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Battle of Pilot Knob State Historic Site

Park Information

Today, the Arcadia Valley in Iron County is a peaceful setting in one of Missouri’s most scenic areas. But in September 1864, the valley was the scene of one of the largest and most hard-fought battles waged on the state’s soil—the Battle of Pilot Knob. During the battle, Confederate Maj. Gen. Sterling Price led an army of 8,000 men against the Union post of Fort Davidson at Pilot Knob.

Battle of Pilot Knob State Historic Site preserves Fort Davidson and the battlefield where so many Confederate and Union soldiers lost their lives. A visitor center and museum interprets the conflict with exhibits, audiovisual presentations and a fiber optics diorama of the battle. The site’s playground, picnic area and hiking trail provide relaxing ways to spend the afternoon.

Park Hours

For temporary closures related to weather, stewardship activities and maintenance, visit our Park and Site Status Map.


On the following days (actual or observed), staff will not be available and site buildings will be closed: Christmas Eve; Christmas Day; New Year’s Eve; New Year’s Day; Jan. 2, 2023; Martin Luther King Jr. Day; Lincoln’s Birthday; and Presidents Day. 

Historic Site Grounds:

Sunrise to sunset, year-round

Visitor Center hours

  • Winter Hours (Off-Season)
    Nov. 1 through April 15

    Noon to 4 p.m., Friday
    10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday and Sunday
    Closed Monday through Thursday

Free tours are offered during these times.

Historic Site Office hours

Summer Hours (on-season)
April 16 through Nov. 30
8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday

Winter Hours (off-season)
Dec. 1 through April 15
8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Tuesday through Friday