MDC Proposes Permits for Camping, Firearms Shooting Ranges

The Missouri Department of Conservation is proposing permits for camping at conservation areas and shooting at unstaffed firearms ranges.

There are 1,000 conservation areas around the state, with 320 offering camping. The MDC says the permits are necessary because of problems involving compliance issues, safety concerns, vandalism, illegal activities, and illegal stays. At its regular meeting Friday, the Missouri Conservation Commission gave initial approval of proposed changes.

MDC data shows camping-related violations and warnings for camping outside of designated areas have increased substantially over the last decade. In 2015, staff issued 2015 violations and two warnings. In 2024, staff issued 30 citations and 153 warnings. These numbers only represent individuals who could be identified and do not involve other violations such as littering, off-road vehicles, arrest warrants, drug arrests, and others.

Currently, campers do not need a permit, pay a fee, or register. The MDC says the lack of identification of campers creates a difficult job for agents and staff to regulate activities on camping areas or identifying campers.

If finalized, these rules would take effect March 2027. The rules are as follows:

—A low-cost ($5) five-day permit for all camping on conservation areas for up to ten people. This applies even if fewer days are used and/or fewer people are involved.

—Larger groups of more than 10 people would be required to have a Special Use Permit and camping permit.

—Each person would be limited to three consecutive camping permits and six annually.

—Personal property may not be left unattended longer than 24 hours at campsites or areas for camping purposes.

The Missouri Department of Conservation is seeking public comments on this proposal from July 16th to August 14th at the Missouri Department of Conservation website. The commission will review information and give final consideration at the September 11th meeting.

The MDC is also proposing permits for use of unstaffed firearms shooting ranges. Range use has increased in recent years with more home/self-defense firearms practice and increasing use of modern sporting rifles. The MDC says the change is needed due to increased damage to shooting range signs, booths, and other infrastructure along with increased litter from spent shells, targets, and other items not being collected and properly disposed of. Existing age and disability exemptions would remain. The changes would not apply to partner ranges or their five staffed shooting ranges.

The Missouri Conservation Commission recently gave initial approval to this change. The public comment period is from July 16th to August 14th at the MDC website. The Commission will consider final approval on September 11th. If approved, the changes will take effect February 28th, 2027.

Under the proposed rules, people wishing to use unstaffed shooting ranges would be required to have a small game permit. The MDC says that this change would help improve safety for users, visitors, neighbors, and protect infrastructure. To get a small game permit, users have to complete a certified hunter education program. Persons who already have a small game permit would not have to get another one.