Mark Twain National Forest surrounds Arcadia, Missouri, with elevations ranging from 700 to 1,700 feet across forested Ozark terrain. Summer temperatures average 75-90°F while spring and fall camping seasons offer milder 55-75°F conditions. Dispersed camping opportunities exist throughout the forest's 1.5 million acres, providing access to hiking trails and waterways without designated facilities.
What to do
Rock exploration at Elephant Rocks State Park: The granite boulders at Elephant Rocks State Park create unique climbing and exploration opportunities for visitors with pets. "Great biking and awesome spot... in close proximity to Elephant Rock State Park," notes Charlotte B., who enjoyed the connecting bike trail from Johnson's Shut-Ins.
Backcountry hiking on the Ozark Trail: The 8-mile segment between Marble Creek Recreation Area and Crane Lake offers moderately challenging terrain. Mara F. explains, "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."
Waterfall viewing at Mina Sauk Falls: Located on Taum Sauk Mountain, this 132-foot waterfall is accessible via a 4-mile loop trail. "Mina Sauk Falls trail is a little under 4 miles and rated moderate. Best to hike after a heavy rainfall to see the waterfall but don't let that stop you if it hasn't rained in awhile, still beautiful to see," shares Erica P.
Mountain summit views: Missouri's highest point at 1,772 feet offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding Ozarks. "You can hike the tallest mountain in MO, not a long hike. Endless green rolling vistas! Also had deer at our tent," reports Lynn G. about her experience at Taum Sauk.
What campers like
Secluded tent camping at Murphy Overlook: This dispersed camping area offers primitive sites with stunning sunset views. "We were the only people along this forest service road and got the prettiest spot towards the end of the road overlooking the mountain across. This camping area is a hidden gem!" says Shea B., highlighting the privacy available.
Clean water access at stream sites: Several campgrounds feature clear water access points for cooling off. Shannon B. describes Marble Creek: "You can spend the day floating in the river or swimming near the little shut-ins watering hole. Fire wood can be purchased about a mile up the road for fairly cheap."
Low light pollution for stargazing: The remote location provides excellent night sky visibility. Jeff P. recommends Twin Rivers Landing: "If you love to stargaze then head out to open land and enjoy the night sky and bring a telescope."
Platform tent sites at Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park: Elevated wooden platforms keep tents dry and level. "Beautiful site, each walk-in was spread apart from each other. We loved it and cannot wait to go back," shares Elizabeth W., while Chad K. adds that "The walkin sites are on platforms and are spaced for privacy."
What you should know
Road conditions for dispersed sites: High-clearance vehicles are recommended for accessing remote camping areas. Jason F. cautions about Murphy Overlook: "This site is accessible by AWD and 4x4 but I would hesitate to attempt it with any other vehicle. The drive to the site from highway 32 is just over 6 miles on a forest service road (2363)."
Limited facilities at primitive campgrounds: Many sites lack running water and modern facilities. Regarding Taum Sauk Mountain State Park, Amanda C. notes, "Pit toilets are located at the entrance to the campground. We didn't see where the water was but it was supposed to be off for the season anyway so we were prepared."
Seasonal water access: Water systems at several campgrounds shut down during cold months. Megan B. observed at Silver Mines: "Water wasn't on at the campground yet - and there are not hookups at each campsite."
Wildlife awareness needed: Encounters with wildlife including black bears are possible. Sean A. reports from Murphy Overlook: "Saw an adult black bear when we left, only about 0.5 a mile from camp. Ran across the road in front of us. Keep that in mind!"
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water play areas: Shallow stream access points allow safe exploration. Abby D. recommends Marble Creek: "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."
Structured activities at developed campgrounds: Some parks offer scheduled events for children. Charlotte B. mentions Johnson's Shut-Ins: "They also had neat programs going on while we were there including a smores contest and adult scavenger hunt."
Cabin options for easier family trips: Air-conditioned accommodations provide comfort for families with young children. Shawn M. describes Twin Rivers Landing: "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."
Pet-friendly trail selection: Research which trails allow dogs before arriving. Erin J. warns: "We didn't check the nearby trails to the shut-ins before coming. The shut-ins trail DOES NOT allow dogs so that's a bummer. Found some other local hiking trails so overall it wasn't too bad."
Tips from RVers
Campground terrain considerations: Some sites have challenging surfaces for larger vehicles. Josh Y. found Twin Rivers Landing accommodating: "The sites were big enough for 4 tents. They have a shop and the prices there were extremely cheap."
Electric service options: Various hookup levels are available across different campgrounds. Natalie F. explains Silver Mines' layout: "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."
Extended stay amenities for RVers: Facilities like laundry services make longer trips more comfortable. Lizz G. appreciates Twin Rivers Landing: "Laundry on site as well! The site we stayed at was a premium tent/basic RV slot, so essentially we had access to an electrical outlet and our own water."
Pet-friendly full hookup sites: Year-round options exist for RV campers with pets. About St. Joe State Park, J T. reports: "Good clean campground for the whole family to enjoy. We found that there are some rules that didn't make much sense. But overall they probably have their reasons."
