National Scenic Riverways · MO

Things to do in Ozark

The National Park Service lists 34 things to do at Ozark National Scenic Riverways. 32 have no extra fee, 31 need no reservation, and 30 allow pets. Each listing links to the full NPS page. Data is from the NPS snapshot of Oct 28, 2026.

Updated · NPS Data API

All (34) Hiking (23)Paddling (5)Guided Tours (3)Fly Fishing (1)Horse Trekking (1)Wildlife Watching (1)
A brown sign up close on brown post with hiking emblem.
Photo: NPS Photo

A Detective in Nature

Unearth the secrets of nature with your own journey through Ozark National Scenic Riverways.

Year-round Pets allowed

Hiking

A yellow/orange canoe on a clear blue river with rock bluff in background
Photo: NPS Photo

A Paddler’s Paradise

Paddle or float on crystal clear waters within the river routes of the Ozark region.

Year-round Pets allowed

Paddling

A group of National Park Service Rangers in uniform posing for a picture with a waterfall behind
Photo: NPS Photo

Ask a Ranger

Expand your knowledge with a journey through the park.

Year-round Pets allowed

Guided Tours

A family and dogs by the side of a blue spring with a rock trail.
Photo: NPS Photo

Discover Geologic Wonders

There is so much to discover within the park’s 134-miles of river and 80,000 acres of land.

Year-round Pets allowed

Hiking

Fly Fishing Clinics

Join a local fly-fishing legend and learn the art of this gentle sport in a free workshop! Clinics are currently offered for youth and parents. All skills levels are welcome; call (573) 858-3297 for details and reservations.

7-8 Hours Reservation required

Fly Fishing

Wooden and iron machines sit on a wood floor with cutes leading to them.
Photo: NPS Photo

Historic Alley Mill Talk

Tour the iconic and historic Alley Roller Mill at Alley Spring. Alley Mill is rumored to be the most photographed mill in the state and perhaps the nation.

5-15 Minutes Summer, Fall

Guided Tours

A yellow lab dog up close with with a straw hat and badge on hat, dog is on leash.
Photo: NPS Photo

Paws in the Park

Follow along as your dog takes the lead through the trails to new spaces.

Year-round Reservation required Pets allowed

Hiking

Picture This

Experience the wonder of nature’s scale from the smallest details to the openness of the sky and waters.

Year-round Pets allowed

Hiking

A leaf bottom trail with sign post and handicap sign in a forest.
Photo: NPS Photo

Reach New Elevations

Reach new elevations in the Ozark Mountains and enjoy the view.

Year-round Reservation required Fee applies Pets allowed

Hiking

Big Spring with clear blue water flowing, and rocks covered with moss and trees lining spring
Photo: NPS Photo

Refresh at Big Spring

Rejuvenate your mind and spirit at Big Spring while embracing the soothing water sounds.

Year-round Pets allowed

Hiking

A ranger points at cave formations within a dark cave room.
Photo: NPS Photo

Round Spring Guided Cave Tour

Discover the amazing world beneath your feet! Round Spring Cave is considered the most spectacular cave within Ozark National Scenic Riverways. Large, varied formations fill over a mile of the passage, which has been well-preserved over the years.

60-90 Minutes Summer Fee applies

Guided Tours

See the Wild Horses

Learn about how to safely view wild horses within Ozark National Scenic Riverways! This page contains information on viewing locations and best practices.

Year-round Pets allowed

Wildlife Watching

Before you go

Check current alerts and closures, entrance fees and operating hours for Ozark. Programs and tours can change with the season or be cancelled on short notice — confirm on the NPS page before you plan around one.

Things to do at nearby parks

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