The Mark Twain National Forest encompasses much of the Arcadia region, with elevations reaching 1,772 feet at Taum Sauk Mountain, Missouri's highest point. Dispersed camping options in this area offer more seclusion than established campgrounds, with primitive sites available along forest service roads. Cell service typically drops to minimal or non-existent in these remote locations.
What to do
Hiking on the Ozark Trail: Marble Creek Recreation Area serves as a trailhead for a section of the Ozark Trail. "Marble Creek is the starting point for the only free standing portion of the Ozark Trail. It is 8 miles from Marble Creek to Crane Lake," notes Mara F. The trail offers varied terrain through the Mark Twain National Forest.
Explore Bell Mountain Wilderness: For serious hikers, Bell Mountain Wilderness Area offers challenging backcountry experiences. "The Bell Mountain Wilderness Area is about a 2.5 hour drive from the St. Louis area - mostly highway until the winding country roads for the last 30 mins. There are two entrances to the mountain," explains Loren G. The loop trail climbs to stunning summit views and creek crossings.
Float the Black River: Twin Rivers Landing provides river access for paddling adventures. "Waters were super clear. We floated the Black River Friday through the campground, and had a blast. Our 6 man raft was in great condition and we had no problems with pick up at the put out," shares Lizz G. The campground offers equipment rentals and shuttle service.
Visit highest point in Missouri: From Taum Sauk Mountain State Park Campground, hikers can reach the state's highest elevation. "Taum Sauk Mountain is known for being the highest peak in Missouri but has a lot more to offer with its breathtaking views. There are three trails that are within Taum Sauk Mountain and you don't want to miss out on these views!" advises Erica P.
What campers like
Secluded dispersed camping: Murphy Overlook offers primitive camping with panoramic views. "This site is accessible by AWD and 4x4 but I would hesitate to attempt it with any other car. The drive to the site from highway 32 is just over 6 miles on a forest service road (2363). There is a beautiful view of the valley to the south west and we were treated to an incredible sunset," reports Jason F.
Walk-in tent sites on platforms: Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park provides unique tent camping options. "Beautiful site, each walk-in was spread apart from each other. The walkin sites are on platforms and are spaced for privacy," shares Elizabeth W. These platforms create level sleeping surfaces and offer more separation than standard tent sites.
Creek-side camping: Marble Creek Recreation Area sites offer water proximity. "My favorite part of Marble creek is the low noise, low traffic and you can always find a spot open. A few of the sights are right on the water which is a nice perk. Most sites are nicely separate by trees and brush," explains Shannon B. Sites by the water tend to fill first during summer months.
Family-friendly swimming areas: Silver Mines provides natural water features suitable for families. "We just put up our tents and built another fire ring to the north side of the obvious site. Camp sites are a 2 minute walk to the St. Francois River. Great hiking along the river and good fishing, swimming and kayaking in the river!" shares Leah H.
What you should know
Seasonal water availability: Multiple campgrounds shut off water systems during colder months. "The water was turned off at the time of year we were there and the pit toilets were pretty full, but otherwise still clean," notes Mara F. about Taum Sauk Mountain State Park. Winter campers should plan to bring all necessary water.
Varied tent site terrain: Taum Sauk Mountain State Park offers rustic tent camping with challenges. "Self-service campsites, the closest you can get to backpacking with access to a toilet! (Vault toilet) Very rocky ground so be careful where you put your tent," advises Amanda C. Site selection matters significantly for comfort.
Access difficulties: Some of the best places to camp near Arcadia, Missouri require careful navigation. At Murphy Overlook, "I'd recommend something AWD or be comfortable with momentum style driving, don't need clearance just need the traction on some of the hills," suggests Sean A., who also reports seeing a black bear in the area.
Cell service limitations: Sam A. Baker State Park Campground offers modern amenities but connectivity varies. "The only slight below norms was their wifi was very poor and didn't work half the time so that angered some campers but didn't bother us one bit, we don't go into the woods not to watch tv anyway," shares John K.
Tips for camping with families
Reserve platform sites early: At Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park, walk-in sites on platforms provide stability for family camping. "The cart provided was great to walk our gear down the trail to our site, and there was a flat deck for us to camp on (which was great on our rainy weekend)," explains Shelby B. These sites often book months in advance.
Kid-friendly water play: Marble Creek Recreation Area offers gentle water access. "This spot was perfect for our group of friends bringing children! Site # 20 had a perfect path to the water, and a reasonable creek walk up to a swimming hole," notes Abby D. Sites closest to appropriate swim areas fill quickly during summer.
Educational programming: Some campgrounds offer structured activities for children. "They also had neat programs going on while we were there including a smores contest and adult scavenger hunt," reports Charlotte B. about Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park.
Consider cabin options: For families wanting comfort without full RV setups, Twin Rivers Landing offers simple structures. "We opted for a camping cabin to keep it simple. We were delighted to find it had A/C! There are 4 small cabins with a double bunk, table and 2 chairs plus the A/C. There is a little porch: nice for sitting or gear stash," shares Shawn M.
Tips from RVers
Site selection at Big Creek: Big Creek RV Park provides level sites with different configurations. "Spots were clean and easy to back into or pull through. A little too close to one another for my liking, but well put together and level," reports Eric H., who advises bringing supplies as there aren't many stores nearby.
Electric hookup locations: St. Joe State Park Campground has specific loops for powered sites. "They have 3 Loops. A lower loop (on the river) for campers with electric and 2 upper Loops for basic camping and non-electric sites," explains Natalie F. The furthest loop is more primitive with only vault toilets.
Campground store supplies: Many campers appreciate on-site stores for forgotten items. "The store was nice, and we got some great ice cream on the way out," mentions Shelby B. about Johnson's Shut-Ins. This convenience eliminates trips to distant towns for basic supplies.
Campground navigation: Some areas require careful maneuvering with larger rigs. "The sites are close together and there is a train beside the river.. but otherwise pretty great. The staff is really nice and takes time to chat with you," notes Amy & Stu B. about Big Creek RV Park, where despite tight quarters, level sites accommodate various RV sizes.
