If you’re looking for the best rivers to float in Arkansas, you’re in the right place. The Natural State is home to several lazy rivers that are perfect for a leisurely float or a more adventurous river tubing in Arkansas trip. So, when the weather is just right, grab a tube or pick up a paddle and head to one of these amazing lazy rivers in Arkansas.

1. Buffalo National River
Buffalo National River, Arkansas, USA
Stephanie Camp/Google Reviews
It's everyone's go-to, so we might as well list it first! The Buffalo National River is an absolute treasure in the Natural State and one of the best lazy rivers in Arkansas. The 150-mile-long river has endless floating opportunities for all skill levels that can last an afternoon or week. For more detailed navigation on the Buffalo, read our full article about the Buffalo National River.

Enjoy a little lazy river action on the Buffalo National River, one of the best rivers to float in Arkansas, in this video from Kelly Hays Hikes:
2. Kings River
Kings River Township, AR, USA
John Hazmat Haddad/Google Reviews
The gentle curves of the Kings River will keep your interest afloat as you glide through the water. The river is under the protection of the Arkansas Nature Conservancy, so all of its scenery is pristine. Pick an afternoon to float around or make it a weekend adventure. The Kings River Outfitters can help you with shuttling and rentals.
3. Ouachita River
Ouachita River, United States
Robert Nunnally via Wikipedia
There's nothing more refreshing than floating through the Ouachita National Forest. This river has plenty of floating options but a favorite for lazy tubers is the 10-mile stretch from Oden to Rocky Shoals. The Forest Service maintains five float camps along the river, should you choose to make a full weekend of the river's activities.
4. Saline River
Saline River, Arkansas, USA
Saline River Canoe/Facebook
Not every float trip has to be a multi-day marathon. One of the most popular trips down the Saline River is from Peeler Bend to Lyle Park. This short-and-sweet float only takes about two hours, which is perfect if you have younger river enthusiasts. The Saline River Canoe can help you out with any rentals.
5. Caddo River
Caddo River, Arkansas 71923, USA
Arkansas State Tourism/Facebook
Some of the Caddo can be rather rough but a peaceful float can be found between Glenwood and Amity. This stretch is about eight miles and is filled with long pools for swim breaks with a few mild rapids to keep it interesting. Caddo River Camping and Canoe Rental has everything you need to get out on the water.

Kelly Hayes is back again showing us how much fun it is to go tubing in Arkansas on the Caddo River:

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6. Big Piney
Big Piney Creek, Arkansas 72847, USA
Moore Outdoors/Facebook
If you're craving more adventure then try the wilder rapids of Big Piney Creek. The majority of the 67-mile-long creek is perfect for whitewater paddlers, but that's not your only option. From Arkansas 164 to Lake Dardanelle, the creek calms down considerably for laid-back floats making it one of the best places for tubing in Arkansas. Don't forget to stop at Long Pool Recreation Area for a swim break.
7. Spring River
Spring River, Arkansas, USA
Daniel Paull/Google Reviews
Spring River is accessible to paddlers year-round since it's constantly being fed by Mammoth Springs, the largest spring in the state. The chilly waters are particularly irresistible during summer and attract floaters and kayakers, as well as fishers. Ready to get out on the Spring River?
8. Mulberry River
Mulberry River, Arkansas, USA
Robin Kinney/Google Reviews
Like the Big Piney, the Mulberry River can definitely attract whitewater enthusiasts. However, under the right circumstances (when the river isn't too high) the Mulberry can be a refreshing float trip. Around Turner Bend, laid-back floaters need to look for river levels around 1.8 – 1.9.
9. Little Maumelle
Little Maumelle River, Arkansas, USA
Arkansas State Tourism/Facebook
Paddling will be needed but the slow flow of Little Maumelle will still enchant you this summer. This relaxing trip through the wetlands is just minutes from downtown Little Rock. The William Kirsch Preserve (which contains an excellent float on the Little Maumelle) was originally supposed to be used for housing development but was thankfully donated to The Nature Conservancy in Arkansas in 2014.
10. White River
White River, Arkansas, USA
ARhorse/TripAdvisor
The White River may be known as the state's best fishing river but it's also one of the best lazy rivers in Arkansas. After Calico Rock, the river slows down from its quick-paced stream to a much more relaxing trip. Keep in mind that depending on where you put in the next take-out spot will be quite a ways away. So this river is best for overnight stays. When you’re ready to plan your float down the White River, check out the Riley’s Outfitter website.
11. Eleven Point River
Eleven Point River, Pocahontas, AR 72455, USA
Ozark Gateway Tourist Council/Facebook
The Eleven Point River may have more fame for its headwaters in Missouri but don't underestimate the Arkansas side of this water trail. The spring-fed river is reliable all year but will be a great cool-off during any hot Arkansas summer.

Let's go fishing and floating on the Eleven Point River with Show Me Creeks, another one of the best Arkansas rivers to float:

There are some incredible lazy rivers in Arkansas – any of which are perfect for a relaxing float or vigorous river tubing in Arkansas adventure. What are your favorite lazy rivers in Arkansas? What do you think are the best rivers to float in Arkansas? Share your favorite Arkansas River floats in the comments.

We’d love to see the trips you take in our Facebook group, Arkansas Nature Lovers. Join for your chance to be featured and to discover why there’s nothing better than Arkansas’ stunning nature.

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More to Explore

Lazy Rivers In Arkansas

Daniella DiRienzo | July 10, 2023

Are there any other lazy rivers in Arkansas?

Other lazy rivers in Arkansas include:

 

The options for a relaxing float in the Natural State don’t end with the rivers mentioned above. There are also a few man-made lazy rivers that are perfect for leisurely, on-the-water fun. Parrot Island Water Park, for instance, is home to Crocodile Creek, a 500-foot-long lazy river. Don’t let the name fool you, though. It’s as relaxing as can be and includes a waterfall as well as a few other surprises. A great choice for families, the park offers double tubes, which allow parents to enjoy the lazy river with young children.

Which Arkansas swimming hole is perfect for a refreshing dip?

The numerous lazy rivers in Arkansas aren’t the only options for cooling off on a hot summer day. Countless swimming holes fill the Natural State. You’ll find a couple at the Blanchard Springs Recreation Area. Sylamore Creek runs right through the recreation area and boasts two popular swimming holes. A great place to spend an entire day, the main swimming area features a bathhouse and pavilion. The other swimming hole is located just a short distance, across a low-water bridge. Remember, the swimming areas are subject to closures, so make sure to check with the recreation area prior to visiting.

Where else can I cool off in Arkansas?

Other fun places to cool off in Arkansas include:

 

Of Arkansas’ swimming holes, Kings River Falls in Witter ranks pretty high up there. A little slice of paradise, the 10-foot waterfall is surrounded by idyllic scenery. Even better, the pool below the fall is perfect for splashing around. Accessing Kings River Falls requires trekking along a 0.9-mile out-and-back trail, making for a 1.8-mile round-trip. The effort is completely worth it, though, as the end reward is a cascade that’s as refreshing as it is picturesque.

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