Ozark National Scenic Riverways

Ozark National Scenic Riverways, located in the heart of Southeast Missouri, is a verdant oasis that wraps around 134 miles of the untamed Current and Jacks Fork Rivers. This scenic park is a symphony of natural beauty, where crystal-clear waters cascade through limestone bluffs and dense forests, creating a serene and captivating landscape.

As you meander along the rivers, you’ll discover an array of springs, each one a natural fountain of life that feeds the rivers. Alley Spring, on the west side of the park, is a standout, featuring the historic Alley Mill, a turbine-powered mill that once ground wheat into flour. The mill, still housing much of its original equipment, is a testament to the region’s rich history. Nearby, the Story Creek School, an old one-room schoolhouse, offers a glimpse into the educational past of rural Missouri.

Hiking trails like the Alley Overlook Trail provide stunning vistas of the rivers and surrounding forests, while canoeing and kayaking allow you to float gently along the waterways, observing the diverse wildlife, including trout and catfish. The park’s flora is equally impressive, with blooming dogwoods and redbuds painting the landscape with vibrant colors in the spring.

Summer evenings are often filled with the sounds of ranger-led canoe tours and occasional summer concerts that amplify the park’s tranquil ambiance. For those seeking more adventure, local outfitters offer canoe rentals and guided horseback rides through the rolling hills and dense woodlands.

Nearby, the quaint towns of Van Buren and Eminence offer a blend of artisan shops and local eateries, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a hearty meal after a day of exploration. As the seasons change, the park transforms: autumn brings a tapestry of golden hues, winter a serene stillness, and spring a lush rebirth, making Ozark National Scenic Riverways a destination that invites you to return time and again to experience its unique and ever-changing beauty.