OHT: Section 5-Ozone to Ft Duglas (Big Piney)

Dogs Unknown

Features Birding · Commonly Backpacked · Fall Colors · River/Creek · Views · Waterfall · Wildlife

• Ozark Highlands Trail (OHT)

There is a fee to camp at either Ozone or Haw Creek campgrounds

Following the official naming of segments, number five passes many great views including the tallest waterfall on the trail around mile 96. In fact, you cross over and by several creeks and waterfalls on this section.

Ozone marks about halfway (mile 84) on the trail if doing a thru-hike. I suggest caching water and food here. There are restrooms and trash receptacles at the campground. Also, there is electricity at the pavilion. There is no water at the campground.

The trail also passes through Haw Creek Falls Campground. This is a pleasant place with plenty of water year round. Be prepared to get your feet wet crossing into the park as you walk down the entrance road. Spend time exploring here if you can.

Fall colors on this trail are astounding. Best time is mid to late November. White oak, black gum, sweet gum elms, oaks, black jacks, and beeches among many others.

Deer, squirrels, birds (notably eagles, hawks, and owls), black bears, mountain lions, coyotes, and even wolves are present along the entire trail