Paddy Creek Wilderness is a 7,019-acre federally protected wilderness in Missouri's Mark Twain National Forest, about 10 miles northwest of Licking. Named for Big and Little Paddy Creeks, it became wilderness in 1983, preserving part of the Ozarks for conservation and backcountry recreation. One of Missouri's eight wilderness areas, it is best known for the 17-mile Big Piney Trail loop, which can also be hiked in shorter northern and southern sections. The area's rugged trails can challenge inexperienced hikers, while horseback riding is common on the Piney Creek Trail. Nearby Paddy Creek Recreation Area offers campsites and access to fishing on the Big Piney River.