Des Arc MissouriATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Des Arc, Missouri.
1. Sam A Baker State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Sam A Baker State Park is a popular outdoor destination in Des Arc offering a variety of recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, fishing in Big Creek, and camping in well-maintained facilities. The park's natural beauty and serene environment make it a perfect getaway for nature enthusiasts.
2. Arcadia Valley Soap Company
ARTISANAL SOAP SHOP
Arcadia Valley Soap Company offers handcrafted soaps and bath products in Des Arc. The shop specializes in locally-made artisanal soaps using natural ingredients and traditional methods. Visitors can watch soap-making demonstrations and purchase unique souvenirs to take home.
3. Missouri Great River Road
HISTORIC SCENIC BYWAY
The Missouri Great River Road is a scenic byway that passes near Des Arc, offering beautiful views of the countryside. This historic route features cultural landmarks and natural wonders along the Mississippi River. Travelers can explore charming small towns, historic sites, and scenic overlooks along the way.
4. Old State House Museum
HISTORIC GOVERNMENT BUILDING
The Old State House Museum is a historic landmark located near Des Arc in Iron County. This well-preserved building showcases the region's governmental history through exhibits and artifacts. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about Missouri's rich political heritage.
5. Taum Sauk Mountain State Park
HIGHEST POINT IN MISSOURI
Taum Sauk Mountain State Park features the highest point in Missouri and is located within driving distance of Des Arc. The park offers spectacular hiking trails, including the Mina Sauk Falls Trail leading to Missouri's tallest waterfall. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy diverse wildlife, unique geology, and breathtaking panoramic views of the Ozark Mountains.
6. Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park
NATURAL WATER PLAYGROUND
Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park features unique rock formations creating natural water chutes and pools in the East Fork of the Black River. Located near Des Arc, this natural water playground is popular for swimming and exploring during summer months. The park also offers camping, hiking, and educational programs about the area's distinctive geology.
7. Elephant Rocks State Park
GIANT GRANITE BOULDERS
Elephant Rocks State Park features massive elephant-shaped granite boulders standing end-to-end like a circus parade. Located a short drive from Des Arc, this geological wonder allows visitors to climb and explore the giant rocks formed from 1.5-billion-year-old granite. The park includes the Braille Trail, making it partially accessible to visitors with visual or physical disabilities.
8. Fort Davidson State Historic Site
CIVIL WAR BATTLEFIELD
Fort Davidson State Historic Site preserves the battlefield where the Battle of Pilot Knob was fought during the Civil War. Located near Des Arc, this historic site features a visitor center with exhibits explaining the significance of this 1864 battle. Visitors can walk the grounds, view the earthworks, and learn about Missouri's role in the Civil War.
9. Black River
SCENIC WATERWAY ADVENTURE
The Black River flows through Iron County near Des Arc, offering excellent opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and floating. Its clear waters are home to various fish species, making it a favorite destination for anglers. Scenic stretches of the river provide peaceful settings for wildlife viewing and photography.
10. Ozark Trail
LONG-DISTANCE HIKING PATH
The Ozark Trail is a long-distance hiking path that passes through sections of Iron County near Des Arc. This extensive trail system takes hikers through diverse landscapes including forests, glades, and river valleys. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy day hikes or multi-day backpacking adventures along this scenic trail.
11. Iron County Museum
LOCAL HISTORY COLLECTION
The Iron County Museum showcases the rich history and cultural heritage of the region including Des Arc. Exhibits feature mining artifacts, pioneer tools, and historical photographs documenting the area's development. Visitors can learn about the iron ore industry that gave the county its name and shaped its economy.
12. Arcadia Valley
SCENIC MOUNTAIN VALLEY
Arcadia Valley is a picturesque region encompassing several small towns near Des Arc in Iron County. The valley is surrounded by the St. Francois Mountains, offering spectacular scenery and outdoor recreation opportunities. Visitors can explore charming main streets, historic buildings, and enjoy the natural beauty of this region.
13. Royal Gorge Conservation Area
PROTECTED NATURAL HABITAT
Royal Gorge Conservation Area is a protected natural space in Iron County within driving distance of Des Arc. This conservation area features diverse ecosystems and wildlife habitats across its forested landscape. Visitors can enjoy hunting, wildlife viewing, and hiking while experiencing the natural beauty of the Missouri Ozarks.
14. St. Joe State Park
OFF-ROAD VEHICLE PARADISE
St. Joe State Park offers one of the largest off-road vehicle areas in Missouri and is located within driving distance of Des Arc. The park features 2,000 acres of sand flats created by the state's largest abandoned lead mining operation. Visitors can also enjoy swimming, fishing, camping, and hiking within the park's diverse landscape.
15. Millstream Gardens Conservation Area
WHITEWATER KAYAKING DESTINATION
Millstream Gardens Conservation Area is known for hosting the Missouri Whitewater Championships on the St. Francis River. Located near Des Arc, this natural area features challenging rapids for experienced kayakers and spectacular scenery for all visitors. The area also offers hiking trails, wildlife observation opportunities, and scenic overlooks of the river gorge.