Welcome to our comprehensive list of places to go backpacking in the Ozarks. Use the table below to see the various places you can go backpacking.
We’ve had to search a bit to compile a list of places where backpacking is allowed in the Ozarks. We’ve managed to bring together the sites of all the various agencies covering the major trails, state parks and wildernesses.
Most of the State Parks where backpacking is allowed also provide camping facilities in a full service campground near the trailhead. Most Wildernesses have basic primitive camping facilities at the trailhead. We find this to be helpful if we’re driving a long way and will be arriving late at night.
Longer Trails across Multiple Agencies
Backpacking in Missouri State Parks
Backpacking in Arkansas State Parks
Most State Parks have hiking trails. The following parks also have designated backpacking trails as well.
Lake Fort Smith State Park
Mount Nebo State Park
Pinnacle Mountain State Park
Hobbs State Park
Mount Magazine State Park
Devil’s Den State Park
Wildernesses in the Missouri Ozarks
- Hercules Glades Wilderness
- Bell Mountain Wilderness
- Devils Backbone Wilderness
- Piney Creek Wilderness
- Paddy Creek Wilderness
- Rock Pile Mtn Wilderness
- Irish Wilderness
Wildernesses in the Arkansas Ozarks
- Upper Buffalo Wilderness
- East Fork Wilderness
- Hurricane Wilderness
- Richland Creek Wilderness
- Leatherwood Wilderness
- Buffalo National River Wilderness
- Ponca Wilderness
- Lower Buffalo Wilderness
Backpacking in Mark Twain National Forest
Also, many sections of the Ozark Trail go through and are maintained by MTNF. See a full list of backpacking trails and trailheads on the Mark Twain National Forest site.
Have we missed out your favorite backpacking destination? Leave a comment or send us a message.