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Sam A Baker
Overview
Sam A Baker State Park is a cornerstone of the Missouri State Parks system, nestled in the ancient St. Francois Mountains. Established in 1926, it preserves the rugged beauty of the Ozarks while offering a peaceful retreat for outdoor enthusiasts. The park is renowned for its historic stone architecture built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, giving the grounds a timeless, rustic atmosphere. It serves as a gateway to the natural wonders of Southeast Missouri, balancing modern camping conveniences with deep immersion in the wilderness.
Location & Surroundings
Situated in Patterson, MO, the park is defined by the convergence of the St. Francis River and Big Creek. The surrounding terrain features the iconic Shut-ins and the heavily forested slopes of Mudlick Mountain. Travelers will find themselves surrounded by dense woodlands of oak and hickory, with the sound of flowing water never far away. The landscape is characterized by its ancient igneous rock formations, providing a scenic backdrop that feels isolated from the bustle of city life despite being easily accessible.
Amenities & Park Features
The park features two main camping areas with over 130 sites. Many pads provide 30 and 50-amp electric hookups for RVs, though sewer connections are not available at individual sites. Essential park facilities include:
- Centrally located modern shower houses and restrooms.
- On-site laundry facilities and a convenient dump station for waste management.
- The seasonal Mudlick Mountain Grill and park store for supplies and meals.
Water spigots are distributed throughout the loops, and many sites offer spacious asphalt or gravel pads suitable for a variety of rig sizes.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Outdoor recreation is the primary draw here, with the Mudlick Mountain Hiking Trail offering challenging loops and panoramic vistas of the valley. The crystal-clear waters of the St. Francis River are perfect for kayaking, canoeing, or cooling off in the natural swimming holes. Fishing is also popular, with anglers often targeting smallmouth bass. For a day trip, visitors can explore the nearby Castor River Shut-ins, providing additional opportunities for exploring unique geological features in the broader Wayne County area.
Who This Park Is Best For
This destination is ideal for RVers who prioritize nature-focused experiences and quiet evenings over resort-style luxuries. It is a fantastic choice for families looking to introduce children to hiking and river activities in a safe, well-maintained environment. Nature photographers and history buffs will particularly appreciate the Civilian Conservation Corps legacy and the dramatic geological features. If you are looking for a place to disconnect from digital noise and reconnect with the Ozark wilderness, Sam A Baker is a perfect fit.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Miranda Dean
We had such a great time at Sam A. Baker State Park for the Halloween Bash! The campers really went all ou, decorations everywhere, fun costumes, and so many people handing out candy. The chili and hot chocolate hit the spot on a cool night. Our kids loved trick-or-treating, playing games, and spending time on the playground. The kids didn’t want to leave!
Debra A
I visited this park specifically to look around the visitor center and to walk the paved bicycle trail. From what I could see, it's a nice park - although traffic noise from Hwy 143 running through it would be a concern to me if I was staying overnight. But it looked like mostly the occasional cement truck and they probably don't pass through outside of business hours anyway. If it had been hotter, I would have taken advantage of wading in the creek.
Killerblonde
I came at campGround one and rented a kayak from the park. It was a great time 5 stars for safety I really enjoyed the bike track from campground 1 to 2.
Michael Fernando
Great stay in one of the 1bd cabins! The park is very quaint and well maintained. The cabins are simple, clean, and rustic. All but one have a kitchen, as well as an outdoor grill, fire pit, and picnic table. There are multiple swim spots easily accessible in the park with very clear water and a good mix of depth and shallow shores. Bring your groceries! While there is a camp store with staples, it's for convenience, not variety. And of course the staff is very friendly!
Larry Nader
We stayed in one of their deluxe cabins with lake views and had an amazing view of the lake. The cabin was very comfortable and clean..brought our two dogs with us who enjoyed the smells and everything the campground had to offer. I highly recommend this location if you are planning a trip through the area. The spa was clean and in great working condition. The staff are very friendly and helpful as well.