The process

Discovering Clark Mountain

Nestled in southeastern Missouri, Clark Mountain is the southernmost peak of the Saint Francis range and holds the title of Missouri’s highest isolated point. Its remote nature and breathtaking views drew me to its southwest slopes, where I now own 80 acres of pristine woodland. Initially dreaming of owning an island, I turned my focus to Clark Mountain for its unique appeal and practicality as a site for an off-grid cabin.

Choosing the Perfect Location

The cabin site was chosen not just for the sweeping views down the McKenzie Creek Valley and the town of Piedmont but also for its practical features. The rocky terrain ensured a solid foundation close to the surface, allowing us to build without extensive excavation. Using a bar rock glade, we drilled into the granite, installed steel rebar and hydraulic cement, and secured the structure with concrete piers. The result is a cabin seamlessly anchored to the mountain itself.

Designing for Energy Independence

Our primary goal was energy independence, achieved through thoughtful design and the use of renewable energy. The cabin aligns along the slope, with its spine oriented east-west to maximize southern solar exposure. Six roof-mounted 245-watt photovoltaic panels provide a 48-volt battery bank with solar-generated electricity, converted to 110 volts AC when needed. No utility wires intrude upon the forested landscape, as every aspect of the cabin’s power system is self-contained.

Optimizing Efficiency

Efficiency was a cornerstone of the cabin’s design:

•    Heating and Cooling: A white roof reflects sunlight, while a 6-foot overhang shades the cabin in summer. In winter, the lower angle of the sun allows light to enter for passive heating. Western-facing curtains block the late afternoon sun during summer but can be opened in winter for additional warmth. Beneath the roof, a radiant barrier reflects heat, complemented by R30 insulation in the ceiling and R19 in the walls.

•    Water and Lighting: An on-demand water pump and propane water heater minimize energy use, while LED lighting replaces energy-hungry incandescent bulbs.

•    Passive Systems: The cabin’s position and design ensure optimal temperature regulation year-round with minimal energy consumption.

A Mountain Oasis

The cabin sits at the intersection of rugged natural beauty and sustainable living. With its view down the McKenzie Creek Valley, reliance on solar power, and efficient design, it stands as a testament to the possibility of living independently and harmoniously with nature. Clark Mountain may not be the island I once envisioned, but it has become something even better—a haven of peace and self-reliance in the heart of Missouri.