Sam A. Baker Shelters
Overnight use of the hiking shelters is available October 1 through May 15 only. Registration is required before camping but there is no fee. The shelters operate first-come, first-served with no advance reservations accepted.
Heat Advisory issued August 11 at 10:47AM CDT until August 13 at 8:00PM CDT by NWS Paducah KY
* WHAT...Very hot with peak heat index values up to near 110 degrees. * WHERE...All of southwest Indiana, western Kentucky, southeast Missouri, and southern Illinois excepting Perry County IL, where a Warning is in effect. * WHEN...Until 8 PM CDT /9 PM EDT/ Thursday. * IMPACTS...Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Daily heat index values will remain elevated in the triple digits into and through the weekend.
About
The Sam A. Baker Shelters are three historic stone structures on the Mudlick Trail, constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the 1930s as part of the original park development. Now designated as historic landmarks, these backcountry shelters offer primitive overnight accommodations for hikers and backpackers exploring the rugged Ozark terrain of southeastern Missouri. Each shelter features a fireplace where campfires are permitted using only downed wood collected from the forest floor. No cutting of standing trees or snags is allowed. The shelters are spaced along the 14-mile Mudlick Trail at distances of 0.7, 1.5, and 2.2 miles from the trailhead, providing options for different hiking abilities. Maximum group size is 10 persons per shelter. Camping at the shelters is free but registration is required before your trip. Hikers can register at the trailhead kiosk or complete the online permit form. The shelters are primitive with no potable water, toilets, or other amenities. Overnight parking is available at the Shut-Ins trailhead and Mudlick trailhead.
Directions
From Patterson, Missouri, take State Highway 143 south for approximately 3 miles to the park entrance at 5580 State Highway 143. The Mudlick Trailhead parking area is located within the park.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | No |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $50 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| moparks@dnr.mo.gov | |
| Phone | +1 (573) 856-4411 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
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