Summary
It covers more than 1.2 million acres of land and is known for its scenic beauty, diverse wildlife, and recreational opportunities.
Some good reasons to visit Ozark National Forest include hiking, camping, fishing, and hunting. There are numerous trails to explore, including the Ozark Highlands Trail which spans over 200 miles. The forest is also home to several waterfalls, including the 130-foot Cedar Falls and the 10-foot Glory Hole Falls.
Other points of interest to see in Ozark National Forest include Blanchard Springs Caverns, a system of underground caves and rock formations, and the Mulberry River, a popular spot for canoeing and kayaking.
Interesting facts about the area include that it is one of the largest and most diverse National Forests in the southern United States and that it contains over 500 species of plants and animals. The forest is also home to several endangered species, including the Ozark big-eared bat and the northern long-eared bat.
The best time of year to visit Ozark National Forest depends on your interests. Spring and fall are popular for hiking and camping, while summer is a good time for water activities. Winter can be a good time for wildlife viewing and photography.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References