Big Piney Trail Camp

About

Big Piney Trail Camp is a primitive equestrian campground situated in an open pine forest within Mark Twain National Forest in Texas County, Missouri. The camp is specifically designed for horse camping, with 5 single sites on the outer loop capable of accommodating horse trailers, plus a center loop that can hold 6 additional vehicles with trailers. Each site includes a picnic table, fire ring, and high line posts for securing horses. The camp serves as one of three trailheads for the 18-mile Big Piney Trail, which travels through the Paddy Creek Wilderness. Hitching rails are available near the bathroom, and a mounting block area is located at the trail register station. The trail covers varied Ozark terrain with moderate to difficult sections and a vertical rise of approximately 500 feet. Facilities are basic: a vault toilet is provided but drinking water is not available, so campers must bring their own water supply. There are no fees, hookups, or reservations required. Dogs are permitted but must be kept on a 6-foot leash in developed areas. The campground is open year-round with quiet hours from 10 PM to 6 AM.

Directions

From Licking, take Hwy 32 west 4 miles to Hwy N; turn right on Hwy N and go 2 miles to Hwy AF; turn left onto Hwy AF and travel 5 miles to Slabtown Road; continue straight past the asphalt onto Slabtown Road and continue for 1.5 miles. Big Piney Trail Camp will be on the left.