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Destinations › North America › United States › Missouri

Ozark National Scenic Riverways

Since: 1964 Open: Visitor center hours vary seasonally; check before visiting. Price: Free
campaign Park Closure: Round Spring Lower River Landing Closed · +4 expand_more

Round Spring Lower River Landing Closed — The lower river landing at Round Spring, located in the campground, is closed until further notice for paving. Floaters putting in or taking out at Round Spring should plan to use the upper landing behind Carr's Store.

Round Spring Pavilion Parking Area Closed — The parking lot for the Round Spring Pavilion and for Round Spring itself is CLOSED for the remainder of the 2026 summer season while the low water bridge over Spring Valley Creek is rebuilt. Alternative parking near Round Spring Group Campsites 4-8 will provide trail access to t

River Ferry at Akers (on State Highway K) CLOSED until further notice — The Akers Ferry on State Highway K will not be in service until further notice.

Paving Work Ongoing Throughout the Park — Paving work is being done throughout Ozark National Scenic Riverways during the 2026 summer season, including at Alley Spring, Round Spring, Pulltite, and Big Spring. Watch here and on our park Facebook page for updates, as roads and campground loops may close and reopen dependin Details ↗

Reservations Required for All Campgrounds — As of January 1, 2025, ALL developed campsites will be available through reservation ONLY. These include Pulltite, Round Spring, Alley Spring, Big Spring, Two Rivers, and Akers. Reservations must be made through recreation.gov (online or by calling). Details ↗

park Source: US National Park Service, refreshed several times a day.

Introduction

Ozark National Scenic Riverways is a protected area in Missouri, established to preserve the Current and Jacks Fork Rivers. Visitors come to experience the natural beauty of the Ozarks, with opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring over 300 caves. The park is also home to diverse plant communities and wildlife, including wild horses and elk reintroduced from Kentucky.

The park headquarters is located in Van Buren, where a small museum and visitor center provide information about the area's history and ecology. The Ozark Trail, Missouri's longest trail, runs through the park, offering scenic views and access to various attractions like Rocky Falls and Klepzig Mill.

In pictures

A rocky "shut-in" with a modest waterfall.
A rocky "shut-in" with a modest waterfall.

Things to know

Expect busy weekends during peak seasons, especially in summer.
Camping is first-come, first-served; arrive early for a spot.
Dress for outdoor activities; sturdy shoes are recommended.
Glass containers are not allowed near the river.

Good to know

Accessibility: Some trails are wheelchair accessible, but many areas have steep terrain.
Opening hours: Visitor center hours vary seasonally; check before visiting.
Price: Free

Photo: Brock Davis