Ozark National Scenic Riverways
Traveling into the Ozarks of Missouri, I came to the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, a place defined not by mountains or monuments, but my water.
Here the landscape is shaped by two rivers: The Current River and the Jacks Fork River, both fed by some of the largest natural springs in the country. The water is clear, cold and constant as it moves through forested hills.
Before it was protected, this region faced increasing pressure from development that could have altered the rivers and their natural flow. Recognizing what was at risk, the area was established in 1964 by Congress as the first national park unit created specifically to protect a river system.
Unlike many parks set aside for dramatic views or singular landmarks, this one was created to preserve something more fluid, an ecosystem that depends on movement.
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