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Padfield Branch Primitive Campground

Backpackers following the Ozark Trail will find Padfield Branch Primitive Campground positioned along this long-distance hiking route in Missouri's Mark Twain National Forest. The hike-in site requires campers to pack all gear and supplies, with no vehicle access or developed facilities provided. A natural spring feeds one creek while a separate waterway runs on the opposite side of the camping area, creating dual water sources that require purification before drinking.

The site includes remnants of an abandoned structure from earlier inhabitants, now deteriorated but offering glimpses into the area's settlement history. Campers must follow Leave No Trace principles, including digging catholes at least 100 feet from water sources. Johnson shut ins sits less than three miles southeast for those planning multi-day Ozark Trail segments.

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Map & DirectionsPadfield Branch Primitive Campground is located in Missouri near Black

Public Campground

Coordinates

37.596552 N
90.897102 W

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Some Coverage

Access

Hike-In
Backcountry sites.

Site Types

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Features

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Pets

Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.

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General Info

Drive Time

1 hr 49 min from St. Louis, MO
1 hr 52 min from Cape Girardeau, MO
2 hrs 23 min from Jefferson City, MO
2 hrs 52 min from Columbia, MO

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Reviews1 Camper Review - Padfield Branch Primitive Campground

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1 Review

Matt S.

Legend

Reviewed Sep. 22, 2017

OZARK TRAIL: Padfield Branch

OZARK TRAIL: I backpacked 50 miles during spring break on the Ozark Trail between Council Bluff Lake and Johnson Shutins State park. When I planned the trip the only information for camping that was available were regulations requiring you to camp 100 feet from the trail.

I have to admit that the Ozark Trail Association provides amazing resources about the Ozark Trail but they fail to describe what has become primitive backcountry campsites all along the trail. Many of these sites are marked on the detailed National Geographic maps provided for free by the Association as water holes, but they are also clearly set up as campsites as well.

Make sure you bring a water purifier. It is some of the best tasting water I have ever had.

PADFIELD BRANCH: This is an interesting campsite. It has a natural spring that feeds one creek with another creek running separately on the other side. There is also some old remnants of what used to be a living quarters for someone who lived in the woods. It has been long abandoned and is falling over but it offers some fun exploring. Tip: Dig your cat hole before you go to sleep and make sure it is at least 100 feet from the water.