Attractions & Recreational Activities
Arcadia Academy is located in Arcadia, Missouri, nestled in the scenic Arcadia Valley within the Ozark Mountains. Several state parks and recreation areas are in close proximity, offering a variety of outdoor activities. The best thing is, you can visit these places and have a reliable place to stay the night, eat wonderful food, and use as a rest stop in-between parks: the family owned and operated Arcadia Academy! Below is a list of notable state parks near Arcadia Academy, along with their recreational offerings, based on their general proximity (within roughly an hour's drive):
Johnson Shut-Ins
Approximately 15 miles southwest of Arcadia, MO (about a 20-30 minute drive).
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Swimming and Water Play: The East Fork of the Black River features natural "shut-ins," where water flows through rock chutes, creating pools and rapids perfect for splashing and wading.
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Hiking: Trails like the Shut-Ins Trail (2.5 miles) offer views of the river and 1.4 billion-year-old geologic formations.
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Horseback Riding: Equestrian trails wind through the Ozark landscape.
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Nature Exploration: Opportunities to observe wildlife and rugged terrain.
Sam A. Baker State Park
About 30 miles southeast of Arcadia, MO (approximately a 45-minute drive).
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Hiking: Over 14 miles of trails, including the Mudlick Trail with overlooks of the Big Creek Valley.
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Fishing and Swimming: Access to the St. Francois River and Big Creek.
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Boating/Canoeing: Paddle along the river or creek (bring your own equipment).
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Horseback Riding: Equestrian trails and a campground for riders.
Elephant Rocks
Approximately 10 miles northeast of Arcadia, MO (about a 15-20 minute drive).
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Hiking: The Braille Trail (1 mile) winds through giant granite boulders, designed for accessibility with interpretive signs.
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Rock Climbing/Bouldering: The massive elephant-shaped boulders attract climbers and explorers.
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Geology Exploration: Learn about the park’s 1.5 billion-year-old red granite formations.
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History: Visit the ruins of an old railroad engine house from the area's quarrying past.
Clearwater Lake
Roughly 40 miles southeast of Arcadia, MO (about a 50-minute drive).
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Boating: Motorized and non-motorized boating on the 1,650-acre lake.
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Fishing: Abundant bass, crappie, and catfish.
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Swimming: Designated beach areas.
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Hiking: Trails in nearby state parks like Bluff View and River View.
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Wildlife Viewing: Opportunities to see birds and other Ozark fauna.
Taum Sauk Mountain
About 10 miles south of Arcadia, MO (roughly a 15-20 minute drive).
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Hiking: Home to Missouri’s highest point (1,772 feet), with the Taum Sauk Mountain Trail (3 miles) and a segment of the Ozark Trail offering stunning views.
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Sightseeing: Features Mina Sauk Falls, the tallest waterfall in Missouri (132 feet), especially impressive after rain.
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Nature Photography: Ideal for capturing the rugged St. Francois Mountains and vibrant fall foliage.
Hawn State Park
Approximately 40 miles northeast of Arcadia, MO (about a 50-60 minute drive).
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Hiking: Over 10 miles of trails, including the Pickle Creek Trail and Whispering Pines Trail, through pine forests and sandstone bluffs.
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Nature Observation: Known for its clear streams, wildflowers, and birdwatching.