Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park provides cabin accommodations nestled in the St. Francois Mountains, one of Missouri's oldest mountain ranges dating back 1.5 billion years. Located about 15 miles northwest of Arcadia, cabin options range from rustic to modern throughout the region. Winter temperatures typically drop to the 20-30°F range, making heated cabins a popular choice during colder months.
What to do
Hiking trails year-round: Washington State Park Campground features multiple trail difficulties accessible from cabin sites. "We hiked the 1000 step trail. Most of the campers did fine but those who were not use to hiking did struggle a bit. If you are use to hiking, then this trail should not be any problem for you," notes Scott M.
River access for paddling: Twin Rivers Landing positions cabins near water recreation. "We stayed in a cabin to keep it simple. We were delighted to find it had A/C! We had access to the 'beach' on the crystal clear Black River," shares Shawn M.
Wildlife observation: Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park cabins provide access to diverse wildlife viewing areas. "Lots of wildlife and amazing science at work. Must see in Missouri," comments Josh S. The park's natural features attract various animal species throughout different seasons.
Historical exploration: Washington State Park contains Native American petroglyphs near cabin accommodations. "Washington State Park is a hidden gem in Missouri! The prehistoric Petroglyphs nearby are a must see," says Phil W.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Cabin accommodations at Twin Rivers Landing receive praise for maintenance standards. "Each site has a pretty well kept up picnic table and fire ring with cowboy stove. Quiet time beginning at 11pm didn't need enforcing, everyone was pleasant and friendly. The staff was phenomenal," remarks Lizz G.
Spacious sites: Sam A. Baker State Park Campground offers roomier cabin areas. "The sites are very large, flat, and easy," April D. notes about nearby tent sites, with similar spacing for cabins. Sites typically include parking space for at least two vehicles.
Proximity to water: Bearcat Getaway features cabins with river access. "It's right on the river. They have a little store, running water, decent bathrooms with hot showers and a playground," states Chrissy W. Most cabins sit within 200 feet of water access points.
Winter camping options: Washington State Park Campground maintains winter cabin availability. "Loved the campground! Easy plug n play electric on a 30 amp box, no issues with blowing fuses like I have at other big state parks," shares David T. about a December stay.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Johnson's Shut-Ins requires advance planning for cabins. "Managed to get the most secluded spot in the campground which is hard to do considering that you usually need to book months in advance," Charlotte B. advises. Summer cabin reservations typically require 3-6 months advance booking.
Pet restrictions: Some trails near cabins prohibit dogs. At Johnson's Shut-Ins, "We didn't check the nearby trails before coming. The shut-ins trail DOES NOT allow dogs so that's a bummer," warns Erin J. Check specific trail rules before bringing pets.
Supply needs: Cabin rentals vary in amenities provided. "Bring your own bedding," reminds Shawn M. about Twin Rivers Landing cabins. Most cabin rentals require guests to bring their own linens, pillows, and cooking equipment.
Seasonal crowds: Weekday visits often provide quieter experiences. At Johnson's Shut-Ins, "Lots of folks are aware of this once hidden gem so go during the week," advises Curtis M. Summer weekends frequently reach full capacity.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Sam A. Baker State Park cabins provide access to multiple recreation options. "Super park for great biking, hiking, river access, restaurant, great camp store. This park always has a lot of activities for the campers!" shares Jenny H.
Swimming options: Black River Hideaway Campground offers cabin access to both river and pool swimming. "This place has an in-ground pool that's lit up until 10pm, a large lake with swings and fire pits around it, a bigger playground, and a REALLY wonderful little store with anything you'd need plus more!" says Alex B.
Seasonal events: Halloween activities make Twin Eagle Lake Estates & Hideout popular for families with cabins. "They have day long family friendly activities and the campsites deck out for Halloween with a $500 prize for best. Then at dusk trick or treat," notes Nancy A.
Educational opportunities: Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park cabins provide access to learning experiences. "They also had neat programs going on while we were there including a smores contest and adult scavenger hunt," Charlotte B. mentions.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: When seeking cabins near Arcadia with RV options, check specific amenities. "We stayed in the fall and the colors were amazing. Nice paved sites that have picnic tables & fire pits," Ashlee B. reports about Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park.
Hookup availability: Electric options vary between cabins. "The site was huge, plenty of space for our two tents, a pop up, and our 'camp kitchen'. Each site has a pretty well kept up picnic table and fire ring with cowboy stove," Lizz G. notes about Twin Rivers Landing.
Seasonal maintenance: Weather affects cabin and RV site conditions differently. "The park as usual was yet maintained in almost perfect conditions, staff was very nice. We spent time walking around the park, relaxing and just talking," John K. shares about Sam A. Baker State Park during high rain periods.
Storage considerations: Many cabins near Arcadia provide limited space for large equipment. "Very nice pull through sites," Shannon M. comments about St. Joe State Park Campground, which offers both cabin and RV options.
