9 Lazy Rivers In Arkansas That Are Perfect For Floating On A Summer’s Day
×
J.B. VanDyke
Author
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.
Ouachita River, United States
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.
Buffalo National River, Arkansas, USA
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.
Advertisement
Eleven Point River, United States
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.
Advertisement
Little Maumelle River, Arkansas, USA
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.
Related Stories
The Amazing Crystal-Clear Beach Every Arkansan Will Want To Visit
You'd Be Surprised To Learn That Lake Village, Arkansas Is One Of The Country's Best Small Lakeside Towns
The Most Remote Lake In Arkansas Is Also The Most Peaceful
Saline River, Arkansas, USA
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.
Caddo River, Arkansas 71923, USA
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.
Spring River, Arkansas, USA
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.
Mulberry River, Arkansas, USA
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.
Advertisement
White River, Arkansas, USA
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.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
More to Explore
Arkansas Outdoors
What are the best waterfall hikes in Arkansas?:
Had your fill of tubing in Arkansas? Consider heading out on some of the best waterfall hikes in Arkansas:
- Hemmed-In Hollow: At 200 feet tall, Hemmed-In Hollow is the tallest waterfall in all of the state. You can reach it via a 5.7-mile out-and-back trail in Compton.
- King’s Bluff: Located in Pedestal Rocks Scenic Area in Witts Spring, this waterfall is 114 feet high. You can reach it by a 1.8-mile loop trail.
- Triple Falls: This set of three (or just two sometimes) of waterfalls are located in Harrison. They are 48 feet tall. You can hike a short way to see them right from the road, too!
Which state parks should I visit in Arkansas?
Aside from all the lazy rivers in Arkansas, there are also 52 state parks. Check out some of the very best state parks in Arkansas:
- Crater of Diamonds State Park: This 911-acre park in Murfreesboro is quite unique as one of the most popular and interesting things to do here is search for diamonds (and other rocks and minerals like garnet, quartz, and amethyst) amongst a 37-acre field. There is also an on-site waterpark as well as camping and picnicking opportunities.
- Village Creek State Park: This 6,609-acre area is located in Wynne. Take in 33 miles of trails by foot, bike tire, or horseback. You can also boat here. And don’t forget the 27-hole golf course that is on site.
What are some of the best campgrounds in Arkansas?
Looking for a night sleeping outdoors? Try out some of these campgrounds in Arkansas:
- Lake Wedington: Located in Fayetteville, this camping area can accommodate tents and also offers cabin rentals. While you’re here, enjoy boating, hiking, swimming, and birding, among many other activities.
- Lake Dardanelle State Park: Located within both Russellville and Dardanelle, overnight visitors can expect more than 70 sites to choose from. And the park itself offers a great deal for those looking to explore the outdoors through its ample hiking and fishing opportunities.
- Devil’s Den State Park: This 2,500-acre park in West Fork is popular for its 60 caves and many hiking trails. If you want to spend some additional time here, they also have 135 campsites.