The Rivers
Join the folks who know that Missouri rivers offer high quality vacation opportunities for families and floating enthusiasts. Our clear, cool waters flow from crystal-clear springs and provide peace and a feeling of remoteness that does not require a long trip into the “back-country.”
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YOU WON'T FIND BETTER WATER ANYWHERE IN AMERICA!
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Beaver Creek: A Secluded Ozark Adventure!
Flowing about 110 miles through southern Missouri, Beaver Creek is a peaceful, winding waterway perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a quiet float. With its clear waters, gentle riffles, and shaded gravel bars, this creek is a hidden gem for paddlers, anglers, and nature lovers alike.
Running near Ava, Bradleyville, and Forsyth, Beaver Creek is home to smallmouth bass, goggle-eye, and catfish, making it a great fishing spot. The surrounding steep bluffs and forested hills provide a breathtaking backdrop, and the creek’s cool, spring-fed waters make it a refreshing float, even in the summer heat. Whether you’re looking to cast a line, explore a secluded stretch of water, or simply enjoy a scenic paddle through the Ozarks, Beaver Creek is a Missouri treasure waiting to be discovered!
Big Creek: A Scenic Float Through the Ozarks!
Winding through southeastern Missouri, Big Creek is a beautiful and peaceful waterway perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Known for its clear waters, rocky bluffs, and shaded banks, this creek offers a relaxing yet scenic float through classic Ozark landscapes.
Flowing near Piedmont and Sam A. Baker State Park, Big Creek is popular among anglers, with smallmouth bass, sunfish, and catfish thriving in its waters. The slow-moving current and occasional gentle rapids make it a great option for both beginners and experienced paddlers. Wildlife lovers will enjoy spotting deer, turtles, and great blue herons along the way. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful paddle, a fishing getaway, or a quiet retreat into nature, Big Creek is a hidden gem that showcases the beauty of Missouri’s waterways!
Big Piney River: Your Next Paddling Paradise!
Ready for a river adventure that’s equal parts relaxation and thrill? The Big Piney River—stretching 110 miles through the Ozarks—is a dream come true for floaters, anglers, and campers looking to soak up Missouri’s natural beauty. This winding waterway cuts through lush forests and towering bluffs, offering crystal-clear waters perfect for a lazy float or an exciting kayak trip. With plenty of gravel bars for pit stops, you can pull over, grill some burgers, and take a refreshing dip.
Famous for its smallmouth bass fishing, Big Piney is an angler’s paradise, but it’s also a haven for wildlife lovers—keep an eye out for playful otters and soaring bald eagles. The river flows through or near Houston, Fort Leonard Wood, and Licking, making it an easy getaway for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re camping under the stars or paddling through breathtaking scenery, the Big Piney River is pure outdoor bliss. Grab your paddle and make some memories!
Big River: A Floater’s Playground with Stunning Scenery!
Looking for a river that delivers fun, beauty, and a splash of adventure? The Big River, stretching 145 miles through eastern Missouri, is a prime spot for float trips, fishing, and camping. With gentle currents and occasional riffles, it’s perfect for kayakers and canoers of all skill levels. The river’s deep pools and rocky outcroppings make for excellent bass and catfish fishing, while its scenic bluffs and forested banks provide the perfect backdrop for a weekend escape.
Flowing through towns like Bonne Terre, Desloge, and Byrnes Mill, the Big River is an easy-access paradise for outdoor lovers. Whether you’re looking to paddle, fish, or just relax on a gravel bar with friends, this river offers endless ways to enjoy Missouri’s wild side. So grab a tube, a cooler, and your sense of adventure—Big River is calling!
Big Sugar Creek: A Hidden Gem for Floaters and Anglers!
Tucked away in the southwest corner of Missouri, the Big Sugar Creek is a Big Fun destination for floaters, paddlers, and anglers alike! Flowing about 47 miles, this spring-fed stream boasts crystal-clear waters, lush forested banks, and plenty of thrilling twists and turns that make for an exciting float. Whether you’re kayaking, canoeing, or tubing, you’ll love the gentle rapids and shady pools that provide the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.
Running near Pineville and Noel, Big Sugar Creek is a top-notch spot for smallmouth bass fishing and wildlife watching—don’t be surprised if you spot a bald eagle soaring overhead or a turtle sunbathing on a rock. Plus, with its connection to the Elk River, you can extend your float trip for even more fun. If you’re looking for a river that’s scenic, serene, and packed with outdoor thrills, Big Sugar Creek is the place to be!
Black River: Crystal-Clear Waters & Endless Adventure!
If you’re searching for one of the clearest, most beautiful rivers in Missouri, look no further than the Black River! Flowing about 300 miles, this stunning waterway is a favorite for floaters, swimmers, and anglers who love its cool, spring-fed waters and breathtaking Ozark scenery. Whether you’re paddling a canoe, floating in an inner tube, or diving into a deep blue swimming hole, the Black River delivers nonstop fun.
The river winds through charming towns like Lesterville, Annapolis, and Piedmont, offering easy access to campgrounds, resorts, and swimming beaches. It’s also a hotspot for fishing, especially for smallmouth bass, goggle-eye, and catfish. A must-visit destination is the famous Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park, where the river tumbles over smooth volcanic rock, creating natural water slides! Whether you want an action-packed adventure or a lazy day on the water, the Black River is the ultimate Ozark escape!
Bourbeuse River: A Serene Escape for Paddlers & Anglers!
For those who love a peaceful, meandering float, the Bourbeuse River is a hidden treasure in central Missouri! Stretching roughly 154 miles, this slow-moving, winding river is perfect for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. The Bourbeuse is known for its calm waters, towering bluffs, and tree-lined banks, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing paddle or a lazy day on the water.
Flowing through towns like Union, Owensville, and Sullivan, the Bourbeuse River is an angler’s dream, home to smallmouth and largemouth bass, catfish, and sunfish. With fewer crowds than some of Missouri’s more popular rivers, it’s a fantastic getaway for nature lovers looking to escape the hustle and bustle. Whether you want to reel in a big catch, take in the breathtaking scenery, or just enjoy a quiet float with friends, the Bourbeuse River is waiting for you!
Bryant Creek: A Secluded Ozark Wonderland!
If you’re looking for a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path float, Bryant Creek is a must-visit! Flowing about 39 miles through the heart of the Missouri Ozarks, this river is known for its stunning bluffs, deep pools, and hidden springs. Perfect for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing, Bryant Creek offers a slower pace, making it a dream spot for paddlers who want to take in the breathtaking scenery and spot wildlife along the way.
Located near Dora and Tecumseh, this secluded gem is a paradise for anglers, with smallmouth bass, goggle-eye, and catfish swimming in its waters. The river eventually joins the North Fork of the White River, giving floaters a chance to extend their adventure even further. If you love the sound of nothing but nature, this is the spot for you—no crowds, no noise, just pure Ozark beauty. Grab your paddle and explore!
Castor River: Home to Missouri’s Only Pink Granite Shut-Ins!
For a one-of-a-kind Missouri river experience, Castor River is a must! Flowing about 134 miles, this scenic waterway is best known for the pink granite shut-ins at Castor River Shut-Ins Natural Area—where the river tumbles over smooth, rose-colored boulders, creating natural water slides and pools perfect for swimming.
Located near Fredericktown and Marble Hill, the Castor River is a great spot for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing, though water levels can fluctuate. Anglers will love casting a line for bass, sunfish, and catfish, while nature lovers can explore the surrounding forests, wildlife, and rocky landscapes. Whether you’re sliding through the shut-ins, taking a refreshing dip, or just enjoying a peaceful float, Castor River delivers a unique and beautiful escape into Missouri’s wild side!
Courtois Creek: Small but Mighty for Float Trips!
If you’re searching for the perfect weekend float, Courtois Creek (pronounced “Coat-a-way”) is a hidden gem that delivers big fun! Flowing just 44 miles, this small but lively creek is a favorite for canoeing, kayaking, and tubing, especially as it connects with the Huzzah Creek and Meramec River for extended float trips. Its crystal-clear waters, gentle rapids, and scenic bluffs make every trip an adventure!
Located near Steelville, Courtois Creek is surrounded by campgrounds and outfitters, making it super easy to plan an unforgettable float. With plenty of gravel bars for picnicking, great smallmouth bass fishing, and a laid-back vibe, this creek is perfect for both first-time paddlers and seasoned floaters. Whether you’re splashing through riffles or just soaking up the Ozark beauty, Courtois Creek is a can’t-miss destination for river lovers!
Current River: The Ultimate Float Trip Destination!
The Current River, stretching about 184 miles, is one of Missouri’s most beloved rivers for floating, fishing, and outdoor adventure. With its cool, spring-fed waters, breathtaking bluffs, and deep blue swimming holes, this river is perfect for canoers, kayakers, and tubers looking for an unforgettable experience.
Flowing through Van Buren, Doniphan, and Eminence, the Current River is part of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, ensuring pristine beauty and protected waters. Popular stops along the way include Blue Spring (one of the deepest in the U.S.), Rocky Falls, and Big Spring, making every trip a chance to explore something incredible. Anglers will love casting for smallmouth bass, goggle-eye, and trout, while campers can enjoy riverside spots beneath starry Ozark skies. Whether you’re looking for a wild float trip with friends or a peaceful paddle through stunning scenery, the Current River is one of Missouri’s top river destinations!
Eleven Point River: Missouri’s Wild & Scenic Escape!
For a truly untamed and breathtaking river adventure, the Eleven Point River is a must-visit! Flowing 138 miles, this river is part of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System, meaning it’s protected and stunningly pristine. With spring-fed waters, towering limestone bluffs, and lush forests, it’s the ultimate destination for multi-day float trips, kayaking, and camping.
Located near Alton and Thomasville, the Eleven Point is known for its cool, clear water, making it a refreshing float even in the hottest months. Paddlers love the gentle rapids and peaceful stretches, while anglers reel in trout, smallmouth bass, and goggle-eye. If you’re looking for a true backcountry river experience, complete with remote gravel bars, hidden caves, and abundant wildlife, the Eleven Point River is an Ozark paradise waiting to be explored!
Elk River: The Ultimate Party Float Destination!
If you’re looking for a river that’s equal parts excitement and relaxation, the Elk River is calling your name! Flowing 35 miles through southwest Missouri, this river is famous for its gentle currents, clear waters, and lively float scene. Whether you’re canoeing, kayaking, or tubing, Elk River is the perfect spot for a laid-back float with friends, family, or even a big group trip!
Running through Pineville and Noel, this river is packed with campgrounds, rental outfitters, and riverside resorts, making it super easy to plan an epic getaway. With plenty of sandbars for picnicking and swimming, plus great fishing for smallmouth bass and catfish, there’s something for everyone. Whether you want a peaceful paddle or a rowdy, fun-filled weekend on the water, Elk River delivers!
Finley Creek: A Hidden Ozark Adventure!
For a small creek with big charm, Finley Creek is an absolute hidden gem in the Missouri Ozarks! Flowing about 35 miles, this scenic waterway is a favorite for kayakers and paddlers looking for a peaceful yet exciting float. With rocky bluffs, clear pools, and gentle riffles, it offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
Running through Ozark and into the James River, Finley Creek is a prime spot for swimming, fishing, and wildlife watching. Anglers can expect to catch smallmouth bass and sunfish, while nature lovers will enjoy spotting blue herons, turtles, and maybe even an eagle soaring overhead. Plus, nearby Finley River Park offers picnic areas and easy water access. If you’re looking for a short but scenic float that feels like a true Ozark escape, Finley Creek is the place to be!
Gasconade River: A Floater’s Dream in the Heart of Missouri!
Winding an incredible 280 miles, the Gasconade River is one of the longest and most scenic rivers in Missouri! Known for its twisting bends, towering bluffs, and remote feel, this river is perfect for canoeing, kayaking, and multi-day float trips. Its gentle current and gravel bars make it a fantastic river for a relaxing getaway, whether you’re paddling for the day or setting up camp along the water.
Flowing through towns like Waynesville, Richland, and Vienna, the Gasconade is an angler’s paradise, full of smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, and catfish. With stunning rock formations, hidden caves, and abundant wildlife, every turn of this river offers a new sight to take in. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or a weekend-long adventure, the Gasconade River is an absolute must-float in Missouri!
Huzzah Creek: The Perfect Weekend Float!
If you’re looking for a fun, easy float trip with stunning Ozark scenery, look no further than Huzzah Creek! Flowing about 35 miles, this spring-fed tributary of the Meramec River is one of Missouri’s most popular floating destinations. With clear waters, gravel bars, and gentle riffles, it’s ideal for canoeing, kayaking, and tubing. The shorter length and mild flow make it a great spot for beginners and families, while still offering plenty of excitement for more experienced paddlers.
Located near Steelville, Huzzah Creek is packed with outfitters, campgrounds, and river resorts, making it super easy to plan a weekend getaway. It’s also a hotspot for smallmouth bass fishing, and with lots of gravel bars for swimming and picnicking, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing float or a lively river adventure with friends, Huzzah Creek delivers nonstop fun!
Indian Creek: A Peaceful Escape with Big Scenery!
Flowing through southwest Missouri, Indian Creek is a serene and scenic waterway perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. With its gentle currents, shaded banks, and occasional rocky outcroppings, this creek offers a laid-back floating experience that’s great for all skill levels.
Passing near Anderson and Lanagan, Indian Creek eventually feeds into Elk River, a popular floating destination. The creek is well-known for its excellent fishing, with smallmouth bass, rock bass, and catfish thriving in its waters. Wildlife is abundant along the banks, so keep an eye out for great blue herons, turtles, and deer. Whether you’re looking for a quiet paddle, a fun fishing trip, or a scenic retreat into nature, Indian Creek is a hidden gem worth exploring!
Jacks Fork River: A Wild and Scenic Paddler’s Paradise!
If you’re looking for one of Missouri’s most breathtaking and untouched rivers, the Jacks Fork River is a must-float! Flowing about 46 miles, this spring-fed river is part of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, meaning it’s protected and incredibly pristine. With crystal-clear water, towering limestone bluffs, and hidden caves, this river is perfect for canoeing, kayaking, and tubing.
Passing through Eminence and Mountain View, Jacks Fork is known for its rugged beauty and challenging float sections, making it a favorite for experienced paddlers. The upper section is narrow and fast-moving, while the lower section offers a more relaxed float with great swimming holes and gravel bars. Anglers will love the smallmouth bass fishing, and camping under the stars along the riverbanks is an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re up for a thrilling ride or a scenic escape, Jacks Fork River is one of the most stunning floats in Missouri!
James River: A Classic Missouri Float with Adventure at Every Turn!
Flowing 130 miles through southwest Missouri, the James River is a favorite for paddlers, anglers, and outdoor lovers alike! Known for its scenic limestone bluffs, gravel bars, and gentle rapids, this river offers an amazing mix of relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re canoeing, kayaking, or tubing, the James River is a perfect float for all skill levels.
Running through Springfield, Galena, and Nixa, this river is super accessible with plenty of put-in spots and outfitters. Anglers will love the abundant smallmouth and largemouth bass, and the river’s calm stretches and shaded banks make it a great place to swim, picnic, or even camp overnight. For a must-visit destination, check out Lake Springfield, where the river opens up for boating, paddleboarding, and fishing. Whether you’re after a peaceful day on the water or an exciting weekend adventure, the James River is a Missouri classic!
Little Niangua River: A Peaceful Float with Big Scenery!
Flowing about 40 miles, the Little Niangua River is a tranquil, scenic waterway perfect for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. With gentle currents, clear waters, and beautiful bluffs, this river is ideal for a laid-back float where you can truly take in the beauty of the Missouri Ozarks. It’s a great choice for beginners, families, or anyone wanting a peaceful day on the water.
Running through Camden and Dallas counties, the Little Niangua eventually feeds into the Lake of the Ozarks, making it a great spot for both river and lake lovers. The river is home to smallmouth and largemouth bass, making it a favorite for anglers. Along the way, you’ll find gravel bars for picnicking, shady tree canopies, and plenty of wildlife. Whether you want to float, fish, or just soak in the serenity, the Little Niangua River is a perfect, crowd-free escape in the heart of Missouri!
Little Piney River: A Spring-Fed Paradise for Paddlers & Anglers!
If you’re looking for a crystal-clear, spring-fed river with stunning Ozark scenery, the Little Piney River is the perfect getaway! Flowing about 43 miles, this hidden gem offers gentle rapids, deep pools, and shady tree canopies, making it a top-tier spot for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. Its cool, clear waters make for a refreshing float, especially in the summer months.
Running near Newburg and Rolla, this river is known for its incredible trout fishing, as it’s stocked with rainbow trout and is a designated Blue Ribbon Trout Area. Along the way, you’ll find gravel bars for picnicking, scenic bluffs, and peaceful stretches perfect for wildlife watching. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day on the water or an exciting catch-and-release fishing adventure, the Little Piney River is a hidden treasure waiting to be explored!
Little Sugar Creek: A Crystal-Clear Adventure in the Ozarks!
The Little Sugar Creek, flowing through southwest Missouri, is a hidden gem for paddlers and outdoor lovers. With its crystal-clear waters, gentle riffles, and scenic rock bluffs, this creek offers a fun and relaxing float trip that’s perfect for canoeing, kayaking, or tubing.
Running near Pineville and Noel, Little Sugar Creek is a great spot for fishing, with smallmouth bass, sunfish, and catfish thriving in its cool waters. The lush forests and towering limestone bluffs along the banks provide a beautiful backdrop for a peaceful day on the water. Whether you’re looking to float lazily down the creek, cast a line, or enjoy a refreshing swim, Little Sugar Creek is a southwest Missouri treasure that’s waiting to be explored!
Meramec River: One of Missouri’s Best Float and Fishing Destinations!
Stretching an impressive 218 miles, the Meramec River is one of Missouri’s most popular and scenic rivers! With spring-fed waters, towering bluffs, and endless gravel bars, it’s a floater’s paradise—whether you’re canoeing, kayaking, tubing, or even rafting. The river offers both calm stretches and exciting riffles, making it great for all skill levels.
Flowing through towns like Steelville, Sullivan, and Pacific, the Meramec is lined with state parks, campgrounds, and outfitters, making it easy to plan the perfect river getaway. Anglers will love fishing for smallmouth bass, catfish, and even trout in certain areas. Popular spots like Meramec State Park and Onondaga Cave State Park offer not just great river access but also hiking, camping, and cave tours! Whether you want a relaxing float with friends, a family-friendly paddle, or a weekend camping adventure, the Meramec River is a Missouri classic that never disappoints!
Missouri River: The Big Muddy Adventure!
Stretching an incredible 2,341 miles, the Missouri River is the longest river in North America and a true adventure for paddlers, boaters, and anglers! Flowing right through the heart of Missouri, this legendary river has been a vital waterway for centuries, from Lewis and Clark’s expedition to today’s outdoor enthusiasts seeking an epic journey on the water.
Passing through cities like Kansas City, Jefferson City, and St. Charles, the Missouri River offers exciting paddling routes, massive sandbars for camping, and world-class fishing for catfish, bass, and sturgeon. Whether you’re exploring the scenic Katy Trail, floating past rugged bluffs and rolling farmlands, or joining the annual Missouri River 340 (MR340) race, this river delivers an unforgettable experience. If you’re looking for a big-water adventure with history, wildlife, and endless exploration, the Missouri River is a must-see!
Niangua River: The Ultimate Float Trip Destination!
If you’re looking for a classic Missouri float trip, the Niangua River is a must-visit! Flowing about 125 miles, this spring-fed river is known for its cool, clear waters, gentle rapids, and beautiful Ozark scenery. Whether you’re canoeing, kayaking, or tubing, the Niangua offers fun for all skill levels, making it one of the most popular floating rivers in the state.
Running near Lebanon and Bennett Spring State Park, the Niangua is famous for its excellent trout fishing—anglers flock here for rainbow and brown trout. With plenty of campgrounds, outfitters, and gravel bars for picnicking, this river is ideal for a weekend getaway full of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re after a peaceful float, a lively group trip, or an unforgettable fishing experience, the Niangua River has something for everyone!
North Fork River: Crystal-Clear Waters and Nonstop Fun!
The North Fork River is one of Missouri’s most stunning and exciting float streams, stretching about 109 miles through the Ozark hills. With spring-fed waters, fast-moving riffles, and deep swimming holes, this river is a dream for canoeists, kayakers, and tubing enthusiasts. The water is amazingly clear, making it perfect for spotting fish and wildlife as you float along.
Flowing near West Plains and Tecumseh, the North Fork is a trout-fishing paradise, thanks to Rainbow Spring and the North Fork of the White River. It’s a designated Blue Ribbon Trout Area, meaning fly fishers and anglers have a great chance of landing a big one. Add in plenty of gravel bars for camping, towering bluffs, and shaded forests, and you’ve got an unforgettable Missouri river adventure! Whether you’re after a thrilling paddle or a relaxing float, the North Fork River is an absolute must-visit!
Osage Fork of the Gasconade: A Hidden Ozark Treasure!
The Osage Fork is a beautiful, lesser-known tributary of the Gasconade River, offering a peaceful float through the rolling Ozark hills. Flowing about 54 miles, this river features crystal-clear waters, small rapids, and scenic bluffs, making it perfect for canoers and kayakers looking for a quiet escape.
Located near Hartville and Marshfield, the Osage Fork is a paradise for anglers, with smallmouth bass, goggle-eye, and catfish thriving in its cool waters. The river’s winding path, shaded tree canopies, and gravel bars make it a great spot for wildlife watching, swimming, and camping along the banks. If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path float with breathtaking scenery and great fishing, the Osage Fork is a true hidden gem in Missouri’s river system!
Platte River: A Laid-Back Float with Great Fishing!
The Platte River, stretching about 200 miles, is a calm and winding waterway in northwestern Missouri, perfect for a relaxing paddle or a great day of fishing. With its gentle currents, wooded banks, and peaceful backwaters, this river is a great spot for kayakers, canoers, and anglers looking to escape the crowds.
Flowing near Plattsburg, Smithville, and Platte City, the river is well known for its abundant catfish, bass, and crappie, making it a favorite among local fishermen. Wildlife is plentiful along its banks, so keep an eye out for herons, deer, and even bald eagles soaring overhead. Whether you’re looking to float leisurely, fish for a big catch, or simply soak in the quiet beauty of the Missouri countryside, the Platte River offers a perfect retreat into nature!
Pomme de Terre River: A Laid-Back Float with Fantastic Fishing!
Flowing about 130 miles, the Pomme de Terre River is a calm and scenic waterway perfect for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. With gentle currents, gravel bars for picnicking, and plenty of shaded stretches, this river offers a relaxing escape into nature.
Passing through Bolivar, Hermitage, and Pittsburg, the Pomme de Terre River is well-known for its excellent fishing, especially for largemouth bass, catfish, and walleye. The river eventually feeds into Pomme de Terre Lake, a hotspot for boating and water recreation. Whether you’re looking to float peacefully, cast a line, or enjoy a riverside camping trip, the Pomme de Terre River is a laid-back Missouri gem that’s perfect for a weekend adventure!
Sac River: A Peaceful Float with Big Fishing Potential!
The Sac River, stretching about 118 miles, is a calm and scenic waterway perfect for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. With gentle currents, forested banks, and gravel bars, it’s a great spot for a relaxing day on the water.
Flowing through towns like Greenfield, Stockton, and Osceola, the Sac River is well known for its excellent fishing, especially for largemouth bass, white bass, crappie, and catfish. It eventually feeds into Stockton Lake, making it a prime spot for anglers and boaters alike. With its peaceful atmosphere, abundant wildlife, and easy paddling conditions, the Sac River is a hidden gem for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy nature at a slower pace.
St. Francis River: Whitewater Thrills and Scenic Beauty!
The St. Francis River, stretching about 426 miles, is one of Missouri’s best-kept secrets for whitewater adventure! Flowing through southeastern Missouri, this river features stunning rock formations, rushing rapids, and crystal-clear waters, making it a top destination for kayakers and thrill-seekers. It’s one of the few rivers in Missouri with true whitewater sections, especially in the Millstream Gardens and Silver Mines areas.
Running near Fredericktown and Farmington, the St. Francis also offers great fishing opportunities for smallmouth bass, sunfish, and catfish. Beyond the rapids, there are calmer stretches perfect for a scenic float, with towering bluffs, deep swimming holes, and shady forested banks. Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline-pumping whitewater run or a peaceful paddle through breathtaking Ozark scenery, the St. Francis River is a must-visit for outdoor lovers!