VAN BUREN, MO -Ozark National Scenic Riverways will continue to manage river access at Waymeyer, Chilton Boat Launch and Pin Oak on the lower Current River near Van Buren in much the same manner as 2020.
Due to continuing erosion of the riverbank at the Waymeyer access point there is not enough room to safely accommodate the unloading of both commercial and non-commercial vessels at that location on summer weekends as was done in the past. As a solution for potential crowding and safety issues, Waymeyer will continue to serve as a river access for non-commercial floaters only. Waymeyer access is located approximately 10 miles north of Van Buren on State Route M.
The former Pin Oak campground will be the primary access point for National Park Service (NPS)- permitted commercial operators on the lower Current River. From Friday through Sunday, use of the Pin Oak access will be limited to the NPS-permitted commercial operators. From Monday through Thursday (except for holidays) non-commercial vessels can use either the Waymeyer location or the Pin Oak access. For the holiday weekends, Pin Oak access will be limited to NPS-permitted commercial operators from Friday through Monday. This includes the extended weekends of May 28-31, July 2-5, and September 3-6.
Pin Oak will serve as a loading/unloading site only, with all vehicles moved out of the area or parked at the Chilton Creek boat ramp overflow parking area. Chilton Creek Boat ramp will continue to provide river access for motorized vessels only. Chilton Creek boat ramp and Pin Oak are located approximately 12 miles north of Van Buren on Route M.
The National Park Service is continuing to evaluate the hydrology of the river and stability of the riverbank in these areas to help determine the best options for sustainable long-term use. Options for camping and motorized and non-motorized river use at Waymeyer, Chilton Creek boat ramp and Pin Oak are being analyzed.
For more information, contact park headquarters at (573)323-4236, visit the park’s Facebook page, or website at www.nps.gov/ozar.
