There’s no doubt we’re fans of the Buffalo River, after all it’s one of the natural wonders of Arkansas. Not only does it have a fantastic all-day float trip and the most gorgeous campsite in the state, there’s even a nearby spot that has an actual buffalo herd to visit. But what do you do after you’ve crossed it off your bucket list? Not to fret, the Natural State is filled with fantastic floats! We’ve gathered our favorite eight rivers and creeks to share with you today. No matter if you’re lazily floating, just paddling along, or taking a rip-roaring kayak trip, we have a stream for you.
To help you begin planning for your next river trip, we’ve included addresses to the nearest outfitter or state park.
- Cossatot River - Wickes
Facebook/Arkansas State Tourism This 89-mile long river is a top spot for seasoned kayakers. In fact, it’s been awarded as the best whitewater float stream in mid-America. In peak season the Cossatot contains Class IV and V rapids. If you’re wanting a milder float, plan a trip during the drier winter and spring seasons. The Cossatot River State Park-Natural Area is located at 1980 US-278, Wickes, AR 71973.
- Caddo River - Glenwood
Facebook/Arkansas State Tourism An enjoyable trip for everyone, the Caddo River is perfect for every skill level. Swimming hole break the float into easy portions but the Class I and II rapids keep up the excitement. Caddo River Camping & Canoe Rental is located at 26 Highway 8 E., Glenwood, AR 71943-9214.
- Big Piney Creek - Dover
Facebook/Moore Outdoors This lovely mountain stream running through the Ozark Mountains is great for casual canoers. The creek switches between relaxing pools and rapids to keep everyone engaged. 67-mile long creek has great fishing for small mouth bass, too. Moore Outdoors is located at 3827 SR 164 W., Dover, AR 72837.
- Mulberry River - Ozark
Facebook/Turner Bend Outfitters The Mulberry River typically has a 40-mile stretch of pristine floating that can be sectioned off for up to an eight hour day trip. Be sure to check water levels before you paddle out, the river is easily affected by rainfall which can cause too much flooding. Turner Bend Outfitters is located at 20034 N Highway 23, Ozark, AR 72949.
- North Sylamore Creek - Fifty-Six
AllTrails/Clay Jenkins If too much rain has stalled your next river trip, consider canoeing along North Sylamore Creek instead. While most creeks can flood easily, the narrow stream of North Sylamore can withstand an unpredictable rain. Expect Class I and II rapids as well as some good swimming holes. Barkshed Recreation Area is located at 3150 Tie Ridge Rd., Fifty-Six, AR 72533
- Kings River - Eureka Springs
Facebook/Kings River Outfitters Kings River is one of the nation’s last free-flowing rivers. This floating-friendly stream is filled with gorgeous scenery from spectacular rock bluffs to crystal-clear waters. The Kings is great for day or overnight floats. Kings River Outfitters is located at 8190 Highway 221, Eureka Springs, AR 72632.
- Little Red River - Shirley
Facebook/Little Red River Outfitters The Little Red may be more well known for its fantastic trout fishing but don’t be deterred from planning a kayak trip. Class I and II rapids ease paddlers into the more challenging Class III’s. The river has plenty of islands along the way to take a snack break or two. Little Red River Outfitters is located at 552 Highway 9, Shirley, AR 72153.
- Cadron Creek - Greenbrier
Facebook/Cadron Creek Outfitters Take a trip along the Cadron if you’re wanting to plan a multi-day adventure. If you account for all four forks of the Cadron, the creek offers over 200 miles of paddling. The rapids typically stay around Class I and II which make it accessible for canoes and kayaks. Cadron Creek Outfitters is located at 54 Cargile Ln., Greenbrier, AR 72058.
Did your favorite float trip not make the list? Share your favorite with us in the comments below!
Facebook/Arkansas State Tourism
This 89-mile long river is a top spot for seasoned kayakers. In fact, it’s been awarded as the best whitewater float stream in mid-America. In peak season the Cossatot contains Class IV and V rapids. If you’re wanting a milder float, plan a trip during the drier winter and spring seasons. The Cossatot River State Park-Natural Area is located at 1980 US-278, Wickes, AR 71973.
An enjoyable trip for everyone, the Caddo River is perfect for every skill level. Swimming hole break the float into easy portions but the Class I and II rapids keep up the excitement. Caddo River Camping & Canoe Rental is located at 26 Highway 8 E., Glenwood, AR 71943-9214.
Facebook/Moore Outdoors
This lovely mountain stream running through the Ozark Mountains is great for casual canoers. The creek switches between relaxing pools and rapids to keep everyone engaged. 67-mile long creek has great fishing for small mouth bass, too. Moore Outdoors is located at 3827 SR 164 W., Dover, AR 72837.
Facebook/Turner Bend Outfitters
The Mulberry River typically has a 40-mile stretch of pristine floating that can be sectioned off for up to an eight hour day trip. Be sure to check water levels before you paddle out, the river is easily affected by rainfall which can cause too much flooding. Turner Bend Outfitters is located at 20034 N Highway 23, Ozark, AR 72949.
AllTrails/Clay Jenkins
If too much rain has stalled your next river trip, consider canoeing along North Sylamore Creek instead. While most creeks can flood easily, the narrow stream of North Sylamore can withstand an unpredictable rain. Expect Class I and II rapids as well as some good swimming holes. Barkshed Recreation Area is located at 3150 Tie Ridge Rd., Fifty-Six, AR 72533
Facebook/Kings River Outfitters
Kings River is one of the nation’s last free-flowing rivers. This floating-friendly stream is filled with gorgeous scenery from spectacular rock bluffs to crystal-clear waters. The Kings is great for day or overnight floats. Kings River Outfitters is located at 8190 Highway 221, Eureka Springs, AR 72632.
Facebook/Little Red River Outfitters
The Little Red may be more well known for its fantastic trout fishing but don’t be deterred from planning a kayak trip. Class I and II rapids ease paddlers into the more challenging Class III’s. The river has plenty of islands along the way to take a snack break or two. Little Red River Outfitters is located at 552 Highway 9, Shirley, AR 72153.
Facebook/Cadron Creek Outfitters
Take a trip along the Cadron if you’re wanting to plan a multi-day adventure. If you account for all four forks of the Cadron, the creek offers over 200 miles of paddling. The rapids typically stay around Class I and II which make it accessible for canoes and kayaks. Cadron Creek Outfitters is located at 54 Cargile Ln., Greenbrier, AR 72058.
We would love to see pictures of your floating adventure in our Facebook Group, Arkansas Nature Lovers. You should join for your chance to be featured and to discover why there’s nothing better than Arkansas’ stunning nature.
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