Ozark National Scenic Riverways (U.S. National Park Service)

Ozark National Scenic Riverways • Missouri

Sunset picture with high vantage point overlooking river with fall colors and sun setting in distanc

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

A woman paddles down a river while wearing a personal flotation device.

fall colors on leaves of trees surrounding a creek with an old wooden mill on the right

a red mill with snow on roof with a stream emanating from it.

brown rocks with water flowing over like a waterfall

A sunrise photo with blue turbulent water and a algae colored rock with trees overhanging

looking down through large brown/grey/purple boulders with creek in middle and forest in distance

A canoe floats down a river surrounded in fall color.

A red canoe on gravel bar with clear blue stream behind and green forest

Ozark National Scenic Riverways is the first national park area to protect a river system. The Current and Jacks Fork rivers are two of the finest floating rivers found anywhere. Spring-fed, cold and clear: they are a delight to canoe, swim, boat, or fish. Besides these two famous rivers, the park is home to hundreds of freshwater springs, caves, trails, and historic sites such as Alley Mill.

People floating in kayaks on a calm stretch of river beneath a forested dolomite bluff on the left.

Planning a trip to the park? Start here!

Two gentlemen next to a small fire ring at a campsite, tents and a truck are in the background

Learn about camping in the Ozark National Scenic Riverways

A group of kayakers pull off to the side of a river.

Find an outfitter and get on the river!

Float responsibly, check out the latest river levels before heading out.

A woman in a personal flotation device paddles down a river.

Check times and distances for your ideal float trip!

An accessible trail surrounded by fall colors.

Learn about trails and hiking tips for the Ozarks.

Read about upcoming changes to horsepower limits within the park.

Watercolor artwork representing the restoration of Big Spring Dining Lodge with stone and wood

Learn about progress, design choices, and historic influence on this restoration project.

A group of people stand around a mobile command center, looking at a map.

Read about the latest news and events in the park.

Last updated: April 17, 2026

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

P.O. Box 490
Van Buren, MO 63965

Phone:

(573) 323-4236
Call (573) 323-4236 for Big Spring Entrance Station, located south of Van Buren, MO. Call (573) 226-3945 for the Alley Spring General Store, located west of Eminence, MO. Call (573) 858-3297 for Round Spring Ranger Station, located north of Eminence, MO.