Last updated: April 22, 2022
Article
The NPS Wellness Challenge at Ozark National Scenic Riverways
Welcome to your Wellness Challenge at Ozark National Scenic Riverways!
BEGINS DURING NATIONAL PARK WEEK, APRIL 16-24
While visiting the first national park site to protect a river system, you can choose from a variety of activities that will benefit your health. Ozark National Scenic Riverways contains over 80,000 acres centered around two of the nation’s clearest spring-fed rivers, the Current River and Jacks Fork River. From open fields and towering bluffs, to the unique karst landscapes that form caves and springs, Ozark National Scenic Riverways offers many backdrops for physical, mental and learning wellness. Float along the river, discover the unique natural and cultural history of the area, and reflect on the natural beauty around you.![Ozark Scenic Riverways NPS Wellness Hero An orange graphic of a head in profile containing an image of a river winding through a landscape that says NPS Wellness Challenge in front of an image of a river scene of clear flowing water during the fall months with fall colors.](/articles/000/images/Ozark-Scenic-Riverways-NPS-Wellness-Hero.jpg?maxwidth=1300&maxheight=1300&autorotate=false)
What is the NPS Wellness Challenge?
The Wellness Challenge promotes the unique health resources that you can find in all seven Missouri National Parks. Challenge yourself by choosing from a wide range of activites - physical, mental and learning - to promote our health and well-being.
Learn more about The National Park Service Wellness Challenge in Missouri.
![Wellness Challenge A group of hikers, one with a dog on a leash when backs turned headed down a paved trail through the woods during fall with another two hikers headed toward them.](/articles/000/images/Ozark-A.jpg?maxwidth=650&autorotate=false)
The Rivers of Wellness
Will you float along the scenic riverways beneath the trees? Will you discover breathtaking natural features while exploring miles of trails? Or will you unwind to the sounds of birds singing? Personal wellness is out there waiting for you. And, it is well within reach.
Choose Your Challenge
Answer our brief survey, to get your Wellness Challenge Completion Certificate for Ozark National Scenic Riverways.
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Physical Wellness
Take part in three physical challenges at Ozark National Scenic Riverways by floating, hiking or walking with your four-legged friend.
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Learning Wellness
Exercise your mind with three learning challenges highlighting 10,000 years of the Ozarks natural history and cultural heritage.
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Mental Wellness
Relax and reflect as you absorb the sights and sounds of the water and woodlands of Ozark National Scenic Riverways.
![Physical wellness an orange hexagon graphic of a person running on top of an orange tinted photo of people standing at the entrance of a cave filled with water and flowing into the river](/articles/000/images/Ozark-Scenic-Riverways-NPS-Physical-Wellness-Hero.jpg?maxwidth=650&autorotate=false)
Physical Wellness at Ozark National Scenic Riverways
These physical challenges invite you to explore the park to improve your physical health. Take part in three physical challenges at Ozark National Scenic Riverways by floating, hiking or walking with your four-legged friend at your side along spring-fed waters.
Once you complete the challenges, download your digital badge to share on social media. You can also get a rubber stamp to add to your NPS Wellness Challenge Guide or Passport Book at the Visitor Information Center lobby at park headquarters in Van Buren or at the Alley Spring General Store.
![Learning wellness a circular blue graphic with a lightbulb containing a plant in the center and the words Learning Wellness, graphic is on top of blue tinted photo of Klepzig mill on top of boulders and a creek flowing through the middle.](/articles/000/images/Ozark-Scenic-Riverways-NPS-Learning-Wellness-Hero.jpg?maxwidth=650&autorotate=false)
Learning Wellness at Ozark National Scenic Riverways
Exercise your mind with three learning challenges highlighting 10,000 years of the Ozarks natural history and cultural heritage. Enriching your brain with new knowledge is just as important as moving your body. The National Park Service Wellness Challenge encourages you to learn something new.
Once you complete the challenges, download your digital badge to share on social media. You can also get a rubber stamp to add to your NPS Wellness Challenge Guide or Passport Book at the Visitor Information Center lobby at park headquarters in Van Buren or at the Alley Spring General Store.
![Mental wellness a green diamond graphic with a lotus flower in the center and the words Mental Wellness on top of a green tinted photo of Big Spring with flowing water surrounded by rocks.](/articles/000/images/Ozark-Scenic-Riverways-NPS-Mental-Wellness-Hero.jpg?maxwidth=650&autorotate=false)
Mental Wellness at Ozark National Scenic Riverways
Relax and reflect as you absorb the sights and sounds of the water and woodlands of Ozark National Scenic Riverways with three mental challenges. Being outdoors provides you with a place to escape from the stressors of everyday life and enter a calm space to connect with your thoughts. The National Park Service Wellness Challenge allows you to take a breath, relax and embrace your surroundings to benefit your mental health.
Once you complete the challenges, download your digital badge to share on social media. You can also get a rubber stamp to add to your NPS Wellness Challenge Guide or Passport Book at the Visitor Information Center lobby at park headquarters in Van Buren or at the Alley Spring General Store.
![alt text here](/common/uploads/grid_builder/articles/crop16_9/FA9F5747-D5D2-11CA-48ED9EF571CD6818.jpg?width=1300&quality=90&mode=crop)
Learn more about the National Park Service Wellness Challenge throughout all seven National Park Services in Missouri