Pony Express Lake conservation area
Paddling, Fishing, camping
Pony Express Lake Conservation Area is one of those sweet little spots that feels like it was made for paddlers who just want some peace and water. Tucked into DeKalb County about 30 minutes from St. Joe, this 240-acre lake is calm, quiet, and no-wake—meaning motorboats keep it slow and easy, so your kayak or paddleboard doesn’t have to battle waves. A concrete boat ramp makes it simple to launch, and once you're out there, you’ve got wide open water, tucked-away coves, and wooded shoreline all around you. It’s the kind of place where you can cast a line from your kayak, watch the herons glide across the surface, and feel like you’ve got the whole lake to yourself.
Want to stick around for the night? You’re in luck. Pony Express Lake has free, no-reservation-needed primitive camping—just pick a spot and call it home. Most sites are grassy and close to the water, with vault toilets nearby but no hookups, so come ready to rough it. It’s the perfect basecamp for sunrise paddles, late-night stargazing, and maybe even a s’more or two by the fire. Whether you’re here for a lazy day on the lake or a whole weekend of simple, soul-filling nature time, this place hits the mark.
For many information including maps, rules, and regulations, check out the Missouri Department of Conservation’s official Pony Express Lake page.
Getting there
Getting to Pony Express Lake is a breeze and makes for a nice drive through rolling Missouri countryside. From St. Joe, just hop on U.S. Highway 36 east and cruise about 25 minutes to Cameron. Once you’re there, head north on Highway 33 for a couple miles, then turn east onto Route RA—follow that for about a mile and a half, and you’ll roll right into the conservation area. There’s a solid concrete boat ramp and plenty of gravel parking near the shoreline, so you can unload your kayak or gear without a fuss.
Primitive campsites are scattered on both sides of the lake, with vault toilets and picnic tables to make things a little more comfortable. No hookups, no frills—just simple spots to pitch a tent or park a camper and soak up the stars. Make sure to bring all the supplies you’ll need, because once you're out here, it's just you and the great outdoors. And honestly, that’s kind of the point.