By Hidden away in the southern part of Missouri, Ozark National Scenic Riverways is a true gem of the Midwest. Known for its crystal-clear rivers, towering bluffs, and lush forests, this park is perfect for those looking to explore the beauty of nature while enjoying outdoor adventures. Whether you’re paddling down the Current River, hiking through serene woodlands, or exploring underground caves, this guide will help you make the most of your visit to the Ozarks.
Overview
Established in 1964, Ozark National Scenic Riverways is the first national park dedicated to protecting a river system. The park spans over 80 miles and encompasses two major rivers: the Current River and Jacks Fork River. These waters offer excellent opportunities for canoeing, fishing, and tubing, while the surrounding forest is a haven for hikers and wildlife watchers. The park is also home to stunning springs, historic mills, and karst landscapes that provide a unique backdrop for any outdoor activity.
Getting There
Ozark National Scenic Riverways is located in southeastern Missouri. The park is easily accessible by car, with the nearest towns being Van Buren, Eminence, and Salem.
- From St. Louis: About 2.5 hours (via I-44 E and U.S. Route 60).
- From Springfield-Branson: Roughly 2 hours (via U.S. Route 60).
- By Car: U.S. Route 60 and State Route 19 are the main roads through the park. Be sure to have a GPS or offline map, as signal can be spotty in the backcountry.
Best Times to Visit
- Spring (April–June): This is one of the best times for floating the rivers, with wildflowers blooming and mild weather.
- Fall (September–October): Fewer crowds and spectacular fall foliage make this a prime time for hiking and scenic drives.
- Summer (July–August): Popular for water activities like swimming, kayaking, and tubing, but expect more visitors.
- Winter (December–February): Quiet and peaceful, though water activities may be limited.
Top 10 Things to Do
- Float the Current River – Canoe, kayak, or tube down this clear, calm river.
- Explore Alley Mill – A historic gristmill located by the turquoise waters of Alley Spring.
- Visit Blue Spring – One of the deepest and most striking springs in the U.S.
- Take a Cave Tour at Round Spring – Seasonal guided tours showcase the park’s impressive karst formations.
- Fly-fish for Smallmouth Bass – The rivers are prime spots for fishing enthusiasts.
- Swim at Big Spring – Cool off in the largest spring in Missouri, perfect for a refreshing swim.
- Wildlife Watching at Echo Bluff – Spot deer, turkeys, and river otters in this scenic area.
- Drive the Ozark Trail Scenic Byway – Enjoy the picturesque views, historical markers, and overlooks along this scenic route.
- Visit Rocky Falls – A beautiful waterfall with a swimming hole and peaceful surroundings.
- Camp Riverside – Enjoy the park’s developed or backcountry campsites with stunning river views.
Best Hikes (Beginner to Advanced)
- Beginner:
- Alley Spring Trail (1 mile loop) – A short, easy walk around the iconic mill and spring.
- Big Spring Trail (1 mile) – A scenic stroll with breathtaking views of the park’s largest spring.
- Moderate:
- Round Spring Trail (2.5 miles) – A wooded trail with river views and cave access.
- Chubb Hollow Trail (3.5 miles) – A quiet and less crowded trail that offers a variety of terrain.
- Advanced:
- Ozark Trail (Current River Section) – A rugged 30+ mile trail offering scenic overlooks and wilderness experiences.
- Stegall Mountain via Brushy Creek Trail – A challenging backcountry hike with steep sections and stunning bluff views.
Hidden Gems
- Jam Up Cave – A towering cave entrance only accessible by river, perfect for photos.
- Welch Spring Ruins – A hidden historical site, reachable by hiking or paddling, offering a glimpse into the past.
- The Devil’s Well – A deep, vertical sinkhole cave with an underground lake that’s worth the adventure.
- Klepzig Mill – A little-known historic mill site tucked along Rocky Creek.
- Bee Bluff – A remote cliff offering sweeping views of the river and peaceful solitude.
1–5 Day Sample Itinerary
Day 1:
- Arrive in Eminence, MO.
- Visit Alley Mill and take a walk around Alley Spring.
- Camp at Alley Spring Campground.
Day 2:
- Spend the day floating from Akers Ferry to Pulltite.
- Explore Welch Spring ruins.
- Have dinner in Eminence.
Day 3:
- Hike the Round Spring Trail.
- Take a guided cave tour at Round Spring Cave (seasonal).
- Visit Blue Spring and drive along the scenic byways.
Day 4:
- Visit the Devil’s Well and Jam Up Cave.
- Stop by Rocky Falls for photos and a swim.
- Camp at Two Rivers Campground.
Day 5:
- Morning hike to Klepzig Mill.
- Pack up and head home.
Packing List
For your visit to Ozark National Scenic Riverways, here are the essentials to bring along:
- Water shoes or sandals
- Dry bag for valuables
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
- Refillable water bottle
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing
- Swimwear and quick-dry clothing
- Hiking boots for the trails
- Map or offline GPS app
- Headlamp for cave tours
- Layers for unpredictable weather
Where to Stay
- Campgrounds: Alley Spring, Pulltite, Round Spring, and Big Spring offer both RV and tent sites, some with river views.
- Lodging: There are nearby hotels and lodges offering a comfortable stay close to the park.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Cell service is limited in remote areas, so download maps and guides ahead of time.
- Rivers can be unpredictable, so always check the current water levels before heading out for a float.
- Leave no trace and pack out all trash to help preserve the natural beauty of the park.
- Reservations are recommended during peak seasons, especially for campsites.
- Weather can shift quickly, especially in summer, so be prepared for sudden rain or heat.
Final Thoughts
Ozark National Scenic Riverways is a tranquil yet exhilarating escape into nature. With its rivers, caves, trails, and hidden gems, it’s a place where you can truly reconnect with the outdoors. Whether you’re kayaking down the Current River, hiking to a secluded bluff, or exploring a cave, this park offers unforgettable experiences for all types of adventurers. If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination that combines stunning natural beauty with a sense of peace and adventure, Ozark National Scenic Riverways should be at the top of your list.
