Cottages on Stouts Creek Area Attractions & Links

The Arcadia Valley in Southeast Missouri abounds in natural attractions and activities. The Cottages on Stouts Creek are only 5 miles from Missouri’s highest point, Taum Sauk Mountain, which has rugged hiking trails. It is part of the Ozark Trail.  Easier trails are also nearby.

Popular state parks in the area include Elephant Rocks, where the granite formations create striking scenery. Also nearby at Parks Hill is St. Joe State Park, which has an RV riding area, equestrian, bike and nature trails.

Within a few miles is the Mark Twain National Forest which has some of the prettiest drives around.

Millstream Gardens, a Missouri Conservation area, affords a lovely walk along the St. Francis River. Tiemann Shut-Ins provides a dramatic view.   Rarely crowded, you can sit along the water’s edge and enjoy a picnic lunch and listen to the stream gurgle or stick a line in the water.

Water sports and fishing are popular as well, with Missouri’s only whitewater within minutes of the cottages.  Springtime hosts kayak time trials on the St. Francis River.  The Black River provides interesting scenery and float trips are available.  The Corps of Engineers operate Clearwater and Wappapello Lakes which are about 30-45 miles away.  Boat rental and fishing available.

For history, visit Fort Davidson State Historic Site, scene of the pivotal Battle of Pilot Knob in 1864. Reenactments are held every 3rd year, the 3rd weekend in September.  The next mega event is scheduled fall of 2007. U. S. Grant was promoted to General while at Ironton; his statue stands on the grounds of the Catholic Church.  Gads Hill, scene of Jesse James’ first train robbery, is about 20 miles away.

If golf is your thing, there is a nine-hole semi-private course, Arcadia Valley Country Club, less than two miles away; or a 30 minute drive will take to you Eagle Lakes in Farmington or a slightly longer drive to Fourche Valley in Potosi.

Main Street, Ironton has several nice antique shops as well as a couple of craft stores. There are also antique shops and flea markets just outside of town.   Plunder Palace is a favorite junk store.  Click here for area shopping.

Bobby Powell Jamboree is hopping every Saturday night in season with Branson-style shows featuring “Willie Nelson” and even “Elvis” sometimes makes an appearance.  Other shows feature bluegrass music, country oldies, Hee Haw and just plain pickin‘.  The Plummers, formerly Branson performers, also have a theater within 20 miles of the cottages. Schedules and shows vary.

There are many restaurants and dining opportunities near the Cottages on Stouts Creek.  Click here for a list of restaurants in and around Arcadia Valley.

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Follow the Route du Vin to 4 unique wineries in Ste. Genevieve County; just a 35 mile drive through rolling hills and scenic valleys.

Charleville Vineyards is a family owned vineyard, winery and microbrewery.   Its rustic country setting overlooks the Saline Creek Valley. Plenty of outdoor seating with panoramic views.

Chaumette Vineyards and Winery is the ultimate French experience: shop in the elegant French gift shop and lunch where the chef has prepared special French delicacies.  A variety of Missouri wines available.

Cave Vineyard is family owned; the name is derived from the Saltpeter Cave located on the property. Legend has it, that the cave was used by Jesse James as a hideout after he robbed the bank in Ste. Genevieve in 1873. Fine wines available.

Crown Valley Winery is located on 600 spectacular acres.  Producers of many award winning wines.

Stop at one of these wineries on your way down or on your way home and break up your trip or just do an afternoon trip with the cottages as your home base.

New wineries in the area opening soon.

All of these attractions are just an hour and a half away from St. Louis, but you will be too tired to see them all and drive back home; so make your reservations at the Cottages on Stouts Creek.

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Please visit our family of friends!
Arcadia Valley Chamber of Commerce
Iron County Tourism
Chanticleer Pottery
Baylee Jo's Barbecue
Bearcat Getaway
Arcadia Academy