This Little Known Valley Is One Of The Most Beautiful Places In Missouri

Arcadia Valley is located just 80 miles south of St. Louis and might be Missouri’s best kept secret. Nestled in the St. Francois Mountains of the Ozarks Plateau, this breathtaking area is comprised of three small towns which include Ironton, Arcadia and Pilot Knob. Here are some of my favorite attractions located in and near the valley.

Keith Yahl/flickr

When you stand at the top of Taum Sauk Mountain, you'll actually be standing at the highest point of Missouri. Which basically means you're on top of the world, right?

Address:
Hwy. CC
Ironton, MO 63656

Nikonian Novice/flickr

Elephant Rocks State Park is another great stop for any adventurers at heart. The giant boulders you'll come across are comprised of granite from 1.5 million years ago.

Address:
7406 MO-21
Belleview, MO 63623

rannydef/TripAdvisor

Johnson's Shut-Ins is the premier oasis for anyone looking to cool off during the hot summer months. Guests can visit for a day or spend the night at a campsite or in a cabin.

Address:
148 Taum Sauk Trail
Middle Brook, MO 63656

Jeff Hamm

Marble Creek is one of the most underrated camping areas in my opinion. Most of its campsites are located right along the creek. As you camp, you'll get to hear the peaceful ripples in the water...and it really doesn't get any better than that.

Address:
Route E
Arcadia, MO 63621

Vanessa Righeimer/Only In Missouri

This rugged trail spans over 350 miles and can be picked up either at Taum Sauk Mountain or at Marble Creek Recreation Area. Click here for a full map of the trail

While most out-of-state guests may flock to the big cities, true Missourians know that most of our state’s beauty can be found off-the-beaten-path. Have you visited Arcadia Valley before? What was your experience like?