Missouri Float Trips, the Perfect Summer Vacay
Float trips are becoming more popular each summer, and Missouri is home of some of the best scenic rivers. Given the economy lately, these trips can be especially helpful on your budget. Especially if you live in Missouri, or one of the neighboring states as you can access them easy by car. Whether you’re traveling with your family or friends, or solo, Missouri float trips are the perfect way to relax and enjoy nature.
The Meramec River is one of the longest free-flowing waterways in the state of Missouri. According to this map, it begins at Steelville Missouri and empties in to the Mississippi river south of Arnold. There are many places where you can organize a float trip along this river. Places like Onondaga State Park, or Meramec State Park have public access beaches and ramps where you can put your own equipment in. Or, you can use an “outfitter” like Blue Springs Ranch or Ozark Outdoors to rent rafts, kayaks, tubes, or canoes. They also provide transportation for you to and from the river access points. Whatever your choice, grab your gear and get ready to plan the perfect summer trip to float the Meramec River in Missouri.
Bourbon Missouri
Bourbon is a great place to go for a float trip (and the name of the town if fun too!). This area of the state is a hidden gem. It’s located in the foothills of the beautiful Ozark Mountains. And it’s just over a one hour drive from St. Louis.
You can plan for just a day trip, or spend an entire weekend or longer. If you do decide to make a vacation of it, there are many other attractions nearby to explore. From cave tours, to wild animal and aquatic displays, wineries, antique shopping, hiking, zip lining, swimming, fishing, boating, trail rides by horse, State Parks, and so much more.
Not only is Bourbon located right along the Meramec River, but it’s close to the Huzzah and Courtois Creeks as well. Both of which also offer many great floating options.
How a Float Trip Works
As mentioned above, you can bring your own equipment to float the river, or you can choose a place that will organize the float trip for you and rent out the gear. You can float the river by kayak, canoe, tube, or raft. If bringing your own, be sure to bring life jackets and oars. You’ll also want to wear a swim suit. And water shoes are a must.
Trips can last anywhere from an hour or two, to a couple of days. If using an outfitter that organizes the trip for you, they’ll often have options of 2 hour, 4 hour, 5 hour, 6 hour, and overnight trips. If planning your own trip, be sure to map out your entry and exit points and to calculate how much time it should take you.
For trips organized by an outfitter, they’ll usually provide transportation for you to take you upstream and drop you off. You’ll then float down the river and end at their facility.
What To Bring
If you want to provide your own equipment, you’ll need either a kayak, canoe, raft or tube. And don’t forget life vests and oars. It’s also a good idea to take a cooler or cooler bag for lunches, snacks and drinks. You can even grab a floating cooler that makes it easy to transport along the river. Other essentials for a successful float trip include:
- Swim suit
- Water shoes
- Beach towels
- Waterproof beach bag
- Waterproof Bluetooth speaker
- Waterproof phone carrier
- Sunscreen
- Hats
- Sunglasses
Where To Stay
There are many places to camp or stay along the Meramec River. From camping at the State Parks, to motels and hotels, outfitter resorts and amazing vacation rentals.
If looking at Bourbon, check out Cedar Grove Cabin. It’s a pet friendly cabin rental located just minutes away from many popular floating outfitters and attractions in the area. It’s an ideal base to explore the Gateway to the Ozarks. It’s a log cabin vacation rental available to book on Airbnb or VRBO located on 10 private acres. It features a fully equipped kitchen, outdoor firepit, dedicated workspace, and many more amenities.
Missouri Float Trip Laws
For everyone’s safety, there are some rules and requirements for boating or floating Missouri rivers. Here are just a few to be aware of:
- Life jackets are required to be worn by those persons age 7 and under. There must also be a life jacket available for each person on board the watercraft.
- Glass containers are not allowed.
- Don’t litter.
- No illegal drug use.
For a full list of the Missouri Float Stream Laws, see this pamphlet from the Missouri State Highway Patrol, Water Patrol Division.
Fishing Information
Fishing is also a fun thing to do along the Meramec River. According to the Missouri Department of Conservation, Smallmouth Bass, Spotted Bass, Channel Catfish, Flathead Catfish, Freshwater Drum, and Golden Redhorse are common in this river. There are a few restrictions to be aware of so be sure to look at those before you go.
Cover Image by Nevena Djidara from Pixabay
