Ozark National Scenic Riverways

About

Entrance / day-use fee applies.

This park's official page lists: Picnic areas, Store / concessions.

This park's official page lists: Store / concessions.

At the park

• Visitor center exhibit
• Camping activity
• Picnicking activity
• Caves & caverns scenic feature
• Hiking trails trail
• Paddling (kayak/canoe) water
• Swimming water

Shows and experiences

• Historic sites & museum

Events

• DarkSky Missouri Festival 04:00 PM–11:00 PM · Big Spring is located approximately 3 miles south of Van Buren on Highway 103. Daytime activities for the DarkSky Missouri Festival will be centered around the Big Spring Pavilion at Big Spring. Night time activities will be conducted in the field a few dozen yards north of the pavilion. It is preferred that vehicles traveling to Big Spring after dark during the festival use Peavine Road to approach the area from the north. Peavine Road turns off of Highway 103 approximately 1 mile south of Van Buren and a lighted highway sign will be placed at the junction to provide direction.

Before you go

Limits

Yes, service dogs are legally permitted anywhere in a park that visitors can go

⚠ Caution: River Ferry at Akers (on State Highway K) CLOSED until further notice

The Akers Ferry on State Highway K will not be in service until further notice.

⚠ Park closure: Round Spring Pavilion Parking Area Closed

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.

Park alert: Reservations Required for All Campgrounds

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).

Park alert: Paving Work Ongoing Throughout the Park

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.

Getting there

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.

Weather & when to go

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.