Retreat Center at Ozark Highlands Farm

Stirling Cottage, a spacious 5-bedroom, 2 1/2 bathroom whimsically remodeled farmhouse sleeping up to 17 is situated on 60 beautiful, serene acres, about 8 miles south of Carthage (the website incorrectly says Sarcoxie,) providing the opportunity to explore nature, watch/play in the laughing creek, or sit on the deck, slow down & enjoy the sights & sounds of the country...

PLEASE NOTE: I cannot accommodate animals indoors because so many of my guests have allergies. The baseprice is for six guests. Extra guests (up to seventeen, are $20/person/night.

Also on the property is the original (remodeled) Milk House which can sleep up to six people (4 on beds plus 2 airbeds or cots) and is booked separately, and Thirties, the apartment below Stirling, which sleeps four - also booked separately. (As of August, 2025, both are currently rented full-time which could change - don't hesitate to ask!)

The farm is a perfect location for small family reunions, personal or small group retreats and celebrations of all kinds, accommodating up to 26 people, when each place is booked.

Twigs is the large master bedroom, with king-size bed, chaise lounge, shabby chic decor, and views of our east fields.

Vintage offers one king bed and one double antique bed. Four large windows showcasing stunning sunsets, and the other antique furniture create a vintage ambiance. (There is also a trundle bed under the double bed.)

The Sunroom is the smallest bedroom on the main floor, but lets in the grandest light w/two walls of windows. A comfortable daybed with trundle underneath allows two people to enjoy this sunny room.

Maps and Blooms are two dormitory -style bedrooms on the second floor with half-bath. Maps, is decorated with artifacts and antiques and has three twin beds (one is X-long) ; while Blooms is decorated with bright colors, floral fabrics, and wicker. It has five twin beds.

PLEASE NOTE: To repeat: I cannot accommodate any animals inside the house. Because we are a working farm, there will sometimes be farm activities going on while guests are here; and a few people including my handyman, mowing crew, myself & members of my family may come and go discreetly as we take care of the land and the animals. My son makes a security run through the property, checking the creek & closing the chicken coop door most nights.

The nearest neighbor is a long stone's throw away, so the peace, quiet, and beauty of this farm will gently roll away the demand and stresses of life.
Add to that, beautiful St. Gertrudis cattle, the softly clucking hens, some affectionate, but strictly outdoor cats - and you have the idyllic environment of Stirling Cottage.

I love to host family reunions, getaway and craft retreats, birthday parties, anniversaries, and events of all kinds! Please contact me for specific pricing.
(Ask about my discount for active clergy and active military personnel.)

Please note: Because of the popularity of Stirling, I have a strict cancellation policy:
---full refund for cancellations made within 48 hours of booking, or if the check-in date is at least 21 days away
---50% refund for cancellations made at least 7 days before
check-in.
---no refunds for cancellations made within 7 days of check-in. However, in some circumstances, I have been able to make exceptions when the space has time to be rented to others so it never hurts to ask.

Here are some additional amenities that may interest your group:

MASSAGE:
I am acquainted with an experienced massage therapist, who brings her table and supplies to the property. One recent guest who has experienced professional massage therapy in many of her world-wide travels, said, Elise gave me the best massage I have ever had! And another said, - “ Elise gave Rich the best massage he has had since we left Arizona 20 years ago!” (Advanced notice necessary-payment made directly to Elise.)

CATERING:
There are also two caterers within five miles of the farm:
Angie Smith – catering – smoked meats, etc.
Mende Staggs – cakes and full meal catering.
Communication and payment made directly to them - I can provide contact information after a booking is confirmed.