The primary Ozark mountain range in Missouri are found in the southeast of the state and are known as the Saint Francois Mountains, of which Taum Sauk is the highest point of both the Saint Francois mountains and of the state of Missouri. Other areas of the Ozark Highlands in Missouri include the Osage-Glasconade Hills, Salem plateau, Springfield plateau, and the River Hills ecoregions.

In the State of Arkansas, the entire northern section of the state have large areas that are included in the Ozark Highlands which include the Springfield Plateau, Salem Plateau and River Hills ecoregions.

The Salem plateau or central plateau of southern Missouri and is located directly west of the Saint Francois mountains, This plateau includes a broad band across south central Missouri, the Courtois Hills of southeastern Missouri and north central Arkansas down to the north side of the White River. This plateau includes the cities of Lebanon, Salem, West Plains and surrounding areas.

Also, the Ozark National Scenic Riverways and much of the Mark Twain National Forest are located on the Salem Plateau.