Sunset picture with high vantage point overlooking river with fall colors and sun setting in distanc

Ozark National Scenic Riverways

National Scenic Riverways · Missouri

Brock Davis

📍 StateMissouri
🏛️ TypeNational Scenic Riverways
🎟️ EntryFree
🏃 Activities42
Official NPS Website →
Ozark National Scenic Riverways

National recreational area in the Ozark, Missouri, USA

The Ozark National Scenic Riverways is a recreational unit of the National Park Service in the Ozarks of southern Missouri in the U.S.

WikipediaWikidataSource: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA)

About Ozark National Scenic Riverways

Ozark National Scenic Riverways is the first national park area to protect a river system. The Current and Jacks Fork rivers are two of the finest floating rivers found anywhere. Spring-fed, cold and clear: they are a delight to canoe, swim, boat, or fish. Besides these two famous rivers, the park is home to hundreds of freshwater springs, caves, trails, and historic sites such as Alley Mill.

Park Photos

Sunset picture with high vantage point overlooking river with fall colors and sun setting in distanc
A rocky "shut-in" with a modest waterfall.
A woman paddles down a river while wearing a personal flotation device.
fall colors on leaves of trees surrounding a creek with an old wooden mill on the right
a red mill with snow on roof with a stream emanating from it.
brown rocks with water flowing over like a waterfall

Activities

Operating Hours

Ozark National Scenic Riverways

Generally, the park grounds are open 24-hours a day throughout the year. Some visitor centers will have different hours depending on season and staff availability. Likewise, certain roads, trails, or river access points may be seasonally closed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to enter Ozark National Scenic Riverways?

Ozark National Scenic Riverways is free to enter.

What are the best activities at Ozark National Scenic Riverways?

Popular activities at Ozark National Scenic Riverways include: Auto and ATV, Scenic Driving, Astronomy, Stargazing, Boating, Motorized Boating, Camping, Backcountry Camping.

What is the weather like at Ozark National Scenic Riverways?

Ozark National Scenic Riverways is located in southeastern Missouri. Summer temperatures generally range from 75-100 degrees (°F) with high humidity. Winter temperatures generally range from 0-50 (°F) degrees with periods of intermittent freezing and snow. Periods of excessive heat are typical in summer, while heavy rains or flooding can occur throughout the year. Be sure to plan accordingly when camping, hiking, or floating.

How do I get to Ozark National Scenic Riverways?

Visitor centers can be found at the following locations: Big Spring Entrance Station - 3 miles south of Van Buren on Highway 103 Alley Mill & Store - 12185 Alley Hollow Road Round Spring Ranger Station - 13209 Round Spring Campground Rd Administrative offices for Ozark National Scenic Riverways are located at 404 Watercress Drive, Van Buren, MO 63965. This location does not offer a visitor center - tourists should instead go to the Big Spring Entrance Station.

Entrance Fees

Free Admission

Weather

Ozark National Scenic Riverways is located in southeastern Missouri. Summer temperatures generally range from 75-100 degrees (°F) with high humidity. Winter temperatures generally range from 0-50 (°F) degrees with periods of intermittent freezing and snow. Periods of excessive heat are typical in summer, while heavy rains or flooding can occur throughout the year. Be sure to plan accordingly when camping, hiking, or floating.

Directions

Visitor centers can be found at the following locations: Big Spring Entrance Station - 3 miles south of Van Buren on Highway 103 Alley Mill & Store - 12185 Alley Hollow Road Round Spring Ranger Station - 13209 Round Spring Campground Rd Administrative offices for Ozark National Scenic Riverways are located at 404 Watercress Drive, Van Buren, MO 63965. This location does not offer a visitor center - tourists should instead go to the Big Spring Entrance Station.

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Location

Coordinates37.1397, -91.2571

Official Resources

NPS Official Website