Sam A. Baker State Park and Otahki Lake offer upscale glamping close to Puxico, Missouri, within the foothills of the St. Francois Mountains. The region sits at approximately 400 feet above sea level, creating a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Camping conditions vary seasonally with spring and fall providing the most comfortable temperatures and lower humidity levels, while summer months typically reach highs in the 90s.
What to do
Hiking trails: Sam A. Baker State Park features multiple trail options beyond just the paved paths. "Super park for great biking, hiking, river access, restaurant, great camp store. This park always has a lot of activities for the campers!" notes Jenny H. about Sam A. Baker State Park Campground.
Float trips: Marble Creek Recreation Area provides access to waterways with varying difficulty levels. "The campground is beautiful and the sites are spaced apart so that you don't feel like you're camping on top of your neighbors. We were able to camp right next to the creek and it was amazing," writes Mara F. about Marble Creek Rec Area.
Water recreation: The Current River near Van Buren offers multiple options for water activities. "If you are a fish or amphibious in anyway this is the area to vacation! Primitive well maintained campsites, I also saw campers with generators. BYOB, etc. and spotty cell phone coverage, best way to get away! Water sports galore!" reports Shelly S. about the Ozark Riverfront Campground.
What campers like
Quiet environment: Campers appreciate the peaceful setting at some parks. "This park usually isn't very crowded which is really nice. It is very tranquil and perfect for a weekend get away," explains Charlotte B. about Sam A. Baker State Park Campground.
Access to water: Multiple sites offer direct water access for recreation. "My favorite part of Marble Creek is the low noise, low traffic and you can always find a spot open. A few of the sights are right on the water which is a nice perk," shares Shannon B. about Marble Creek Recreation Area.
Well-maintained facilities: Clean camping areas enhance the experience. "We spent four days at the park with friends during the higher rain and very, high river. The park as usual was yet maintained in almost perfect conditions, staff was very nice," notes John K. about Sam A. Baker State Park Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal river conditions: Water levels can change dramatically throughout the year. "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," comments John K. about Sam A. Baker State Park.
Variable bathroom facilities: Campgrounds offer different levels of bathroom access. "Vault toilets are usually clean and not too buggy. It appears to not have any water taps though, so bring your own!" advises Shannon B. about Marble Creek Rec Area.
Advance reservations: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. "The campground is very empty, so if you like to camp where there are less people, this is a good place," states Matt S. about Marble Creek Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water areas: Some locations have special features for children. "This spot was perfect for our group of friends bringing children! Site #20 had a perfect path to the water, and a reasonable creek walk up to a swimming hole," reports Abby D. about Marble Creek Recreation Area.
Family amenities: Certain sites cater specifically to family camping. "My family camps at Sam A Baker every year. It is clean and everyone there is friendly. They have a nice gift shop and some great places to swim," shares Emily J. about Sam A. Baker State Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children can observe local fauna. "Beautiful view. You can sit in the cool clear water and relax. Great place for kids. Park is well maintained. I highly recommend," notes Kevin B. about Sam A. Baker State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: RV sites offer varying levels of privacy. "We had a site very close to the entrance/store/showers this time. It was wonderful coming off of the river and being just steps away from our tent!" explains Barbara L. about Ozark Riverfront Campground.
Hookup availability: Electric and water options vary between campgrounds. "Owners are very friendly and accommodating. Save your money and buy firewood here at the hideaway, best value ($7) and a large amount, you can also purchase ice here as well in the office area," advises Jamie C. about Kempers Hideaway Resort.
Surface conditions: Some sites provide better leveling than others. "The area for campers and RVs are leveled with gravel but has ample shade trees but sites are pretty close," notes Judes W. about Ozark Riverfront Campground.
