Paddy Creek Campground
4.5329 reviews108 S. Sam Houston Blvd. Houston, MO 65483
Paddy Creek Campground
$15.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Overnight camping costs $15 per single site. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Pass holders receive a 50% discount on single campsite fees physically occupied by the pass holder. Payment is made at an on-site fee tube.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of Mark Twain National Forest, Paddy Creek Campground beckons those seeking an authentic wilderness escape. This hidden gem borders the pristine Paddy Creek Wilderness, where secluded campsites nestle among towering trees and the gentle murmur of creek waters creates nature's perfect soundtrack. Here, tent campers discover their own private slice of paradise, with some sites offering front-row seats to the creek's meandering journey. Well-maintained grassy clearings provide comfortable camping spots, while nearby hiking trails lead adventurers to breathtaking scenic overlooks that showcase the rugged beauty of the Missouri Ozarks.
Paddy Creek Campground supports primitive camping with no electric hookups. It is suitable for tents and small RVs, with one double-sized site available. Group camping is not specifically supported, and there are no cabins or glamping options.
Historical SignificanceThe trails winding through Paddy Creek carry whispers of the past, where observant hikers discover historical landmarks that tell the story of those who came before. These remnants of history, scattered along the pathways, offer glimpses into the area's rich heritage and add an element of discovery to every hiking adventure.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the ever-changing moods of the Ozarks throughout the camping season, which welcomes visitors from April through December. Spring arrives with wildflower blooms and perfect hiking temperatures, while autumn transforms the forest into a spectacular canvas of gold, crimson, and amber. The campground truly shines during these shoulder seasons, when comfortable days give way to crisp nights perfect for campfire gatherings. Summer brings refreshing dips in cool creek waters, and even late-season campers are rewarded with peaceful solitude and the forest's subtle winter preparations.
ElevationPerched at 800 feet above sea level, Paddy Creek Campground enjoys a naturally cooled microclimate that provides welcome relief from summer heat. This gentle elevation creates the perfect conditions for a diverse forest canopy that filters sunlight into dappled patterns, maintaining comfortable temperatures even on warm days and ensuring peaceful, cool nights under the stars.
Natural Features and SceneryA living tapestry of Missouri's native forest unfolds around every campsite, where mighty oaks stand sentinel alongside aromatic cedars and graceful hemlocks. In spring, redbud trees burst into pink profusion, painting the understory with delicate color. The star attraction remains Paddy Creek itself, its crystal-clear waters flowing over ancient rocky beds that invite exploration. Young adventurers delight in discovering unique stones and fossils, while deeper pools carved by centuries of flowing water offer refreshing swimming holes during drier months. The riparian corridor attracts an impressive array of birdlife, making dawn and dusk prime times for nature's symphony.
Geological RegionCarved into a sheltered hollow where Paddy Creek begins its journey to join the Big Piney River, this campground occupies a special ecological niche at the eastern gateway to Paddy Creek Wilderness. The landscape tells a geological story millions of years in the making, where ancient limestone and dolomite formations create the dramatic topography that defines the Ozarks. Dense forests of oak, cedar, and hemlock blanket the hillsides, while redbud trees add seasonal splashes of color to the verdant canopy. The creek corridor supports a lush riparian ecosystem, and hiking trails climb to scenic overlooks that reveal the full majesty of this untamed landscape, where forest, water, and stone create one of Missouri's most enchanting natural sanctuaries.
Campsite details
AccessibilityToilets are wheelchair accessible.
Sites SizeSites can accommodate RVs up to 34 feet in length.
Sites PrivacySites are largely secluded and surrounded by dense vegetation, offering significant privacy.
Total Campsites23 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampsites adjacent to the creek provide easier access to swimming holes. Consider sites in wooded areas for privacy and ample shade.
Best CampsitesSome campsites are near Paddy Creek offering easy access to swimming holes and the creek bed.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in details not provided.
Check-out
Check-out details not provided.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 14 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 people per single site and 16 per double site.
Groups
Group camping is not explicitly supported at this campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground features an open meadow at the entrance for outdoor activities. Campsites are secluded and surrounded by dense vegetation.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from April 1 through December 1 each year.
Reservation PlatformsReservations not applicable; sites are first-come, first-serve.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Lack of reservation system may lead to travelers guessing spot availability as noted in some user reviews.
Cancellation PolicyNo cancellation policy provided as reservations are not permitted.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Paddy Creek Campground offers various recreational opportunities, with a focus on hiking, swimming, and outdoor exploration. The nearby Paddy Creek provides options for wading and cooling off, while the surrounding wilderness offers hiking trails and wildlife viewing.
Hiking
Multiple hiking options are available, including the 1-mile Paddy Creek Trail and an 18-mile loop within the Paddy Creek Wilderness. Some trails have elevation changes of up to 500 feet.Swimming
Swimming spots are available along Paddy Creek, which features clear, cool water and swimming holes. However, these areas are not managed or supervised.Wildlife viewing
The dense vegetation and riparian habitat attract a variety of birds and wildlife. Campers might encounter turtles, raccoons, and colorful fish in the creek.Winter Activities
No designated winter activities are mentioned, as the campground operates seasonally from April 1 to December 1.Water Sports
No specific non-motorized water sports like kayaking or canoeing are mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed using dead and downed wood only. All campsites are equipped with fire pits with grated tops.
- Quiet hours are 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsThis is Black Snake country, as noted by Gene S. However, the snakes are non-venomous and consume rattlesnakes. Tick infestations are common, and campers should be prepared.
Active alertsNo active alerts reported.
Weather forecast
73
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 46%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Houston/Rolla/Cedar Creek Ranger District office located at 108 S. Sam Houston Blvd., Houston, MO, provides emergency contact services. Nearest hospital or police station information is not specified.
Good to know
Peak season datesSpecific peak pricing or shoulder season dates not provided.
Trash and recyclingTrash disposal is provided, with locking trash cans available along the camp roads.
Proximity to water featuresPaddy Creek flows year-round and is accessible from multiple locations in the campground. Deep pools are available even during dry seasons.
Common complaintsUser complaints highlight the lack of potable water, proximity of campsites leading to noise disturbances, and raccoons commonly scavenging for food.
HostInformation on campground hosts is unavailable.
Campground Map
108 S. Sam Houston Blvd. Houston, MO 65483
Driving directionsIn Licking, MO, at the intersection of State Rt. 32 and US Rt. 63, take Rt. 32 west 12.9 miles to Paddy Creek campground sign. Turn right onto Paddy Crk. Rd (gravel) and go 6.6 miles to a 'T' intersection (just before a low water bridge). Turn right onto Campground Dr. and go 0.4 miles to campground. Alternative, not recommended for RVs: In Licking, MO, at the intersection of State Rt. 32 and US Rt. 63, take State Rt. 32 west 3.8 miles to State Rt. N. Turn right onto Rt. N and go 2.2 miles to State Rt. AF. Turn left onto Rt. AF and go 8.9 miles to Paddy Creek Recreation Area sign (Paddy Creek Rd.). Turn left onto Paddy Creek Rd. and go 1.8 miles to campground sign (Campground Rd.). Turn left and proceed to campground. NOTE: The last 4.5 miles is gravel, steep, and very curvy in places.
The last 4.5 miles leading to the campground are gravel roads that are steep and curvy, which might pose a challenge for RVs or smaller vehicles. Driving directions suggest alternative routes that are not recommended for RVs.Nearby places
Rolla (approximately 1 hour drive), Ft. Leonard Wood (1 hour drive), Houston (local ranger district office location)
Nearby supplies
An RV waste station with potable water is available for a fee north of the campground at Three Springs RV Campground (24125 US Rt. 63, Rolla, MO). No further details on groceries, fuel, or camping supply stores nearby are provided.
Camper Reviews
4.5
29 reviews
Paddy Creek Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Paddy Creek Campground is praised for its cleanliness, privacy, and scenic beauty. Campers appreciate the quiet, rustic atmosphere and proximity to hiking trails and the creek. Some concerns include noise from other campers and the lack of advanced facilities.
Review Summaries
Based on 29 reviews
What Campers Love
- 'Awesome clean and organized campgrounds!'
- 'The campsites are very private with lots of trees.'
- 'Loved it as much as I did when I was younger!'
- 'Great place to primitive camp and hike.'
Based on 29 reviewsCommon Concerns
- Raccoons scavenging for food.
- Noise from other campers' children at night.
- No reservation system, leading to uncertainty about site availability.
- 'Needs more sheriffs patrolling after ten due...
Based on 29 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
- Lock food in your vehicle to prevent raccoon activity.
- Bring all necessary supplies, including water, as potable water is not available.
- Arrive early to secure a site since reservations are not...
Based on 29 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is most popular in summer and fall, thanks to its cool creek waters and vibrant foliage. Seasonal closures from December to April limit winter use.
Based on 29 reviewsCamper Quotes
- 'We just liked the camping area so much that we decided to spend the day relaxing and chatting fireside.'
- 'Vault toilets have TP in them. The creek is cold and super clear!'
- 'The serene...
Based on 29 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
- Some campsites have direct access to the creek, but dense vegetation limits views.
- Sites near the open meadow at the campground entrance are less secluded.
Based on 29 reviewsAccessibility Features
The wheelchair-accessible vault toilets are appreciated, but no other specific accessibility features are mentioned.
Based on 29 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs on leashes are welcome, and campers note that pets enjoy the creek and trails.
Based on 29 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025