Throughout Ozark history, hunting was a way to earn a living, enjoy the great outdoors, or simply feed one's family. Before settlers moved to the area, indigenous peoples hunted deer, otter, and other animals. Today, hunters are drawn from across the country to the remote Ozark Mountains. Hunting RegulationsHunting is permitted inside most areas of Ozark National Scenic Riverways, given that hunters follow all state and federal regulations. A summary of park-specific hunting regulations can be found below. Other federal hunting laws can be found via the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). Otherwise, be sure to check state hunting regulations on the Missouri Department of Conservation website. The following developed areas are closed to regular hunting and trapping. Portions of these areas may be open to hunting in coordination with the Missouri Department of Conservation.
It is prohibited to discharge a firearm, shoot an arrow from a bow, or shoot an arrow from a crossbow in the direction of any of the aforementioned areas. The hunting of feral swine is prohibited on all fee-owned lands of OZAR. The following persons are exempt from this closure:
The transporting of lawfully taken wildlife through the park is permitted under the following conditions and procedures:
The use of dogs in support of hunting must be in accordance with federal and state laws and the following conditions:
Hunting dogs must be within a reasonable proximity to their owner. Dogs running freely without supervision may be collected by park rangers. If this happens, the owner will be contacted to retrieve the dog. If the dog is not wearing a name tag, or if the owner cannot be contacted, the dog may be taken to an animal shelter at the owner's expense. Persistent violations or unresponsive owners may result in citations. In accordance with the Missouri State Wildlife Code 3 CSR §10-11.145, portable tree stands are allowed for hunting purposes from September 1 through January 31. Unattended stands must be plainly labeled on a durable material with the full name and address, or Conservation Number, of the owner and must be removed from the area before February 1. The use of nails, screw-in steps, and any material or method that would damage the tree is prohibited. The use and installation of game cameras is prohibited. Camping in a non-designated primitive site requires a special use permit, subject to the approval of the Superintendent. Hunting camps may get permission through the special use permit process. |
Last updated: November 1, 2024