As someone who grew up in rural Missouri, nothing says summer quite like a float trip. While we may be hundreds of miles from the nearest ocean, there are an abundance of spring-fed waterways within driving distance from Kansas City.
Load up the cooler, grab a paddle and take a break on gravel beaches along the way. Whether your ideal float involves taking it slow and partying it up on a raft, or paddling a canoe or kayak on a multi-day camping adventure, these six regional rivers are well worth the trip.
Buffalo National River
With towering limestone and sandstone bluffs and pristine waters, Buffalo National River is a gem of the region. The first National River designated by the National Parks Service, this Arkansas waterway flows for a total of 135 miles and is classified into three sections: the upper, middle and lower river. As water levels tend to drop in the heat of the late summer, the mid and lower river makes for the best paddling this time of the year—we recommend put-in destinations like Gilbert, Dillard’s Ferry and Buffalo City.
Niangua River
For gentle rapids, paddle down this tributary of the Osage River. Refreshingly cool, much of the water from this waterway flows from Bennett Springs, a popular fishing destination and state park in Lebanon, Missouri, which is where we recommend departing from. Outfitters like Majestic Views Floats and Maggard Canoe Rental offer day-long trips ranging from seven to nine miles. Located near Lake of the Ozarks, visit Ha-Ha Tonka State Park while nearby, where highlights include a stone castle ruins, caves, sinkholes and more.
Black River
Stretching from Southeast Missouri to Northeast Arkansas, the spring-fed Black River is a bit further of a drive from KC, but will prove to be rewarding. Black River Camping at Horseshoe Ranch, located just outside of Lesterville, MO, offers serene campsites just steps away from the river and watercraft rentals. Tie the float in with a visit to Johnson Shut-Ins State Park—the water that flows through this park is from the East Fork of this waterway.
White River
This tributary of the Mississippi River stretches over 700 miles, but we suggest floating the northern part of the river just outside of Eureka Springs. While the breadth may seem intimidating, waters are relatively calm. The cold temps and deep waters make the White River the optimal home to several varieties of trout, so you are likely to cross paths with fly-fishers while paddling.
Current River
Primarily fed by Big Spring and Blue Spring, the Current River is frigid and clear. A tributary of the Black River, we recommend floating just outside of Salem, Missouri, a four hour drive from the city. Rent a canoe, kayak or raft from outfitters like Current River Canoe Rentals or Akers Ferry Canoe Rental. While these outfitters also have plenty of primitive campsites, cabins are available for rent nearby at Montauk State Park.
Elk River
If you’re looking to tackle quicker rapids, paddle on the Elk River. Though this waterway spans four states (Arkansas, Oklahoma, Kansas and Missouri), the stretch between Pineville, Missouri and Noel, Missouri—located approximately 30 minutes Northwest of Bentonville, Arkansas—offers exceptionally scenic views with rugged bluffs and emerald waters. Nearby outfitters and campsites include River Ranch Resort, Two Sons Floats & Camping and Big Elk Floats.
Float Trip Food
Just as much as I enjoy the tranquil sights and sounds of the journey, the picnic is an equally important component of a good float trip.
As a child, my mom was the force behind fond summer memories on the Niangua, often packing fried chicken (intended to be eaten cold, straight out of the cooler) and a vinegary pasta salad made with fresh vegetables from the garden. Last summer, before driving down to the Buffalo National River, I stopped by City Market institution Carrollo’s Deli and loaded up on cold cuts and cheeses—mortadella, capocollo, mozzarella and provolone—to assemble a party sub finished with heirloom tomatoes, balsamic and basil.
All this to say, it doesn’t matter if you pack a homey meal or an imported deli sandwich. Just be sure to bring something you’ll look forward to during your day on the water.
