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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.
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.

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.

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.

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

Pick a path - the possibilities are endless. Take a look at the Ozark National Scenic Riverways Wellness Challenges and start earning your badges.

Answer our brief survey, to get your Wellness Challenge Completion Certificate for Ozark National Scenic Riverways.
  • orange hexagon graphic of a person running on top of an orange tinted photo of a cave entrance
    Physical Wellness

    Take part in three physical challenges at Ozark National Scenic Riverways by floating, hiking or walking with your four-legged friend.

  • blue circle graphic with a plant inside a lightbulb on top of a blue tinted photo of an old mill
    Learning Wellness

    Exercise your mind with three learning challenges highlighting 10,000 years of the Ozarks natural history and cultural heritage.

  • green tilted square graphic of a lotus blossom on top of a green tinted photo of a Big Spring
    Mental Wellness

    Relax and reflect as you absorb the sights and sounds of the water and woodlands of Ozark National Scenic Riverways.

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

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.

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    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.

    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.

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      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.

      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.

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        The National Park Service Wellness Challenge inspires you to create lasting habits of personal wellness. Healthy Parks, Healthy People advances the fact that all parks - urban and wildland - are cornerstones of your physical, mental and spiritual health, social well-being; and sustainability of the planet.
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        Learn More about the Wellness Challenge

        Learn more about the National Park Service Wellness Challenge throughout all seven National Park Services in Missouri

        Ozark National Scenic Riverways

        Last updated: April 22, 2022