ONSR Encourages Safe Hunting

VAN BUREN, Mo – Ozark National Scenic Riverways (ONSR) reminds visitors that annual firearms deer season in Missouri is November 16 to 26. Hunting is allowed in most areas of the park in accordance with state and federal regulations, and everyone is encouraged to hunt or recreate safely and legally this deer season.

• Hunter orange is required for all hunters. Other visitors are encouraged to wear hunter orange if hiking, horseback riding, or floating in backcountry areas of the park.
• All state hunting regulations are enforced within ONSR. Hunting regulations are established to encourage healthy wildlife populations and fair hunting opportunities amongst sportsmen. All hunters must comply with the Missouri Wildlife Code. Specific regulations for deer hunting can be found at Hunting Seasons (at a Glance) | Missouri Department of Conservation.
• Hunting is allowed in most areas of ONSR except for private property or within 300 yards of developed zones. Developed zones include buildings, administrative compounds, roadways, camping areas, hiking trails, and public use facilities. Hunting is not allowed from roadways or from vehicles parked along the road. Hunting is not allowed within the former Big Spring State Park wildlife refuge. Be observant of signs posting additional restrictions.
• With other visitors enjoying the rivers during this time, hunters must clearly identify their target prior to shooting.
• Tree stands cannot be permanently affixed to trees or structures, must be labeled with owner’s name, address, and conservation number, and must be removed by February 15. Ground blinds are allowed but must be removed after each hunt. Game cameras are not allowed.
• The park remains fully open to other visitors during deer season.  Hunters are not allowed to restrict access to other visitors, or block roads or public areas in the park while hunting.
• State law prohibits hunting deer while in possession of a dog. Throughout the year, dogs running at large and off leash within the boundaries of ONSR will be collected by Park Rangers if they are not in reasonable proximity to their owner performing legal hunting activities. The owner will be contacted to retrieve the dog.  If the dog is not wearing a name tag, or if the owner cannot be contacted, the dog may be taken to an animal shelter at the owner’s expense.  Persistent violations or unresponsive owners may result in citations.
• To report a suspected wildlife violation, please contact NPS Arrowhead Dispatch at (844) 460-3604 or Operation Game Thief (800) 392-1111.
• For detailed information about all fall deer and turkey hunting seasons in Missouri, check out the 2024 Fall Deer & Turkey Hunting Regulations and Information guide online at  2024 Fall Deer & Turkey Hunting Regulations and Information.

• Taking or attempting to take wildlife from or across a public roadway
• Pursuing wildlife by motor-driven air, land, or water conveyances
• Taking or attempting to take deer from motor-driven boats or while in the waters of the state
• Taking or attempting to take deer with dogs (in use or in possession)
• Taking or attempting to take deer with artificial light or night vision equipment (“spot lighting”)
• Taking or attempting to take deer with bait
• Failure to void (notch) deer permit or failure to attach permit to deer

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