Did you know that some of the best rivers to float in Missouri come from the caves? Missouri is known as the “cave state” and luckily 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 float trip 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.

1. Niangua River - Bennett Spring
Bennett Springs, Spring Hollow Township, MO 65536, USA
NRO Canoe Rental/Facebook
First up on the list of float trip 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.
2. Meramec River - Leasburg
Leasburg, MO 65535, USA
Ozark Outdoors/Facebook
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. Read more on Ozark Outdoors' website to meet your needs.
3. James River - Galena
Galena, MO 65656, USA
James River Outfitters/Facebook
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 a 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 about one of the best rivers to float in Missouri, visit James River Outfitters' website.
4. Gasconade River - Richland
Gasconade River, Missouri, USA
Gasconade Hills Resort/Facebook
The Gasconade River provides unique sights and stops for floaters. There are breathtaking bluffs, caves, and springs along the 280 miles of the waterway. This easy float is often peaceful with fewer 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's website for camping and float trips.
5. Elk River - Noel
Elk River Floats & Trestle Park, 435 Elk Springs Rd, Noel, MO 64854, USA
Elk River Floats/Facebook
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 known for its extremely calm and clear stream and is great for a relaxing river weekend. Elk River Floats' website offers everything you need for a trip.

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6. Eleven Point River - Riverton
Eleven Point River, United States
Hufstedler’s Canoe Rental/Facebook
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 by boat. Eleven Point may be most popular for canoeing but the calm waters make it a great option for one of the best float trips in Missouri. Hufstedler’s Canoe Rental's website has got you covered.
7. Current River - Van Buren
Current River Road, Current River Rd, Kelly Township, MO 63965, USA
The Landing – Current River/Facebook
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's website is the place to go for your waterfront rental needs.
8. Huzzah River - Steelville
Steelville, MO 65565, USA
Huzzah Valley Resort/Facebook
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 place to float and stop for swimming or picnicking. Huzzah Valley Resort's website has information on outfitting trips and overnight stays.
9. Black River - Lesterville
Twin Rivers Landing/Facebook
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.
10. Big River - Bonne Terre
Big River Drive, Big River Dr, Bonne Terre, MO 63628, USA
Cherokee Landing/Facebook
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. Find out more on Cherokee Landing’s website.
11. Big Piney River - Duke
Big Piney River, Missouri, USA
Pecks Last Resort Canoe and Camping/Facebook
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's website explains how it has been providing float trips, cabins, and camping facilities since 1972.

What do you consider to be the best rivers to float in Missouri? Let us know about your beloved destinations or about your experiences 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!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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lazy rivers in Missouri

Beth C. | May 15, 2021

What are the best river destinations in Missouri?

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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.

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