Laws & Policies

"... to conserve the scenery and the natural and historic objects and the wild life therein and to provide for the enjoyment of the same in such a manner and by such means as will leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations." Organic Act, (U.S.C., title 16, sec.1)

 

Park Regulations

 

Why a National Park?

Learn how and why the National Park Service and Ozark National Scenic Riverways were created.

 

1916 Act of Congress that established the National Park Service

 

Early Ozark Rivers National Monument proposal. (external link)

 

How is the Ozark National Scenic Riverways Managed?

Learn exactly how the first Federally protected river system is managed.

 

Foundation Document Overview-Ozark National Scenic Riverways (2018). (pdf file)

 

What exactly can I do or not do in the Ozark National Scenic Riverways?

A good rule of thumb is if it is illegal to do elsewhere it is probably illegal to do within a National Park. However, the Ozark National Scenic Riverways allows many things not commonly allowed in other National Parks; for instance, hunting is allowed and so is the gathering of certain wild berries and nuts. Please read the following documents below to learn more about regulations specific to National Parks and the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. 

 

Superintendent's Compendium, Regulations specific to Ozark National Scenic Riverways

Compendium Amendment: 36 CFR 1.5: Closure of Pulltite Cabin

Compendium Amendment: 36 CFR 1.5: Temporary Closure of Tram Road (NPS Road 123)

 

Code of Federal Regulations, Title 36 (Regulations regarding National Parks, Forests and Public Lands in the USA)

 

Memorandum on use of Other Power Driven Mobility Devices (OPDMD) (.pdf file)

 

Closure Notices

From time to time the park may close certain areas due to hazards, repair work or managed hunts. For the most current status of closed areas please visit our park alerts section. 
 

 

 

"Indeed the river is a perpetual gala, and boasts each month a new ornament." - (Ralph Waldo Emerson, Nature)