Missouri is a haven for water lovers and kayaking enthusiasts, offering a plethora of scenic lakes and rivers that are perfect for a day of paddling and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re seeking a serene float trip or an exhilarating kayaking experience, the rivers and lakes of Missouri have something for everyone. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through some of the best kayaking spots in Missouri, providing you with all the information you need to plan your next kayaking adventure.
Ha Ha Tonka Spring: A Scenic Delight
Located within the picturesque Ha Ha Tonka State Park, Ha Ha Tonka Spring is a must-visit destination for kayakers. This state park boasts stunning views and a rich history. The highlight of the park is Missouri’s 12th largest spring, which feeds into the Lake of the Ozarks. As you paddle through the crystal-clear waters, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding natural beauty. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the ruins of a turn-of-the-century stone castle, which offers panoramic vistas of the Ha Ha Tonka Spring and the Lake of the Ozarks.
Bennett Spring: A Family-Friendly Float Trip
For a leisurely float trip that is perfect for families and beginners, head to Bennett Spring. This scenic river is known for its calm and clear waters, making it ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and floating on a raft. As you navigate the gentle currents of the Niangua River, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in nature, spot wildlife, and enjoy the refreshing coolness of the water. Bennett Spring is also renowned for its trout fishing, so don’t forget to bring your fishing gear along for a chance to reel in some impressive catches.
The Meramec River: Majestic Bluffs and Cave Entrances
The Meramec River holds a special place in the hearts of Missourians as a beloved kayaking destination. This river meanders through majestic bluffs, wooded areas, and even boasts dramatic cave entrances. As you paddle along the Meramec River, you’ll be surrounded by the beauty of nature, with lush tree-topped bluffs peering over the river’s edge. The river is home to a variety of fish species, making it a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts. With its scenic beauty and abundance of outdoor activities, the Meramec River is a kayaker’s paradise.
Lake of the Ozarks: Scenic Beauty and Endless Exploration
The Lake of the Ozarks is a sprawling reservoir that offers kayakers a multitude of opportunities for exploration. With its stunning scenic views and tranquil waters, the lake is a perfect place to launch your kayak and embark on a memorable adventure. There are several entry points around the lake, including Ha Ha Tonka State Park, Lake of the Ozarks Aquatic Trail, and McCubbins Point Public Access. As you paddle along the lake, you’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas, hidden coves, and plenty of wildlife sightings. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful day on the water or an exciting kayaking expedition, the Lake of the Ozarks has it all.
Table Rock Lake: Gentle Waters and Serene Surroundings
Table Rock Lake is another gem in Missouri’s kayaking scene. With its calm and smooth waters, this lake offers kayakers the opportunity to relax and enjoy the serene surroundings. Unlike rivers with currents, Table Rock Lake allows you to maintain a steady position while kayaking, making it easier to indulge in activities like fishing, photography, and simply basking in the beauty of your surroundings. The lake is dotted with beautiful scenic views, and there are several entry points such as Table Rock State Park and Indian Point Public Access that provide easy access for kayakers.
The Current River: Tranquility and Scenic Haven
Renowned for its scenic beauty, the Current River offers kayakers a peaceful haven to reconnect with nature. This river is a popular destination for float trips, attracting visitors with its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking views. As you paddle along the Current River, you’ll be surrounded by lush greenery, towering bluffs, and the gentle sounds of nature. Make sure to explore the sections of the river that pass through Montauk State Park and Current River State Park, where you can enjoy incredible river views, hiking trails, and even picnic sites.
Explore More: Hidden Gems of Missouri
While the aforementioned rivers and lakes are some of the most popular kayaking spots in Missouri, there are plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Here are a few more waterways that offer unique kayaking experiences:
The Big Piney River: Fishing and Scenic Beauty
The Big Piney River is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, especially in its upper and middle reaches. Bass and rainbow trout are abundant in this river, providing anglers with plenty of excitement. As you paddle along the Big Piney River, you’ll be treated to picturesque scenery, with lush tree-topped bluffs and inviting swimming spots along the way. The river flows through St. Francois, Washington, and Jefferson counties, and its banks are adorned with park areas that offer various amenities such as lodging options, fishing spots, hiking trails, and historic tours.
The Black River: Scenic Beauty and Wildlife
The upper reaches of the Black River boast some of the most stunning scenery in the Ozarks. As you navigate the lazy waters of this river, you’ll pass by sandstone bluffs, encounter diverse wildlife, and immerse yourself in the beauty of remote Ozark forest areas. The upper Black River is a haven for bass fishing, and the east fork of the river runs alongside Johnson Shut-Ins State Park, a popular swimming spot. The Black River offers a truly immersive kayaking experience, with its scenic beauty and the opportunity to explore nearby accessible streams.
Huzzah Creek and Courtois Creek: Serenity in Mark Twain National Forest
Huzzah Creek and Courtois Creek are two small clearwater creeks that eventually meet with the Meramec River. These waterways wind their way through the stunning Mark Twain National Forest, offering kayakers a serene and secluded experience. While the floatability of these creeks depends on the season and water levels, they provide kayakers with the chance to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. Mark Twain National Forest offers plenty of outdoor recreational activities, making it the perfect destination for a kayaking adventure combined with hiking, camping, and more.
Elk River: Adventure and Bass Fishing
The Elk River, located in McDonald County, is a perennial favorite among floaters and canoeing enthusiasts. This river is known for its abundant bass population, making it a popular destination for anglers. The river is lined with outfitters, rental companies, campgrounds, and resorts, providing kayakers with easy access to a variety of services and amenities. The Cyclone low-water bridge near Big Sugar Creek State Park is an excellent starting point for a float trip on the Elk River, offering a scenic and exciting kayaking experience.
Gasconade River: Calm Waters and Natural Beauty
Flowing through the Mark Twain National Forest, the Gasconade River offers kayakers an opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Ozark Mountains. This river stretches across 300 miles and passes through several counties, providing kayakers with a diverse range of landscapes and experiences. While the river can gain speed in certain areas, the majority of it offers calm waters that are perfect for a group float trip. The Gasconade River is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with ample opportunities for camping, hiking, wildlife spotting, and capturing stunning photographs.
James River: Fishing and Overnight Float Trips
The James River, located in Christian and Stone County, is a reputable spot for fishing and overnight float trips. The 22-mile stretch from Hootentown to Galena is particularly favored by fishing enthusiasts, offering ample opportunities to reel in impressive catches. With numerous riverside amenities and boat launches, the James River provides kayakers with the convenience and comfort needed for an extended float trip. Hootentown, spanning 47 miles of the river, serves as an excellent starting point, offering kayak rentals and transportation services for those looking to explore the beauty of the James River.
Conclusion
Missouri’s rivers and lakes are a treasure trove for kayaking enthusiasts, offering stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and a variety of outdoor recreational activities. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful float trip, an adrenaline-pumping kayaking adventure, or a chance to reel in a trophy fish, Missouri has it all. From the scenic beauty of the Ha Ha Tonka Spring to the tranquil waters of the Meramec River and the hidden gems like Huzzah Creek and Courtois Creek, there is something for every kayaker in Missouri. So grab your paddle, embark on an unforgettable kayaking journey, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
