Big Sugar Creek State Park

Big Sugar Creek State Park is a state park spanning over 2000 acres (810 hectares) across wooded areas, open grasslands, and rocky outcrops. The landscape follows the creek through valleys and offers trails that connect different habitats and viewpoints.

The Missouri Department of Natural Resources established this park in 1992 to protect a significant section of the Elk River water system. This action preserved a critical part of the Ozark landscape for conservation purposes.

The park centers on Big Sugar Creek, a defining waterway that shapes how people move through and experience the landscape. The creek draws visitors who come to observe how water carves through the Ozark terrain.

The park features trails of varying lengths and difficulty levels suitable for different hiking abilities. Basic facilities including restrooms are available at main access areas to help you plan your visit.

The Elk River Breaks Natural Area within the park sustains rare plant species found nowhere else in the region, including low growing cacti and ancient Chinquapin trees. These species thrive in the rocky terrain where few other plants can survive.

Location: McDonald County

Inception: 1992

Website: https://mostateparks.com/park/big-sugar-creek-state-park

GPS coordinates: 36.62140,-94.29420

Latest update: December 13, 2025 12:42