No Arkansas river is totally and completely lazy. Just like most people, lazy rivers in Arkansas have moments of drama and moments of ease. Check out the below sections of rivers that are lazy enough that you can float to your heart’s content without working those paddles very hard. As with all float trips, you’ll want to do your research before you make plans. For several of these rivers, the difficulty or ease depends on water levels and which section you choose to go tubing in Arkansas.

1. Ouachita River

The most popular lazy float on the Ouachita is the ten-mile stretch from Oden to Rocky Shoals. This lazy river in Arkansas will take you through some of the most beautiful forested land you can find anywhere, as the Ouachita National Forest is totally lovely. Read further on about the Ouachita River.

2. Buffalo National River

The Buffalo National River has probably the finest floating in the Natural State. While times of high flow will cause the class I (easy) water to move up a tier to class II (moderately difficult) water, the Buffalo stays pretty easy most of the time. And the scenery while tubing in Arkansas here? There’s nothing like it in the world. Find out more about floating on the Buffalo National River.

3. Eleven Point River

The Eleven Point River is an extremely underrated river that flows into Arkansas from its headwaters in southern Missouri. It’s spring-fed, which means it can be floated year-round, and it’s certainly not overdeveloped, which means you can enjoy some solitude on this slow, unobstructed lazy river in Arkansas. Learn more about Eleven Point River.

4. Little Maumelle Water Trail

If you’re doing the Little Maumelle Water Trail, you’re making a good choice of lazy rivers in Arkansas. You’ll put in at Pinnacle Mountain State Park, most likely, and you can paddle around as long as you want before you head back to the dock. It’s a pretty easy place to float around on a slow-flowing stream, and it’s super close to Little Rock, too. You can even camp on Little Maumelle River at a floating campsite.

5. Saline River

The Saline River is another central Arkansas favorite with a slow flow and plenty of chances to float your troubles away. If you don’t have equipment of your own for tubing in Arkansas, you can rent a canoe from Saline River Canoe. They’ve got a four-mile float trip from Peeler Bend to Lyle Park that you’ll absolutely adore. Learn more about the beauty of Saline River.

6. Caddo River

The best lazy float on the Caddo is from Glenwood to Amity, as the waters above there are a bit more difficult to navigate. The eight miles you’ll float from Glenwood to Amity will have longer pools and tamer rapids than the upper portion of the river. If gorgeous forested hills and amazing rock outcrops are your thing, you’re going to love the scenery on this lazy river in Arkansas. Read more about floating on the Caddo River.

7. Spring River

The Spring River is fed by Mammoth Springs, which has the highest flow rate of any natural spring in the Natural State. Being spring-fed means the water levels are dependable and the water hovers around 58 degrees year-round. You can tube, canoe, or kayak the Spring River with a fair amount of ease, and the fishing is great too. Get more details on Spring River.

8. Mulberry River

Yes, there is some whitewater on the Mulberry, but if you catch it at the right time, it’s just about the most family-friendly whitewater lazy river in Arkansas. There’s a catch to when this river is "lazy." You’ll want to mind which section you choose to float and check out the water levels as well. At a normal flow rate, the Mulberry is mostly a lovely, peaceable river. When the water is too high or too low, there’s nothing lazy about it. Get yourself more acquainted with Mulberry River and other wild and scenic rivers in Arkansas.

9. White River

The White River is an incredibly interesting lazy river in Arkansas. It begins as a stream and meanders its way into a quick river and then into a wide, relaxing waterway. Your best bet for a lazy float is downstream. Learn more about the White River.

Have you floated on any of these lazy rivers in Arkansas before? If so, share your experiences with us!

Looking for some alternate ways to cool off? Check out these splash pads and water parks in Arkansas.