Campground 2, Sam A Baker

For many Missouri families, Sam A. Baker State Park holds a special place in their hearts, a cherished destination for generations of outdoor adventures. Within this beloved park, Campground 2 stands out as a preferred choice for many, offering a unique blend of accessibility, abundant amenities, and a more immersive natural experience. This article is crafted specifically for you, our fellow Missouri residents, to provide a clear, engaging, and factual look at Campground 2, helping you discover why it might be your next favorite spot for a peaceful and memorable camping trip.

Campground 2 at Sam A. Baker State Park provides a slightly different flavor of outdoor enjoyment compared to its counterparts within the park. Known for its tranquil atmosphere and a higher likelihood of wildlife sightings, it offers a perfect retreat for those looking to truly unwind and connect with nature. We'll explore its specific location, the services it provides, and the highlights that make it a compelling choice for campers, ensuring you have all the necessary information to plan your perfect Missouri getaway.

Campground 2, part of the larger Sam A. Baker State Park, is located near Des Arc, MO, typically accessed via the main park entrance off MO-143. While the provided address '7F4W+WH, Des Arc, MO 63636, USA' is a Google Plus Code, visitors should navigate to Sam A. Baker State Park, and then follow internal park signage to Campground 2. The official park address, often listed for the main facilities and office, is 5732 State Hwy 143, Patterson, MO 63956, which leads directly to the park system encompassing all campgrounds.

This campground's placement within the St. Francois Mountains of the Missouri Ozarks provides a naturally beautiful and relatively secluded setting. Its accessibility is a significant advantage for locals, making it an easy drive from various parts of Missouri. Unlike some more remote camping areas, Sam A. Baker State Park maintains well-maintained internal roads, which are suitable for all vehicle types, including large RVs, without concerns of narrow passages, steep climbs, or low bridges. While the park is generally quiet, some minimal road noise might be discernible from MO-143, but this typically does not detract from the overall peaceful camping experience. The convenience of its location allows Missourians to enjoy a quick weekend escape or a longer vacation without extensive travel.

Campground 2 at Sam A. Baker State Park is designed to offer a comfortable and comprehensive camping experience with a range of key services:

• Year-Round Operation: One of the key advantages of Campground 2 is that it is open year-round, allowing for camping during all seasons. While some amenities might be unavailable during the off-season (November through March), electric hookups remain accessible.
• Electric Hookups: Out of its 92 total sites, 69 sites in Campground 2 offer electric hookups, providing power for RVs and other camping needs. This makes it a popular choice for those seeking more amenities.
• Potable Water: Accessible water spigots are available throughout the campground, ensuring campers have convenient access to drinking water. During the off-season, frost-free spigots are typically found near the visitor/nature center.
• Modern Restroom and Shower Facilities: Clean, roomy bathrooms with hot water and good pressure are a consistent highlight in visitor reviews, contributing significantly to a comfortable stay. These facilities are generally available during the on-season (April to October).
• Sanitary Dump Station: A convenient dump station is provided for RV campers to dispose of wastewater.
• Laundry Facility: Campground 2 features an on-site laundry facility, a valuable amenity for longer stays or for refreshing clothes after outdoor activities.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings/Grills: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring or grill, perfect for outdoor cooking, gatherings, and enjoying traditional campfires.
• Nearby Access to Park Amenities: Campers in Campground 2 are within easy reach of the park's main facilities, including the general store, Mudlick Mountain Grill, and the nature center.

Campground 2, specifically, and Sam A. Baker State Park as a whole, boast numerous features that enhance the camping experience:

• Increased Deer Sightings: Many long-time visitors prefer Campground 2 specifically for the increased opportunities to see deer and other local wildlife, offering a more immersive natural encounter.
• Spacious and Shaded Sites: While site sizes can vary, many spots are noted for being spacious and providing ample shade from the surrounding mixed hardwood forest, creating a comfortable and private camping environment.
• Quiet Atmosphere: Despite its popularity, Campground 2 is frequently described as quiet and peaceful, especially in the evenings, making it ideal for relaxation and stargazing.
• Proximity to River and Creek: Campers have excellent access to the refreshing waters of the St. Francis River and Big Creek, perfect for swimming, wading, fishing for bass, sunfish, bluegill, and catfish, or simply relaxing by the water.
• Extensive Trail Access: The campground offers convenient access to Sam A. Baker State Park's extensive network of hiking, backpacking, bicycling, and equestrian trails, catering to all levels of outdoor enthusiasts. Popular trails include the Mudlick Trail and the paved bike path.
• Well-Maintained Facilities: The entire park, including Campground 2, is consistently praised for its cleanliness and meticulous upkeep, reflecting the dedication of the park staff.
• Historic CCC Structures: The park is home to beautiful stone and timber structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s, adding a unique historical and architectural interest to your visit.
• Nature Center: The park's nature center, located in a historic CCC building, provides educational exhibits on local wildlife and geology, offering an engaging learning experience for all ages.
• Family-Friendly Environment: With a playground, opportunities for wildlife viewing, and a variety of activities, it's an ideal spot for family outings and creating lasting memories.

Address: While '7F4W+WH, Des Arc, MO 63636, USA' is a locator, the main park address for Sam A. Baker State Park, which encompasses Campground 2, is:

5732 State Hwy 143, Patterson, MO 63956, USA

General Park Office Phone: (573) 856-4411

Retail & Reservations Phone: (573) 856-4524

Toll-Free Reservations (Missouri State Parks): 1-877-422-6766

Email: moparks@dnr.mo.gov

Website: www.mostateparks.com/park/sam-baker-state-park (for official information, maps, and reservations)

For Missourians, Campground 2 at Sam A. Baker State Park represents a quintessential local camping experience, highly favored by families and individuals alike. Its year-round accessibility, a distinct advantage over other seasonal campgrounds, means you can enjoy the beauty of the Ozarks in any season, from vibrant spring and lush summer to colorful autumn and peaceful winter.

The excellent amenities, particularly the reliable electric hookups, clean modern restrooms, and the convenience of an on-site laundry facility, make camping here incredibly comfortable, catering to both seasoned RVers and those new to the outdoor scene. This level of comfort, combined with the natural beauty, makes it an inviting destination that’s easy to return to again and again.

What truly sets Campground 2 apart for us locals is its reputation for abundant wildlife, especially deer. This offers a more profound connection with nature, allowing for memorable sightings right from your campsite. The park's well-maintained facilities, friendly atmosphere, and proximity to a wealth of recreational opportunities—from river activities to extensive hiking trails and the historic CCC structures—ensure that there's always something new to discover and enjoy. Sam A. Baker State Park, and specifically Campground 2, remains a cherished gem within Missouri, offering an accessible, peaceful, and enriching outdoor escape right in our backyard.

Campground 2, Sam A Baker

7F4W+WH, Des Arc, MO 63636, USA