Arno Historic Ozark Farmstead

Arno — A historic Ozarks farmstead on 18.8± acres in the footprint of the old town of Arno, west of Ava. Featuring a recently remodeled 1935 farmhouse, a refurbished general store with living quarters, a nightly rental/tiny home, creek frontage on Cowskin Creek, barns, and multiple outbuildings. A rare blend of Missouri history, water, and usable acreage. Land Located on 18.8± acres in the historic footprint of the old town of Arno, this distinctive Ozarks property offers a rare blend of Missouri history, creek frontage, and functional improvements. Founded in the mid-1800s and once briefly serving as the Douglas County seat, Arno is now a quiet, unincorporated community where rural character and privacy remain intact.

The main 1935 farmhouse offers approximately 1,257 square feet, 2 bedrooms, and 2 full bathrooms, luxury LVP flooring, a kitchen/dining combination, main-floor laundry, and covered porches—including a 10×19 screened porch—create a comfortable, livable home with classic farmhouse appeal. Heating options include central heat, mini-splits, wood stove, solar assist, and central air for cooling. A partial unfinished basement with interior access provides additional storage and utility space.

One of the most compelling features of the property is the historic Arno general store, a 22×48 structure that has been thoughtfully refurbished into additional living quarters. This space includes a second kitchen, living area, workshop, hobby room, and a ¾ bathroom, offering flexibility for guests, rental use, studio space, or multi-generational living. Attached to the store is a 26×22 garage, adding practical storage and parking. There’s also a root cellar/storm shelter under the back porch.

In addition to the farmhouse and store, the property includes a 14×32 nightly rental building / tiny home, offering income potential or private guest accommodations. Supporting structures include a 32×40 milk barn, chicken coop, storm cellar, 10×16 storage building, and a 7×9 small block building, making the property well-suited for hobby farming, homesteading, or small-scale livestock operations.

The land features Cowskin Creek frontage, water views, large field, and gently usable acreage ideal for gardens, animals, or recreation. A private well supplies water, and two propane tanks serve the improvements. County road frontage provides access while maintaining a secluded, rural feel just west of Ava.

Property Highlights

18.8± acres in historic Arno, Douglas County, Missouri

Creek frontage on Cowskin Creek +  water views

1935 farmhouse | approx. 1,257 sq ft

2 bedrooms | 2 full bathrooms

Screened porch (10×19) + covered porches

Refurbished historic general store (22×48):

Living quarters with second kitchen

Living area, workshop & hobby room

¾ bathroom

Attached 26×22 garage

14×32 nightly rental / tiny home

Agricultural & support buildings:

32×40 milk barn

Chicken coop

10×16 storage building

7×9 small block building

Storm cellar

Private well for water

Two propane tanks

County road frontage

Arno is more than a property—it’s a piece of Douglas County history, thoughtfully adapted for modern rural living.