Two of America's clearest and most beautiful spring-fed rivers make up the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, the first national park area to protect a wild river system. The Current and Jacks Fork Rivers wind through a landscape of rugged hills and towering bluffs.
The Basics
Hours:
Ozark NSR is open year around. There is no formal visitor center for the park, although the Alley Mill is open to provide information in the summer, and the park headquarters in Van Buren is open year round during business hours. The Superintendent's Office is located at Park Headquarters at 404 Watercress Drive in Van Buren, Missouri. Hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, except holidays. Information is available at the Headquarters information desk.
Also, EASTERN NATIONAL, a cooperating non-profit association, sells books and other items representative of the natural and cultural resources of the Ozark region and the park.
Address:
404 Watercress Drive
PO Box 490 Van Buren, MO 63965
The area is best reached via Interstate 44 or U.S. Route 60. From I-44, take State Route 68 south from St James, then take State Route 19 south into the park.
From US Route 60, you will reach State Route 19 in Winona if you come from the west. You can then take SR 19 north to the northern areas of the park, or continue east to State Route 103 to visit Big Spring near Van Buren. Park Headquarters and Visitor Center are in Van Buren.
If you follow US 60 from the east, you'll reach SR 103 first and then SR 19 about 20 miles further on.
Climate
Summers are generally hot and humid while winters are mild with periods of very cold weather and possible ice storms. Spring and Fall are especially pleasant. Thunderstorms are frequent and sudden in the summer months and a downpour can ruin an otherwise enjoyable outing. Flash floods are a risk at all times of the year. In general, the National Park Service will close the river to canoeing and boating when the river level reaches two feet above normal.
Family sites are $14.00 per night. Electric sites are $17.00. Group sites are $100.00 per night unless otherwise noted.
Akers Group Campsite Group sites at Akers may be reserved online at: www.recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777 There is an additional fee for this service. Group sites rent for $50.00 per night.
Alley Spring Open year round. Water systems turned off October 30 - April 15. Phone 573-323-4236 reservations: 1-877-444-6777 or at www.recreation.gov Alley Spring Campground has 162 family sites that can accommodate a maximum of six persons and two tents. These are on a first come, first served basis. For More Information on this campground please call 573-226-3316. Group sites can accommodate from seven to 45 people. Reservations are required for group sites. Group sites cannot accommodate recreational vehicles. There are no electrical or water hook-ups at group sites. Traditional Ranger led campfire programs are offered in the campground amphitheater on weekends during the summer.
Big Spring Open year round. Water systems turned off October 30 - April 15. Big Spring Campground has 123 family sites that can accommodate a maximum of six persons and two tents each. . GROUP sites and some of the family sites at Big Spring may be reserved online at: www.recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777 There is an additional fee for this service. Group sites can accommodate from seven to 45 people and cost $100.00. The Chubb Hollow Group Site (#3) is only $50.00 due to having fewer amenities. Reservations are required for group sites. Group sites cannot accommodate recreational vehicles. Traditional Ranger led campfire programs are offered in the campground amphitheater on weekends during the summer.
Powder Mill (formerly Owl's Bend) Phone 573-323-4236. Eight family sites that can accommodate a maximum of six persons and two tents each. These are on a first come, first served basis. Family sites are $14.00 per night. There are no electric hook-ups at this campground. Most campsites at Powder Mill are on the water. Powder Mill is convenient to the Ozark Trail which passes by on the far side of the river. Access is across the Route 106 bridge. Another trail leads about a half mile to the beautiful Blue Spring, widely considered one of the nicest of the Ozark springs. For More Information on this campground please call 573-323-4236.
Pulltite Open year round. Water systems turned off October 30 - April 15. Phone 573-323-4236. Fifty five family sites that can accommodate a maximum of six persons and two tents. About half of these may be reserved, call (877) 444-6777 or visit www.recreation.gov The rest are first come, first served. Many of the campsites at Pulltite are on the water. Family sites are $14.00 per night. There are no electrical hook-ups at this campground. Group sites can accommodate from seven to 45 people. Reservations are required for group sites. Group sites cannot accommodate recreational vehicles. There are no electrical or water hook-ups. Traditional Ranger led campfire programs are offered in the campground amphitheater on weekends during the summer. For More Information on this campground please call 573-323-4236.
Round Spring Open year round. Water systems turned off October 30 - April 15. Sixty family sites that can accommodate a maximum of six persons and two tents. Group sites can accommodate from seven to 45 people. Group sites cannot accomodate recreational vehicles. Reservations are required for group sites and strongly recommended for family sites during the summer. All sites at Round Spring may be reserved online at: www.recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777 There is an additional fee for this service. The Round Spring Cluster Sites have been converted to "Group" sites and may be reserved as mentioned above. Traditional Ranger led campfire programs are offered in the amphitheater on weekends during the summer. Cave Tours are held during the summer. Check this website and park bulletin boards once you arrive for the latest ranger programs.
Two Rivers Open year round. Water systems turned off October 30 - April 15. Two Rivers has 19 family sites that can accomodate a maximum of six persons and two tents each. These are on a first come, first served basis. Family sites are $14.00 per night. There are no electric hook-ups at this campground. Group sites at Two Rivers may be reserved online at: www.recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777 There is an additional fee for this service. For More Information on this campground please call 573-323-4236.
Primitive Campgrounds Open year round. There are several smaller, less developed camping areas in the park. Generally these have more rustic facilities such as pit type toilets. These campsites include:
Cedargrove
Bay Creek
Rymers
Gooseneck (formerly Hawes)
Shawnee Creek
Big Tree
Sinking Creek
Cedar Spring
Grubbs
Hickory
Keatons
Log Yard
The fee for these "primitive" sites is $5.00. Sites are limited to 6 people and two vehicles and are available on a first come, first served basis only. Stays are limited to 14 days.
The hills and forests of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways area invite the hiker. The park only maintains a few trails, we hope to increase the number in the future. In addition, all dirt roads and old traces are open to hiking, and except for horseback riders, there won't be much traffic. The National Park Service is in the process of marking some of the trails, but a good topographical map will help. Many trails leave the park and cross private or state lands. Please respect others' rights.
A few common sense rules will help you have a safe and enjoyable experience. Ticks are abundant in the spring, summer and fall, and may even be picked up during the coldest months. Check yourself regularly, wear light colored clothing and stay away from high grass if possible. A good insect repellent sprayed on your pants legs may help. Poisonous snakes are found in the area, but are seldom a problem. Most snakebites occur when people try to catch, kill, or otherwise interact with the snake. If you see a snake, simply make a wide circle around him and go on your way and let the snake go on his. Killing snakes is prohibited in Missouri.
Trails in the Ozark Riverways Area
Interpretive Trails (with Exhibits)
The Slough Trail 0.5 miles - located near the Big Spring. This short trail is accessible for wheelchairs. It leads from Big Spring to the Peavine Picnic Shelter. Exhibits along the trail explain the history and pre-history of the Big Spring area. One way trail.
The Pulltite Trail 1.5 miles - located near the Group Camping Area at Pulltite Campground. Follow the service road behind the restroom and turn left onto the footpath. This trail has exhibits about the ecology of the Ozark forests. Loop trail.
Virgin Pines Interpretive Trail 0.5 miles - located 2 miles south of Round Spring on Route 19. Privately owned by the Pioneer Forest Products Company, you are welcome to enjoy this walk through towering virgin pines. Pick up a trail guide at the parking lot. Loop Trail.
Longer Trails
The Ozark Trail - This is the only truly long foot trail in the area. It extends from St Louis into Arkansas and will be over 500 miles long when all portions are completed. It can be located where it crosses Route 106 about 14 miles east of Eminence, right at the Current River Bridge. Southbound is on the west side of the bridge, northbound on the east. The trail also crosses US Route 60 about 4 miles west of Van Buren. Sections through Peck Ranch may be closed during hunting seasons. One way trail.
Old Dirt Roads, some still in use, others abandoned since the end of the logging era wind throughout the area. They can provide a pleasant walking experience. They can be "maze-like" as they cross and recross each other, and a good topographic map is recommended.
Big Spring Trails. There is a system of trails along Z Highway. We are in the process of marking them, but a map is still essential for the time being. (This is the only hiking trail map currently available.)
Short Trails
Alley Overlook Trail 1.5 miles - begins right outside the door of the Alley Mill. This steep trail takes you to an overlook where you can look down into the Alley Spring. Can be combined with the Spring Branch Trail for a nice nearly one-mile loop. One way trail.
Alley Spring Branch Trail 0.3 miles - begins with a nice walk around the Alley Spring, follows the spring branch back to the parking lot. One way trail.
Big Spring Branch Trail 0.3 miles - begins with a loop around the Big Spring and follows the spring branch to the bridge. One way trail, moderately rocky. Connects to the Big Spring Overlook Trail.
Blue Spring Trail 0.5 miles - begins at the Powder Mill campground and leads to the beautiful Blue Spring. Powder Mill is about 14 miles east of Eminence on Route 106. One way.
Chubb Hollow Trail 0.5 miles - located right behind the Big Spring Lodge, this trail hugs the bluff, providing scenic views of the Current River. One way trail.
Stone Ridge Trail (formerly Big Spring Overlook Trail) 1 mile - This trail connects with the Slough Trail to make a loop around the Big Spring. It is very steep and strenuous. Located across the main park road from the Big Spring Lodge.
Lick Log Trail 1 mile - located on Fox Pen Road (County Road 205) about two miles north of Eminence on Route 19. Stay to the right on Fox Pen Road. A nice loop trail maintained by the Missouri Conservation Department.
You can visit the historic Alley Mill anytime, the grounds are always open. The building itself is open everyday during the summer months. Tours by request. Demonstrations of the milling equipment take place every Saturday and Sunday at 10:00 am and 2:00 pm. Free.
Campfire Programs: Rangers present slide shows on a variety of fascinating subjects involving the nature and history of the Ozarks. They are held each Friday and Saturday (from Memorial Day through Labor Day only) at 8:30 pm in the amphitheaters at Alley Spring, Big Spring, Pulltite and Round Spring campgrounds. Free.
Round Spring Cave: Let park rangers take you on an adventure to the wonders below your feet! Cave tours are held daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day at 10:00 am and 2:00 pm. Tickets are $5.00 for adults, $2.00 for children under 12, and go on sale 30 minutes before each tour. Schools should call 573-323-4236, ext 236 to arrange educational tours.
Junior Ranger Program: ask a ranger or campground host for a free Junior Ranger book. Complete the self-paced activities and turn it in at a Campfire Program, the Alley Mill, Big Spring or Round Spring Cave and get the Official Junior Ranger badge you've earned!
Other activities: Special hikes, concerts and craft demonstrations are scheduled from time to time during the summer months. Watch this space, and check bulletin boards when you arrive for the latest offerings!
Call 573-323-4236 for more information.
Outdoor Boating and Fishing
Boating
Call a canoe rental in the area of the river you would like to float. They will put you in, provide you with all equipment you'll need and pick you up at the end of your adventure. Some will even pick you up at your campsite or room and return you afterwards. Prices are competitive. Most also offer small stores where you can purchase soda, bait, sunscreen, chips and the other necessities for a day on the water.
Fishing
Fishing is permitted in the Current and Jacks Fork Rivers, with a valid Missouri fishing license. However, fishing in springs or spring branches is strictly prohibited. Anyone possessing trout must also have a valid trout permit.
Trout Special Management Area
Current River and its tributaries from Montauk State Park to Cedargrove bridge:
Bait - Only artificial lures and flies are permitted. Soft plastic, scented and natural (natural fish food and other food substances - such as: worms, fish eggs, dough baits) are specifically prohibited.
Trout - must be at least 18" long, or be immediately released. Daily limit is one trout of any species. A trout permit is required, regardless of age, to have trout in your possession. Trout in possession must retain head, skin and tail. (No filets)
Black Bass Special Management Area
Jacks Fork River between Highway 17 and Highway 106 bridges:
Black Bass must be at least 12" long or else be immediately released unharmed.
Smallmouth Bass must be at least 18" long, or else immediately released unharmed.
Daily limit for Black Bass is six, of which no more than one may be a Smallmouth Bass.
The Black Bass family includes the Smallmouth, Largemouth, and Spotted (Kentucky) Bass.
Visitors to the Ozark National Scenic Riverways often come to do more than just float the rivers. Many come to watch the birds. Experienced birders know that the Riverways is home to many canebrakes where they may catch a glimpse of a rare Swainson’s Warbler. Late fall migration brings the mighty Bald Eagles to winter along our unfrozen rivers. Many species of birds are found in the Ozarks during the spring and fall migrations. Many are just passing through, but many others call the Ozarks home year round. The birds you see will depend on where you look.
If you float the river you may see wood ducks in quiet pools. Many floaters are treated to a scolding by the Belted Kingfisher, a medium sized bird with blue feathers and a white breast. Its unruly top knot looks like hair badly styled with mousse! Likewise, it’s hard to miss the Great Blue Heron flying down the river ahead of you each time you approach its fishing or resting spot. Other, less well known herons call the rivers home as well. You may see Little Blue Herons, which are much smaller than the great blues. Or perhaps a Green-backed Heron, which is a small brown and green heron. A very observant (and lucky) birder may even see the elusive American Bittern or the nocturnal Yellow-crowned Night Heron in backwaters and sloughs.
Floaters often are treated to the cry of hawks. The most common in our area are the large Red-tailed and somewhat smaller Red-shouldered Hawk. The Red-tail is usually seen soaring high above, often keeping company with the Black and Turkey Vultures. Other hawks you may see include the pigeon sized Kestrel and the rare Peregrine Falcon. The Osprey or Fish Hawk may also be seen, diving into the water to scoop up a juicy trout.
Evening brings out the swallows to feed on flying insects just above the water. Few riverside campouts would be complete without the nighttime serenade of the whip-poor-will or the mournful wail of the little Screech Owl. Perhaps this will be accompanied by the familiar “who cooks for you” of a Barred Owl. The river itself plays a fluid melody in the background while tree frogs join the chorus. Nature and her peaceful sounds lull tired floaters to sleep. With dawn comes the cooing of mourning doves and the tap tap of a woodpecker on a hollow tree.
Away from the water’s edge, birders will find other habitats and different birds. In open fields you might see and hear the Bob-white Quail. This is also home to the handsome brown and yellow meadowlark, recognized by the black “V” on its bright yellow breast. A flock of goldfinches may light up a tree with their brilliant breeding colors of yellow and black. At the edge of the forest you may see regal looking Cedar Waxwings with their fawn colored bodies and feather tips that look like they were dipped in sealing wax. A streak of blue may reveal an eastern bluebird or the smaller Indigo Bunting. An abundant variety of sparrows and warblers, too numerous to mention each by name will challenge both experienced and novice birdwatchers.
Horseback Riding
The hills and forests of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways area abound in trail riding opportunities. All dirt roads and old traces are open to riding, except those that are specifically marked otherwise. The National Park Service is in the process of marking some of the trails, but a good topographical map will help. Many of the riding trails leave the park and cross private or state lands. Please respect others' rights.
A few common sense rules will help you have a safe and enjoyable experience. These guidelines are also to help keep the area beautiful for you and for generations of riders to come.
1. Please stay on established roads and traces. Cutting cross country creates a network of trails that cause erosion and may lead to the next rider getting lost.
2. Please cross only at designated river crossings. This prevents erosion and deterioration of riverbanks which muddies the river and degrades fish habitat.
3. Please do not bathe your horse in the river. Thousands of horses and their riders visit the area each year. The cumulative effect can be diminished water quality.
4. Respect the land you've come to enjoy. Please do not litter, gather artifacts (including arrowheads) or damage natural or historical features. Leave it beautiful for the next rider.
5. Use hitching rails where available, rather than tying horses to trees. Horses may damage trees by gnawing on bark or pawing roots.
6. Springs and spring branches are unique and beautiful. Please keep them running clear and clean by not riding swimming or wading into them.
7. Please do not ride into campgrounds, picnic areas and other developed areas.
8. Most of the riding trails pass through private lands. Please respect the landowners where you ride. It only takes a few unfortunate incidents to cause a private landowner to close his land.
Hunting is permitted inside most areas of Ozark National Scenic Riverways and subject to Missouri state regulations.
Missouri hunting license is required.
All state seasons and limits apply.
Areas closed to hunting, year round
Alley Spring Area
Big Spring Area
Round Spring Area
Powder Mill / Owls Bend Area
Big Spring Wildlife Refuge Area
All other developed park areas
Firearms must be unloaded and cased or broken down when carried in a motorized vehicle or boat. Missouri's concealed firearms law does not apply in the park. Concealed weapons are illegal within the Ozark Riverways.
Vehicles, including off-road vehicles and ATVs, must remain on the established county roadways. Off-road travel is prohibited. All vehicles, including ATVs must be properly licensed and have a valid county permit and all required safety equipment.
ATV
Within the Ozark Riverways, ATVs ("Four Wheelers") are prohibited:
Off established roads.
On any closed roads or trails.
On any paved roads.
On service roads or power line rights- of-way.
In the river unless at designated crossing and then only to cross the river and continue on across.
On gravel bars or beaches.
ATVs may be operated only on established roads open and passable to full-sized vehicles. If the trail or route you are on is not passable in a full-sized pickup, you are probably on an illegal trail.
A reminder: All ATVs must have a Missouri State registration and a county permit, the operator must have a valid driver’s license, the operator cannot carry passengers unless the ATV is equipped to carry a second person, persons under 18 years must wear an approved helmet, and the ATV must have adequate muffler, approved spark arrestor, slow-moving vehicle triangular emblem, safety flag at least 7 feet above the ground, operating brake system, and a headlight and taillight.
There's lots to do in the Ozarks. Besides the Ozark Riverways, there are state parks, conservation areas, craft shows, resorts, and small towns filled with restaurants, antique shops and "local color."
