Float Any Time Of The Year Along Arkansas' Spring River
By Carol Ann Carson|Published March 31, 2020
×
Carol Ann Carson
Author
Arkansas native, Carol Ann Carson, has written for OnlyInYourState for three years now. She resides in Western Arkansas' Mountain Frontier but calls NWA home as well. The graduate of University of Arkansas - Fort Smith, Carol Ann earned her B.A. in English and will soon be pursing her M.A. in Library Science. She loves exploring the trails around the Buffalo National River and has yet to find a waterfall that wasn't her favorite.
There’s no doubt the Buffalo National River is a float-favorite among Arkansans, but it’s certainly not your only option! Spring River’s cool rapids will keep you propelled for miles and miles with minimal effort. Pick up a paddle or grab a tube for this year-round adventure on the Spring.
No matter if you're needing a solo trip to get away from it all or an adventure with friends, the Spring River can provide.
This river shared by Missouri and Arkansas is a water lover's paradise! Not only is it filled with beautiful spots, the river is also perfect for a day-long float trip!
The year-round floating is available because of this icon - Mammoth Spring.
This National Natural Landmark is one of the largest springs in the world. The dam is undoubtedly photo-worthy, but the actual spring is located underground. And it is a mammoth! It is classified as a "first magnitude" spring, which means it flows at a rate of more than 100 cubic feet per second. That’s 9 million gallons of water per hour! The steady flow of water means the Spring River is rarely low enough to prevent floats, no matter the time of year.
Mammoth Spring State Park can be its own day trip. Explore the historical treasures like the 1886 Frisco train depot or head straight for the water. The nearby marina has pedal boats for some family-friendly relaxation.
If you're wanting to enjoy more of the river, then take your tube or kayak down the Spring. Leisure floaters and paddlers should take the trip from Mammoth Spring to Hardy, which is about 16 miles or eight hours. Any white water enthusiasts should try the Class II and Class III rapids around the South Fork prong of the river.
The Spring River can easily accommodate any of your float trip needs!
Spring River can handle families, avid kayakers, or laid back floaters! Plenty of outfitters are located along the river for any of your rental/shuttle needs. For more information on the state park, visit this website.
When is your favorite time to float the Spring River? Have you seen Mammoth Springs in person yet? Tell us about your experience in the comments below! We’d also love to see your trip photos 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.
This is just one of your canoeing options after you’ve paddled the Buffalo.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
