Ozark National Scenic Riverways Round Spring to Big Spring Technical Route
Technical Ozark springs route with gnarly creek crossings.
The limestone bluffs rise 300 feet above Current River as you navigate the rough-cut forest service roads between Round Spring and Big Spring. This 18-mile technical route weaves through the heart of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, crossing Jacks Fork tributary creeks and skirting the edge of caves that honeycomb the dolomite bedrock. The real test comes at Rocky Falls Creek crossing, where flash floods have carved a boulder field that’ll scrape your skid plates and test your wheel placement on wet limestone.
This is solid moderate-to-difficult territory requiring high-clearance 4WD with good approach angles and rock sliders recommended. Best tackled April through October when creek levels are predictable, though spring rains can turn crossings into washing machines overnight. No permits needed but respect the National Park Service land boundaries. The payoff is classic Missouri Ozark scenery, pristine spring-fed pools, and backcountry camping spots along the Current River that most tourists never see.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Difficult |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Dirt, Mixed, Rock |
| Features | Historic, Remote, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 18 mi / 29 km |
| Duration | Full day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 1240 ft |
| Best season | April-October |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Van Buren, Missouri |
| Land manager | National Park Service |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
What kind of clearance do I need for the creek crossings?
You'll need high-clearance 4WD with at least 9+ inches of ground clearance for the rocky creek beds. The water crossings have loose rock bottoms that can shift and create deeper holes.
Is this trail accessible in winter?
Avoid winter months - the creek crossings become dangerous with ice and high water from snowmelt. Best window is April through October when water levels are manageable.
Do I need any permits to run this National Park Service route?
No special permits required, but you must stay on designated routes within Ozark National Scenic Riverways. Camping requires following NPS backcountry rules.
What's the gnarliest section I should be ready for?
The limestone creek crossings near Mile 12 are the technical crux - expect loose rock, potential winch points, and tricky approach angles. Scout on foot first.
Where can I camp along this route?
Dispersed camping is allowed in designated backcountry areas within the park boundaries. No facilities - pack everything in and out, and camp at least 100 feet from water sources.