The MDC Ozark Regional Office and recreational area is a 20-acre hidden gem right in the city limits of West Plains. It features a park, walking trails, a nature area that includes an educational pond, with a catch-and-release fishing opportunity for children 15 and younger from May to September. In addition to the trail and pond, the area has a backyard feeder/bird viewing area and pollinator-benefiting landscaping surrounding the building, with a picnic table and benches. Nets, jars, and magnifying glasses are provided in the equipment bucket to assist children in capturing insects for close-up study. A map and compass course is also available on the property. In the office lobby, children can interact with a life-sized tent, draw and color outdoor photos at a picnic table, and view the native fish aquarium. Free MDC publications are available at this location.