Big Oak Tree State Park Shelters

About

Big Oak Tree State Park Shelters is a day-use picnic facility located in Missouri's southeastern Bootheel region. This is not an overnight camping area. The reservable shelter measures 45 by 30 feet and accommodates up to 48 people, featuring eight picnic tables, two grills, electricity, and a water fountain with spigot. Vault toilets are located 100 feet from the shelter, and a playground is 150 feet away. The park protects the state park system's only cypress swamp and approximately 1,007 acres of bottomland hardwood forest. Four state champion trees and specimens exceeding 130 feet in height can be found here, along with 12 species of rare plants and animals. Over 150 bird species have been documented, making this a notable destination for birdwatching. A self-guided boardwalk trail winds through the swamp and is accessible to visitors of all abilities. The facility is ADA accessible with a level paved parking lot, accessible picnic tables, water fountain, vault toilet, and ramp to the park overlook. Shelters can be reserved online 30 days to 12 months in advance.

Directions

From East Prairie, Missouri, take Highway 80 east, then turn right onto Highway 102 south. The park is approximately 10 miles from the Highway 80/102 junction.