Ozark National Scenic Riverways
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Ozark National Scenic Riverways at a glance
- Best time
- March–May, October–November
- Trip length
- 1–2 days
- Don't miss
- Hike the Ozark Trail
- Nearby city
- Van Buren, MO
Explore this park
Alerts(6)
Paving at Pulltite Beginning August 2
NPS detailsPulltite Campground will close for paving from 5:00pm August 2nd to 3:00pm August 7th. It will reopen to campers for the nights of the 7th and 8th, then close again from 5:00pm from August 9th to 3:00pm August 14th. If you have questions about the closure or camping reservations, please call 573-858-3297. During the closure, floaters may still put in and take out at the Pulltite landing, but the pull-through loop on the gravel bar will not be available and parking will be limited.
Paving Work Ongoing Throughout the Park
NPS detailsPaving 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.
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 the 2026 summer season 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.
Round Spring Lower River Landing Closed
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.
Reservations Required for All Campgrounds
NPS detailsAs 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).
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.
Common questions
Planning Ozark National Scenic Riverways
The summary above covers timing and highlights. These go deeper on reservations, crowds, and logistics — check Alerts for live updates.
Reservation rules vary by season and activity for Ozark National Scenic Riverways. See Overview on this page for fees, timed entry, and campground details before you travel.
