Summer Visitor Information

Summer is the busiest season in the riverways for a good reason: Camping, paddling, swimming, ranger programs, and the great outdoors await you along two of the finest freshwater rivers in North America.

NPS Photo / Wil Marischen

 

Experience the Current and Jacks Fork rivers!

As temperatures rise, the cool waters of the Ozarks call out to visitors nationwide. Affordable camping and floating options make summer our most popular season.

The change of season means the return of full campground services, extended visitor center hours, and increased activity throughout the park. Keep reading for more information and trip ideas.

 

Quick Links

• Camping Reservations
• Floating Information

Quick Links

Need to reserve a campsite or rent floating gear? Campgrounds can be reserved at recreation.gov, while our floating page offers information on rentals.

 

Pulltite Campground is one of many beautiful locations along the Current River.

NPS Photo / Wil Marischen

Camping Information

The park offers a variety of campground options throughout the year. Larger, developed campgrounds have showers and electric hookups for RVs. Backcountry and primitive campgrounds offer less amenities, but they provide more secluded camping - far off the beaten path. For information on specific campgrounds, please visit our camping information page or call the park at [phone].

Most developed campground sites can be reserved up to six months in advance. Reservations can only be made through recreation.gov or by calling [phone]. Same-day reservations are possible.

All backcountry sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Advance reservations are not available for backcountry campgrounds. For these sites, payment is only accepted through the Scan & Pay system, on the recreation.gov app. Visitors will need to download the app and set up their account prior to arrival, as there is no cell service at most campsites.

Note: Cluster and group campsites are non-electric.

Front-country / "Developed" Campsites	# of Campers	Price per Night
Standard Non-electric	6	$20
Standard Electric	6	$30
Cluster	7 - 20	$45
Group	15 - 45	$140

Note: All back-country campsites are non-electric.

Backcountry Campsites	# of Campers	Price per Night
Standard	6	$10
Cluster	7 - 20	$25
Group	15 - 45	$65

 

Float trips are a perfect way to beat the heat while enjoying the great outdoors.

Courtesy of Wil Marischen

Floating Information

Due to the spring-fed nature of the Current and Jack Fork Rivers, the riverways are floatable year-round. The rivers stay around ~57 degrees throughout summer, meaning the water can keep you cool on even the most scorching days.

In spring, the hills and hollows of Missouri sprout with pastel flowers and bright leaf buds. By summer, the mesmerizing blue rivers are lined with every imaginable shade of green. Whether you're diving into the water or just dipping your toes, the Current and Jacks Fork rivers offer an unforgettable experience.

Ready to hit the river? Visit our floating page for information on rentals, services, and safe floating tips.

 

Ranger Stations are a great place to discuss plans and learn more about the park.

NPS Photo / Shaun Heise

Visitor Centers

Visitor centers are found in each district of the park. These locations offer trip planning advice, park information, and other interpretive services. Click here for visitor center information and hours of operation.

Passport Stamping Stations

24-hour passport stamping stations are available on the front porch of the Big Spring Entrance Station and on the screened porch of the Alley General Store.

Sightseeing

The riverways are host to numerous areas of natural and cultural significance. Visit our Places To Go page or call one of our visitor centers for recommendations.

 

Round Spring Cave tours are limited to groups of 15 people each, letting you enjoy the cave in all its glory.

NPS Photo / Kevin Tarbet

Round Spring Cave Tours

Due to flooding damage, cave tours are currently closed for the 2025 season. Tours may re-open after crews replaces the pedestrian bridge, which was washed out by the flood. A bridge replacement is scheduled for July of 2025.

During the summer season, Round Spring Cave opens up for daily guided tours. Small groups travel one-at-a-time, allowing for an intimate experience. For more information, visit the cave's page or call Round Spring Ranger Station at [phone].

Tours last 60-90 minutes and explore the amazing world beneath our feet. Topics include geology, hydrology, “karst” topography, and life in caves. All of this takes place in one of the most spectacular caves in the Midwest!

Hiking Information

While hiking is most popular in fall or winter, a cool spring day can make for a lovely hike. There are a variety of trails to choose from, touring historic landscapes, unique geology, and old-growth forests. For more information and tips on hiking in the Ozarks, visit our hiking page.

 

Park Regulations

Learn all about our park regulations, outlining the do's and don'ts of Ozark National Scenic Riverways. For questions or clarifications, please call the park at [phone].