Lazy Days

Resort & Campground on Elk River

Category: Canoes

Category: Canoes

Escape to Missouri’s Nature: Discover the Best Elk River Cabin Rentals for Your Perfect Getaway

A tranquil adventure awaits at the heart of Missouri’s Nature. Nestled in the Ozark Mountains is a hidden gem that offers the perfect escape from everyday life. If you’re seeking the ideal getaway for you and your friends, look for the best Elk River cabin rentals have to offer.

One of the highlights of visiting an Elk River resort is the wide selection of cabin rentals available. The cozy accommodations you’ll find provide a comfortable and rustic atmosphere. 

If you crave relaxation, unwind by taking in the serene surroundings. Breathe in the fresh Ozark air as you sit by a crackling campfire under a starry sky.

Exploring the Top Elk River Cabin Rentals for Every Budget

When planning a trip along the Elk River in Missouri, you’ll find the perfect cabin rental is essential. Whether looking for an affordable getaway or a rustic retreat, options suit every budget and group size.

Elk River offers a wide range of cabin rentals that cater to different preferences and budgets. Plenty of cozy retreats are available if you seek affordability without compromising comfort. These cabins provide all the amenities and a spacious atmosphere, allowing you to relax and unwind without breaking the bank.

Rustic Charm and Comfort: The Coziest Cabins Along the Elk River

Escape to the serene beauty of the Elk River and indulge in the rustic charm and comfort of the cozy cabin retreats at Lazy Days Resort. Their log cabins are nestled within nature’s embrace and offer a perfect retreat for small groups of two to four people.

Step into these picturesque log cabins and be greeted by the warm ambiance of the cozy interiors. Each cabin exudes a sense of rustic realism, with wooden accents and charming details that transport you to a simpler time.

One of the highlights of these cabins is the inviting outdoor grill space, where you can unwind after a day exploring the Elk by river raft, canoe, or kayak. Experience the magic of Elk River as you immerse in its natural beauty while enjoying all the comforts of these rustic log cabins.

Spacious Lodges That Accommodate Large Groups of 10 to 30

One of the stand-out features at Lazy Days is their eight spacious lodges that accommodate groups of 10 to 30 people. With ample space for everyone to spread out, there’s no worry of feeling cramped. Whether it’s a friends’ reunion or a weekend escape from college, their lodges provide the perfect setting for creating lasting memories.

Each lodge has a kitchen, allowing you to prepare meals together without spending money to eat out. In addition, these spacious lodges have large living areas with plenty of elbow room.

For larger groups, they understand the importance of accommodating everyone comfortably. That’s why their lodges feature queen-sized bunk beds that can comfortably sleep multiple guests in one room. That not only maximizes sleeping capacity but also adds an element of fun and camaraderie during your stay.

Finally, their spacious lodges boast a large back porch or deck where you can soak in the natural beauty surrounding you. Whether enjoying morning coffee with scenic views or hosting a barbecue under the stars, these outdoor spaces are the perfect backdrop for relaxation and connection.

Reserve An Elk River Cabin Rental Today!

If you’re looking for a memorable getaway, reserving an Elk River cabin rental at Lazy Days Resort is the perfect choice. Lazy Days offers the best lodging in McDonald County, Missouri, whether you’re seeking a rustic escape or an adventure-filled vacation with many friends.

Lazy Days Resort offers a range of amenities and activities to enhance your stay. From fishing and hiking to river rafting and kayaking, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. After a day of exploration, unwind on your private deck or gather around a crackling fire pit under a starry night sky.

Take advantage of this extraordinary opportunity by creating lasting memories with your friends. Reserve your rustic Elk River cabin rental today by calling Lazy Days Resort at (417) 223-3498. Embark on an escape that will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated!

Craig SandersCabins, Canoes, Kayaks, McDonald County, River Rafts, Southwest Missouri

Discover the Best River Rafting Rentals for Floating the Elk River in Missouri

If you’re looking for an exhilarating adventure on the water, look no further than the Elk River in Missouri. With its gentle flowing currents and stunning scenery, river floats on Missouri’s Elk River is an experience you don’t want to miss.

When it comes to finding river rafting rentals near you, plenty of options are available along the Elk River at Lazy Days Resort. Whether you’re a seasoned rafter or a beginner looking for some fun, Lazy Days offers a variety of river crafts to choose from river rafts, canoes, and kayaks.

They also equip you with all the necessary gear to conduct a self-guided float.

The Elk River is the perfect river float for a lazy day on the water. No matter your experience level, sharing a leisurely river float with friends is highly rewarding.

As you navigate each river bend, you’ll enjoy the stunning views that make a rafting experience even more memorable. So, if you’re ready to experience the bliss of river rafting in Missouri, head to Elk River and get ready for an unforgettable, relaxing day. Enjoy the exciting opportunity to connect with nature and create lasting memories.

Why Choose Elk River for Your River Rafting Adventure?

As far as river rafting experiences go, Missouri’s Elk River stands out as one of the best choices. The Elk River is renowned for its scenic backdrop. As you navigate the winding river, you’ll get treated to breathtaking views of lush forests, towering buttes, and serene valley meadows. The natural beauty of Missouri’s Elk River creates a truly immersive experience that is hard to match.

Choosing Elk River for your river rafting adventure means selecting an experience combining natural beauty and the ability to decompress from a busy work week and school schedule. So why wait? Embark on your next unforgettable journey down the Missouri Elk River and create memories of a lifetime.

Find the Perfect Rafting Rentals Near Me: Tips and Recommendations

When finding the perfect rafting rentals near the Elk, a few tips and recommendations can help ensure a memorable and enjoyable river rafting experience.

Firstly, searching Lazy Days Resort for raft rental services along the Elk riverbanks is essential. By narrowing your search to the crew at Lazy Days, you are getting a genuinely local rental company familiar with the river, the local outdoor scene, and conveniently located along the Elk for quickly launching onto your river float trip.

Next, consider looking for reviews and recommendations from previous customers. That provides valuable insights into the quality of service and equipment offered. Reading about the experiences of others can help you make an informed choice and avoid double bookings.

Embark on an Unforgettable Adventure with River Rafting Rentals on Missouri’s Elk River

In conclusion, embarking on a river rafting adventure on Missouri’s Elk River is an experience that is sure to be unforgettable. With the availability of river rafting rentals at Lazy Days Resort, visitors can enjoy the thrill and excitement of navigating through the scenic beauty of this picturesque river.

At Lazy Days Resort, individuals and groups can enjoy the convenience and reliability of our river raft rentals. They provide a great way to explore the Elk River at a leisurely pace, allowing you to soak in the beauty of the surroundings while enjoying a relaxing adventure. Whether you are a seasoned rafter or a beginner looking for a relaxing outdoor activity, come rent a raft for you and your friends this Fall at Lazy Days Resort.

By taking advantage of the easy river access, you can come lose yourself in nature’s beauty by launching onto the river from Lazy Days property. So what are you waiting for? Book your next river float along Missouri’s Elk River by renting a raft from Lazy Days Resort.

Craig SandersAutumn Floats, Canoes, Float Trips, Floating Elk River Missouri, Kayaks, River Float, River Rafts

Google Find Me Rivers to Float, Near Me

Do you find the last few weeks of summer have you Googling “rivers to float near me?” Look no further than the river floats near Noel, Missouri!

Whether you are an avid outdoor enthusiast or simply seeking a relaxing escape, river floats offer a unique experience to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature while enjoying the tranquility of floating along the gentle currents of southwest Missouri’s most popular river destinations.

The premier location for river floats near Noel, Missouri, is Lazy Days Resort & Campground. From the serene countryside, there’s no better way to spend the day floating down one of Missouri’s most majestic rivers, the Elk. As your raft gently floats along the meandering Elk River through breathtaking landscapes, a perfect spot is waiting for you just around the corner.

An Elk River float provides an excellent opportunity to disconnect and unplug along the river’s many gravel bar “rest stops” and swimming holes. Imagine slowly drifting down the river, surrounded by lush greenery and wildlife. The calming motion of the river carries away your worries as you soak up the sun and take in the sights and sounds around you.

Whether you prefer a leisurely float or crave a more exhilarating experience, there is something for everyone when it comes to river floats. Some destinations offer calm waters ideal for peaceful relaxation, while others feature class I rapids. No matter your preference, embarking on a river float adventure promises unforgettable moments and cherished memories.

So, if you’re ready to embark on an unforgettable float trip exploring rivers near you, join us as we dive into some of the most picturesque river floating destinations across southwest Missouri. From hidden gems off-the-beaten-path to charming tourist towns, we’ll guide you through finding the perfect river float experiences near you.

Elk River Float: A Serene Float Near Noel, Missouri

The scenic town of Noel, Missouri, is seated along the wandering banks of the Elk River. With a southern downhome charm, Noel is just a short drive from Lazy Days Resort. So, after your Elk River float, hop on over to Noel for a stroll through the charming streets and stores.

Big Sugar Creek: A Hidden Gem Near Pineville, Missouri

Down the road, east of Noel, is Pineville, Missouri, the seat of McDonald County. Pineville is where you’ll discover the hidden river gem, Big Sugar Creek. This picturesque waterway offers an unforgettable experience for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

One of the most popular activities on the Big Sugar Creek is kayaking and canoeing. Although the waters of the Big Sugar run a bit low this time of year, be prepared to portage your river craft or wear your paddle out, as the old joke goes..

Come Explore the Elk River and Big Sugar Creek at Lazy Days Resort

Nestled between Noel and Pineville, Missouri, Lazy Days Resort offers river-goers the opportunity to launch right from the property. With convenient access to Elk River, you and your fellow paddlers can embark on a relaxing float trip that showcases the area’s stunning landscape and calm, cool waters.

Come explore the Elk River and Big Sugar Creek by booking your float trip today with Lazy Days. They offer floaters three river crafts: canoes, kayaks, and rafts—each equipped with paddles.

Lazy Days is just a short one-minute drive southwest of Interstate 49. Take exit 5 at mile marker 6.

Craig SandersCanoes, Float Trips, Kayaks, McDonald County, Noel MO, Pineville MO, River Float, River Rafts, Southwest Missouri

Lazy Days: Experiencing A Serene River Float Near Me in Southwest Missouri

Welcome to Lazy Days Resort and Campground, where relaxation and tranquility meet near Southwest Missouri. The resort nestles among stunning natural beauty, and Lazy Days is the perfect destination for those seeking a memorable getaway from everyday life.

Situated in a prime location, Lazy Days Resort offers nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts a serene escape. Whether you’re looking to unwind by the river or explore the scenic surroundings, our resort provides an idyllic setting for your weekend getaway or a week-long vacation.

Lazy Days Campground offers a range of accommodation options and resort amenities to suit every preference. From spacious campground sites with full RV hookups to tent campsites, we offer it all, even cozy cabins nestled among towering trees. So come wake up to breathtaking views and let the sounds of nature lull you into a state of pure relaxation.

One of our most popular attractions is river activities, which allow guests to immerse themselves in the beauty of Southwest Missouri’s crystal-clear waters. Enjoy a leisurely float down a serene river as you soak up the sun and take in the picturesque scenery. It’s an experience that will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

The Beauty of a River Float in Southwest Missouri

Southwest Missouri is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts, offering many activities to enjoy in its picturesque landscape. One of the most popular and enchanting experiences in this region is river floating. With its pristine rivers and breathtaking scenery, river floating has become a beloved pastime for locals and tourists.

River floating in Southwest Missouri allows you to immerse yourself in nature’s beauty while enjoying a leisurely float along serene river currents. The region boasts several stunning rivers, such as the Big Sugar Creek and Elk River, all offering unique experiences for nature exploration.

River floating is suitable for all ages and skill levels. Whether you prefer a relaxing river float or rafting across gentle rapids, Southwest Missouri’s rivers offer options to cater to everyone’s preferences. Many outfitters, like Lazy Days, provide rental services for kayaks, canoes, or rafts—making it easy for visitors to embark on their river adventure.

Lazy Days Resort: Your Gateway to a Perfect River Floating Experience

If you’re searching for “river floats near me,” look no further than Lazy Days Resort and Campground. Our friendly staff is always on hand to assist, ensuring your stay with us is exceptional. So give us a call today at (417) 223-3498 and let us help with the following:

Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, Lazy Days Resort offers an ideal setting for your river floating escapades. Discover the beauty of nature while enjoying top-notch resort amenities and convenient river access points at this remarkable destination.

So what are you waiting for? Embark on a relaxing experience in Southwest Missouri at Lazy Days Resort and Campground, where lazy days are not just a concept but a way of life. Book your stay today and discover why our guests keep coming back year after year for their dose of tranquility in Southwest Missouri’s natural paradise.

Craig SandersCabins, Campsites, Canoes, Float Trips, Kayaks, Noel MO, Pineville MO, River Float, River Rafts, RVing

Experience a Relaxing Float Trip From Lazy Days’ Elk River Resort Location

Welcome to Lazy Days Resort, your premier Elk River resort location. Here you can experience the serenity of nature and indulge in a lazy river float at one of many Missouri resorts. Nestled in the heart of a picturesque Ozark Mountain landscape, Elk River offers a perfect getaway for outdoor enthusiasts seeking relaxation and adventure.

One of the highlights of Lazy Days Resort is the exhilarating river rafting experience to keep you cool and coming back for more all summer long. Grab six or eight of your closest friends and let the gentle currents of the Elk River carry you along as you soak up the vitamin D3 and enjoy the breathtaking scenery.

Fun-Filled Summer Activities For All

Whether you’re looking for a solo escape or a fun-filled activity with friends and family, river adventures await you when you launch from an Elk River resort. No matter what type of rivercraft, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable experience.

For those seeking a leisurely pace, indulging in a Lazy Days river experience can be the perfect way to unwind. Studies have even shown that the simple act of gazing at water outdoors can lower your blood pressure and even reduce your heart rate, which is associated with relaxation.

So, check out all that Lazy Days Elk River floats have to offer, including outdoor adventurers for those who crave more than just water activities; come embark on:

  • Hiking trails that wind through dense forests
  • Bass fishing the riverbanks that offer stunning views and wildlife encounters
  • Exploring the natural beauty of a pristine wilderness by kayak or canoe

Whether you’re seeking a tranquil adventure or a serene escape from everyday life, Lazy Days’ along the Elk River has something for everyone. Discover the serenity of this hidden gem and come to set out on one of Lazy Days unforgettable river float trips, whether you choose to go:

  • River Rafting
  • Solo Kayaking
  • Tandem Canoeing

What to Expect on a Lazy Days’ Resort Float Trip

If you love to relax and unwind in an outdoor adventure, Lazy Days Resort offers several convenient float trip packages. The experience provides a unique way to decompress and reconnect with nature as you float down the scenic Elk Rivers, launching direct from the Lazy Days Resort in one of their raft rentals.

One of the best features of the Lazy Days float trip package is the convenient shuttle service. Once you arrive at Lazy Days Resort, you can leave your car parked on their property while you float downriver.

You can choose from one of these three types of float options for you and your friends:

  • Canoeing Package
  • Kayak Package
  • Rafting Package

Each package includes paddles, flotation devices, and shuttle service back to the Resort following your 7.5-mile river float. The entire experience eliminates any worries about logistics, allowing you to immerse yourself in the experience altogether.

You’ll have plenty of time to relax, soak up the rays, and enjoy the picturesque surroundings as you leisurely drift away from Lazy Days’ Elk River resort location. After all, you’re seeking a laid-back and rejuvenating experience in nature, so look no further than the premier Elk River resort location for all your float trips at Lazy Days Resort.

Lazy Days Resort also boasts plenty of cabin rentals, RV spaces, and tent campsites if you want a long three-day weekend getaway!

Craig SandersCanoes, Float Trips, Kayaks, River Float, River Rafts

Everything You Need to Know About Elk River Canoe Rental in Southwest Missouri

Elk River, located in southwest Missouri, is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts. The cool, clear waters and picturesque scenery make it the perfect canoeing destination. What better way to explore Elk River than with the help of canoe rental services from the folks at Lazy Days Resort & Campground?

The two charming nearby towns of Noel and Pineville, Missouri, are located less than five minutes from Lazy Days Resort, where you can find Elk River canoe rental services. Their rental services offer various options for 1, 2, or 3 guests in a single canoe.

Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a first-time canoeist, exploring Elk River in a canoe rental is an adventure that’s worth seeing. From good times with friends to the easy living along the Elk River, grab your paddle and prepare for an unforgettable float down one of Missouri’s most majestic rivers.

The Best Time to Go Canoeing on Elk River and What to Expect

Elk River is a popular summertime destination for canoeing enthusiasts, thanks to its scenic beauty and diverse wildlife. However, choosing the right time to go canoeing on Elk River can make all the difference in your experience.

The water level of Elk River varies throughout the year, so it’s essential to plan your trip accordingly. The river’s cubic feet per second (CFS) fluctuates throughout the year for this easy-flowing river, so you can find out what the river CFS is before embarking on your canoe float down Elk River by checking online at the United States Geological Survey’s website.

Additionally, weather conditions can also impact your canoeing experience. So it’s essential to be prepared with appropriate gear and clothing for unexpected weather changes.

Top Reasons Elk River is a Must-See Destination for Canoe Enthusiasts

For locals living in McDonald County, the Elk River is a must-see. Located at the heart of the Ozark Mountains, the river offers an unforgettable experience for those who love the easy floating waters with little need to paddle hard. But for others, it’s just a simple way to cool off and beat the heat during those hot summer months.

The riverbanks are home to diverse flora and fauna, the perfect spot for nature lovers. As you paddle down Elk River, you’ll be surrounded by lush green forests and hillside bluffs on your 7.5-mile river float.

While canoeing on Elk River, you might expect to see a variety of wildlife, such as:

  • Deer
  • Otters
  • Beaver

The area is also home to various species of birds, including cardinals, herons, our National bird—the Bald Eagle, and the Missouri State Bird—the Eastern Bluebird. Respecting and observing their natural habitat from a safe distance is essential.

But what sets Elk River apart from other canoeing destinations is all the unique rock formations and cave systems to be explored. These natural wonders add excitement and adventure to any canoe trip or camping trip along the Elk River.

It’s a must-see destination for all outdoor enthusiasts looking for an unforgettable experience in nature.

Canoe Rental Center at Lazy Days Resort

The experienced staff at Lazy Days Resort–canoe rental center–will provide you with all you need for an incredible time on your float exploration down the scenic Elk River. Their rental fleet includes both tandem canoes and solo canoes.

Tandem canoes are perfect for those who want to paddle with a partner or bring extra gear. Solo canoes, on the other hand, provide more freedom and maneuverability on the water.

Experience the Easy Flowing Vibes of Canoeing Down Elk River in Southwest Missouri

Canoeing down the Elk River in Southwest Missouri is an unforgettable experience that attracts friendly fun seeking Missourians from all over the state. It’s no wonder this river is a popular destination for a fun-filled weekend getaway or a week-long escape for a lot of laughs, barbequing, and good times with friends.

If you’re planning a trip to Pineville or Noel, Missouri, you can book a river float in one of three canoe options available at the Lazy Days Resort:

  • Canoe for 1, 2, or 3 people

If you are also curious about Lazy Days’ additional river floats, they also have rentals available for:

  • Kayak for 1 or 2 people
  • Raft for 6 to 8 people

In addition, the resort offers cabin rentals, full hookup RVing, and tent campsites for those planning an extended stay. Call Lazy Days Resort at (417) 223-3498.

Craig SandersCanoes, Float Trips, Noel MO, Pineville MO, River Float, Uncategorized

Two Simple River Rafting Paddle Maneuvers In Every River-goers Toolbox

River floats are a popular outdoor activity during the summer months throughout southwest Missouri. It’s an excellent way to make memories that last a lifetime with friends.

But every river-goer knowns that there are two essential paddle maneuvers needed to easily navigate the easy-flowing waters of the Elk River near Noel, Missouri, which are:

  • Forward stroke
  • Reverse stroke

Each stroke has a directional purpose in a river raft and is easy to complete, whether the river current is easy and slow or fast-moving with many rapids. By understanding how each of these paddle strokes work, you will be able to complete a successful river launch and navigate your way:

  • Across a river
  • downriver, or
  • Upriver, if you choose

Successful Completion of Any Paddle Stroke Technique

For any paddle stroke to be completed successfully, it’s essential to know the three phases of a single stroke.

  1. Catch phase
  2. Power phase
  3. Recovery phase

By understanding these phases and how they work together, you can conserve energy for a more relaxing, good time on your river float trip.

The Catch Phase

The most critical phase out of the three is the catch phase. At this phase, a paddle blade makes first contact with the water. For the step to get completed successfully, the paddle blade must be fully plunged into the water up to the paddle throat before the power phase begins.

The Power Phase

Now the power phase, or power stroke, can begin. With all paddlers working in unison, this phase is the most efficient and effective way to move across the water.

Each paddler in the raft will hold on to the t-grip of the paddle using their inside hand coming cross-body to grasp the t-grip while the outside hand holds onto the shaft; in unison, the paddlers in the boat lean forward to drag the raft past the paddle(s). It is the in-unison work that gives this phase its name, power.

The Recovery Phase

The final phase of a stroke is the recovery phase when the paddle blade is lifted from the water and brought forward before plunging into the water to execute another stroke.

Forward Stroke for Maximum Efficiency

The forward stroke is the single most important paddle stroke in a river float. It propels a raft forward while keeping the boat in a straight line. When done correctly, it’s an incredibly efficient technique that saves you energy and keeps your raft moving swiftly.

Reverse Stroke for Directional Control

The reverse paddle stroke, sometimes called the back stroke, is an essential technique for river rafting and other river sports. It gives you maximum control over your raft’s direction. The method involves paddling in a backward direction while facing forward, which helps you to make quick turns and navigate through narrow passages.

Book A River Float Today

Booking a river float with Lazy Days Resort is easy. If you have specific dates in mind, you can check all the available dates through their online booking system for floats down:

The resort is situated between Pineville and Noel, Missouri. Getting to Lazy Days Resort is a short one-minute drive southwest of Interstate 49. Take exit 5 at mile marker 6.

If you have a minute or two, read what our past guests had to say about their stays.

Craig SandersCanoes, Float Trips, Kayaks, River Float, River Rafts

Differences Between Float Trips and Whitewater Rafting

Two of North America’s most popular outdoor activities during the summer months are float trips and whitewater rafting. But there are some distinct differences between each.

Float trips involve a leisurely journey down a river in an inflatable boat, while whitewater rafting is a more intense adventure on rapids and fast-moving water. 

Float Trips—Enjoy the Calm Relaxation of Slow Moving Water

A unique way to relax and enjoy nature is a river float. Imagine the peacefulness of floating down a river, taking in the sights and sounds of nature around you. A river float can be an incredibly calming experience, allowing you to take some time away from the flurry of activity that comes from everyday life. It’s also an opportunity to reconnect with friends or family while enjoying the calm cooling waters to beat the summer heat.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful getaway or an exciting adventure, river floats have something for everyone. There are many benefits to going on a river float, such as cooling off, spending time with friends, and sipping on a refreshing cocktail. With the proper preparation, you can ensure that your river float is full of good times.

Whitewater Rafting—Navigating Rough Waters With an Experienced Guide

Whitewater rafting is a thrill seeker’s paradise, all while getting a full-body workout. From navigating rapids with an experienced guide, you can safely and enjoy a thrill-seeking adventure down a rapidly moving river.

IMPORTANT NOTE: The river most frequently mentioned in Lazy Days blogs is Elk River, a gently flowing river with few obstacles, and swimming in the river is easy. The other river is the Big Sugar Creek, which has ripples and tiny waves with few obstructions and is shallow in spots, and the risk to swimmers is minimal, making self-rescue easy. Most rivers in Missouri are too slow to even rank on American Whitewater’s benchmark for whitewater rapids.

How the Non-Profit, American Whitewater, Classifies Rivers

The International Scale of Whitewater Difficulty, created in the 1950s by American Whitewater. It is NOT exact, and NOT all rivers can fit into each category. The scale is simply a guide.

Class I Rapids are fast-moving currents with small waves and ripples. Obstacles are easily missed by rafters with little training, knowledge, and experience. The risk is slight to swimmers, and self-rescue is easy. Most rivers in Missouri fall within this category or do not rank at all.

Class II Rapids is for novice beginners–a straightforward approach without the need to scout out the river path beforehand. Waves are mid-sized, and obstacles are occasional but easily avoidable with training or a river guide–very few rivers in Missouri rank as Class II.

Class III Rapids is for intermediate paddlers. Most Class III rapids occur in Class II rivers in Missouri and are quick maneuverable obstacles with low risk. River obstacles are more frequent and may be challenging to avoid, because of the fast-moving currents. Scouting the river ahead of time is advisable but optional. The class III rapids often come with a few strong eddies.

Class IV Rapids is for advanced paddlers. These rivers are not considered float trips. There is a great deal of hard paddling, and you must listen to the instruction of your river guide to navigate chutes, big waves, long rapids, and eddy turns. Self-rescue can be difficult, so the risk is low to moderate.

Class V Rapids are for expert paddlers. Rivers in this class often contain large drops and unavoidable waves, holes, and congested chutes that require complex maneuvers. Rapids often continue for long distances, so paddlers should have a high fitness level. Swimming is hazardous and often tricky. But luckily, there are NO rivers in Missouri that contain class V rapids.

Book A Float Down Elk River or the Big Sugar Creek

If you’re ready for a relaxing river float, book your first float down the Elk River and your second float for the next day on Big Sugar Creek at the premier rental location for rafts, kayaks, and canoes at Lazy Days Campground in Noel, MO.

Lazy Days Resort is easy to get to from Interstate 49. They are located a short one-minute drive southwest of I-49; take exit 5 at mile marker 6.

Read what our recent guests had to say about their stay at Lazy Days!

Craig SandersCanoes, Float Trips, Kayaks, River Float, River Rafts

Reasons to Plan Your May River Excursions by Booking in Advance

A unique way to explore the natural beauty of rivers and wildlife inhabitants is to plan your May river excursions. Adventures in float trips are best accomplished in a canoe, kayak, or raft with close friends.

River floats also provide an opportunity to get away from it all and enjoy a fun-filled weekend adventure while taking in stunning views and making memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you are looking for a relaxing time with friends on the river or a little more adventure, there is something for everyone on a river float in McDonald County near Noel, Missouri.

Book The Perfect May River Excursions

Floating trips are a great way to escape the humdrum of everyday life, whether looking for a peaceful float down a lazy river or a class II float with very few rapids.

With so many to choose from, finding the perfect float excursion can be challenging. Some factors to consider are the following:

  • The skill level of the river
  • River gear and equipment supplies (i.e., rivercraft and paddles)
  • Accommodations for you and your friends

Skill Level of a River

The skill level of a river can vary greatly depending on the category it falls into. Rivers get divided into several classes based on these characteristics, such as the river width, the water depth, the obstacles present in it—such as rocks or boulders, and the speed or current of the water, commonly referred to as the CFS (cubic feet per second) of a river.

Each class has a skill level, ranging from easy to expert. Knowing what class a river falls into is essential for determining its skill level and preparing for your journey.

We’ll talk more about river classifications in our next blog. Still, for this blog and the region we are talking about near Noel and Pineville, Missouri, the Elk River is a gently flowing river that’s easy to swim against its current, making it a great float river.

River Gear and Equipment Supplies

For those looking to explore the rivers of McDonald County near Noel and Pineville, Missouri, there are a few must-haves in river gear and equipment essentials to enjoy the Elk River or the Big Sugar Creek properly. From river-crafts, like a:

  • Six- or an eight-person raft
  • Two- or a single-person kayak
  • One or two-person canoe

You’ll also need these critical river gear and equipment supplies for an enjoyable experience on a river float.

  • Paddles
  • Floatation devices
  • Food and drinking water

Most river outfitters along the Elk River offer all three river crafts accompanied by paddles so that you can make sure you and your friends can easily navigate the gentle river currents.

Accommodations for You and Your Friends

If you know where to begin looking, you can find the perfect place to stay that can accommodate all of your friends while meeting every person’s needs and wants. Luckily, there are plenty of cabin options at the Lazy Days Resort and Campground.

Their resort offers you and your friends twelve cabin sizes that comfortably sleep groups as small as four to as large as thirty. In addition, they provide full RV hookup sites and on-site tent camping. With these options in mind, you and your friends can find the perfect place to stay that meets all your needs, including plenty of parking space, all while staying within budget.

Book in Advance for Your May River Excursions

Planning May river excursions are a great way to enjoy the outdoors and have fun in the sun. But it is essential to book in advance to ensure you guarantee a raft gets secured for you and your friends.

By booking your May river float online today, you ensure you will have plenty of time to prepare for your adventure and that all of the necessary arrangements are taken care of before your arrival. So don’t delay—today, book your river float down the Elk River or the Big Sugar Creek with the river outfitter, Lazy Days Resort and Campground!

The resort location is along the Elk River banks; they are just a one-minute drive West of Interstate 49 at exit 5 near mile marker 6. Come enjoy your summer with your friends along the Elk River!

Craig SandersCanoes, Float Trips, Kayaks, Noel MO, Pineville MO, River Rafts

Your Guide to Fall Foliage on Your Autumn Float Trip Along the Elk River

Fall is just days away, and there’s no better time to book an Autumn float trip than right now! To better prepare you for the Fall colors, we’ve put together this easy reference guide to help you identify those beautiful fall foliage.

Like so many states with striking Fall colors, Missouri is no exception. Fall in Missouri can last four to six weeks with showy displays of vibrant reds, brilliant oranges, dazzling golds, and bold purples.

Mid-October is often the time to take in those Fall colors. Although Missouri is host to a wide variety of foliage and plant life, residents are lucky to see the showy display that begins mid-September and wraps up sometime in mid-November. 

Mid-September Foliage

In about one week, early Fall colors emerge. Among the top forerunners of Fall color displays are:

  • Sassafras Tree
  • Sumac Shrub
  • Virginia Creeper Vine

Sassafras Trees

The leaves of a sassafras tree are uniquely shaped teardrops, often coming to three rounded points on each leaf. In early autumn, the sassafras leaves give off a brilliant display of reds, oranges, and yellows that intermingle with the natural bright green.

Sumac Shrub

The sumac bush is a magnificent sight of all the shrubs during the Fall. Its fern-like foliage lights up a forest floor with oranges, purples, and reds.

Virginia Creeper Vine

The Virginia creeper vine will adorn all it climbs with its rich hues of red. Unlike other North American creeping vines, like poison ivy, which display oranges and yellows, the Virginia creeper will envelop a tree trunk or building with Mother Nature’s paint.  

Peak Fall Colors

By mid-October, the Fall color heavyweights completely take over, which include the:

  • Maple trees
  • Ash varieties
  • Oak woods
  • Hickory trees

Maple Trees

The maple tree is well-known for giving a dazzling Fall show of rich reds, golden yellows, and orange ambers. Although there are 100 maple varieties around the globe, only twelve are native to the North American continent. The Missouri Department of Conservation only recognizes five as native to our state.

  1. Silver, or soft, maple
  2. Red maple
  3. Sugar, also known as a hard or black maple
  4. Box elder, or ash-leaved maple
  5. Amur, or Siberian, maple

Ash Varieties

Of the nearly 60 species of ash tree found all over the World, Missouri has six native varieties that range in magnificent hues of reds, golden yellows, brilliant oranges, and deep purples.

  1. Green
  2. White 
  3. Blue 
  4. Pumpkin
  5. Sullivan
  6. Biltmore

Oak Wood

Oak trees grow abundantly throughout Missouri, with nearly 22 known species and 30 oak hybrids. The Fall colors of the oak tree consist of deep reddish browns to dark, dusty yellows. 

With nearly four out of every five trees in Missouri being oak trees, it’s easy to understand how you might think the Missouri state tree is an oak. But you would be wrong; the state tree is the flowering dogwood.

Hickory Trees

Although hickory trees are prevalent throughout Missouri, only 17 known species exist worldwide. Fifteen of those species reside on the North American Continent. Interestingly, there are eight species of hickory native to Missouri. 

The hickory tree produces deep rich reds, yellows, and purples during peak Fall colors in Mid-October.

Book Your Fall Elk River Float Trip

Now that you know how to identify the foliage along your float down the Elk River this Autumn, you can book a relaxing Fall float trip for you and your family by contacting the premier rental location for Elk River float trips at the Lazy Days Resort & Campground in Noel, MO. 

If you’re looking for a relaxing Fall weekend stay, Lazy Days Campground offers premier Elk River RVing, tent campsites, and cabin rentals. Call Lazy Days Resort today to book your Elk River RVing site now!

The resort is a one-minute drive southwest of Interstate 49; take exit 5 at mile marker 6. The resort sits nestled between the Ozark mountain towns of Noel and Pineville, Missouri.

We invite you to read past guest experiences at Lazy Days Resort.

Craig SandersAutumn Floats, Canoes, Float Trips, Kayaks, Noel MO, Pineville MO, River Rafts