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Ozark National Scenic RiverwaysCanoes with rocky bluff in background
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Ozark National Scenic Riverways
Natural Features & Ecosystems
 
Nature and Science
(Copyright Al Gardner)
Big Spring
The Ozark National Scenic Riverways protects 134 miles of the Current and Jacks Fork Rivers and some 80,000 acres of river, forest, open field and glade environments. Riparian habitats are a major component of the park. Typified by sycamores, maples, cottonwoods and willows, floodplain forests line the rivers. These provide habitat for Swainson's warblers, wood ducks, great blue herons and a wide variety of other species. As a significant karst resource, the park contains the world's largest collection of first magnitude springs. It also contains over 300 known caves, numerous sinkholes and losing streams.
The park also contains several "Missouri Natural Areas", parcels set aside due to their unique scenic beuty or scientific value. For a list of these special areas, please click here.
Lady Slipper Orchid
Wildflowers in the Ozarks
Many people are surprised to find that wild orchids grow in the Ozarks. More about wildflowers....
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Canoers enjoying the river
Canoers enjoying the river
Canoeing is the most popular activity at Ozark National Scenic Riverways
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Cave formations
Beautiful cave formations.
Hundreds of caves are to be found in the Ozarks. Round Spring Cave is open for tours in the summer.
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Ozark hellbender  

Did You Know?
The Ozark hellbender is one of two species of hellbender, a giant salamander, in the United States. Ozark National Scenic Riverways is one of the few places on earth home to the Ozark species. More at www.nps.gov/ozar
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Last Updated: July 25, 2006 at 00:22 EST