News Release

Ozark National Scenic Riverways Offers Two Special Managed Deer Hunts

Successful hunter during the 2022 Exceptional Warrior Mobility-Impaired managed hunt. NPS photo.

NPS

News Release Date: July 9, 2025 VAN BUREN, Mo. - Ozark National Scenic Riverways plans to host two managed deer hunts at Big Spring this fall, providing special opportunities for youth and mobility-impaired veterans.

The application period for both hunts is July 1, 2025, through July 31, 2025. Ten hunters will be randomly selected for each event.

The Youth Hunt is scheduled for December 6 &7, 2025. Applicants must apply online through the Missouri Department of Conservation at www.mdc.mo.gov/managedhunt.

The Exceptional Warrior Mobility-Impaired Hunt will take place October 25–26, 2025. Applications and details for this hunt are available at https://go.nps.gov/BigSpringHunt2025.

To ensure public safety, portions of the Big Spring area will be temporarily closed during both events. Closures will occur:

• October 24–26 (Mobility-Impaired Hunt)
• December 5–7 (Youth Hunt)

All affected areas will reopen the Monday following each hunt.

Closures include Big Spring Campground, Peavine Pavilion, all hiking trails in the Big Spring area, and Peavine Road (closed only during the Mobility-Impaired Hunt). Big Spring and the boat ramp will remain open and accessible via Highway 103.

The Exceptional Warrior Hunt is conducted in partnership with the Foundation for Exceptional Warriors (The FEW), the Missouri Department of Conservation, Jolly Cone, Quilts of Valor, Outdoorsmen with a Mission, OA Rentals and the Ozark Riverways Foundation.

The FEW is a nonprofit dedicated to serving veterans who exemplify honor, valor, service and sacrifice. The organization is covering hunting and lodging costs for participants. Learn more at www.exceptionalwarriors.org or call [phone].

For additional information, visit the park’s Facebook page, park website, or call [phone].