10 Secluded Neighborhoods Hidden in the Woodlands of Missouri’s Mark Twain Forest

I’ve always been drawn to the hidden corners of Missouri, especially those tucked away within the sprawling Mark Twain National Forest. This expansive woodland, with its lush greenery and winding rivers, houses some of the most secluded neighborhoods in the state.

These communities offer a peaceful retreat for anyone seeking tranquility away from the bustle of city life. Each place has its unique charm, from the rolling hills of Dent County to the dense forests of Crawford County. Join me as I share some of these hidden gems, each offering serenity amidst nature’s grandeur.

10. Wilby – A Quiet Community within the Mark Twain National Forest

Wilby is a secluded, unincorporated community in northern Butler County, Missouri, within the expansive Mark Twain National Forest. With a small population of approximately 100 residents, it remains a quiet, peaceful retreat for nature lovers and those seeking solitude.

While few commercial establishments exist, the community thrives on outdoor recreation, particularly hunting, fishing, and hiking. The forest surrounding Wilby offers ample opportunities for wildlife watching and exploring nature trails.

The community’s seclusion and lack of modern infrastructure contribute to its charm, making it an ideal getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. Wilby is largely a residential area, with homes scattered across the forested landscape.

Where is Wilby?

Wilby is located in the northern part of Butler County, Missouri, within the heart of the Mark Twain National Forest. The community is situated along Missouri Route O, approximately seven miles north of Poplar Bluff, making it car-accessible.

Its remote location deep within the national forest means the area is surrounded by natural beauty and quiet. To reach Wilby, travelers can take Route O north from Poplar Bluff, following a winding route through dense woods and pastures, offering a scenic drive into this secluded community.

9. Milltown – A Remote Village Amidst the Forested Hills

Milltown, located in western Butler County, is a small, secluded community within the Mark Twain National Forest. With fewer than 200 residents, this quiet neighborhood is known for its natural beauty and close-knit, rural atmosphere.

The area is largely defined by its picturesque setting along Hurricane Creek and its proximity to Tenmile Creek, which makes it a popular spot for fishing, canoeing, and hiking. The community is sparsely populated, with no significant commercial industries, though agriculture and forestry are common in the surrounding region.

Milltown’s seclusion is further amplified by the dense forests and rolling hills surrounding it, providing a peaceful retreat for those who love nature. With no major highways passing through it, the town remains off the beaten path for most visitors.

Where is Milltown?

Milltown is located within the Mark Twain National Forest in western Butler County, along Hurricane Creek. This remote community lies about two miles west of its confluence with Tenmile Creek, nestled among the area’s forested hills.

Milltown’s seclusion comes from its location deep within the forest, where the nearest towns and services are several miles away. To reach Milltown, travelers can take Route O from Poplar Bluff and then follow local forest roads that meander through the wilderness, offering an intimate glimpse of the natural surroundings.

8. Enough – A Lost Community Surrounded by Natural Beauty

Enough, a former community now considered a ghost town, is located within the Mark Twain National Forest in northern Iron County, Missouri. The small area is home to just a handful of residents, with its history tied to the early 20th century.

Once a thriving settlement, Enough’s economy was based on timber and agricultural production, but it has since faded into obscurity. Today, visitors can explore the surrounding forest, including the nearby Big River and Council Bluff Lake, which provide ample opportunities for fishing, boating, and camping.

Enough’s seclusion results from its distant location and retreat into nature, leaving it hidden among the forest’s dense growth. The area remains quiet, with few people and minimal development.

Where is Enough?

Enough is located in the northern part of Iron County, Missouri, within the Mark Twain National Forest, near the headwaters of the Big River. This secluded area is found at the south end of Council Bluff Lake, adding to its remote atmosphere. The lack of infrastructure and the vast surrounding forest contribute to its isolation.

To get to Enough, visitors can drive along the back roads leading to the lake, with access through a boat ramp provided by the Forest Service, making it a true off-the-beaten-path destination.

7. Barren – A Hidden Ghost Town in Carter County

Barren, a once-active town in southern Carter County, is now considered a ghost town and offers a serene and secluded environment for nature enthusiasts. Located within the Mark Twain National Forest, the area is characterized by its isolation and the remnants of its past as a small, rural settlement.

Barren is surrounded by dense forests and rolling hills, providing opportunities for hiking and exploring the natural landscape. Though no longer inhabited, the area remains a peaceful retreat for outdoor activities such as birdwatching and nature photography.

Its proximity to Big Barren Creek and the lush forests makes the area a secluded gem for those seeking tranquility. Barren’s seclusion results from its historical decline and deep integration into the surrounding forest.

Where is Barren?

Barren is situated in southern Carter County, Missouri, within the boundaries of the Mark Twain National Forest, near the banks of Big Barren Creek. The former town lies close to the Carter-Ripley county line, adding to its remoteness.

The surrounding dense woods and the creek contribute to the community’s sense of isolation, making it a perfect spot for those seeking solitude. Visitors can take local roads through the forest and across the creek to visit Barren, making it an accessible but secluded destination for adventurers.

6. Bixby – Iron County

Experiencing Bixby’s solitude has been a unique adventure. This rural community in Iron County offers expansive properties nestled among the scenic landscapes of the forest. The area’s natural beauty is complemented by its tranquil atmosphere, making it a haven for anyone seeking a quiet life.

I enjoy the opportunities to hike and explore the local flora and fauna. The small population contributes to a tight-knit community, allowing residents the space and privacy they desire.

Where is Bixby?

Bixby is located in Iron County at the junction of Route 32 and Route 49. When I visit, I often travel through the rolling hills and dense forests that characterize the region. The geography is enchanting, with the nearby Courtois Creek adding to its picturesque setting.

Getting there involves navigating rural roads that meander through the heart of Mark Twain National Forest, reinforcing the secluded nature of this charming community.

5. Greer – Oregon County

Uncovering Greer felt like finding a peaceful oasis near the Eleven Point River in Oregon County. Here, large wooded lots and minimal development offer a serene retreat that I find incredibly appealing. The proximity to the river provides ample opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and enjoying the water’s tranquility.

With few residents, Greer exudes a sense of untouched beauty, making it an ideal spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life.

Where is Greer?

Greer is in Oregon County, accessible via Highway 19 south of Winona. I usually drive through the scenic routes of the Mark Twain National Forest to reach it. The geography is remarkable due to the nearby Greer Spring, one of the largest springs in the state, which adds to the area’s allure.

The secluded roads and natural landmarks make the journey to Greer as enjoyable as the destination itself, highlighting the secluded charm of this locale.

4. Hartshorn – Shannon County

Discovering the quiet charm of Hartshorn has been a rewarding experience. Natural barriers of dense forests and hills within the Mark Twain National Forest surround this unincorporated community in Shannon County. The homes are scattered across the landscape, providing residents with ample privacy.

I appreciate the simplicity of life here, where the small population fosters a close-knit community vibe. Outdoor activities like hiking and horseback riding are popular, allowing me to fully embrace the natural surroundings.

Where is Hartshorn?

Hartshorn is located in Shannon County, near the intersection of Highway 17 and Route KK. I take Highway 17 south from Summersville when I travel there, enjoying the scenic views. The geography includes rolling hills and forested areas that enhance its secluded feel.

Accessing Hartshorn involves navigating rural roads that weave through the forest, adding to the sense of adventure and tranquility I associate with this area.

3. Vanzant – Douglas County

Exploring Vanzant has shown me the beauty of a sparsely populated area where homes are spread over vast forested land. Located in Douglas County, Vanzant provides tranquility and privacy that are hard to find elsewhere. I enjoy the serene environment, where the quiet is only broken by the sounds of nature.

The community is small, and residents often engage in agricultural activities or relish the peace of rural living.

Where is Vanzant?

Vanzant is situated along Route 95 in Douglas County, between Mountain Grove and Ava. I typically drive south from Mountain Grove, taking in the rolling hills and lush landscapes.

The geography here is characterized by its elevation changes and dense forests, contributing to its secluded nature. Getting to Vanzant involves traversing quiet country roads, which I find enhances the charm and sense of escape from the more hectic pace of larger towns.

2. Huggins – Texas County

Experiencing the seclusion of Huggins has been a delight. This rural community in Texas County offers large private properties amid the untouched beauty of the forest. Far from urban centers and major highways, Huggins provides a peaceful environment that I find incredibly rejuvenating.

The sparse population means neighbors are few and far between, allowing for a true sense of solitude. Outdoor enthusiasts like me enjoy the abundant wildlife and opportunities for hiking and exploring.

Where is Huggins?

Huggins is in Texas County, accessible via Highway M off Route 38. When I visit, I drive west from Houston, Missouri, enjoying the transition from small town to remote countryside. The geography features rolling terrain and dense woodlands that enhance its secluded ambiance.

The roads leading to Huggins are winding and less traveled, which I believe adds to the allure of this hidden gem within the Mark Twain National Forest.

1. Jadwin – Dent County

Discovering Jadwin has been a highlight of my explorations in Dent County. This unincorporated community is deep within the county’s Mark Twain National Forest section. Expansive acre-plus lots are surrounded by dense woodlands and rolling hills, offering residents unparalleled privacy.

I love that the Big Piney River is nearby, providing opportunities for fishing and canoeing. The small population makes for a quiet lifestyle, and the area’s natural beauty is truly captivating.

Where is Jadwin?

Jadwin is situated in Dent County, south of Salem, accessible via Highway K. I usually head there by driving south from Salem on Highway 19 and then turning onto the local roads that lead into the forest. The geography is especially interesting due to its proximity to the river and the surrounding hills.

Getting to Jadwin requires navigating through scenic rural routes, which I find enhances the feeling of seclusion and the sense of being immersed in nature.