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Riverways visitor services shift to summer schedule
Start your Memorial Day float weekend with updated visitor hours at Big Spring, a practical first stop for maps, current conditions, and river tips.
Event details
Big Spring Entrance Station Summer Hours Begin marks the shift into the busiest stretch of the year at Ozark National Scenic Riverways near Van Buren, Missouri. Starting Memorial Day, the station expands operations so you can get current, on-the-ground details before heading to the Current River. We recommend making this your first stop if you are planning a weekend float through the spring-fed Ozarks.
You can use the station as your primary information hub for river conditions, safety notices, and access updates. Rangers can help you match a route to your group, whether you want a calm family-friendly section or a longer day on the water. You will also be able to pick up physical maps and confirm water levels before you commit to a put-in.
Arrive early, ideally by 9:00 AM, if you want the fastest help with maps and trip planning. Check the forecast before you drive in, since spring storms can raise water quickly and change access. Keep your phone and any paper maps in a waterproof case, park only in designated visitor lots, and plan for cold water: the Current River stays around 58 degrees year-round, even in summer.
For overnight plans, look around Van Buren and the broader Carter County area for cabins and riverside campsites with quick river access. If you want a wider range of home rentals and unique stays across the Missouri Ozarks, you can search listings on Lake.com. The station remains open in the rain, pets are allowed on leash, and you should buy ice, snacks, and gear from local outfitters in Van Buren since the station focuses on information and maps.
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