Trip Ideas Nature Travel 10 Best Float Trips in Missouri for Beautiful Views and Clear Waters These scenic float trips in Missouri are perfect for a serene day trip or a days-long excursion. By Elizabeth Rhodes Elizabeth Rhodes Instagram Twitter Website Elizabeth Rhodes is an associate digital editor at Travel + Leisure, covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines Updated on September 27, 2022 Fact checked by Elizabeth MacLennan Share Tweet Pin Email Photo: Courtesy of VisitMo.com When it comes to choosing an outdoor adventure in their home state, Missourians are especially lucky. The Show-me State has caverns, lakes, rivers, and waterfalls, so nature enthusiasts always have something to do. If you're looking for a relaxing way to enjoy the state's natural beauty while exploring one of the many rivers, opt for a float trip. 25 Best Lake Vacations in the U.S. A float trip is exactly what it sounds like — you float down a river atop a tube, raft, kayak, or canoe, enjoying the scenery along the way. There are group float trips facilitated by outfitters that provide guidance and materials, or you can opt to do it yourself (although you'll need to plan out your course, including entry and exit points). Whichever way you decide to float, you won't want to leave home without a few important things. Wear a swimsuit and water shoes, bring plenty of sun protection (including sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats), strap on a quality life jacket, and pack a cooler full of drinks (including lots of water) and food. With plenty of rivers and creeks across Missouri, there are a number of great places for your adventure, with options for easy day trips from St. Louis, Springfield, and Kansas City. We've rounded up some of the best rivers for a Missouri float trip, but first, here's what you need to know about this increasingly popular water activity. More nature travel ideas Courtesy of VisitMo.com 1. Meramec River There are a number of outfitters offering float trips on the scenic Meramec River, and some are just an hour from St. Louis, making this an ideal weekend day trip from the city. Known for its "river resorts," it's also perfect for groups that want an inclusive, weekend-long float party. Camp out in Meramec State Park, or consider a cozy cabin rental. 2. Niangua River This beautiful river is a popular float trip destination for its views and ample fishing. Nearby canoe and float rental companies offer trips of varying lengths along the Niangua. Riverfront Campground and Canoe is located on the river's banks, and it provides cabins, camping, and float trips. 3. Big Piney River Big Piney River, located in the middle of the state, is another great option for family floating. Part of the river is located in the Mark Twain National Forest, which offers river access points and gorgeous scenery. Note that outfitters are not authorized to operate here so you'll have to make your own accommodations. 4. Beaver Creek This quiet creek is 44 miles long, perfect for longer excursions. Beaver Creek Campground offers rentals, and it's an ideal place to stop if you're planning a multi-day float. 5. James River The James River is perfect for those in Springfield looking for a nearby float trip to cool off on the weekends. James River Outfitters in Galena provides float rentals, shuttles, and even camping. Courtesy of VisitMo.com 6. Current River The Current River flows through the southeastern portion of Missouri's Ozarks, giving floaters a scenic journey downstream. The Landing is located in Van Buren on the banks of this river, and it offers an array of kayaks, canoes, rafts, and tubes for rent. 7. Jacks Fork River This Missouri river is part of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways system, so it's a great choice for those looking for a beautiful float trip. Its clear waters are surrounded by cliffs, making for a picturesque trip, but water levels vary depending on the time of year. Two Rivers Canoe Rental has several canoe trip options of different lengths on the river. 8. Gasconade River This central Missouri river is hundreds of miles long, so you can take a short day trip or a multi-day journey. BSC Outdoors offers a 14-mile float for those who want to spend as much time as possible on the river. 9. North Fork of the White River Another great option for a Missouri float trip, the North Fork of the White River has mostly calm waters — and its abundance of trout also makes it an ideal spot for fishing. Sunburst Ranch offers camping and float trips along this picturesque river. 10. Huzzah and Courtois Creeks These two creeks flow nearly side-by-side in the same region before joining the larger Meramec River. Both creeks are beautiful and popular among local floaters, but their depths can change depending on the season, so be sure to check the conditions with a local outfitter before you go. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit