Ozark National Scenic Riverways
MO
Park Alerts (2)
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.
Things To Do
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Round Spring Guided Cave Tour
Discover the amazing world beneath your feet! Round Spring Cave is considered the most spectacular cave within Ozark National Scenic Riverways. Large, varied formations fill over a mile of the passage, which has been well-preserved over the years. There is no better way to learn about Ozark caves than through a tour!
Fly Fishing Clinics
Join a local fly-fishing legend and learn the art of this gentle sport in a free workshop! Clinics are currently offered for youth and parents. All skills levels are welcome; call (573) 858-3297 for details and reservations. Park Ranger Mark Van Patten will lead the course. Demonstrations cover various fly rod casting methods, proper catch and release techniques, and strategies for fly presentation. Other lessons will discuss equipment, flies, and entomology.
See the Wild Horses
Learn about how to safely view wild horses within Ozark National Scenic Riverways! This page contains information on viewing locations and best practices.
Round Spring Loop Trail
Round Spring Loop Trail.
Refresh at Big Spring
Rejuvenate your mind and spirit at Big Spring while embracing the soothing water sounds.
Paws in the Park
Follow along as your dog takes the lead through the trails to new spaces.
Available Activities
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.
Getting There
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.
Plan Your Visit
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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.
