Ozark Plateau Location: South-Central U.S. Across Four States

The Ozark Plateau (often called the Ozark Mountains) is a highland region in the south-central United States, covering parts of four states:

• Missouri (largest portion, including the Boston Mountains)
• Arkansas (southern extension, including the Ouachita overlap)
• Oklahoma (northeastern corner)
• Kansas (southeastern tip)

The plateau is dissected by rivers (White, Arkansas, Osage) into steep hills, bluffs, and valleys—not true mountains but rugged terrain. It's known for karst topography (caves, springs), hardwood forests, and cultural distinctiveness (Ozark folk traditions). Major cities on its fringe: Springfield, MO; Fayetteville, AR; Tulsa, OK (edge).