacy, challenging natural access, and a back-to-basics camping environment. There are no indications from the provided information of discounted rates, seasonal sales, or loyalty programs.

The "offer" from Water Mountain is the experience itself – a chance to disconnect and immerse oneself in a secluded natural setting that is increasingly rare to find. For campers who prioritize solitude and the opportunity for a rigorous hike to water access, the very nature of Water Mountain is its main draw.

Given the detailed descriptions provided by a past visitor, the most important "special offer" or piece of advice is to "go well prepared." This means bringing your own table and chairs, understanding the challenging walk to the water, and ensuring you have all your supplies, as the nearest town is 6 miles away and there is no on-site store.

Since there are no traditional promotions, interested individuals should focus on confirming availability and any specific site rules directly with the owners. Their phone numbers are provided for this purpose.

Contact Information

To learn more about Water Mountain, confirm availability, or discuss the specifics of their rustic camping experience, you can contact the property owners directly. Their friendly demeanor is a highlight, making direct communication the best approach for inquiries.

  • Phone: (573) 723-1630

  • Mobile Phone: +1 573-723-1630

  • Address: 219 Mildred Mile Ln, Belle, MO 65013, USA

When calling, it would be beneficial to specify your expectations for a rustic, private camping experience and to inquire about the current conditions of the water access path, especially if swimming or river activities are a main goal. This direct conversation will ensure you are fully prepared for your visit to Water Mountain.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Water Mountain in Belle, Missouri, is uniquely suited for a specific segment of local outdoor enthusiasts who truly appreciate a raw, private, and challenging camping experience. It stands apart from conventional campgrounds by offering genuine remoteness and an unadulterated connection with nature, making it an ideal choice for those who are well-prepared and seek solitude.

The most compelling reason for locals to consider Water Mountain is its unparalleled "very private and remote" setting. In a world where campsites can often feel crowded, the promise of seclusion and quiet, broken only by "abundant birdsong," is a significant draw. This makes it perfect for individuals or small groups looking to genuinely disconnect and immerse themselves in the Missouri wilderness, away from the distractions of developed areas.

Furthermore, for hikers and adventurers, the "great hike" to the water access, though challenging ("very steep, rocky and deeply rutted"), offers a rewarding physical experience. This feature caters to those who enjoy a more rigorous outdoor pursuit and view the journey as part of the adventure. While not suitable for all, particularly small children or those with physical limitations, this aspect defines its unique character and appeals to a robust outdoor demographic.

The explicit mention of the owners being "genuinely nice people, very friendly" adds a personal and welcoming touch, reassuring visitors that even in a rustic setting, they are interacting with good hosts. The provision of clean porta-potties, despite the lack of running water, is a practical highlight that ensures basic comfort in an otherwise primitive environment. For Missourians who prefer to "go well prepared" and embrace rustic camping with an emphasis on privacy, challenging hikes, and a true immersion in nature, Water Mountain offers an authentic and memorable outdoor escape that is increasingly rare to find. It's a place where the wild calls, and those who answer will not be disappointed by its raw, natural beauty.

Customer Reviews

4.0
42 reviews
S
Shelly Grafe
Jun 02, 2025

Very private and remote. Great hike.

J
Jeffrey Thomas
Aug 07, 2024

The people that own the property and run the campsite are genuinely nice people, very friendly. However, our camping experience was not up to my expectations. My biggest complaint is that no matter what may be implied the distance from the camping area and the water access is a very, very LONG way. The walk to the water access is at least 20 minutes and is not at all an easy walk as the trail is down a very steep, rocky and deeply rutted road thats impassable for regular vehicles. Small children or adults with any physical limitations shouldn't attempt it. Don't even think about carrying a cooler or small children to the water as you'll absolutely need a 4 wheel drive or ATV. This was a major issue because it was literally 97 degrees and swimming in the river was our main goal - which we never achieved. With that said, there were no pic-nic tables to be found, only empty wooden cable spools that might double as a standing only table. We did find a fire ring and made a small fire for roasting marshmallows. There were a few porta-potties and the one we used was clean and stocked with toilet paper so that was a plus as I had my wife and three grandkids with me. This would be a nice cool weather campsite but take your own table and chairs. There is no "office" that offers snacks or drinks or anything else so go well prepared. If you need or forgot anything the nearest town is 6 miles away, one way. Again, the owners are super nice, just go prepared as its rustic.

t
the dancing plague dvandva-jālāni
Oct 05, 2019

Literally the best venue in Missouri!!! Great for float trips beautiful spot for weddings and parties. And on top of that the land owners are some of the best people around. Super accommodating a d will make sure your event goes off without an issue!!!

D
DJ Lys
Mar 06, 2019

I have been coming to this place almost every year since the current owner purchased it. The land is beautiful and the float trips that we take are a lot of fun. and if you happen to be there when the owner is smoking a brisket then you are really in for a treat!

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Nestor Wheelock
Jun 13, 2017

My favorite place to camp in Missouri hands down. So much magic, fantastic river access, and amazing stars at night. The owners are lovely people. I have been part of many events and festivals there over the years. Highly recommend.