Ozark National Scenic Riverways is home to several "Missouri Natural Areas." These are specially designated areas that are worthy of extra protection and recognition due to outstanding scenic or scientific value. The program is adminstered by the Missouri Department of Conservation. To learn more visit their Missouri Natural Areas page, but don't forget to come back!

If you'd like to explore any or all of these hidden treasures, by all means go for it! Remember however, that collecting plants, flowers, insects, rocks, etc, is strictly prohibitted to protect these special places.

Missouri Natural Areas within the Ozark National Scenic Riverways include:

Big Spring Big Spring Pines Tunnel Bluff Woods Stegall Mountain Blue Spring Prairie Hollow Gorge Jacks Fork (Including Jam Up Cave) Cardareva Bluff Mill Mountain Barn Hollow

Rein Orchid (Platanthera flava) This rare orchid produces greenish-yellow flowers in June and July, and can reach a height of two feet. In Missouri, it is known to occur in only five counties. To learn more about rare wildflowers of the Ozarks, click here.

Back to Ozark National Scenic Riverways Home