With some travel and adventures on hold due to COVID-19, we’ve really had an opportunity to branch out and experience some new areas and enjoy nature. Some of our prior favorite adventures included more populated cities, but in today’s world hitting pause and seeking more isolated and outdoor adventures is a wonderful option.
One such recent adventure was a trip to Roaring River State Park in Cassville, Missouri. Roaring River is located in the southwest corner of Missouri, not far from Eureka Springs, Arkansas. Roaring River could absolutely be added to a Eureka Springs trip with just about a 30 minute drive.
The park is right in the Mark Twain National Forest and provides seven hiking trails, great day use areas for visitors and fishing opportunities. While we visited we took advantage of the beautiful views and hiking trails!
Hiking!
During our visit we hiked The Fire Tower Trail and Devil’s Kitchen Trail.
Fire Tower Trail – This trail is a 3.75 mile loop trail rated by the park as Rugged. This trail offers beautiful views of river and the 2,075 acre Roaring River Wild Area. The trail starts near Campground 3 and about 3/4 of a mile in, crosses highway F that runs through the park. This is the longest trail in the park and offers both peaceful walking along the river and wooded natural paths.
Devil’s Kitchen Trail – When we go back to Roaring River, I’ll definitely check out other trails, but would 100% revisit Devil’s Kitchen Trail, it’s beautiful! This trail is a 1.50 mile loop. The trail head is located near the fish hatchery and Fishing Zone 1. This trail has beautiful views of both wooded areas and rock formations. As only a part time hiker/adventurer the incline definitely gave me a workout, but certainly well worth it for the views.
Stay!
During our visit we weren’t able to snag a cabin in the state park, they were all booked up. We went one of my favorite routes and found an AirBnb. We stayed at the Lil’ Woody Cabin in Eagle Rock, Missouri just about 8 miles from the state park. The Lil’ Woody is the smallest of 3 cabin options and is ideal for a couple traveling by themselves or with a pup. It’s decorated with natural features and super cozy. If you have a larger group, I’m sure the other cabin offers are just as well kept! The Lil’ Woody isn’t located right on the lake, but still offered great views and nice deck to relax on after a day of hiking. We got to meet the owner and she’s fantastic, super helpful but also gave us plenty of space to enjoy the cabin as if it was our own.
Check out this natural and inviting space…
Definitely a recommended stay!
Check out this video showing just a small piece of the beautiful trails Roaring River State Park has to offer….https://youtu.be/l0Q3uzrNqzc
If you find yourself in this area, check out my post on hiking near Eureka Springs for more outdoor adventures just a quick drive away!
Let me know what your favorite spots in Missouri are! I’d love to hear your thoughts on Roaring River and the surrounding area!
