Lake Boutin Campground

About

Lake Boutin Campground sits within Trail of Tears State Park, which preserves native woodlands along the Mississippi River at the historic crossing point of nine Cherokee detachments during the forced relocation of 1838-1839. The campground offers 34 primitive campsites situated in a heavily wooded area characterized by mature forests, sharp ridges, and steep ravines. While campsites lack hookups, each comes equipped with a picnic table and fire ring with grill. Campground facilities include modern restrooms with flush toilets, hot showers, laundry facilities, and a dump station for RVs. The centerpiece 15-acre Lake Boutin is stocked with bass, sunfish, channel catfish, and crappie, and features a swimming beach and concrete boat launch allowing electric motors only. The park's trail system includes the 10-mile Peewah Trail through the 1,300-acre Indian Creek Wild Area, used by both hikers and equestrians. The park's location directly on the Mississippi River provides majestic river views and makes it one of Missouri's premier spots for viewing migratory waterfowl. Bald eagles roost in winter on the large trees along the bluffs and cliffs. The park's visitor center features exhibits interpreting the Trail of Tears history and the area's natural features. Other wildlife includes white-tailed deer, turkeys, hawks, and foxes among the diverse hardwood forests.

Directions

Lake Boutin Campground is located within Trail of Tears State Park, approximately 10 miles northeast of Jackson, Missouri. From Jackson, take MO-177 north for about 8 miles, then turn right onto Moccasin Springs Road and follow the signs to the campground.