Sam A. Baker State Park provides a range of camping opportunities beyond its equestrian facilities, with two large campgrounds containing approximately 100 sites each. Located in southeastern Missouri, the park encompasses sections of the St. Francois River and Big Creek, creating natural boundaries and water features for visitors to enjoy. Seasonal considerations include high water levels during spring rains and peak crowds during summer weekends when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F.
What to do
Float the river: The park offers organized float trips departing at 10am or 11am from the boat ramp at Campground 1, with pickup times at either 2pm or 4pm. A canoe rental costs approximately $40 for the afternoon. "The 4 mile float the campground offers" provides a change of scenery, though as one visitor noted, "the St. Francois (at least near Sam A. Baker) was pretty murky and you couldn't see your feet in about knee-deep water" and fallen trees can make navigation challenging at Sam A. Baker State Park Campground.
River wading: During hot weather, many visitors enjoy simply wading in the river near the campground rather than taking organized floats. "The river made for nice wading in the afternoon heat. A friend and I even spotted a baby eastern spiny softshell turtle while crossing Big Creek!" reported one camper who appreciated the accessible water features.
Biking: The park maintains a paved bike path connecting the two main campgrounds, providing a safe route for cyclists of all ages. This path is separate from the equestrian trails and allows for easy travel between camping areas without needing a vehicle. The relatively flat terrain makes this suitable for families with younger children.
What campers like
Shaded campsites: The mature tree canopy throughout the camping areas provides essential relief during hot Missouri summers. "We were so pleased with how well-kept our sites were. Even during the last weekend of September, it was hot out, so we were glad there were plenty of trees around," noted one visitor at Sam A. Baker State Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The park's natural setting supports diverse wildlife including turtles, birds, and small mammals. Visitors should secure food items properly as "wildlife including skunks and raccoons are active in the camping areas" according to experienced campers. Early mornings and evenings offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the park.
Camp store amenities: The well-stocked camp store provides essentials and conveniences. "Nice little store, good price!!" mentioned one camper who appreciated the convenience. The store sells "reasonably priced firewood" according to visitors who prefer not to collect or bring their own supplies.
What you should know
River conditions vary: Water levels fluctuate significantly throughout the year. During one visit, a camper observed: "We spent four days at the park with friends during the higher rain and very high river. I have never seen the river through the park so high to the top of the banks." These changing conditions affect both wading safety and float trips at Huzzah Valley.
Popularity impacts: The park experiences high visitation, especially during summer weekends. "Very popular, and therefore very crowded" notes one visitor, recommending advance reservations during peak season. Basic non-electric sites cost approximately $13 per night, while electric hookup sites are available at higher rates.
Connectivity limitations: Cell service and internet access can be unreliable within the park. One visitor reported: "Their wifi was very poor and didn't work half the time so that angered some campers but didn't bother us one bit, we don't go into the woods not to watch tv anyway." Visitors requiring reliable connectivity should plan accordingly.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly floats: For families with children, shorter water activities may be more appropriate than full floats. One visitor suggests: "You can sit in the cool clear water and relax. Great place for kids." The accessible shoreline areas near the campgrounds provide safer alternatives to organized floats for younger children.
Educational opportunities: The park offers occasional ranger-led programs at the amphitheater, providing learning experiences for children. "The park as usual was yet maintained in almost perfect conditions, staff was very nice" reported a visitor who appreciated the well-managed facilities at Huzzah Valley.
Family camping area: For those seeking a quieter experience, request sites in the family camping area when making reservations. These sites typically cost around $12.79 per person per night and maintain stricter quiet hours compared to other camping zones that permit more nighttime activity.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: RVers should note that not all sites accommodate larger rigs. "We stayed in Campground 1" mentioned one visitor who found the sites spacious enough, but others have noted challenges with larger vehicles. Sites 105 to 111 offer "full hook up, shade and near river. Plenty of room on the gravel bar to have fun" according to experienced RV campers at Huzzah Valley.
Hookup availability: Electric hookups are available at designated sites, though 50-amp service is limited. Water hookups and sewer connections vary by site. The sanitary dump station provides services for those without direct sewer connections. Visitors recommend calling ahead to confirm specific utility needs for larger RVs.
