Better known as the Ozark Mountains or the Ozark Plateau, the Ozarks are a physiographic region in the United States states of Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and the extreme southeastern part of Kansas.

The Ozark Mountains stretch from Interstate 70 in central Missouri to Interstate 40 in central Arkansas, forming a large portion of the southern half of Missouri and the northern half of Arkansas. Many entertainment venues, popular attractions, excellent museums, and adventure rides, including roller coasters in Branson, can be found in the Ozark Mountains.

The name Ozarks is an English translation of the French abbreviation aux Arcs (short for aux Arkansas). Originally, aux Arkansas referred to the trading post at Arkansas Post, located in the wooded Arkansas Delta a few decades before the French and Indian War. The name Arkansas derived from the French version of the Quapaw tribe, who lived in the east of Arkansas near the trading post. The name Ozarks eventually came to refer to the entire Ozark Plateau drainage into the Arkansas and Missouri rivers.

The Ozark Mountains occupy a large swath of pristine land in the United States and have existed for longer than the country itself. Within this unique region, you'll find forests, looming mountains, underground caves, and more. The area has been featured in pop culture on several occasions, with the somewhat remote, secluded nature of the destination playing a role. In this article, you will come to discover why many people are drawn to the Ozark Mountains by reading the facts about the Ozark Mountains.

Eureka Springs is surrounded mainly by all of the Ozarks' distinctive features. It is an excellent place to stay if you want to experience the splendor of the Ozarks while still having access to modern conveniences. If you're wondering what to do in the area, check out the Eureka Springs Vacation Guide. It's jam-packed with local recommendations for everything Eureka Springs offers, from breathtaking natural wonders to annual festivals and everything in between.

The Ozarks (also known as the Ozark Mountains or the Ozark plateau) can be found in five states: Missouri, Arkansas, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Illinois. The region is primarily located in Southern Missouri and Northern Arkansas. Springfield Plateau, Salem Plateau, Boston Mountains, and St. Francois Mountains are the four smaller regions of the Ozarks.

The region has a relatively mild climate, clean mountain air, and pristine lakes and rivers. The Ozarks region in Branson, Missouri, is proud of its three pristine lakes with clear and crystal clear waters. These beautiful lake attractions in the area contribute significantly to Branson's tourism industry.

The Ozarks are famous for their sparkling springs, waterfalls, lakes, caves, caverns, and sinkholes (known as karstic landforms). You can find numerous artificial landmarks in the Ozarks region, including the Lake of the Ozarks, Table Rock Rock State Park, Table Rock Dam, and the Powersite Dam. The Ozarks are also known for their fantastic entertainment shows, fantastic rides at Silver Dollar City, and the favorite roller coasters in Branson, MO.

The Ozarks region contains the most rugged terrain between the Appalachians and the Rockies. The Boston Mountains in Northwest Arkansas have some of the highest peaks in the Ozark Mountains, with many exceeding 2,000 feet. The Ozark National Forest contains some of these mountains, including the tallest mountain in Arkansas. Beyond the mountains, the forest encompasses over a million acres and includes the Blanchard Springs Caverns and 300 miles of hiking trails. Several other state parks dot the Ozarks, preserving the region's natural beauty while making it accessible to visitors.

The Ozarks have plenty of adventures in store for you, whether it's exploring a cave or hiking to vantage points overlooking scenic vistas. The region's lush forests and beautiful lakes provide a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities, as well as pristine natural beauty.

The Ozark Mountains' history shows people have lived there since the late Ice Age. This has been known for a long time and is filled with history. To learn more about the Ozarks' history, read the facts about the museums in the next paragraph.

In Northwest Arkansas, the Shiloh Museum of Ozark History has a research library and six historic buildings, in addition to exhibits focusing on everyday men, women, and children who lived in Ozark towns and rural areas. The Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum provides insight into the Ozarks' long history and more recent history, ranging from prehistoric to Native American to Civil War.

In Eureka Springs, you can enjoy even more of the natural beauty of the Ozarks. Stay in a Beaver Lake Cottage to take advantage of the stunning surroundings. The breathtaking accommodations incorporate elements of the natural environment. They are set in a lush forest with sweeping views of Beaver Lake, and floor-to-ceiling windows provide unobstructed views.

It's the ideal location for a romantic getaway far from stressful city life. You will have a peaceful, private retreat whether you stay in one of their suites, one-bedroom or two-bedroom cottages.

After you've all enjoyed great entertainment shows, exciting attractions, and thrilling rides, especially the roller coasters in Branson, MO, learning about the history of the Ozark Mountains is a beautiful thing to do.