float trips in doniphan mo

  One Bedroom Air Conditioned Cabin Sleeps 2-4 with mini-fridge and microwave : $100/night Tandem Kayak

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RIVER RESORT

Book a Room at the Rocky River Inn 573 -996-2400

Book a Room at the Current River Inn 573-996-2101

Rocky River Resort Camping & Floating!

(573) 996-7171  

VISIT THE BEAUTIFUL CURRENT RIVER OF DONIPHAN, MO

Come Visit the Beautiful Current River in Doniphan, Missouri!

The Rocky River Resort rests on the banks of the Current River in Doniphan, MO. Dedicated to fun and convenience, the Rocky River Resort offers lots of activities and lodgings for you, your family, and your friends. Whether you are visiting to float the Current River, camp under the stars, or stay in one of our comfortable inns, the Rocky River Resort has something for everyone! 

Reasons to Visit the Rocky River Resort 

Here are a few reasons to schedule your trip to the Rocky River Resort now! 

Spacious & Shade Covered Campsites

Hot Showers

Electric Hook Ups

Many Fun River Floating Choices

Coin-Operated Washers & Dryers

Picnic Tables & Fire Rings

The Rocky River Resort also has an on-site convenience store that supplies sodas, t-shirts, and everything you need for a day out on the river! We’re also a hop-skip and a jump from downtown Doniphan if you can’t find what you need here. The historic downtown of Doniphan, MO, offers many delights, from the Current River Heritage Museum to Heritage Park and more; Doniphan is where the heartland of America and Ozark heritage meets the great outdoors. 

Quality and Comfortable Motels for All

If you prefer to sleep indoors, the Rocky River Resort owns and operates two comfortable and affordable motel options; The Rocky River Inn and The Current River Inn. Both inns come with Direct TV, toiletries, pools, and many other home comforts to ensure your stay with us is as cozy and convenient as possible. 

Had the best time ever. The employees were friendly and gave us great service. The prices were reasonable, and we plan to use them again hopefully really soon!

- Jennifer V. 

Great place! So nice, open area, and great respect for all that stay there, no issues!! We will be back!

- Kara Lee J. 

Slide title

If you're in Doniphan, MO, and want to float the Current River, Rocky River  Resort is THE SPOT!! Thanks again for the great weekend you all. Bravo!!!!

Contact Us to Schedule Your Visit

Rocky River Resort Camping & Floating

Phone: 573-996-7171

Email: [email protected]

Address:  304 W. Jefferson Doniphan, MO 63935

Book a Room at the Rocky River Inn

Phone: 573 -996-2400

Email: [email protected]

Address: 100 Oak Tree Village Doniphan, MO 63935

Book a Room at the Current River Inn

Phone: 573-996-2101

Address:  109 Smith Drive Doniphan, MO 63935

Business Hours:

24-Hour Emergency

Rocky River Inn is open 24/7 with a Desk Clerk always available. 

Current River Inn is open 8am-10pm. We closes October – March, and offer long term stays during the winter months. 

Resort – Monday-Thurs 9am-4pm, Friday-Sunday 8am-4pm 

Click here to send us email

Copyright 2024 Akers Ferry ® Canoe Rental. All rights reserved. Akers Ferry ® is a Registered Trademark of Akers Ferry ® Canoe Rental. Web site created and maintained by Zcom Design LLC .

• About The Landing
• Attractions
• Contact & Directions

Since The Landing originated the Current River Tube Trip over 30 years ago, it has become an extremely popular form of summertime entertainment. More and more people each year have discovered this relaxing pastime. It is a unique and inexpensive form of entertainment for the whole family, and we guarantee you a fun-filled summer day or weekend!

pick your ride

Standard Tube

The Current River Original. If you like to keep it simple and do it the old fashioned way, the rubber tube is the tube for you.

Current River Cadillac

Cadillac tubes are tubes with a fabric cover and a mesh seat. They provide better back support to make your tube float more comfortable, and the cover keeps the tube from getting hot from the sun.

Deluxe Tube

The deluxe tube is made from heavy duty PVC. They include two handles that make it easy to move your tube in and out of the water.

An upgraded version of the Deluxe Tube, with a backrest and included cupholder.

Deluxe Cooler Tube

If you are taking a cooler with you on your tube trip (recommended) you will need this specialized tube to float your cooler.

The Landing offers a large selection of 6 man rafts which are great for families and groups of 6 or less that want to float together. Our heavy duty PVC rafts are 12 foot long and 6 foot wide.

Canoeing the Current River is as famous as it is fun. Most of our canoes are 17 feet Osagian brand, 2 person canoes. Easily maneuverable, the canoe floats twice as fast as any other vessel. Each canoe has plenty of room for your cooler, fishing tackle and river gear.

The Landing offers a large selection of colorful one man, self-bailing, inflatable kayaks. The capabilities of our kayaks make a very enjoyable single user experience.

*Reservations are highly recommended for these vessels on Summer weekends. To place a reservation, please call the River Store to arrange your group reservation. Final payment is due the day before your reserved date. On the day of your reservation, please come into the River Store to get your river pass and start your trip!

OVERNIGHT FLOAT TRIPS

The Landing offers several overnight camping float trips by canoe or raft ranging from one night out to five nights out. Departure times for overnight trips will be arranged on an individual basis and should be arranged at least three days before your departure date.

Overnight canoeing and rafting trips should be undertaken only by experienced floaters. All of the these trips take you through very remote areas and there are very few communication areas such as cell phone service, public phones, restrooms, or stores. It is possible that you could be affected by inclimate weather, etc. Remember that you cannot be picked up after you set out from your put-in point, so plan accordingly with food, water, clothing and shelter. Rafts will float somewhat slower than canoes, so if you are planning an overnight raft trip, talk to us about floating times, rates, etc.

Float Camp Picnic Area

Mark Twain National Forest

Float Camp Picnic Area is located only 150 feet from the cool waters of the crystal clear Current River. Visitors enjoy floating the river, fishing and hiking. A campground is only a half-mile away for those who want to stay longer than a day.

The day-use picnic area offers an accessible group shelter that can accommodate up to 75 people. The site is equipped with electricity, tables and grills. Individual sites are available on a first come, first served basis. Accessible vault toilets, drinking water and trash collection are provided.

Need to Know

• Drinking water is not availalbe at the campground

All vehicles are required to pay a day use fee, $5/vehicle, upon entering day use area. 

• Click here for more information on the Mark Twain National Forest.
• Don't move firewood: To limit the spread of invasive tree-killing pests, firewood from outside the area is not permitted. Some states have quarantines and may confiscate your firewood. Please help protect our forests from invasive species by obtaining your firewood at or near your camping destination and burning it on-site. Visit dontmovefirewood.org for more information.

Natural Features

The picnic area is nestled under a mature forest of hardwoods, which offers plentiful shade. It is adjacent to the Current River.

Nearby Attractions

Doniphan is four miles away and offers float trip outfitters, restaurants and lodging.

The swift-moving river allows for enjoyable float trips, as well as canoeing and great fishing. Swimming is also a popular pastime. Visitors enjoy horseshoe pits and volleyball courts, as well as hiking and other recreational opportunities nearby.

Contact Information

#4 Confederate Ridge Rd. DONIPHAN MO 63935

Rental Options

Learn more about gear rental options for your trip

Driving Directions

From Doniphan, Missouri, go 4.5 miles north on Highway Y. Go west on Forest Service Road 3210 for 0.5 miles to the recreation area.

Available Campsites

• Site 001, Loop FLOA, Type Group Picnic Area

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CHOOSE FROM TWO TRIPS

CHOOSE FROM THREE TRIPS

Windy’s Floats

18791 Main St.

Eminence MO 65466

573-226-3404

[email protected]

Windy’s Floats is authorized within Ozark National Scenic Riverways to provide canoe, kayak, raft, tube and johnboat rentals and shuttle service.

© 2024 Laura Thake Graphic Design

Breathaway Outdoors America

CURRENT RIVER

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** This page is an advertisement only. All contact information & location is found at the bottom of page.**

In 1964, over 134 mi of the upper course of the river and its tributaries were federally protected as the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, the first national park in America to protect a river system.

The Current River forms in the southeastern portion of the Ozarks of Missouri and becomes a 7th order stream. It flows southeasterly out of the Ozarks into northeastern Arkansas where it becomes a tributary of the Black River. Black River is a tributary of the White River, and White River is a tributary of the Mississippi River. The Current River is approximately 184 miles long and drains about 2,641 square miles of land mostly in Missouri and a small portion of land in northeastern Arkansas. The headwaters of the Current River are nearly 900 feet above sea level, while the mouth of the river lies around 280 feet above sea level.

Boating and floating activities, as well as, fishing and camping are all popular along the river. The scenery can be spectacular along much of the river offering great photo opportunities. The northern portions of the river are mostly gravel bottom and the water is very clear and typically more shallow. The southern part of the river becomes a sand or mud bottom. The water in these areas is usually deeper and the water is normally more of a turquoise blue.

The fishing can range from fair to excellent with many different species available to the angler. Most common are smallmouth bass, perch, and channel catfish. Walleye, black bass and crappie, as well as, alligator gar and carp also inhabit the river.

The Doniphan, as well as, Eminence, and Van Buren, Missouri areas are all popular for recreation on current river. CURRENT RIVER MARINE can handle all your boating needs while ROCKY RIVER INN & RESORT can handle all your float trips and lodging. You can see more about them on our site.

On the Arkansas side, CAVENAUGH MARINE & SPORTING GOODS in Pocahontas, Ar is available for boating needs, as well as, bait & supplies.

LOCATION Southern Missouri & Northeast Arkansas

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10 Best Float Trips in Missouri

Missouri is home to some of the best rivers to float, kayak, and canoe on in the United States. Missouri float trips are so well known because of the many options of beautiful rivers flowing throughout the entire state.

Since we’re from St. Louis, we have been going on Missouri float trips for years and years. We love the diversity in the float trips Missouri has to offer.

Whether you’re into camping or looking for Missouri float trips with cabins ,   this article details all the best places to camp, stay, and rent float trip gear from. 

So if you’re looking for float trips near St. Louis, float trips near Kansas City, or just general MO float trips – continue reading for all the best float trips in Missouri!

Check out our  Ultimate Float Trip Packing List   so you don’t forget  anything.

The Best Float Trips in Missouri Near St. Louis

1. big river.

Distance from St. Louis: 45 minutes Distance from Kansas City: 4 hours Distance from Springfield: 4 hours

The Big River is one of the best rivers for a float trip in Missouri and one of the best for a float trip near St. Louis.

If you are looking to also do some hiking or exploring during your trip, look no further than the Big River. The Big River flows right through the banks of Washington State Park, Twin River Park, Cedar Hill Park, and St. Francois State Park. 

The Big River is one of the best float trips near St. Louis since it can be done as a day trip. The slow-moving waters also make it one of the best family-friendly float trips in Missouri.

Because there are only two outfitters that rent out floating equipment, Washington State Park & Cherokee Landing, this river is more on the quiet side (especially during the week) which makes a Big River float trip the quieter float trip Missouri has to offer.

Where To Rent:  Cherokee Landing  

Cherokee Landing has outstanding customer service and great prices on its float trip rental equipment. The staff is very accommodating and will help you if you have any questions.

Where To Camp:  Washington State Park

Washington State Park is a great park for setting up a tent or bringing your camper to enjoy a weekend of camping. The campground itself is small, but the sites are spaced out and well-kept. You can also rent floating equipment from the concession store.

Where To Stay:  Gorgeous Historical Farmhouse

This  beautiful historic farmhouse  is a great place to stay with your family or a group. It’s only minutes away from St. Francois State Park which has two places to launch kayaks or canoes from. This house can sleep 12 people comfortably and has two full kitchens! The house was built in 1832 but has recently been updated. Although, the owners still kept the historical charm alive in the update. 

🏠 Browse All Rentals Near The Big River 🏠

Find Out What Float Trip You Should Go On [Quiz]

Want to go on a float trip but don’t know which river to choose? Take this free quiz to find the perfect river for you!

Best Missouri Float Trips For Clear Water

2. black river.

Distance from St. Louis: 2 hours Distance from Kansas City: 5 hours Distance from Springfield: 3 hours

The Black River is one of the best rivers for a float trip in Missouri. The Black River is known for its incredible Ozark scenery as well as being one of the best clear water float trips Missouri has to offer. 

While enjoying your Black River float trip you will pass through sandstone bluffs and you may even have a chance to spot some wildlife on the banks of the river. 

If you enjoy fishing, the upper parts of the Black River are known for some great bass fishing. The eastern part of this river also runs through Johnson Shut-Ins State Park.

🛶 Read More:  Complete Guide to Black River Float Trips 🛶

You can’t reach Johnson Shut-Ins by boat or floating to it, but it’s a wonderful place to go swimming and can be a great way to add another adventure to your float trip weekend.

Of all the Missouri float trips, the Black River is definitely one of our favorite nearby float trip St. Louis has to offer.

Where To Rent/Camp:    Black River Camping & Outfitters

If you are looking for a great place to rent your Black River floating equipment, The Black River Camping offers some great rates on float trip equipment.

They also have gorgeous campsites right along the crystal clear Black River where you can walk straight from your campsite into the river.  

Where To Stay:  Cabin On The Black River

Looking to have an awesome Missouri float trip weekend? Look no further than the  Cabin at the Black River . This newly built cabin has a gorgeous view out over the Black River and sits on 27 acres.

It sleeps 12, has two full baths, and has a gorgeous stone fireplace. This cabin is perfect for groups looking to have an awesome weekend floating down the crystal-clear Black River.

🏠 Browse All Rentals Near The Black River 🏠

Best river for canoeing in missouri, 3.  niangua river.

Distance from St. Louis: 3 hours Distance from Kansas City: 3 hours Distance from Springfield: 1.5 hours

Of all the floating Missouri has to offer, the Niangua River is a wonderful choice if you’re looking for a beautiful Missouri river float. 

Flowing just south of the Lake of the Ozarks and passing through Bennet Springs State Park, this river has a lot to offer when looking for Missouri rivers to float.

The Niangua River is known for having  some of the best fishing in the state .

If fishing isn’t really your thing, don’t worry as the Niangua River has a plethora of floating outfitters & different types of Niangua float trips to choose from.

Do be warned, this river along with the Meremac/Huzzah rivers can get really crowded during the summer months.

🛶 Read More:   The Ultimate Guide to Floating the Niangua River 🛶

If you’re looking for a relaxing float trip or kid-friendly float trips in Missouri, either check out a different river or try and visit on a weekday.

But if you’re looking for one of the best party rivers in Missouri, the Niangua is a great choice.

The Niangua River is also only a 3-hour drive from St. Louis or Springfield making it one of the more centrally located floating rivers in Missouri.

Where To Rent/Camp:  Riverfront Campground & Canoe

Riverfront Campground & Canoe is a clean, well-maintained campground right on the banks of the Niangua River. 

Most sites are directly on the river, so you can enjoy swimming and some of the best river floating in Missouri right next to where you’re camping.

Riverfront Campground & Canoe also offers something pretty unique: When looking for all the overnight float trips Missouri has to offer, Riverfront offers an all-inclusive overnight canoe trip that includes all your camping & floating gear, 4 meals, and two guides.

Where To Stay:  Gorgeous Cabin On Niangua River

This  gorgeous cabin  can accommodate 10 people so it’s great for groups or families looking for a fun weekend getaway. The best part about this house? It has its very own private gravel bar so you can enjoy hanging out by the river without even leaving the property! This is a great option for people with kids or anyone looking for the best family float trip Missouri has to offer.

🏠 Browse All Rentals Near The Niangua River 🏠

Best float trips in missouri for scenery, 4. current river.

Distance from St. Louis: 2 hours & 40 minutes Distance from Kansas City: 4 hours & 35 minutes Distance from Springfield: 2 hours & 25 minutes

The Current River, in our opinion, is one of the best rivers to float in Missouri.  The Current River  is one of the spring-fed rivers in Missouri which makes it a bit colder than other rivers, but great for a hot summer day!

The Current River and Jacks Fork River are part of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways and were the first rivers to be protected by the National Parks system. 

Of all the best places to float in Missouri, we definitely suggest checking out the Current River and the surrounding area for some gorgeous Ozark scenery.  

🛶 Read More:   Ultimate Guide to Current River Float Trips 🛶

The Current River runs through Montauk and Current River State Park which both offer some incredible scenery as you pass by on your float trip.

The Current River is a popular spot for people looking to do overnight Missouri river float trips. There are lots of options for primitive campgrounds managed by NPS along the banks of the Current River.

Because of all the amazing things to see and do, it can’t get any better than the Current River for the best float trip in Missouri!

Where To Camp:  Pulltite Campground

Pulltite Campground is managed by the National Parks Service and is part of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. This Current River campground has flush toilets and a shower house but no hookups for RVs.

Pulltite is our first choice for a campground because it is located on a beautiful section of the river where some of the best Current River float trips are. 

Lots of sites are also riverfront, which is floating in Missouri dream. If you’re looking for NPS campgrounds with hookups check out Alley Spring, Big Spring, and Round Spring. 

Where To Rent:  Carr’s Canoe Rental

Carrs Canoe Rental is an authorized rental service by the National Parks Service and you can rent canoes, kayaks, rafts, and tubes from them.

They are located at Round Spring Campground but will arrange with you to pick you up at the lodging or campground you are staying at. They can accommodate single-day float trips or even overnight float trips.

Where To Stay:  Secluded Riverfront Cabin  

Looking for Current River cabins to stay in?  This cabin sits right on the Current River and is great for a family or friends looking to explore everything the Current River has to offer. 

Put your canoes in right at the cabin or spend the day by the river fishing, swimming, and sitting by the fire ring right on the banks of the crystal clear river. 

Great For Groups:  Luxury River View Cabin  

This cabin is a gorgeous home that sits upon a bluff overlooking the Current River. It has everything that you could need for having an awesome weekend with your friends or family.

It sleeps 12 and has two living areas, two large outdoor deck areas with patio furniture, and picnic tables.

The best part about this luxury cabin is the tram that you can ride up and down to the river. Don’t worry about lugging all your stuff up and down the stairs every day, just take the tram!

🏠 Browse All Rentals Near The Current River 🏠

5. jack’s fork river.

Distance from St. Louis: 3 hours Distance from Kansas City: 4 hours & 45 minutes Distance from Springfield: 2 hours & 20 minutes

The Jacks Fork River is a tributary of the Current River and is the second river run by the  National Parks system in Missouri . Due to lack of access, it is described as one of the wildest and most scenic rivers in Missouri.

This area of Missouri is also home to two herds of wild horses. See if you can spot them on the banks of the river during your float trip. 

The first 25 floatable miles of The Jacks Fork River is essentially a deep valley with jagged dramatic cliffs rising along both sides of the river. 

This part of the river is for the more adventurous and experienced floaters as the waters are categorized as Class II. The rest of the river is considered a more relaxing float trip and is suitable for all levels.

The Jacks Fork River is another great place for camping and floating in Missouri as there are 3 backcountry campsites along the river and 4 primitive sites all managed by NPS. 

If you’re looking to do an overnight float and camping trip, the Jacks Fork would be a great river to check out!

Where To Rent/Camp:  Circle B Campground

Circle B Campground sits right along the banks of a beautiful section of one of the best rivers in Missouri to float, the Jacks Fork River.

You will find everything you need for an awesome weekend camping and floating with your family and friends at this campground. Clean restrooms, shower houses, and shaded spots. 

Where To Stay:  Relaxing Ranch House In The Woods

This cute little ranch house is a great place to stay to be out in nature while also not being that far from town in case you forget anything.

The house is tastefully decorated, the bed is super comfy, and it’s only minutes away from one of the best Missouri float trip rivers. 

🏠 Browse All Rental Houses Near Jacks Fork River 🏠

Best party float trips in missouri, 6.  meramec river.

Distance from St. Louis: 1 hour & 30 minutes Distance from Kansas City: 3 hours & 40 minutes Distance from Springfield: 2 hours & 15 minutes

The Meramec River is one of the longest free-flowing rivers in Missouri and many other popular rivers for float trips stem from this river.

The Meramac actually used to be known as one of the most polluted rivers in Missouri. Local and state governments have taken tremendous steps in cleaning up the river and now it is one of the most ecologically diverse rivers in Missouri!

🛶 Read More: The Ultimate Guide to Floating the Meramec River 🛶

Looking for the best tubing in Missouri? Floating the Meramec River on a tube is super popular between Maramec Springs Park and Meramec State Park.

This is where you will find all of the ‘river resorts’ in Missouri where people go for a party weekend or a fun-filled family rafting in Missouri trip.

You can continue to float past Meramec State Park but many people don’t enjoy it as much as the closer you get to St. Louis there are more houses and buildings along the river banks.

Over all, the Meramec is a great choice when looking for Missouri floating rivers as it’s so centrally located as well as has a ton of options of places to rent/camp.

Where To Rent/Camp:  Ozark Outdoors Riverfront Resort

This large ‘resort’ is a great place to go if you want everything in one place. They have float trip rentals, Missouri canoe trips, rental cabins, a late-night campground, a family campground, a riverfront beach, an aerial park, a restaurant, and horseback riding.

What stands out to us is this is  the  place to go for tube float trips in Missouri.   They have a “tube loop” that is 1.5 miles along the Meramec River that goes right along the campground. You can do this loop multiple times a day or just once- it’s up to you. 

Meramec State Park

If you’re looking for more of a relaxing family getaway without all the party-goers, Meramec State Park has some beautiful campsites right along the river. You can also rent float trip equipment at the park for a reasonable price. 

Where To Stay:  Secluded Cabin In The Woods

This  off-grid cabin  is a great place for anyone looking to disconnect and spend some time in nature.

It is only a short drive to the river and only a 10-minute drive to Ozark Trail Trailhead, Onondaga Cave State Park, Ozark Outdoors, Huzzah Conservation Area, and the Mark Twain National Forest.

Perfect For Large Groups (22 People)

Looking for a house to stay at (on the river) with 22 of your friends or a group of families? Look no further!

This incredible cabin has 7 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms will make sure that everyone is comfortable. Enjoy playing in the river on your own sunny gravel bar and there is even a float trip outfitter right down the river where you can rent anything you need.

🏠 Browse All Rentals Near The Meramec River 🏠

Best float trip in missouri near kansas city, 7. elk river.

Distance from St. Louis: 5 hours Distance from Kansas City: 3 hours Distance from Springfield: 2 hours

Located in the southwest corner of Missouri,  floating the Elk River is a favorite thing to do   for people who live in the western part of Missouri.

This river has so much to offer in terms of the many different rental companies, resorts, and campgrounds along the river. The river also has a large bass population for those who like to fish. The starting off point for float trips on the Elk River is in the quaint town of Noel, Missouri. Floaters will love visiting this town as it’s all about the river here.

🛶 Read More: Ultimate Guide to Floating the Elk River 🛶

The Elk River has some of  the best river rafting in Missouri  as well as a great destination for Airbnbs and campgrounds situated right on the river .  So if you’re looking for float trips in Missouri with cabins, the Elk River is high on the list!

We normally stop for a float trip on the Elk River when we’re on our way south with our camper. Noel Missouri is pretty close to the Arkansas border and there are also some really great float trips nearby on the Buffalo River that we love.

Where To Rent/Camp:  Shady Beach Campground

Shady Beach Campground is a great place to go with a group of friends to have an unforgettable weekend floating and camping. Their campground has riverfront campsites so you can enjoy hanging out by the river without going far from your site. Rent your float trip equipment right at the campground and enjoy being shuttled upriver so you can float straight back to your campsite. For those of you looking to fish, this is also a great spot to catch some small-mouth bass! Reservations: Call 800.745.6481 or visit the Shady Beach website for more info- make sure to make reservations in advance as they fill up quickly!

Where To Stay:  Luxurious Cabin Great For Groups

This luxurious cabin is designed to keep your comfort in mind and is beautifully decorated. It’s also located literally steps away from some of the best canoeing in Missouri. 

You could even jump right off the back porch into the beautiful blue water! The porch area is great for watching floaters go by and enjoying a drink while watching the sunset. 

Affordable Family Vacation Cabin

If you’re looking for more affordable Elk River cabins, this adorable cabin is right up your alley. It is secluded on 24 acres of property, making it a great choice if you’re looking for some solitude.

It even has a hot tub for relaxing in after a fun day out on the river and has some pretty awesome views of the river below!

🏠 Browse All Elk River Cabins & Rentals 🏠

Best float trips in missouri for fishing, 8. north fork river.

Distance from St. Louis: 3 hours Distance from Kansas City: 4 hours Distance from Springfield: 1 hour & 30 minutes

The North Fork River is a tributary of the White River and goes through the upper part of Mark Twain National Forest, all the way down into Arkansas.

The river is about a 3-hour drive away from St. Louis and is an excellent option for people looking to spend a day or weekend floating on one of the best rivers in Missouri. 

The North Fork River is also voted as one of the top 100 rivers for trout fishing in the US and is one of the best rivers for canoe trips in Missouri.

Don’t forget to check out Blue Spring while floating down this river, the water bubbles from the ground creating a gorgeous turquoise color that looks like it’s straight out of a tropical destination.

Where To Rent/Camp :  Sunburst Ranch

Sunburst Ranch is located along a beautiful section of the North Fork River. The owners are super friendly and are there to help with anything you might need.

They have nice, clean shower houses and bathrooms and reasonable rates for campsites as well as float trip rentals. 

Where To Stay:  Oak Cabin With Hot Tub

This cabin is a great place for a family or a couple of friends to stay while visiting the North Fork River. The cabin is down a secluded road where you can enjoy seeing wildlife right off the front porch.

There also is a new hot tub for relaxing and having an evening drink while watching the sunset. Check out Pettit’s Canoe Rental right down the street for float trip rentals and transportation.

Perfect For Large Groups

Another great option for a group of friends or a bunch of families looking to have an awesome weekend on the river. This cabin can sleep 13 adults comfortably and has all the amenities you would need to keep you comfortable.

This cabin is even walking distance to a really nice restaurant and also very close to Dawt Mill & Sunburst Ranch where you can rent canoes, kayaks, or rafts, grab a drink at the bar, or enjoy a tasty dinner.

🏠 Browse All Rentals Near The North Fork River 🏠

Best float trips in missouri for families, 9.   big piney river.

Distance from St. Louis: 2 hours & 30 minutes Distance from Kansas City: 4 hours Distance from Springfield: 2 hours

If you’re looking to go on a float trip with hopes of not seeing another soul, check out the Big Piney River.

A tributary of the Gasconade River, the Big Piney is a great  family float trip river in Missouri  and is easy to float year-round because of the high water levels. This also makes it one of the best places to kayak in Missouri!

The scenery of the Big Piney definitely won’t disappoint either- tall jagged bluffs overlook the river and there are plenty of  secret swimming spots to discover along the way, making this river one of the best rivers for float trips in Missouri.

Make sure to taste some beers at the Piney River Brewing Co and get a Float Trip beer while you’re at it!

Where To Camp/Rent:  Peck’s Last Resort

This campground is the perfect place to stay if you’re looking to camp and float all in one place. They have RV spots, tent spots, and really affordable prices on float trip rentals.

They also have nice cabins you can rent which makes it one of the best places for family float trips in Missouri so you can have all the comforts of home while also experiencing a nice trip together.

Where To Stay:  Secluded Log Cabin On The Big Piney

This log cabin has a gorgeous screened-in porch perfect for relaxing after a fun day of floating down the Big Piney.

The house has 3 bedrooms, 6 beds, and 2 full baths making it a perfect place to get away with family or a group of friends. There are canoe rentals close by and the river is only 2 minutes away.

This house is a perfect spot for exploring the Big Piney!

🏠 Browse All Rental Homes Near The Big Piney River 🏠

Best float trip in missouri for solitude, 10.  eleven point river.

Distance from St. Louis: 3 hours & 20 minutes Distance from Kansas City: 5 hours & 20 minutes Distance from Springfield: 3 hours

The Eleven Point River is one of the best floats in Missouri for people seeking solitude and some time unplugged.

Probably one of the  most remote rivers in Missouri , the Eleven Point is a great river to float if you’re looking for an awesome adventure. The Eleven Point is supplied by the enormous Greer Spring, which is the 10th largest freshwater spring in the world! 

There are primitive campgrounds located along the banks of the river which can be great for people looking to do a multiple-day float.

Where To Rent:  Richards Canoe Rental

Richards Canoe Rental is a great place to rent all your float trip equipment and also set up camp.

They are family-owned and have been in business since 1976. They have shower houses and restrooms for tent campers as well as hookups for RVs. Their canoe and kayaks are rented at reasonable rates and they are on a beautiful section of the Eleven Point. 

Where to Camp:  Greer Crossing Recreation Campground

Greer Crossing Recreation Campground is a secluded campground located right on the banks of the Eleven Point.

It is managed by the USDA and the hosts at this campground keep it super clean. There are vault toilets and no hookups. Richards Canoe Rental is right down the road where you can rent float trip equipment. 

11. Beaver Creek

Distance from St. Louis: 3 hours & 50 minutes Distance from Kansas City: 3 hours & 40 minutes Distance from Springfield: 1 hour & 10 minutes

Floating down Beaver Creek is a great option for someone looking for solitude. It’s also a popular river with fly fishers, so you know there is some good fishing to be had here.

Beaver Creek is a tributary of The White River and even though it isn’t technically a river, it’s still around the size of the Niangua River but it usually has a lot less reliable water supply.

One of the best parts of The Beaver Creek River is that it flows through Mark Twain National Forest so you’re bound to see some beautiful scenery on your float trip.

Where To Rent/Camp:  Beaver Creek Canoe Rental & Campground

Beaver Creek Canoe Rental and Campground is one of the best places to rent float trip gear as well as camp. They have awesome customer service and fair prices. The campground is super well taken care of and the bathhouse is extremely clean. It also has 1600 feet of waterfront campsites, so you can enjoy the river while you camp.

12. The James River

The James River is a perfect float trip located near Springfield, Missouri and the river actually supplies drinking water to the town of Springfield.

There was once upon a time when the James River was actually really polluted, but in recent years thanks to the James River Basin Partnership, the river has been cleaned up , and how it makes for a great place to go floating.

The James River flows south of Springfield and past Galena and stops at Table Rock Lake. There are quite a few options for public access points along this river and when the water is high enough there is a section that can make up a solid three-day 2 overnight float trip.

Where To Rent/Camp:  James River Outfitters

James River Outfitters is the perfect place that offers canoe trips in Missouri down the James River. They have really fair prices on camping and rentals as well as great customer service.

One of our favorite ways to go on a float trip is by being shuttled upriver and floating back to your campsite. That way you don’t have to ride a shuttle for miles after being tired from a full day of floating. James River Outfitters has floats where you can end your day back at the campground which is perfect in our opinion.

13. Huzzah Creek and Courtois Creek

The Huzzah and Courtois Creek are both Meramec River tributaries and are super popular places to go on a float trip near St. Louis. Located near Steelville, Missouri the creeks are surrounded by lots of Missouri float trip cabins and places to camp.

If you’re looking for a family-friendly float trip in Missouri this is not the place during the summer months. Because of the river resorts located along these rivers, this is one of the biggest Missouri party destinations .

But if partying is what you’re looking for, you can end your search and head to Huzzah or Courtois Creek.

Just like with any river on this list, if you go during the week or in the shoulder season, you are bound to see a lot fewer crowds. So these rivers could be a good choice at those times!

Where To Rent/Camp:  Huzzah Valley Resort

If you’re looking for an all-in-one float trip rental place the Huzzah Valley Resort has you covered. They have a huge campground, float trip rental gear, and even horseback riding.

The Huzzah is one of the Missouri floating rivers and the Huzzah Valley Resort is one of the best places to do just that. They even have gorgeous cabin rentals so you can go on your Missouri river rafting trip with all the comforts of home.

Looking for Even More Float Trips? Check out Our Guide to  the Best Float Trips in Arkansas

You May Also Like:

• The Ultimate Float Trip Essentials- What to Bring on a Float Trip
• Top 10 Best Float Trips in Arkansas
• The Ultimate Guide to Buying the Best 4 Person Tent
• Truman Lake – The Best Weekend Getaway Lake in Missouri
• Frio River Tubing in Texas

PLANNING A MISSOURI FLOAT TRIP? SAVE THIS ARTICLE FOR LATER ON PINTEREST!

Jess Drier is co-founder of Unearth The Voyage. She loves outdoor adventures, hiking, camping, going on float trips, and exploring new countries. She has explored more than 20 countries, taught English in South Korea, and visited 28 stunning National Parks while living in her RV. She loves sharing her knowledge here on Unearth The Voyage in detailed guides and helping others discover the great outdoors and their love for travel!

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Your River Adventure Starts Here

Fish, float and camp on the North Fork River in Southern Missouri.

North Fork River Campground & Canoe Rentals

Sunburst Ranch is located on a beautiful stretch of the North Fork River in Missouri. With over a mile of riverfront, you can bring your own inflatable devices and take a nice float without ever leaving the campground.

Go with the flow!

Pricing & Details

Inner Tubes

Bring Your Own Boat

North fork river campground.

Camping- however you like it!

What our visitors are saying

“I just spent the loveliest morning on the river, courtesy of Sunburst Ranch. Stephanie and her husband were immensely friendly and helpful. This was the loveliest morning I've had in a very long time. If you're going to float, go with Sunburst!"

Lindsey Foster

“The people who run this place are always so friendly. The campground has changed a little bit since they got washed out by the flood last year (2017), but they are rebuilding beautifully. I can’t wait to continue camping here and see how amazing the new trees become in the next 10-15 years. Campground is almost exclusively sand and grass. The bathrooms and showers are fastidiously clean. We always enjoy our stays here."

Hannah McKean Shields

“Friendly, personable, flexible, these people ROCK! Just last year their campground was destroyed by a flood, but they're back, gettin' her done and doin' it right! All their buildings are brand new, of course, because they've had to rebuild, but their equipment--even the stuff that's not new--is top notch and kept up. I've been to many campgrounds, good and not-so-good, and this one shines among the best."

Get started!

Schedule your river adventure today.

Mom reunited with kids after husband arrested in Turks and Caicos for ammunition

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. (Gray News) - An Oklahoma mom had an emotional reunion with her two kids Tuesday, but one family member was missing.

Valerie Watson has spent more than a week out of the country. She and her husband Ryan were held in Turks and Caicos after bullets were inadvertently left in their luggage after a hunting trip.

It’s a serious offense on those islands, with a minimum prison sentence of 12 years. Officials released Valerie Watson on Monday but locked up her husband.

“We know that God’s still working, and he’s working through us,” Valerie Watson said.

“I’ve been thinking about this moment for a while,” she said of being reunited with her kids. “I didn’t know when it was going to happen. I was prepared to also be arrested yesterday.”

The Watsons have some help in their fight. Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt sent a letter to government officials in Turks and Caicos on April 16. He calls Watson “an avid outdoorsman,” arguing the ammunition was “an inadvertent oversight, not an intentional attempt to break the law. "

The office of Sen. Markwayne Mullin said they’ve been in touch with the family and are doing everything they can to help.

Valerie Watson said she’s been anticipating embracing her children.

“I don’t even have words to describe it. Just getting to hold them again, it just filled my momma heart. It made me so happy. It just gives me a lot of comfort to know that I get to be here with them now. But my wife heart is still breaking because Ryan’s not with me,” she said.

Valerie Watson said that there’s still work to be done to get her family back together.

“Routine has never sounded better, but I know our life is different. And our goal is to get Ryan home because we can’t be a family without Dad,” she said.

Copyright 2024 Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. KOKO via CNN Newsource contributed to this report.

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