TREAT yourself to an UNFORGETTABLE, LUXURIOUS NIGHT in the Midwest's COOLEST LODGE. Or show your loved ones what NIRVANA should look like. Great year-round for a vacation or one night's escape. The FULLY-EQUIPPED tipi is tucked into the woods, yet only minutes from the hwy. Stars, the smell of a cedar fire (FREE FIREWOOD), crisp sheets, a warm shower, soap & towels, candles & bottle of wine are just bonuses assuring you won't be roughing it. Mystic. Calming. Bring yourself & we'll provide the rest.
The most unique private lodging in the area is filled with personal touches and serves as a great base for romantics, hikers, bikers, divers, bird watchers, winers and diners wanting to explore the natural beauty of the Ozarks.
The tipi is furnished with two queen-size beds, with two additional twin-size cots. Toiletries, towels, pure cotton bedding and lots of pillows provided, as well as an assortment of fresh teas, coffees, grill & utensils, hammock, propane or wood fire rings, books, games, local maps, brochures and travel tips are also supplied. In the winter we provide a heat source or two, with a fan in the summer.
The tipi is tucked away in the woods on a 16 acre property where secluded forests envelope the maintained grounds. You will have plenty of solitude and space to hang your headdress, with a grill to cook the day's catch (or the butcher's steak) and a hammock waiting to be swung. Yes, it's true, we supply free firewood, and marshmallows as well.
Plenty of shaded parking available, with enough space for a trailer.
We would like to point out that tipis were designed for use on the sunny, open plains. Since ours is in the shady woods, it will darken with age due to the acid from the trees, and because it doesn't receive the constant supply of sunlight needed to bleach them, like in the old westerns.
Guests are welcome to use the glider by our garden to catch the Wi-Fi. They are also welcome to utilize the fridge in the laundry room and to escape from inclement weather in the sunroom adjoining their bathhouse.
We also offer additional services such as access to the hot tub or fitness and spa, (European standards apply), professional massages, instructional courses, intimate wedding services, vow renewal, etc... all for additional fees. These services are for the comfort and convenience of our guests, who are under no obligation to partake.
Our guests value their privacy, so we adjust our interaction to meet their needs. We are always available by phone, text or email.
The tipi is in use all year but bear in mind that temperature appropriate clothing is required. Don't show up in winter wearing shorts and expect to be comfortable as it won't happen. Long underwear, caps, gloves and warm jackets are mandatory.
To insure no one ever goes hungry, we offer meal services as well. The meals we provide on request are not exactly cheap as the price covers visiting various local farms, fetching organic ingredients, carefully preparing food and serving it warm to the doorstep or bed of the tipi, at any time you like. But we promise our meals won't only fill the stomachs, without exception people remember them as some of their best dining experiences.
Well-behaved, housebroken, groomed, crated pets or those with their own bed are welcome, but are NOT to be on any furniture at any time. They're welcome to experience freedom, exploring the surrounding woods, fields and creek. If you can't trust your dog off-leash, don't bring it. If your dog can’t be a good guest, you both will be asked to leave. Our dog has been attacked by visiting pets and it won’t happen again. $65/pet/stay (payable on arrival) to ensure the comfort of our pet-allergic guests.
Eventos permitidos: reuniões de família, festas de aniversário e casamentos
Additional fees apply. Contact for details.
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Animais de estimação
Aceita animais de estimação: máximo de 3
$65/pet for stay. Dogs on property.
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Política para fumantes
É permitido fumar em áreas específicas
No smoking inside Tipi or buildings, otherwise ok.
Informações importantes
O que você precisa saber
Propriedade nº 4841111
Pessoas extras podem incorrer em taxas adicionais que variam dependendo da política da propriedade.
Documento de identificação oficial com foto e cartão de crédito, cartão de débito ou depósito em dinheiro podem ser exigidos no momento do check-in para despesas extras.
Solicitações especiais estão sujeitas à disponibilidade no momento do check-in e podem incorrer em taxas adicionais. Essas solicitações não estão garantidas.
Festas e eventos, como reuniões de fam ília, festas de aniversário e casamentos, com até 20 convidados são permitidos no local
Nota do anfitrião: Additional fees apply. Contact for details.
O anfitrião não informou se a propriedade tem detectores de monóxido de carbono. Leve um detector portátil com você na viagem.
O anfitrião informou que a propriedade tem detector de fumaça.
Os recursos de segurança disponíveis na propriedade incluem extintor de incêndio e kit de primeiros socorros.
Informações a área
Park Hills
Em Park Hills, esta cabana está na zona rural e perto de parque aquático. Bonne Terre Mine e Crown Pointe Golf Club são atrações que valem uma visita, assim como as maravilhas naturais em St. Joe State Park e St. Francois State Park. Mergulho autônomo e mergulho livre (com snorkel) são ótimas oportunidades para se refrescar, mas você também pode tentar atividades como mountain biking e caça nos arredores.
Elephant Rocks State Park - 38 min de carro - 47.9 km
Johnson's Shut-ins State Park - 51 min de carro - 72.3 km
Taum Sauk Mountain State Park - 52 min de carro - 75.3 km
Opções nos arredores
Aeroporto Internacional Lambert-St. Louis (STL) - 84 min de carro
Restaurantes
McDonald's - 11 min de carro
Casey's - 15 min de carro
The Old Mine House Bar and Grill - 9 min de carro
Circle K - 15 min de carro
Subway - 11 min de carro
Perguntas frequentes
❤️ THE MAGIC TIPI RETREAT tem piscina?
Sim, esta propriedade tem uma piscina.
❤️ THE MAGIC TIPI RETREAT é ideal para quem viaja com animais de estimação?
Sim, esta propriedade permite animais de estimação (limite de 3 no total). Pode haver algumas restrições. Entre em contato com a propriedade para saber mais.
Quanto custa o estacionamento em ❤️ THE MAGIC TIPI RETREAT?
Estacionamento no local disponível na propriedade.
Qual é o horário de check-in em ❤️ THE MAGIC TIPI RETREAT?
Horário de início do check-in: 15h.
Qual é o horário de check-out em ❤️ THE MAGIC TIPI RETREAT?
Horário de check-out: 11h.
Onde fica ❤️ THE MAGIC TIPI RETREAT?
Na zona rural, esta cabana fica a 0,4 km de Big River e a 15 km de Irondale Park e Missouri Mines State Historic Site. Columbia Park e St. Joe State Park também ficam a 15 km.
Avaliações
10
Extraordinária
A menos que indicado de outra maneira, as avaliações aparecem em ordem cronológica, estão sujeitas a um processo de moderação e são verificadas.
Pontos positivos: Limpeza, check-in, comunicação, localização e precisão do anúncio
Very unique experience! Hideaway TeePee in nature!
The TeePee retreat in the woods was very relaxing! Great fun for all ages!
Andrea D.
Hospedou-se por 2 diárias em ago. de 2022
Resposta de VrboOwner em 15 de ago. de 2022
We love helping adults release their inner kid, and kids to just release. Welcome back any time!
Verificada
10/10 - Excelente
nacia h.
20 de jun. de 2023
Pontos positivos: Limpeza, check-in, comunicação, localização e precisão do anúncio
Peaceful Getaway
Everything we needed was provided and the hosts were helpful in pointing out local places to visit. Lots of small touches made the stay so unique! We really enjoyed our peaceful tee pee experience!
nacia h.
Hospedou-se por 2 diárias em jun. de 2023
Resposta de VrboOwner em 16 de out. de 2023
Thanks for the great review. Glad we were able to point you in the right direction.
Verificada
10/10 - Excelente
June K.
27 de out. de 2018
WONDERFUL!!!
Amazingly unique, comfortable, and an experience we will cherish. Keith and Benka have thought of everything to make your stay wonderful! We loved it and can’t wait to go back!
June K.
Hospedou-se por 2 diárias em out. de 2018
Resposta de VrboOwner em 28 de mar. de 2020
Warmly welcome any time.
Verificada
10/10 - Excelente
Kris W.
17 de dez. de 2019
Pontos positivos: Limpeza, check-in, comunicação, localização e precisão do anúncio
Loved the Tipi!
Although the weekend was chilly, we had everything we needed to stay warm (heated beds, gas firepit in tipi). We enjoyed exploring Park Hills & Potosi and then coming back to this beautiful property to spend the evening at the Tipi. We recommend for a fun get away!
Kris W.
Hospedou-se por 2 diárias em nov. de 2019
Resposta de VrboOwner em 7 de out. de 2020
Cool evenings in a warm Tipi are truly something special. So glad to hear you enjoyed your time.
Verificada
10/10 - Excelente
Nichole
16 de jul. de 2022
Pontos positivos: Limpeza, check-in, comunicação, localização e precisão do anúncio
Great for something different
Our hosts were attentive and friendly. They knew a lot about the area, provided suggestions and were overall the perfect hosts. Their dogs were pretty great too. Our 12 year old still talks about the trip and the dogs.
Nichole
Hospedou-se por 2 diárias em mai. de 2022
Resposta de VrboOwner em 14 de ago. de 2022
Thanks for the great review. I'll let Kora & Mici know their efforts are appreciated.
Verificada
10/10 - Excelente
Courtney I.
12 de fev. de 2024
Pontos positivos: Limpeza, check-in, comunicação, localização e precisão do anúncio
Weekend Get-Away
The property is wonderful. The hosts have thought of everything that you’d need. The tipi itself is very spacious. Bathroom area is very clean. Overall great experience 🔥
Courtney I.
Hospedou-se por 2 diárias em fev. de 2024
Resposta de VrboOwner em 12 de fev. de 2024
So glad the weather gods smiled on your February stay. It was a pleasure hosting you and your pack, and we'd love to see you back when they (or you) get restless for some roaming.
Verificada
10/10 - Excelente
Amanda C.
16 de mai. de 2023
Pontos positivos: Limpeza, check-in, comunicação, localização e precisão do anúncio
Glamping at its best
The magic teepee was the perfect weekend getaway! Keith and Benka were so helpful and gave excellent recommendations on places to hike and see during our stay. The teepee and bath house had everything we could need or want for our stay. We also loved that we were visited daily by their beautiful dog who was so friendly and made us laugh.
Amanda C.
Hospedou-se por 2 diárias em mai. de 2023
Resposta de VrboOwner em 16 de out. de 2023
So glad our local knowledge benefitted you. We try to tailor our recommendations based on the guests' needs.
Verificada
10/10 - Excelente
Greg L.
17 de jul. de 2022
Pontos positivos: Limpeza, check-in, comunicação, localização e precisão do anúncio
Awesome
Just an awesome unique experience. The Hosts are a pleasure to work with and make sure you have a great experience.
Greg L.
Hospedou-se por 2 diárias em abr. de 2022
Resposta de VrboOwner em 14 de ago. de 2022
It was a pleasure hosting you & we'd love to have you back again.
Verificada
10/10 - Excelente
Pamela L.
15 de out. de 2023
Pontos positivos: Limpeza, check-in, comunicação, localização e precisão do anúncio
Tipi Retreat
The TP was very large and roomy inside with 2 queen size beds. It was out in the woods and there’s a hiking trail in and around the property. The host’s are wonderful people. This was our second time staying in one of their properties.
Pamela L.
Hospedou-se por 2 diárias em out. de 2023
Resposta de VrboOwner em 16 de out. de 2023
It was a pleasure to have you back, and we hope to see you all again. We have plenty more hiking trails to show you!
Verificada
10/10 - Excelente
Tara B.
26 de ago. de 2019
Pontos positivos: Limpeza, check-in, comunicação, localização e precisão do anúncio
Relaxing Anniversary get-a-way!
we had an amazing and relaxing time! We cooked all our meals on-site, hiked the trails, and simply enjoyed each other and relaxed. Everything was thought about and it was just easy. The tipi is a wonderful and unique stay.
We also enjoyed meeting and talking with Benka. She is so knowledgeable and just FUN. We plan to visit again!
Tara B.
Hospedou-se por 2 diárias em ago. de 2019
Resposta de VrboOwner em 7 de out. de 2020
Part of our fun of hosting is seeing folks relax while making the most of their time. So glad we could help make your stay enjoyable.
Verificada
10/10 - Excelente
Robert C.
1 de out. de 2022
Pontos positivos: Limpeza, check-in, comunicação, localização e precisão do anúncio
Amazing
Keith and Benka are such an amazing, interesting and kind couple. It was a truly incredible experience from the teepee to the 5 coarse breakfast. I'm sure we will definitely be back.
Robert C.
Hospedou-se por 2 diárias em set. de 2022
Resposta de VrboOwner em 16 de out. de 2022
And we look forward to welcoming you back. The Tipi flap will always be open.
Verificada
8/10 - Boa
Linda L.
11 de set. de 2019
Pontos positivos: Limpeza, check-in, comunicação, localização e precisão do anúncio
Great way to relax and tune out
We enjoyed our stay at the tipi. The quiet, one on one time was awesome.
My only disappointment with the listing was the gas fireplace/pit was located in the tipi, which could be great in cool/cold weather, but of no use to us inside in this heat.
Linda L.
Hospedou-se por 2 diárias em set. de 2019
Resposta de VrboOwner em 28 de mar. de 2020
The gas fireplace has it's function in the tipi year around. Aside from knocking the chill off, it helps keep out the rain when needed. And our guests are crazy about the real fire outside in a stone fire pit, 5 yards from the tipi. Especially since it comes with free firewood, starting kit, s'mores and an outstanding view on the Tipi glowing in the dark.
Verificada
10/10 - Excelente
Katherine W.
11 de mai. de 2023
Pontos positivos: Limpeza, check-in, comunicação, localização e precisão do anúncio
Perfect peaceful getaway, great hosts
We were looking for a quick reset and found it in this gem Keith and Benka have created an hour and 15 min outside of St Louis. Who knew!? They were so friendly and accommodating, and the stay exceeded our expectations, even after reading the universally positive reviews. I thought it was too good to be true, but it wasn’t!
Katherine W.
Hospedou-se por 2 diárias em abr. de 2023
Resposta de VrboOwner em 12 de mai. de 2023
Thanks for the ringing endorsement! Of course no one ever really knows what to expect when they book our property, so we strive to exceed everyone's expectation. Glad we succeeded with you. Can't wait to have you back.
Verificada
10/10 - Excelente
Kim G.
9 de ago. de 2021
Pontos positivos: Limpeza, check-in, comunicação, localização e precisão do anúncio
Family Vacation
We had a wonderful stay! The hosts were amazing! We loved the location, the tipi experience (including the opportunity to make a fire and enjoy complimentary s’mores, and a fabulous grill to cook our own dinner), shower and restroom facilities were great as well. We enjoyed a local float trip on the Huzzah River and we visited nearby state parks including Elephant Rock & Johnson’s Shut-ins (recommended by our host). We made a lot of priceless memories as a family and would highly recommend this amazing Vrbo! We are Thankful for Keith & Benka!
Kim G.
Hospedou-se por 3 diárias em jul. de 2021
Resposta de VrboOwner em 11 de ago. de 2021
Thank you so much for being our guests, we enjoyed having you immensely and are happy our recommendations helped tailoring your trip into a memorable adventure.
Verificada
10/10 - Excelente
Renee H.
4 de nov. de 2021
Pontos positivos: Limpeza, check-in, comunicação, localização e precisão do anúncio
Amazing
Amazing host they have thought of every possible thing you could need for a very pleasant stay. They are very attentive to their guest needs but also give you the privacy that you need. They also have Hammping available and other private cabins,a spa room for massages and workouts it’s an amazing place it’s like a mini resort. And don’t forget to ask them about their world travels
Renee H.
Hospedou-se por 2 diárias em out. de 2021
Resposta de VrboOwner em 24 de nov. de 2021
Thank you Renee for you visit and your sweet review, greatly appreciated. It was great pleasure hosting you, hope our paths cross again!
Verificada
10/10 - Excelente
Deidra D.
2 de abr. de 2023
Pontos positivos: Limpeza, check-in, comunicação, localização e precisão do anúncio
UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE
We had a perfect stay in our little tee pee. We were greeted by Keith and a gourmet picnic basket. The items in the basket were handmade and SO delicious! We chose to do a spa day and would highly recommend this experience to all. Perfect place. Perfect hosts. We will be back!! Thank you so much Keith and Benka for sharing your home with us. 😊
Deidra D.
Hospedou-se por 3 diárias em mar. de 2023
Resposta de VrboOwner em 16 de out. de 2023
It is a true pleasure to share with appreciative guests. Look forward to having you back.
Verificada
8/10 - Boa
Lisa O.
7 de dez. de 2020
Pontos positivos: Limpeza, check-in, comunicação, localização e precisão do anúncio
cold
To no fault of the hosts, the weather was just too cold for us to sleep outside.
Lisa O.
Hospedou-se por 2 diárias em dez. de 2020
Resposta de VrboOwner em 7 de dez. de 2020
To the complete fault of the guests, if you're going to sleep in a Tipi in the winter, you need common sense on how to dress and adapt. Even though the Tipi has heated beds, you must actually sleep IN, not on top of the bed to benefit from electric blanket and heated mattress cover. As hosts, we most appreciate guests who provide honest feedback about their stay, rather than making excuses for an early departure.
Verificada
10/10 - Excelente
Courtney M.
27 de jul. de 2023
Pontos positivos: Limpeza, check-in, comunicação, localização e precisão do anúncio
An Oasis so close to STL!
We loved celebrating our 12th anniversary at the magical Tipi! We were there in July, but it cooled enough for us at night with the fan- it was perfect! Loved walking around their beautiful property and seeing their cute pups! Most of all, we loved spending time with the hosts. These are the coolest people we've ever met! Lots of laughs and a lot learned with the cooking lessons. I highly recommend partaking in their activities! The 12 course dinner was unlike anything we've ever experienced! Thank you Keith & Benka for making this an amazing stay.
Courtney M.
Hospedou-se por 3 diárias em jun. de 2023
Resposta de VrboOwner em 16 de out. de 2023
The stay is made amazing by the guests, we merely facilitate & coordinate. It was a pleasure having you here & spending so much time with you. Can't wait to have you back.
Verificada
10/10 - Excelente
Wendy L.
13 de jun. de 2020
Pontos positivos: Limpeza, check-in, comunicação, localização e precisão do anúncio
Tipi Adventure
Our tipi adventure was wonderful! Keith and Benka are very thoughtful and detail oriented. The tipi is great, comfortable and homey. Being a dog-friendly property made this a perfect place for me.
The homemade bread and cinnamon coffee were wonderful. A very pleasant surprise to find after our day of sightseeing. Take the time to wander the trails on their property and take in the scenery. Beautiful and peaceful.
I highly recommend the Tipi adventure. Keith was a great host II hope to meet Benka on my next trip! 5 stars!!! :)
Wendy L.
Hospedou-se por 2 diárias em jun. de 2020
Resposta de VrboOwner em 7 de out. de 2020
And she hopes you meet you...and your partner. Welcome back any time.
Verificada
10/10 - Excelente
Cindy B.
30 de set. de 2024
Pontos positivos: Limpeza, check-in, comunicação, localização e precisão do anúncio
Truly a Nature Lovers Paradise!
Everything was perfect (except for the weather at check-in!). The location is wonderful, we loved the bathroom/showers and greenhouse where we could hang and eat and admire Benka's plants! (So many orchids!). Keith was an awesome host filling us in on everything - even the surrounding area. The walking paths are beautiful and serine. The additional 5 canine hosts were adorable and Mici I'm so sorry you didn't spend at least one night with us! I wish we would have been able to stay longer than 2 nights. The teepee is an awesome experience to those who love nature and serenity. Thanks to both our host and hostess we had the best of times!
Cindy B.
Hospedou-se por 2 diárias em set. de 2024
Resposta de VrboOwner em 1 de out. de 2024
Wish we could control the weather, but at least everything else went off well. As for Mici, she loves sleeping with guests in the Tipi, but it can't compete against a campground of visiting dogs. Let us know when you're ready for some more "rocking" in the Ozarks!
Verificada
10/10 - Excelente
Carrie M.
16 de mar. de 2020
Pontos positivos: Limpeza, check-in, comunicação, localização e precisão do anúncio
Magical Weekend Getaway
We had such a wonderful experience staying in the tipi! Keith’s welcome tour was very helpful and made us feel at home right away. The tipi was warm at night and it is designed and arranged so well that we stayed dry even in the rain. Keith and Benka made everything easily accessible and placed thoughtful touches all around. We both booked a massage with Benka and it was the absolute best! We made good use of the beautiful community space and everything was very easy to find and use. The bathroom and shower house was clean and cozy. We are already talking about planning our next visit!!! Thank you Keith and Benka for being such wonderful hosts!
Carrie & Jess
Carrie M.
Hospedou-se por 2 diárias em mar. de 2020
Resposta de VrboOwner em 28 de mar. de 2020
It was truly our pleasure to host such wonderful, considerate folks. We look forward to your return & our opportunity to spoil you a little bit more.
Verificada
10/10 - Excelente
Gina S.
25 de nov. de 2022
Pontos positivos: Limpeza, check-in, comunicação, localização e precisão do anúncio
Unique and memorable!
We will never forget our time at the tipi! Keith and Benka are wonderful hosts and have thought of everything a guest might need for a pleasant and comfortable stay. The rainy weather somehow made the cozy tipi and spa that much more wonderful. The place is clean, well-maintained and has so many creative and beautiful touches. You will love it!
Gina S.
Hospedou-se por 2 diárias em nov. de 2022
Resposta de VrboOwner em 16 de out. de 2023
Thanks Gina! Rain and snow are actually two of the best times to be in the Tipi. There's just something about hunkering down around the indoor fire pit & cheating Mother Nature.
Verificada
10/10 - Excelente
Kristy H.
26 de out. de 2021
Pontos positivos: Limpeza, check-in, comunicação, localização e precisão do anúncio
Amazing teepee getaway
We absolutely loved this teepee, it’s coolness factor, getting away, it’s many amenities - if desired, the woods, the wonderful hosts Keith and Benka, and their delicious food! The kids had no end to their creative natural play and exploration! I loved the Tibetan sound bowls, spa experience, and walking through the woods! We will be back! The kids would have never left! ;). Thanks!!
Kristy H.
Hospedou-se por 2 diárias em out. de 2021
Resposta de VrboOwner em 26 de out. de 2021
Thanks for your heartfelt review. We love catering to kids of all ages, indoors and out, stimulating as many senses as possible. We can't wait to have you all back, including Bunny.
Verificada
10/10 - Excelente
Benita D.
13 de jul. de 2021
Pontos positivos: Limpeza, check-in, comunicação, localização e precisão do anúncio
Perfect & Memorable GetAway!
The meaning of the word GetAway is really described and felt staying at Keith & Benka’s property—quiet, real nature and kindness of the host was wonderful!
Our family will always remember the Tipi stay experience. We did it at the right time—perfect weather and no traffic or crowd at all in Elephant Rock state park which is also perfect staying at Keith & Benka.
Thank you for the warm and friendly welcome.
We will sure come back and we have been sharing it to most of our friends and families to try and visit the place of Keith & Benka.
Benita D.
Hospedou-se por 3 diárias em mai. de 2021
Resposta de VrboOwner em 14 de jul. de 2021
Thanks for the lovely review. It was a pleasure having you here & we look forward to your return.
Verificada
10/10 - Excelente
Beth M.
14 de jun. de 2021
Pontos positivos: Limpeza, check-in, comunicação, localização e precisão do anúncio
Amazing retreat
LOVED our time at the tipi! The attention to detail with the space and all the little extras that Keith and Benka have put into the property made for an enjoyable weekend. A great place to relax and unwind.
Beth M.
Hospedou-se por 2 diárias em jun. de 2021
Resposta de VrboOwner em 11 de ago. de 2021
We LOVED hosting you too and enjoyed your energy very much!
Sobre o anfitrião
Anfitrião: Keith & Benka
For us hospitality is a labor of love. Come join us and let us introduce you to this spectacular part of the world, where we celebrate every day of our lives. We like spoiling people and revealing secrets of cozy country living. It's our pleasure to have you comfortably tucked away while unwinding and recharging in our little retreat. We guarantee we'll do our best to exceed your expectations.
Yes, we take our hosting very seriously and cutting corners is not our style. In fact, our ideas are constantly being borrowed by other hosts who lack what we have in abundance: experience, expertise and imagination. After being guests in +130 countries, we're well qualified to provide highly personalized hospitality you'll fondly remember for years to come.
Benka is an author holding several Guinness World Records in adventure traveling and Keith worked as a foreign adviser.
Por que o anfitrião escolheu essa propriedade
Many have had dreams since their youth of spending the night in a tipi. But for one reason or another (distance, time, lack of comfort) its never been achieved. The Magic Tipi Retreat allows guests to make their dreams come true in a luxurious yet rustic setting, not far from all the conveniences of city life.
O que faz essa propriedade ser única?
Within in minutes of the Magic Tipi Resort there are a multitude of State Parks, Conservation Areas and thousands of acres of National Forest land to explore. The geologically unique St. Francois Mountains are the oldest in North America, dating to 1.485 BILLION years ago. Taum Sauk Mountain, Missouri's highest point, is a short drive south, with many shut-ins and other formations scattered around the area.