A 3-day Ozark National Scenic Riverways itinerary allows you to experience the best of both the Current and Jacks Fork rivers while leaving time for the region's famous springs. Most visitors arrive via a three-hour drive from St. Louis or a two-hour drive from Springfield, Missouri. By basing yourself near Eminence or Van Buren, you can minimize driving time and maximize your hours on the water and the trails.
Day 1: The Iconic Blue Springs and Mills
Start your journey at Alley Spring, located just west of Eminence. This is the perfect introduction to the park's history and geology. Walk the short trail around the spring pool to see the 19th-century red mill and the churning blue waters. Afterward, drive east toward the Current River to visit Blue Spring. Known as the 'Spring of the Summer Sky,' it is one of the deepest springs in the United States and offers a stunning, intense color that is best viewed in the morning light.
In the afternoon, head toward Rocky Falls. This is a great spot for a picnic and a dip in the natural pool at the base of the falls. The ancient purple rhyolite rocks here are a geological anomaly in the otherwise limestone-dominated Ozarks. End your first day with a drive to the Peck Ranch area to see if you can spot the local elk herd or the wild horses as the sun begins to set over the rolling hills.
Where to sleep
RV parks near Ozark National Scenic Riverways on RoverPass
Partner link · RoverPass
Day 2: Floating the Upper Current River
Dedicated your second day to the water. A popular stretch is from Akers Ferry to Pulltite, roughly a 10-mile float that takes four to six hours depending on how often you stop. Arrange for a shuttle from a local outfitter in the morning. This section of the river features several small caves accessible from the water and the ruins of old homesteads. You will pass through scenic bluffs and numerous gravel bars where you can pull over for a lunch break.
Make sure to stop at Cave Spring, where you can actually paddle your boat a short distance into a massive cavern that discharges millions of gallons of water directly into the river. Once you reach Pulltite, you can take a short walk to see the historic Pulltite Cabin. After your shuttle picks you up and returns you to your vehicle, enjoy a hearty dinner in Eminence or cook over a campfire at one of the parkâs many well-maintained campgrounds.
Where to sleep
Campsites near Ozark National Scenic Riverways on Campspot
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Day 3: Big Spring and the Lower Current
On your final day, move south to the Van Buren area to visit Big Spring. As one of the largest springs in the world, the sheer volume of water is breathtaking. The surrounding park area, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, features beautiful stone structures and walking paths. Take the Slough Trail for a peaceful walk through the bottomland forest, or simply sit by the spring and listen to the roar of the water emerging from the earth.
Before heading home, consider a shorter float or a swimming session near the Waymeyer access point. If you have extra time, visit the parkâs main visitor center in Van Buren to learn about the conservation efforts that keep these rivers wild. The drive out of the park toward the north or west offers several scenic overlooks where you can take one last look at the winding river valley. Don't forget to grab some local Ozark souvenirs or a piece of blackberry pie in town before you start your drive back to the airport.
Where to sleep
Harvest Hosts stays on the way to Ozark National Scenic Riverways
Partner link · Harvest Hosts
Travel Tips and Logistics
When planning your route, remember that cell service is extremely spotty throughout the riverways. Download offline maps and have a physical map of the park on hand. The roads between the various sites, such as from Alley Spring to Big Spring, are winding and can take longer than the mileage suggests. If you are flying into the region, St. Louis Lambert International (STL) or Springfield-Branson National (SGF) are your best options, both requiring a rental car for the drive into the park.
Pack plenty of sunscreen and water-resistant bags for your electronics. Missouri summers are notoriously buggy, so high-quality insect repellent is a necessity for both hiking and camping. If you are visiting during the peak summer months, try to launch your boat as early as possibleâideally before 9:00 AMâto stay ahead of the largest crowds. Always check the official NPS website for the latest alerts on river levels and any temporary closures of access roads or springs.
Budgeting for Your Ozark Trip
Budgeting for a trip to the Ozark Riverways is generally affordable compared to coastal national parks. The primary costs will be your vehicle, fuel, and equipment rentals. Canoe or kayak rentals typically include the shuttle fee and vary depending on the length of the trip and the type of boat. Camping fees at National Park Service sites are modest, though they should be booked in advance during the summer. If you prefer hotels or cabins, prices in Van Buren and Eminence are standard for rural tourist areas.
Food costs can be managed by packing a cooler for riverside lunches, though the local diners offer reasonably priced meals. Remember to factor in a small fee for ice and firewood, which are available at most camp stores. There is no entrance fee for the Ozark National Scenic Riverways itself, which makes it one of the best values for outdoor recreation in the Midwest. Overall, a family of four can enjoy a full weekend of activities without a massive financial outlay, especially if focusing on the natural springs and hiking trails.
More ways to book Ozark National Scenic Riverways
Illustrative · Diego AngelSprinter Adventure Van
Small enough to park at the trailhead, comfy enough to sleep in.
$189/day (estimate)
Direct link · RVshare