VAN BUREN MO: Last weekend, Ozark National Scenic Riverways was hit with over four inches of rain causing flooding of the Jacks Fork and Current Rivers.The high waters forced the closure of the rivers and Big Spring and Alley Spring Campgrounds for visitor safety." The water has receded enough to open portions of the Jacks Fork and Current Rivers and visitors are able to camp at the Big Spring and Alley Spring again," said Superintendent Bill Black.
The flooding deposited debris and damaged facilities. Park staff restored some areas, but evidence of the flooding remain causing operational changes. At Buck Hollow, the high water steeply cut away the Jacks Fork River bank. Barricades have been placed to keep visitor vehicles away from the hazard. Please do not drive around the barriers for your safety. Canoes, kayaks, and other equipment must be carried from the parking area to the river. The road to Pot Hole was severely undercut and washed away by the flooding Current River. The road is closed.
For more information, phone (573) 323-4236, ext. 0, visit the park's Facebook page, or website at www.nps.gov/ozar. Ozark National Scenic Riverways preserves the free-flowing Current and Jacks Fork Rivers, the surrounding resources, and the unique cultural heritage of the Ozark people.
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
