Photo: Brock Davis
Ozark National Scenic Riverways is the first national park area to protect a river system.
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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.
The parking lot for the Round Spring Pavilion and for Round Spring itself is CLOSED for the remainder of 2026 while the low water bridge over Spring Valley Creek is rebuilt. Alternative parking near Round Spring Group Campsites 4-8 will provide trail access to the north side of Round Spring.
The lower river landing at Round Spring, located in the campground, is closed until further notice for paving. Floaters putting in or taking out at Round Spring should plan to use the upper landing behind Carr's Store.
The Akers Ferry on State Highway K will not be in service until further notice.
Paving work is being done throughout Ozark National Scenic Riverways during the 2026 summer season, including at Alley Spring, Round Spring, Pulltite, and Big Spring. Watch here and on our park Facebook page for updates, as roads and campground loops may close and reopen depending on work progress.
As of January 1, 2025, ALL developed campsites will be available through reservation ONLY. These include Pulltite, Round Spring, Alley Spring, Big Spring, Two Rivers, and Akers. Reservations must be made through recreation.gov (online or by calling).
34 experiences from the National Park Service. Check details on NPS.gov before you go.
Paddle or float on crystal clear waters within the river routes of the Ozark region.
Learn more about A Paddler’s Paradise on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab)
Float the Jacks Fork River
Learn more about Paddle Jacks Fork River on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab)
Paddle the Lower Current River
Learn more about Paddle the Lower Current River on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab)
Paddling Upper Current
Learn more about Paddle the Upper Current River on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab)Showing 5 of 5
Pick one to find other parks that offer it.
9 campgrounds listed on Recreation.gov. Check availability and current conditions before you go.
Reservable Campground
Two of America's clearest spring-fed rivers combine to create the Ozark National Scenic Riverways in the rolling, forested landscape of Akers. Visitors to the campground…
Reserve on Recreation.govOverview
Two of America's clearest spring-fed rivers combine to create the Ozark National Scenic Riverways in the rolling, forested landscape of Akers.
Visitors to the campground enjoy various water activities, as well as hiking, horseback riding and wildlife viewing.
Recreation
The crystal-clear Current River flows past the campground, offering excellent canoeing, tubing, swimming and fishing. Over 130 miles of waterways exist within the park. Canoe and kayak rentals and outfitters can be found nearby.Facilities
This group campground is open year round with limited facilities in the off season.Natural Features
Known for its caves, springs, sinkholes and losing streams, the Ozark National Scenic Riverways have over 300 identified caves within its boundaries. The caves range in size from a rock overhang to almost seven miles of identified passages. Eight caves, including an open sinkhole, have been designated as outstanding natural features.Contact Info
This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (573) 323-4236.Nearby Attractions
Scenic Round Spring Cave is nearby, with ranger-guided tours offered daily during summer months. Historic and picturesque Alley Mill and Alley Spring are nearby. The mill is open daily in the summer and ranger-offered tours are available upon request.
Reservable Campground
The rolling, forested landscape around Alley Spring is where two of America's most beautiful spring-fed rivers combine to make up the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. As…
Reserve on Recreation.govOverview
The rolling, forested landscape around Alley Spring is where two of America's most beautiful spring-fed rivers combine to make up the Ozark National Scenic Riverways.Recreation
Canoeing, tubing, swimming and fishing are popular activities on the vast waterways in the region, with over 130 miles (209 km) of water trails. Canoe and kayak rentals and outfitters can be found nearby.
A short walk from the campground leads to a popular swimming area on the Jacks Fork River, a crystal clear and spring fed waterway that's cool and refreshing on a hot summer day.
Several interpretive trails with educational exhibits meander nearby. Other hiking trails include the Alley Overlook Trail, Chubb Hollow Trail, Ozark Trail, Cave Spring Trail and Big Springs Trail.
Facilities
Open year-round, this campground has flush toilets and shower facilities available April 15 through October 15. Roads and parking spurs are paved.Natural Features
Known for its caves, springs, sinkholes and losing streams, the Ozark National Scenic Riverways has over 300 identified caves within its boundaries. They range in size from a rock overhang to almost seven miles of identified passages. Eight caves, including an open sinkhole, have been designated as outstanding natural features.
The Ozark forest is mostly White oak and Shortleaf pine, Missouri's only native pine species. Along the rivers, Sycamore, Cottonwood, River birch and maples are common. Redbud and Dogwood are abundant, putting on a spectacular show during most spring months.
Contact Info
This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (573) 323-4236.Nearby Attractions
Historic and picturesque Alley Mill and the scenic Alley Spring are nearby. The mill is open daily in the summer and rangers offer tours upon request. Pretty Round Spring is close to the campground as well.
Reservable Campground
In the rolling, forested landscape of Big Spring, two of America's most beautiful spring-fed rivers combine to make up the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. As the first…
Reserve on Recreation.govOverview
In the rolling, forested landscape of Big Spring, two of America's most beautiful spring-fed rivers combine to make up the Ozark National Scenic Riverways.Recreation
The Current River flows past the campground, offering excellent canoeing, tubing, swimming and fishing. Over 130 miles (209 km) of waterways exist within the park. Canoe and kayak rentals and outfitters can be found nearby.
Several miles of hiking and horseback riding trails crisscross the region, include the Alley Overlook Trail, Chubb Hollow Trail, Ozark Trail, Cave Spring Trail and Big Springs Trail.
Facilities
This year-round campground has flush toilets and shower facilities available. Picnic tables, fire rings, and grills are provided. Roads and parking spurs are paved.Natural Features
The Ozark National Scenic Riverways is known for its caves, springs, sinkholes and losing streams, and features over 300 identified caves within its boundaries. The caves range in size from a rock overhang to almost seven miles of identified passages. Eight caves, including an open sinkhole, have been designated as outstanding natural features.
The Ozark forest is mostly White oak and Shortleaf pine, Missouri's only native pine species. Along the rivers, Sycamore, Cottonwood, River birch and maples are common.
Redbud and dogwoods are also abundant, putting on a spectacular show during most spring months.
Contact Info
This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (573) 323-4236.Nearby Attractions
Scenic Big Spring is the largest freshwater spring in North America and produces an outflow of 280 million gallons a day.
Reservable Campground
Jacks Fork / Middle Current Backcountry Campsites will be reservable in advance beginning October 1st, 2025. If calling the Recreation.gov Call Center to make your…
Reserve on Recreation.govFees: Backcountry campgrounds are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Campers simply select their site, set up their tent/RV, then proceed to the bulletin board for payment. Upper Current District Backcountry Campsites will be…
Overview
Jacks Fork / Middle Current Backcountry Campsites will be reservable in advance beginning October 1st, 2025. If calling the Recreation.gov Call Center to make your reservation, please state the campsite you are wanting to reserve is in the “Jacks Fork/Middle Current District” of Ozark National Scenic Riverways and then state the campground and site number. Please download the Recreation.gov app before starting your journey to the backcountry sites, as cell service can be limited or simply non existent in these remote areas of the park.
Within Ozark National Scenic Riverways, a "backcountry campground" refers to campgrounds with some basic amenities, but not as many as developed campgrounds. All backcountry sites have picnic tables, fire rings, lantern posts, and vault toilets.
These campgrounds may have fewer amenities, but they are some of the most beautiful locations in the park. Certain sites are located right on the river's edge, allowing quick water access. Some sites are far away from other campers, giving you a chance to enjoy natural peace and quiet. If you crave a camping experience that is off the beaten path, these are the sites for you!
Keep in mind that these campgrounds are often harder to reach due to their location. Most backcountry sites require driving down gravel roads. Some roads are unsuitable for vehicles with low clearance.
Horse camping is not allowed within ONSR. Trail riders who desire to camp should contact local campgrounds with stables. Day trail riders can park horse trailers during daylight hours at Shawnee Staging Area and Broadfoot Staging Area.
Recreation
The river flows past the campground, offering excellent canoeing, tubing, swimming and fishing. Over 130 miles (209 km) of waterways exist within the park. Canoe and kayak rentals and outfitters can be found nearby.
Several miles of hiking and horseback riding trails crisscross the region, include the Alley Overlook Trail, Chubb Hollow Trail, Ozark Trail, Cave Spring Trail and Big Springs Trail.
Facilities
This campground has vault toilets available. Picnic tables, fire rings, and lantern posts are provided.
Natural Features
The Ozark National Scenic Riverways is known for its caves, springs, sinkholes and losing streams, and features over 300 identified caves within its boundaries. The caves range in size from a rock overhang to almost seven miles of identified passages. Eight caves, including an open sinkhole, have been designated as outstanding natural features.
The Ozark forest is mostly White oak and Shortleaf pine, Missouri's only native pine species. Along the rivers, Sycamore, Cottonwood, River birch and maples are common.
Redbud and dogwoods are also abundant, putting on a spectacular show during most spring months.
Nearby Attractions
Round Spring Cave is nearby, with ranger-guided tours offered daily during summer months. Historic and picturesque Alley Mill and Alley Spring are also nearby. The mill is open daily in the summer and ranger-guided tours are available upon request.
Scenic Big Spring is the largest freshwater spring in North America and produces an outflow of 280 million gallons a day.
Charges & Cancellations
With the backcountry sites now utilizing the Recreation.gov Scan and Pay system, there will not be any capability for changes and refunds. If you are unsure of your plans, please pay one night at a time.
Reservable Campground
Lower Current District Backcountry Campsites will be reservable in advance beginning October 1st, 2025. If calling the Recreation.gov Call Center to make your…
Reserve on Recreation.govFees: Beginning April 15, 2025, backcountry sites will require a fee year-round. On October 1st, 2025 all backcountry sites will be reservation only by booking on Recreation.gov website, app or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Overview
Lower Current District Backcountry Campsites will be reservable in advance beginning October 1st, 2025. If calling the Recreation.gov Call Center to make your reservation, please state the campsite you are wanting to reserve is in the “Lower Current District” of Ozark National Scenic Riverways and then state the campground and site number. Please download the Recreation.gov app before starting your journey to the backcountry sites, as cell service can be limited or simply non existent in these remote areas of the park.
Within Ozark National Scenic Riverways, a "backcountry campground" refers to campgrounds with some basic amenities, but not as many as developed campgrounds. All backcountry sites have picnic tables, fire rings, lantern posts, and vault toilets.
These campgrounds may have fewer amenities, but they are some of the most beautiful locations in the park. Certain sites are located right on the river's edge, allowing quick water access. Some sites are far away from other campers, giving you a chance to enjoy natural peace and quiet. If you crave a camping experience that is off the beaten path, these are the sites for you!
Keep in mind that these campgrounds are often harder to reach due to their location. Most backcountry sites require driving down gravel roads. Some roads are unsuitable for vehicles with low clearance.
Horse camping is not allowed within ONSR. Trail riders who desire to camp should contact local campgrounds with stables. Day trail riders can park horse trailers during daylight hours at Shawnee Staging Area and Broadfoot Staging Area.
Recreation
The Current River flows past the campground, offering excellent canoeing, tubing, swimming and fishing. Over 130 miles (209 km) of waterways exist within the park. Canoe and kayak rentals and outfitters can be found nearby.
Several miles of hiking and horseback riding trails crisscross the region, include the Alley Overlook Trail, Chubb Hollow Trail, Ozark Trail, Cave Spring Trail and Big Springs Trail.
Facilities
These campgrounds have vault toilets available. Picnic tables, fire rings and lantern posts are provided.
Natural Features
The Ozark National Scenic Riverways protects 134 miles of the Current and Jacks Fork Rivers and some 80,000 acres of river, forest, open field and glade environments. Riparian habitats are a major component of the park. Typified by sycamores, maples, cottonwoods and willows, floodplain forests line the rivers. These provide habitat for Swainson's warblers, wood ducks, great blue herons and a wide variety of other species. As a significant karst resource, the park contains the world's largest collection of first magnitude springs. It also contains over 300 known caves, numerous sinkholes and losing streams.
The park also contains several "Missouri Natural Areas", parcels set aside due to their unique scenic beauty or scientific value.
Nearby Attractions
Round Spring Cave is nearby, with ranger-guided tours offered daily during summer months. Historic and picturesque Alley Mill and Alley Spring are also nearby. The mill is open daily in the summer and ranger-guided tours are available upon request.
Scenic Big Spring is the largest freshwater spring in North America and produces an outflow of 280 million gallons a day.
Reservable Campground
In the rolling, forested landscapes around Pulltite, two of America's most beautiful spring-fed rivers combine to make up the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. As the…
Reserve on Recreation.govOverview
In the rolling, forested landscapes around Pulltite, two of America's most beautiful spring-fed rivers combine to make up the Ozark National Scenic Riverways.Recreation
The Current River flows past the campground, offering excellent canoeing, tubing, swimming and fishing. Over 130 miles of waterways exist within the park. Canoe and kayak rentals and outfitters can be found nearby.Facilities
This year-round campground has flush toilets and showers facilities available April 15 through October 15. The main shower house/restroom at the front of the campground will be open year round. Picnic tables, fire rings, and grills are provided. Roads and parking spurs are paved. Ranger-led campfire programs are offered in the campground amphitheater during summer months.
Natural Features
The Ozark National Scenic Riverways is known for its caves, springs, sinkholes and losing streams, and features over 300 identified caves within its boundaries. They range in size from a rock overhang to almost seven miles of identified passages. Eight caves, including an open sinkhole, have been designated as outstanding natural features.Nearby Attractions
Scenic Round Spring Cave is nearby, with ranger-guided tours offered daily during summer months. Historic and picturesque Alley Mill and Alley Spring are also nearby. The mill is open daily in the summer and rangers offer tours upon request.Contact Info
This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (573) 323-4236.
Reservable Campground
In the rolling, forested landscape of Round Spring, two of America's most beautiful spring-fed rivers combine to make up the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. As the…
Reserve on Recreation.govOverview
In the rolling, forested landscape of Round Spring, two of America's most beautiful spring-fed rivers combine to make up the Ozark National Scenic Riverways.Recreation
The crystal clear Current River flows past the campground, offering excellent canoeing, tubing, swimming and fishing. Over 130 miles (209 km) of waterways exist within the park. Canoe and kayak rentals and outfitters can be found nearby.
Several miles of hiking and horseback riding trails crisscross the region, including the Alley Overlook Trail, Chubb Hollow Trail, Ozark Trail, Cave Spring Trail and Big Springs Trail.
Facilities
Open year-round, this campground has flush toilets and shower facilities available April 15 through October 15. Picnic tables, fire rings, and grills are provided. Roads and parking spurs are paved. Ranger-led campfire programs are offered in the campground amphitheater during the summer months.Natural Features
The Ozark National Scenic Riverways is known for its caves, springs, sinkholes and losing streams, and features over 300 identified Caves/Kart Systems within its boundaries. The caves range in size from a rock overhang to almost seven miles of identified passages. Eight caves, including an open sinkhole, have been designated as outstanding natural features.
The Ozark forest is mostly White oak and Shortleaf pine, Missouri's only native pine species. Along the rivers, Sycamore, Cottonwood, River birch and maples are common. Redbud and Dogwood are also abundant, putting on a spectacular show during most spring months.
Contact Info
This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (573) 323-4236.Nearby Attractions
Scenic Round Spring Cave is nearby, with ranger-guided tours offered daily during summer months. Historic and picturesque Alley Mill and Alley Spring are also nearby. The mill is open daily in the summer and rangers offer tours upon request.
Reservable Campground
In the rolling, forested landscape of Two Rivers, two of America's most beautiful spring-fed rivers combine to make up the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. As the first…
Reserve on Recreation.govOverview
In the rolling, forested landscape of Two Rivers, two of America's most beautiful spring-fed rivers combine to make up the Ozark National Scenic Riverways.
As the first national park area to protect a wild river system, visitors have plenty of scenic water activities to enjoy as well as hiking, horseback riding and wildlife viewing.
Recreation
The crystal clear Current River flows past the campground, offering excellent canoeing, tubing, swimming, and fishing. Jacks Fork meets the Current River nearby. Over 130 miles (209 km) of waterways exist within the park. Find canoe and kayak rentals through our list of Riverways Outfitters on the park website.
Several miles of hiking and horseback riding trails crisscross the region, including the Alley Overlook Trail, Chubb Hollow Trail, Ozark Trail, Cave Spring Trail, and Big Springs Trail.
Facilities
Open year-round, this campground has flush toilets and shower facilities available April 15 through October 15. Picnic tables, campfire rings, and grills are provided. Roads and parking spurs are paved.Natural Features
Known for its caves, springs, sinkholes and losing streams, the Ozark National Scenic Riverways has over 300 identified Caves/Karst systems within its boundaries. The caves range in size from a rock overhang to almost seven miles of identified passages. Eight caves, including an open sinkhole, have been designated as outstanding natural features.
The Ozark forest is mostly white oak and Shortleaf pine, Missouri's only native pine species. Along the rivers, Sycamore, Cottonwood, River birch and maples are common. Redbud and Dogwood are also abundant, putting on a spectacular show during most spring months.
Nearby Attractions
Historic and picturesque Alley Mill and scenic Alley Spring are nearby. The mill is open daily in the summer and rangers offer tours upon request. Round Spring and Round Spring Cave are nearby as well, with ranger-guided tours offered daily during summer months.
Reservable Campground
Upper Current District Backcountry Campsites will be reservable in advance beginning October 1st, 2025. If calling the Recreation.gov Call Center to make your…
Reserve on Recreation.govFees: Upper Current District Backcountry Campsites will be reservable in advance beginning October 1st, 2025. Until then, all backcountry sites are payable upon arrival using Scan & Pay on your mobile device until September 30th, 2025. Please…
Overview
Upper Current District Backcountry Campsites will be reservable in advance beginning October 1st, 2025. If calling the Recreation.gov Call Center to make your reservation, please state the campsite you are wanting to reserve is in the “Upper Current District” of Ozark National Scenic Riverways and then state the campground and site number. Please download the Recreation.gov app before starting your journey to the backcountry sites, as cell service can be limited or simply non existent in these remote areas of the park.
Within Ozark National Scenic Riverways, a "backcountry campground" refers to campgrounds with some basic amenities, but not as many as developed campgrounds. All backcountry sites have picnic tables, fire rings, lantern posts, and vault toilets.
These campgrounds may have fewer amenities, but they are some of the most beautiful locations in the park. Certain sites are located right on the river's edge, allowing quick water access. Some sites are far away from other campers, giving you a chance to enjoy natural peace and quiet. If you crave a camping experience that is off the beaten path, these are the sites for you!
Keep in mind that these campgrounds are often harder to reach due to their location. Most backcountry sites require driving down gravel roads. Some roads are unsuitable for vehicles with low clearance.
Horse camping is not allowed within ONSR. Trail riders who desire to camp should contact local campgrounds with stables. Day trail riders can park horse trailers during daylight hours at Shawnee Staging Area and Broadfoot Staging Area.
Recreation
The Current River flows past the campgrounds, offering excellent floating, fishing, and swimming. Over 130 miles (209 km) of waterways exists within the park. Canoe and kayak rentals and outfitters can be found nearby.
Several miles of hiking and horseback riding trails crisscross the region.
Facilities
The backcountry campgrounds have vault toilets available. Picnic tables, fire rings and lantern posts are provided at each campsite.
Natural Features
The Ozark National Scenic Riverways protects 134 miles of the Current and Jacks Fork Rivers and some 80,000 acres of river, forest, open field and glade environments. Riparian habitats are a major component of the park. Typified by sycamores, maples, cottonwoods and willows, floodplain forests line the rivers. These provide habitat for Swainson's warblers, wood ducks, great blue herons and a wide variety of other species. As a significant karst resource, the park contains the world's largest collection of first magnitude springs. It also contains over 300 known caves, numerous sinkholes and losing streams.
The park also contains several "Missouri Natural Areas", parcels set aside due to their unique scenic beauty or scientific value.
Nearby Attractions
Round Spring Cave is nearby, with ranger-guided tours offered daily during summer months. Historic and picturesque Alley Mill and Alley Spring are also nearby. The mill is open daily in the summer and ranger-guided tours are available upon request.
Scenic Big Spring is the largest freshwater spring in North America and produces an outflow of 280 million gallons a day.
Find visitor centers and other services available in the park. Check current hours and availability before you go.
Visitor Center
Alley General Store is part of the Alley historic community and features Ozark cultural exhibits, cooperating association merchandise sales, and an informational contact…
Visitor Center
Built in 1936 by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), this station serves as a welcome center for Big Spring. Park literature, passport stamps, and information are…
Visitor Center
Pulltite Ranger Station is located next to Pulltite Campground on State Route K. Restrooms and showers are available at this location year-round. Visitor Contact Station…
31104 County Rd EE-356, Salem, MO (573) 858-3397 Directions
Visitor Center
Round Spring Ranger Station, located along the Current River, serves the upper third of Ozark National Scenic Riverways. This station offers park literature, trip…
Facility
Alley Mill is located at Alley Spring. Rangers lead guided tours of the mill or answer questions at the front desk. The facility offers an Eastern National sales area…
12185 Alley Hollow Road, Eminence, MO (573) 226-3945 Directions
Open 24 hours, daily · Ozark National Scenic Riverways
Generally, the park grounds are open 24-hours a day throughout the year. Some visitor centers will have different hours depending on season and staff availability. Likewise, certain roads, trails, or river access points may be seasonally closed.
No entrance fees listed.
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Updated 4 hr ago
Ozark National Scenic Riverways is located in southeastern Missouri. Summer temperatures generally range from 75-100 degrees (°F) with high humidity. Winter temperatures generally range from 0-50 (°F) degrees with periods of intermittent freezing and snow. Periods of excessive heat are typical in summer, while heavy rains or flooding can occur throughout the year. Be sure to plan accordingly when camping, hiking, or floating.
Visitor centers can be found at the following locations: Big Spring Entrance Station - 3 miles south of Van Buren on Highway 103 Alley Mill & Store - 12185 Alley Hollow Road Round Spring Ranger Station - 13209 Round Spring Campground Rd Administrative offices for Ozark National Scenic Riverways are located at 404 Watercress Drive, Van Buren, MO 63965. This location does not offer a visitor center - tourists should instead go to the Big Spring Entrance Station.
Mailing address: P.O. Box 490, Van Buren, MO 63965
Ask about trails, fees, weather, events, or planning your visit.
AI answers can be wrong. Check official NPS info before you go.
