Local News – Friday, September 24th, 2021

This Saturday, National Public Lands Day Activities at Round Spring will be celebrated by working on several trails in the park. Volunteering on National Public Lands Day is an opportunity to spend time outside with family and friends, connect with neighbors, and enjoy the benefits that come with the satisfaction of giving back. Join us at the Round Spring Ranger Station at 10 that to work on trail projects in the park. Bring a lunch and enjoy the day outdoors. Volunteers at National Public Land Day will receive a “fee-free” coupon, good for one year, for free one-day entrance into a federal recreation site. In addition, the Ozark Riverways Foundation will sponsor a National Public Land Day celebration full of fun, food, and a free concert at Echo Bluff State Park. Food and fun will be 4:00 until 6:00 that afternoon at the picnic area near the amphitheater, followed by the free concert featuring singer/songwriter Collin Nash at 7 p.m. For more information, contact Skyler Bockman at (573) 323-8093 or visit the park’s website at www.nps.gov/ozar.

Fall is a great time to try the Current River Challenge hike/float adventure. This self-guided activity includes three “legs” to complete: a 4-mile hike from Round Spring to Echo Bluff State Park, a 4-mile hike from Echo Bluff to Current River State Park, and a 4-mile float from Current River State Park to Round Spring. Hikers can pick up an informational map brochure at any of the three park sites. At the conclusion of each “leg” participants will stamp their map at designated kiosks. After completion of all three legs, participants can present their stamped map at the Round Spring Ranger Station to receive an award recognizing the accomplishment. The Current River Challenge is a self-guided activity that can be completed at your own pace, in any order and timeframe desired. It can be completed in one day or over multiple days. Plan accordingly when hiking or participating in any outdoor recreational activity. Hikers should take weather conditions into consideration and be prepared during all seasons. Drinking water, rain gear, map, snacks, flashlight, sturdy hiking shoes, clothing appropriate for the weather and terrain, and emergency campfire supplies are recommended. Always remember to inform someone of your plans. For more information about any of the hikes, contact Skyler Bockman at (573) 323-8093 or visit the park’s website at www.nps.gov/ozar.