The Wellness Challenge at Ozark National Scenic Riverways

The park

Ozark National Scenic Riverways, the first national park site created to protect a river system, covers more than 80,000 acres around two of the nation's clearest spring-fed rivers, the Current and Jacks Fork — 134 miles of river. Open fields, towering bluffs and karst caves and springs make a backdrop for all kinds of wellness.

The NPS Wellness Challenge runs at all seven of Missouri's national parks, beginning with National Park Week, April 16–24. See the overview of the challenge.

NPS.

Your challenges

Complete the challenges in a category, then download that category's digital badge to share, or get a rubber stamp in your Wellness Challenge Guide or Passport book at the Visitor Information Center at park headquarters in Van Buren or the Alley Spring General Store. A short survey earns a completion certificate.

Physical

• A Paddler's Paradise — paddle or float the crystal-clear rivers.
• Reach New Elevations — climb to a view in the Ozark Mountains.
• Paws in the Park — let your dog lead you along the trails.

Learning

These highlight 10,000 years of Ozark natural history and cultural heritage — learning is as good for you as moving.

• A Detective in Nature — uncover nature's secrets on your own.
• Discover Geologic Wonders — explore the park's rivers and lands.
• Ask a Ranger — learn from the people who know the park.

Mental

The outdoors offers an escape from everyday stress — a place to breathe, relax and take in your surroundings.

• Serenity at Alley Spring — practice deep breathing while taking in the scenery.
• Refresh at Big Spring — let the sound of the water restore you.
• Picture This — notice nature's scale, from the smallest details to the open sky.

The challenge is part of Healthy Parks Healthy People, which holds that all parks, urban and wild, are cornerstones of physical, mental and spiritual health, social well-being and a sustainable planet.

Accessibility

• The Headquarters Visitor Information Center has accessible parking, restrooms and water fountains.
• The park brochure is available in text and audio, with audio description, on the park website and in the UniD app.
• Request an ASL interpreter 14 days ahead, and live audio description by staff 7 days ahead.
• More: accessibility at Ozark National Scenic Riverways.

Sources

Based on "The NPS Wellness Challenge at Ozark National Scenic Riverways," Ozark National Scenic Riverways, National Park Service; a work of the United States government in the public domain. The page's badge graphics are not reproduced.