The Missouri Department of Conservation announced a few changes for 2027 following the Missouri Conservation Commission meeting.
Starting in March, MDC will require new deer permits for nonresidents hunting on public land. That permit will cost $165. This permit will not be required to hunt private land.
Increasing damage at shooting ranges has prompted the need for permits starting next year. MDC will require users of its unstaffed firearms shooting ranges to have a valid small game permit starting in March. For residents, the allowable permit options start at $11.50 for an annual small game permit. For non-residents, daily small game permits are $16 and annual small game permits are $108.50.
Another change is adding a fee for camping at Conservation Area campsites.
The new camping regulations will require people to purchase a permit for $5 for up to five days of camping on conservation areas for up to 10 people. The “$5-for-5-for-10” permit will apply even if fewer days are used and fewer people participate. Camping will remain first-come, first-served.
