Ozark National Scenic Riverways

Ozark National Scenic Riverways was created by an Act of Congress on August 24, 1964, to protect 134 miles of the Current and Jacks Fork Rivers in the
Ozark Highlands of southeastern Missouri. The clean, clear waters of these two beautiful rivers provide excellent opportunities for johnboating, canoeing, swimming, fishing and tubing. Hunting is also an authorized use within the Riverways' boundaries. The landscape is predominantly rural, with broadleaf forests and occasional open fields.

The southeast Missouri Ozark Mountains are typified by narrow steep-sided hollows, numerous streams, and bluffs.

Much of the area is underlain by soluble limestone and dolomite, giving rise to sinkholes, caves, and springs of a classical karst topography. There are over 300 recorded caves within the boundaries.

Sixty per cent of the rivers' flow comes from seven major springs and 51 other springs of various sizes within the drainage basin. Big Spring, one of the largest springs in the United States, has an average flow of 276 million gallons of water per day. The maximum recorded flow in one day was 840 million gallons in June 1928.

There are 112 species of fish, 196 species of birds, and 58 species of mammals found in the park. There are also 25 species of snakes found in the park, including 4 poisonous species.

404 Watercress Drive
PO Box 490
Van Buren, MO 63965
573 323 4236 - Headquarters
573 323 4270 - Headquarters
573 858 3297, ext 23 - Round Spring Cave Information

By Plane
The nearest commercial airports are Saint Louis, Memphis and Springfield.

By Car
The area is best reached via Interstate 44 or U.S. Route 60.

Summers are hot and humid. Good sun screen and insect repellent are a
must! Ticks are the most prevalent insect problem. The area is subject to severe thunderstorms, torrential rains, and flooding at any time of year. Winters are generally cool with variable precipitation.

Here are some of the activities that are offered at Mount Rainier National Park.

• Auto Touring
• Biking
• Boating
• Camping
• Caving
• Educational Programs
• Fishing
• Hiking
• Horseback Riding
• Hunting
• Swimming
• Wildlife Viewing
• Backpacking
• Bird Watching
• Nature Walks
• Stargazing
• Kayaking
• Snorkeling

Recommended Activities
Canoeing and floating in tubes are the most popular recreation activities at Ozark NSR. The rivers are considered to be Class 1 streams, which is the easiest classification used. Also, johnboating, fishing and hunting (licenses required), horseback riding, camping, and picnicking are popular activities. Most hiking is done in the spring and fall. Horsepower limitations on outboard motors are in effect above the Big Spring Boat Landing (Current River) and on the entire Jacks Fork River within the park. Check at Park Headquarters for details.