11 Lazy Rivers In Missouri That Are Perfect For Tubing On A Summer’s Day
While Missouri is known for being the “cave state” there is a crucial element, abundant in Missouri, that is essential in the formation of caves — water! Missouri has 30 waterways that are recommended for floating and canoeing by the Missouri Canoe & Floaters Association. While the mighty Mississippi and Missouri Rivers are not the safest or cleanest bodies of water to relax in, these 11 rivers are perfect for tubing this summer. Without further ado, we present to you the best lazy rivers in Missouri.
*Be sure to call ahead to any outfitters you’re looking to rent from or stay with as flooding may sometimes affect the operations of river businesses.
During these uncertain times, please keep safety in mind and consider adding destinations to your bucket list to visit at a later date.
First up on the list of lazy rivers in Missouri is the Niangua River. In the heart of the Ozarks, this 125-mile long river slowly winds through the lush Ozark scenery into the Osage River. Enjoy the cool waters that flow through the river from Bennett Spring on a canoe from NRO canoe rental. For more information, you can check out the Niangua River website.
The Meramec River is one of the longest waterways in Missouri. The Meramec eventually flows into the Mississippi River but the areas south of Jefferson County offer perfect conditions for floating and tubing. There are many outfitters and campgrounds along the river and regardless of where you decided to float the Meramec, you're guaranteed a great time. Check out Ozark Outdoors to meet your needs.
The James River is notable for its unusually green color which is caused by a naturally occurring and totally safe bacteria present in the waters. This 130-mile-long river, located in southeastern Missouri, has a nice calm current perfect for tubing on a hot day. If you are looking for more peaceful float the James River is worth the trip. James River Outfitters will get you out on the river in no time. For more information, you can visit the James River Outfitters website.
The Gasconade River provides unique sights and stops for floaters. There are breath-taking bluffs, caves, and springs along the 280 miles of the waterway. This easy float is often peaceful with less floaters than rivers like the Huzzah, Currant, and Meramec. If you are wanting to drop a line, spot wildlife, or just relax the Gasconade River is a great choice. Check out Gasconade Hills Resort for camping and float trips.
Looking to plan a float trip in the southwest corner of Missouri? Check out Elk River near Noel, almost to the Arkansas state line. The Elk River is know for it's extremely calm and clear stream and is great for a relaxing river weekend. Elk River Floats offers everything you need for a trip.
The Eleven Point River is one of the most scenic rivers on the list, with minimally developed shorelines. Many of the floating resorts are only accessible only by boat. Eleven Point may be most popular for canoeing but the calm waters make it a great option for a float. Hufstedler’s Canoe Rental has got you covered.
The Current River may be one of the most popular floating destinations in the state. With that being said, if you're looking for a family friendly float the best times to visit are during the week. Missouri's largest spring, Big Spring, flows into the river near Van Buren where you will find most of the floating resorts and campgrounds. Enjoy the cool waters all summer long but be sure to call ahead if you are looking to rent tubes, rafts, or canoes because many outfitters book up! The Landing is the place to go for your waterfront rental needs.
Another extremely popular floating destination, especially with people living in the St. Louis metro area is the Huzzah River. Located just 100 miles from the city this is another destination that gets a bit rowdy on weekends. the clear waters and abundance of rocky beaches make it a perfect to float and stop for swimming or picnicking. Huzzah Valley Resort not only offers outfitting trips, you can stay overnight.
Located in the southeast part of the state, the Black River flows through the popular swimming destination Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park. Besides swimming the river is perfect for tubing. The Black River is damned in Wayne County which forms Clearwater Lake. Twin Rivers Landing is a family-owned and operated business that has been in service for more than 40 years! They've got you covered when it comes to float trips. Learn more by visiting the Twin Rivers Landing website.
The Big River flows through east-central Missouri. There are 83 miles of navigable waters with gentle currents perfect for floating. Check out the many parks surrounding the river if you are interested in camping for the weekend. Cherokee Landing rents canoes, kayaks, rafts and tubes.
The last destination on our list of lazy rivers in Missouri is located in Duke. While most popular with the fisherman, the Big Piney River is another awesome option for floating. The wide channels and calm waters are the perfect ingredients for a great float trip. The water levels can get low if the summer season has been exceptionally dry but typically the river is navigable all summer long. Peck's Last Resort has been providing float trips, cabins and camping facilities since 1972.
What are your favorite lazy rivers in Missouri? Let us know about your favorite destination or about your experience on any of the aforementioned destinations in the comments below.
If you are also looking for camping options this summer check out these 14 awesome campgrounds!
Address: Bennett Springs, Spring Hollow Township, MO 65536, USA
Address: Leasburg, MO 65535, USA
Address: Galena, MO 65656, USA
Address: Gasconade River, Missouri, USA
Address: Elk River, United States
Address: Eleven Point River, United States
Address: Current River Rd, Kelly Township, MO 63965, USA
Address: Steelville, MO 65565, USA
Address: Black River Township, MO, USA
Address: Big River Dr, Bonne Terre, MO 63628, USA
Address: Big Piney River, Missouri, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
lazy rivers in Missouri
May 15, 2021
Beth C.
What are the best river destinations in Missouri?
Now that you’ve learned about some of the best lazy rivers in Missouri, you might be curious about other waterfront destinations. One to add to your list is Beaver Creek, which is a 44-mile creek that makes the perfect setting for an all-day float trip adventure. This quiet creek is both scenic and peaceful and drifting along, you’ll feel millions of miles away from it all. Beaver Creek Campground is a great resource for planning and finding rental equipment. Looking for something a little more lowkey? Then you might be interested in riverfront dining. The following is a list of beautiful riverfront restaurants in Missouri: Les Bourgeois A-Frame, Village of the Blue Rose, Cielo, Big A’s on the Riverfront, Bushwhacker Bend Winery, Sugarfire Smoke House, and Johnny Mac’s Bar and Grill. Learn more about these amazing river destinations in Missouri.
What are some fun summer activities in Missouri?
If you’re planning a trip to Missouri in the summer, get ready for a season filled with fun activities! Some of the best summertime activities include a stroll in the Missouri Botanical Gardens, zip-lining at Canopy Adventure Combo, a stay at Big Cedar Lodge, splashing around at Mark Twain’s Splash Landing, a trip to Ted Drewes for world-famous custard, and a trip to Wakonda State Park for a beautiful Missouri swimming beach. Here are more fun summer activities in Missouri.
Can I camp on the river in Missouri?
If you love the idea of pitching your tent right on the water, you’re in luck! Missouri offers an assortment of riverfront campgrounds. River Front Campground and Canoe Rental in Lebanon is a wonderful option. Whether you’d like a cabin or a traditional tent, you’ll find that a night under the stars is just what you need to recharge. For more information, you can read all about this waterfront campsite in Missouri.
Address: Bennett Springs, Spring Hollow Township, MO 65536, USA
Address: Leasburg, MO 65535, USA
Address: Galena, MO 65656, USA
Address: Gasconade River, Missouri, USA
Address: Elk River, United States
Address: Eleven Point River, United States
Address: Current River Rd, Kelly Township, MO 63965, USA
Address: Steelville, MO 65565, USA
Address: Black River Township, MO, USA
Address: Big River Dr, Bonne Terre, MO 63628, USA
Address: Big Piney River, Missouri, USA
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Liz is a Missouri native with a B.A. in English from Mizzou and a M.A. in Non-Profit Administration from Lindenwood University. She works for a STL metro-area community college and enjoys writing, traveling, and indoor cycling. Her true passion is forcing her encyclopedic knowledge of Missouri facts on uninterested strangers from across the globe!
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