The Ozarks National Scenic Riverways, tucked away in the heart of Missouri, had long been on my list of places to visit. Known for its breathtaking beauty, pristine rivers, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventures, it promised an experience I couldn’t resist. So, I packed up my gear and set out for a trip that would connect me to nature in a way I hadn’t experienced in a long time.

Getting There

As I made my way toward the Ozarks, I couldn’t help but feel a growing sense of excitement. The drive through the winding country roads of southern Missouri was scenic in itself, with rolling hills and stretches of dense forests. There’s a simplicity to this part of the country, and the further I drove, the more I felt myself leaving the hustle of everyday life behind.

The Ozarks National Scenic Riverways encompasses two of Missouri’s most beautiful rivers: the Current and the Jacks Fork. These rivers, along with the rugged terrain of the surrounding forests, have made the park one of the best places for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re into hiking, canoeing, camping, or simply immersing yourself in the natural beauty, there’s something here for everyone.

Setting Up Camp

After arriving at the park, I decided to camp near the Current River, which is one of the main draws for visitors. The riverside campsites offer an immersive experience, where the sounds of the flowing water and rustling leaves create a peaceful backdrop. I found a quiet spot with a view of the river, set up my tent, and took in the tranquility of the surroundings.

There’s something special about camping right by the water. The cool breeze that comes off the river, the sight of sunlight filtering through the trees, and the natural stillness all made me feel immediately connected to this place. With my campsite ready, I was eager to explore the area and get a closer look at the river.

Canoeing on the Current River

One of the best ways to explore the Ozarks National Scenic Riverways is by canoe, and I wasn’t about to miss the opportunity. I rented a canoe from a local outfitter and launched it into the Current River early the next morning. As I paddled through the clear, spring-fed waters, the river revealed its beauty in a way that was both serene and awe-inspiring.

The Current River is known for its crystal-clear waters, and as I glided along, I could see the rocky riverbed below. The banks were lined with towering bluffs, dense forests, and the occasional sandy beach. Paddling through this landscape was like stepping back in time—nature untouched and preserved in all its glory.

What I found particularly captivating about canoeing here was the peacefulness of it all. The river moves at a gentle pace, and with no motorboats allowed in certain sections, the only sounds I heard were the dip of my paddle in the water, the birds calling from the trees, and the wind rustling through the leaves. I stopped occasionally to take in the views, pull up on a sandy bank, and simply enjoy the solitude of the river.

Exploring the Caves and Springs

One of the highlights of the Ozarks National Scenic Riverways is its abundance of natural springs and caves. These geological wonders are scattered throughout the park, and visiting them felt like uncovering hidden treasures. After my morning paddle, I decided to check out one of the most famous springs in the area—Big Spring.

Big Spring, located near the town of Van Buren, is one of the largest springs in the United States, pumping out hundreds of millions of gallons of water daily. The sight of the water bubbling up from the earth, crystal clear with a striking blue hue, was mesmerizing. The sound of the rushing water was powerful, and the whole area had a sense of raw, natural energy. I spent some time walking around the spring, reading about its history, and marveling at the sheer volume of water flowing into the river.

Another must-visit feature is Round Spring Cave, which offers guided tours. As someone who’s always been fascinated by caves, I knew I had to experience this one. The cave is a short hike from Round Spring, and the tour takes you deep into the earth to explore its incredible formations—stalactites, stalagmites, and other limestone wonders that have formed over millions of years. The cool air inside the cave was a refreshing break from the warmth outside, and learning about its history and geology made the visit even more engaging.

Hiking Through the Ozarks

Beyond the rivers and caves, the Ozarks National Scenic Riverways also offers some fantastic hiking opportunities. I spent an afternoon hiking along the Ozark Trail, which meanders through the park and offers some of the best views of the surrounding landscapes. The trail took me through dense forests of oak and hickory, across rocky bluffs with panoramic views, and alongside the rivers.

What struck me most about hiking in the Ozarks was the diversity of the landscape. One moment I was walking through thick woodland, the next I was standing on a high bluff overlooking the river, and then I found myself in an open field dotted with wildflowers. The trail offered a little bit of everything, and the peacefulness of the surroundings made it easy to lose track of time.

The highlight of my hike was stopping at Alley Spring, another natural spring in the park. It’s not just the spring that’s impressive here; there’s also an old red mill that sits by the water, adding a touch of history to the scenery. The spring feeds into a small river that flows past the mill, and the whole area feels like a postcard come to life. I took some time to explore the mill and learn about its history, then relaxed by the spring, soaking in the beauty of the area.

Wildlife Encounters

One of the things I loved most about the Ozarks was the abundance of wildlife. While canoeing, hiking, and even at my campsite, I encountered a variety of animals—everything from deer grazing along the riverbanks to wild turkeys wandering through the woods. The park is also home to an impressive array of bird species, and I found myself constantly looking up to catch glimpses of hawks, eagles, and herons flying overhead.

On my second morning, I woke up early to the sound of birds chirping and decided to take a short hike along the river before breakfast. As I made my way along the trail, I was lucky enough to spot a family of otters playing in the water. Watching them splash around and dart through the river was one of the most memorable moments of my trip. It’s these small, unexpected encounters with nature that make visiting places like the Ozarks so special.

Awesome Experience

As my trip to the Ozarks National Scenic Riverways came to an end, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of gratitude for the experience. The untouched beauty of the rivers, the tranquility of the forests, and the rich history of the land all made this trip one I’d remember for years to come. There’s something undeniably therapeutic about spending time in nature, and the Ozarks offered me that in abundance.

Whether it was paddling down the Current River, exploring the hidden caves, or simply sitting by a spring and listening to the sounds of the water, every moment in the Ozarks felt like a gift. For anyone seeking a peaceful, nature-filled escape, the Ozarks National Scenic Riverways is a destination that will leave you feeling refreshed, inspired, and more connected to the natural world.

This trip reminded me of the importance of slowing down and appreciating the simple pleasures that nature has to offer. I know I’ll be back to explore even more of this incredible place, but for now, I’m left with memories of a journey that fed my soul.