Department of Conservation to require permits to camp beginning in March

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

The Missouri Department of Conservation will begin requiring permits to camp on its lands beginning in March, according to a Monday press release from the MDC.

The MDC gave final approval on the measure on Friday, the release says. The MDC manages about 1,000 conservation areas, with more than 320 offering camping.

“Campers and MDC staff have noted an increasing number of problems involving compliance issues, safety concerns, and environmental impacts from vandalism, illegal activities, and illegal stays on camping areas,” the release says.

Would-be campers will have to buy a $5 permit for up to five days of camping, which can include up to 10 people, the release says. Each person is limited to three consecutive camping permits and six total permits annually, the release says.