3 Missouri Airbnbs Near Waterfall Trails You’ll Want To Explore

When most people think of Missouri, they picture the Gateway Arch, Kansas City's gleaming skyline, or the wide-open farmland of the Show Me State's northern reaches. I, on the other hand, have always loved the rugged landscape of the Ozarks. The region's deep forests and ancient mountain ranges are perfect for a weekend of hiking—and also happen to hide a surprising number of waterfalls. When I chase waterfalls in this part of the state, I like to find Airbnbs near waterfall trails in Missouri so I can spend more time on the trails and not behind the wheel.

To make your planning a bit easier, I matched up a trio of the best waterfalls in Missouri with local Airbnbs just minutes from the trailheads. With these accommodations, you can enjoy some of our favorite waterfall hikes in Missouri, and still have a real bed and a hot shower waiting for you at the end of the day.

1. Mina Sauk Falls - Ironton

Mina Sauk Falls, located in Taum Sauk Mountain State Park, is the tallest waterfall in the Show Me State. Getting there requires tackling a 3-mile loop trail that winds through the St. Francois Mountains, through rocky glades and over uneven dirt paths. The effort is absolutely worth it, however, as the trail leads to a 132-foot fall where the water cascades down a series of volcanic rock ledges. I appreciate this hike because it offers a firsthand look at the region's unique igneous geology—and a tough but rewarding workout in the process.

Once you finish your hike, you'll want a nearby spot to kick off your boots. The Sawmill Cabin is a perfect base that's located just 20 minutes from the park, near the town of Ironton. Sitting on 12 private acres, this one-bedroom, one-bath modern retreat features a large deck and sits right next to a creek, meaning you don't have to leave the sights and sounds of the water behind when you head indoors. Because the property is located so close to both the state park and the local shops of the Arcadia Valley, it offers a great mix of backcountry access and in-town convenience.

2. Rocky Falls - Eminence

Tucked within the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, Rocky Falls is easily one of the most distinctive natural features in the Missouri Ozarks. Instead of a typical vertical plunge, the water here rushes down a steep, wide incline of purple-hued igneous rock before pooling into a clear swimming hole at the bottom. The walk from the parking lot is short, but you can easily extend your hike by hopping onto the adjacent Ozark Trail to explore the surrounding forest. It's a great spot to experience the region's spring-fed waterways up close.

After you spend some time by the water, Thorny Creek Cabin provides a quiet place to regroup. This secluded, studio-style rental is located a mere 6 miles from Rocky Falls, keeping your driving time to a minimum. The cabin sits on a property with its own spring-fed creek and features a comfortable loft, a fire pit, and a porch built for relaxing in the woods. Since the property is situated well away from any main highways, you'll get a genuine off-the-grid feel while staying right around the corner from a major national park site.

3. Hickory Canyons Waterfall - Ste. Genevieve

Just outside of Ste. Genevieve, Hickory Canyons Natural Area offers an environment that's radically different from the state's typical limestone bluffs terrain. The main trail here is a one-mile loop that drops you down into a steep sandstone box canyon. At the bottom, a wet-weather waterfall pours over a massive rock overhang into the shaded valley. The microclimate down in the canyon is really interesting, as the cooler temperatures support rare ferns and thick mosses you don't typically see elsewhere in Missouri. It's a quick hike, but the dramatic elevation change, scenic waterfall, and unique sandstone walls should put it on your bucket list.

Honey Hideaways is a perfect base camp that's close to the canyon trails. This one-bedroom, two-bath cabin is situated on 16 acres of private land and includes a hot tub overlooking the valley—a massive perk after you spend the morning climbing out of a box canyon. The interior is modern and features plenty of large windows, bringing the wooded views right into the living space. Located just a short drive from the trailhead, this property gives you the opportunity to explore the area's rare geological formations while enjoying a quiet, comfortable stay.

These Airbnbs near waterfall trails in Missouri completely change the logistics of a weekend in the Ozarks. You cut down time in the car, while you get to explore the woods at your own pace. Grab your hiking boots and get ready for a trip that puts Missouri's best natural features right outside your front door. When you're ready to hit the road, use Only In Your State’s itinerary planner to map out your Ozarks getaway.