S bar F Ranch

s bar f scout ranch

For Missourians seeking an unparalleled outdoor experience that combines adventure, education, and natural beauty, S bar F Ranch in Farmington, MO, stands as a truly exceptional destination. Renowned primarily as one of the premier Scouting facilities in the United States, this expansive 5,200-acre property is increasingly opening its magnificent offerings to the general public, providing a unique opportunity for families, groups, and individuals to immerse themselves in a world of outdoor activities. From its massive Nims Lake perfect for a myriad of water sports to its extensive network of hiking trails and diverse camping options, S bar F Ranch is more than just a campground; it's a living classroom and an adventure playground. Whether you're interested in structured programs or simply a peaceful retreat amidst Missouri's stunning natural landscapes, S bar F Ranch promises a memorable and enriching experience.

S bar F Ranch is conveniently located at 120 US-67, Farmington, MO 63640, USA. This address places it just south of Knob Lick, Missouri, about 12 miles south of Farmington, making it highly accessible for residents across the state. US-67 is a major highway, ensuring a straightforward drive from larger metropolitan areas like St. Louis, which is approximately 80 miles north, and other communities throughout Missouri. The ranch’s vast 5,200 acres encompass diverse terrain, including the impressive 270-acre Nims Lake and the Little St. Francis River, all within a beautiful wooded setting. This accessibility allows for easy arrival and departure, maximizing your time enjoying the abundant activities and serene environment. Its location makes it a prime gateway to the outdoor wonders of Southeast Missouri, offering a feeling of seclusion without being inconveniently remote. For Missouri locals, this means less time traveling and more time experiencing the natural beauty and adventure that the ranch provides.

S bar F Ranch boasts an impressive array of services and facilities, catering primarily to its renowned Scouting programs but also offering unique accommodations and activities for the broader public during non-program times. Their offerings are designed to provide comprehensive outdoor experiences.

• Diverse Camping Options: The ranch offers a wide variety of camping experiences, including spacious tent camping sites, traditional Adirondack shelters (three-sided shelters with fireplaces), authentic tipis for unique cultural immersion, and even unique tree houses overlooking Nims Lake. These diverse options cater to different comfort levels and group sizes.

• Modern Family Cabins: Through a generous donation, the ranch features newly built, modern family cabins nestled in the tranquil woods. These cabins are well-appointed with central heat and air conditioning, high-speed internet, large-screen smart TVs, a full kitchen, dining and living areas, two private bedrooms each with twin beds and full bathrooms, and a large covered porch, offering a comfortable retreat for families.

• Lodge Accommodations: The Swift Base Lodge and other cabins like Scout Lodge and Wenzel Lodge offer bunk bed arrangements, kitchens, and heating, suitable for larger groups or units. Swift Lodge, in particular, includes indoor water, full kitchen, showers, and flush toilets.

• Waterfront Activities on Nims Lake: The 270-acre Nims Lake is a hub of aquatic activities. The ranch offers canoes, kayaks, sailboats, and stand-up paddleboards for rent (seasonal, with safety certifications required for some). Personal boat fishing is also permitted on Nims Lake (with a maximum of 6 boats per day and a fee).

• Huck's Cove Water Park: A major highlight for families and youth, Huck's Cove boasts two water slides, a zip line, and rope swings, providing exhilarating water-based fun.

• Shooting Sports Ranges: Facilities include archery, BB gun, rifle (.22), and shotgun ranges, with equipment and ammunition provided for programs (requiring certified instructors).

• Climbing and Rappelling Sites: For high-adventure enthusiasts, the ranch offers rock climbing and rappelling on natural cliffs like Freedom, Ranger Falls, Collarbone, or Baby Snake.

• Challenge Courses: Both high- and low-challenge courses are available year-round for groups with trained leadership, promoting teamwork and problem-solving.

• Dining Facilities: Camp Famous Eagle features a modern dining hall, while Camp Gamble emphasizes a traditional patrol-method cooking experience, offering flexibility in meal preparation.

• Horse Riding Area: The ranch includes facilities for horse riding, adding another dimension to the outdoor adventure offerings.

S bar F Ranch distinguishes itself with an impressive array of features and highlights that make it a truly unique and appealing destination for Missouri locals, extending beyond its traditional Scouting roots.

• Expansive and Pristine Natural Setting: With 5,200 acres of wooded land, forests, rocks, streams, and bluffs, the ranch offers an immersive natural environment. This vastness provides ample space for exploration and a strong sense of being truly "out in nature."

• Renowned Scouting Programs: The ranch is celebrated for its "top-notch" summer camps and comprehensive Scouting programs, covering everything from life-saving merit badges to backpacking and leadership development. This expertise translates into well-organized and educational outdoor experiences.

• Diverse Water Activities on Nims Lake: The 270-acre Nims Lake is a central attraction, accommodating kayaking, canoeing, motor boating, swimming, fishing, and even sailing. The addition of Huck's Cove water park with slides, a zip line, and rope swings provides unique aquatic fun.

• Extensive Hiking and Backpacking Trails: The ranch features well-maintained trails like the Three Notch Trail (East and West loops, including sections like Castle Rock and Fox Cove), suitable for both casual hikes and challenging backpacking trips. Reviewers highlight the beauty of these trails and specific points of interest.

• Exceptional and Helpful Staff: A consistent theme in reviews is the "amazing," "very helpful, kind and fun" staff. Their dedication ensures a positive and supportive environment for all visitors, whether participants in a structured program or general guests.

• Year-Round Accessibility for Public: While known for Scouting, S bar F Ranch actively promotes its off-season rentals of cabins and lodges to the general public, making its incredible facilities available for family vacations, corporate retreats, or peaceful getaways outside of peak camp times.

• Unique Accommodation Options: Beyond traditional tent camping, the availability of modern family cabins, rustic lodges, Adirondack shelters, and even tree houses offers truly distinctive lodging experiences.

• High Adventure Opportunities: For those seeking thrills, the ranch provides rock climbing, rappelling, and high/low challenge courses, offering opportunities to push personal limits in a safe and supervised environment.

For reservations, inquiries, or to learn more about programming and public access at S bar F Ranch, you can contact them directly.

• Address: 120 US-67, Farmington, MO 63640, USA

• Phone: (573) 756-5738

• Mobile Phone: +1 573-756-5738

S bar F Ranch is an exceptionally suitable destination for Missouri locals, offering a vast, well-equipped, and expertly managed outdoor haven right in our backyard. While historically rooted in Scouting programs, its increasing accessibility to the general public means more Missourians can now experience its top-tier facilities. For families looking for a unique vacation, the modern family cabins provide all the comforts of home amidst nature. For outdoor enthusiasts, Nims Lake offers endless water activities, and the extensive hiking trails cater to all skill levels. What truly elevates S bar F Ranch is its dedicated and friendly staff, who ensure every visitor feels welcome and has a rewarding experience. It's a place where children can earn merit badges in summer camp, families can relax by the lake, and adventurers can challenge themselves on climbing walls or backpacking trails. The ranch's commitment to outdoor education and recreation, combined with its diverse offerings and the sheer scale of its natural beauty, makes S bar F Ranch an invaluable asset to Missouri's outdoor scene. It's a place where character is built, skills are honed, and unforgettable memories are made, proving to be an ideal retreat for any Missourian seeking connection with nature and adventure.

S bar F Ranch

120 US-67, Farmington, MO 63640, USA