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The Ozark Mountains, also known as the Ozark Plateau, are a physiographic, geologic, and cultural highland region of the central United States. They cover much of the southern half of Missouri and an extensive portion of northwestern and north central Arkansas. The region also extends westward into northeastern Oklahoma and extreme southeastern Kansas.
The mountains are heavily forested and primarily composed of a series of plateaus, which consist of ridges and valleys featuring rich hardwood and glacial rock coverage. The highest peaks are not sharp and rugged like the Rocky Mountains, but instead are typically rounded. The highest point in the Ozarks is Buffalo Lookout at 2,561 feet (780 meters).
The Ozarks contain numerous rivers, lakes, and reservoirs, making the region very attractive for outdoor recreational activities such as fishing, hunting, hiking, and water sports. It features many parks and wilderness areas, including the Ozark National Forest, Lake of the Ozarks, Buffalo National River, and Mark Twain National Forest.
The Ozark region is known for its striking natural beauty and biodiversity, featuring more than 200 species of birds and several species of both game and nongame mammals. Furthermore, it is also a culturally rich region, known for traditional Ozark folk music, crafts, and cuisine.
In terms of climate, the Ozarks have a humid subtropical climate, with generally mild, short winters and long, hot summers. Precipitation is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year, which contributes to the region’s lush greenery.
Despite its natural beauty, the Ozark region remains one of the most economically distressed areas in the United States, with rates of poverty higher than the national average. However, it has a growing tourism industry and is celebrated for its natural splendor and unique cultural heritage.