Ozark Dog Policy
Ozark National Scenic Riverway is Dog Friendly
The Ozark National Scenice Riverway includes the Current and Jacks Fork rivers and the rivers offer great boating, fishing, and paddling. There are also a number of trails, springs, and caves on land to explore.
Ozark National Scenice Riverway is dog friendly. Dogs are allowed throughout while on a leash on land, and they're welcome to go boating with you.
Ozark National Scenice Riverway also runs the BARK Ranger Program, where you can earn a special dog tag by learning and following responsible practices (see the BARK Ranger section below). (Note that one of our readers let us know that, as of early 2023, they are participating in the program but are currently out of dog tags -- they hope to have more by summer.)
- Website
- https://www.nps.gov/ozar/index.htm
- BARK Ranger
- Yes []
- Hunting
- Allows Hunting []
BARK Ranger
While there doesn't appear to be information about the program on the NPS website, one of our readers confirmed that they are currently participating in the program. However, they do not have tags as of early 2023, but hope to have more by the summer.
Bark Ranger is a really great program that some National Park Service destinations run. The Bark Ranger program teaches dog owners responsible behaviors with their dogs, and in return you get a special dog tag that’s different for each park (note: some parks require you to purchase the tag at the end). You start the program by going to a park office and picking up a checklist. When you complete the checklist (see the link below for more details), you can get your special dog tag.
B.A.R.K. is an acronym for:
- B: Bag your poop
- Help keep the park clean by bagging and picking up your dog poop, and properly disposing of it. Don’t leave your bagged poop on the side of the trail, hanging from branches, or throw it into the woods. Please note dog poop is not a natural fertilizer — it can carry disease that can spread to wildlife or other dogs.
- A: Always wear a leash
- Dogs must be restrained on a leash no longer than 6'. Retractable leashes that extend beyond 6' are not allowed. Not everyone appreciates a dog running up to them, and many people are scared or allergic to dogs — a leash prevents uncomfortable situations between your dog and others. Leashes also help protect your dog from running off if anything spooks them.
- R: Respect wildlife
- Dogs can chase or scare wildlife such as birds and turtles. They can also damage nesting areas. Some parks have wildlife, such as bears, coyotes, or wolves, that can threaten your dog. Please be respectful of wildlife with your dog, and if you do encounter wildlife, keep dog at distance to protect both your dog and the wildlife.
- K: Know where to go
- Know which trails allow dogs, and which don’t. Don’t leave dogs unattended in vehicles while you go off to hike. See the link below for more details.
We also have a list of all parks that run the BARK Ranger program.
Location & Map
Missouri
Hunting
Warning: Hunting is allowed at this location. Please be aware of and familiarize yourself with hunting seasons, and exercise appropriate caution with your dog. During hunting season(s), you may also want to consider having your dog wear a blaze orange vest.
For more information on hunting seasons and policies, please see: https://www.nps.gov/ozar/planyourvisit/hunting-fishing.htm
Have a photo of your dog here?
Note: Policies can change -- please make sure to check official dog/pet policies prior to making plans or booking travel.
Please tell us if you think there’s anything we should add or change on this page.