Lazy Days

Resort & Campground on Elk River

Category: River Float

Category: River Float

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

Exploring the Beauty of Southwest Missouri’s McDonald County by Floating Along the Riverbanks of The Elk River

Nestled in Southwest Missouri lies a hidden gem for water enthusiasts- the Elk River’s picturesque waterway- a unique and refreshing experience for those seeking equal measures of adventure and tranquility.

Floating along the riverbanks of the Elk is an everyday activity among locals and visitors alike. With its cool waters and stunning natural beauty, it’s no wonder that this stretch of river has become the destination for weekend warriors in Missouri. Elk River is genuinely for everyone, whether you’re an experienced floater or new to the activity.

Located in McDonald County, the Elk River boasts a variety of float options suitable for all skill levels. You can book a leisurely self-guided float rental in one of three flotation devices:

  • 6-8 Person River Raft
  • 1-2 Guest River Kayak
  • 1-3 Person River Canoe

You get to personally navigate the gentle waters of the slow, meandering river surrounded by lush greenery, rolling hills, and abundant wildlife along the riverbanks of Elk River.

Unwind and Relax, Floating Elk River

Floating Elk River also provides an opportunity to reconnect with nature, helping you to unwind and relax in a peaceful outdoor environment. Whether you want to spend quality time with friends and family or seek solitude alone, this serene setting will capture your senses.

To fully decompress on your river float, you should plan to bring along these essential river items:

  • Sunscreen
  • Insect Repellent
  • River Snacks
  • Drinking Water for Hydration

Embark on an Unforgettable Adventure by Booking Your River Float Today!

So, if you yearn for a memorable adventure, consider discovering the hidden gem in the heart of Southwest Missouri’s McDonald County: river floats down the Elk. To book your river float today, contact the staff at Lazy Days Resort by calling (417) 223-3498.

The Resort is located along the tranquil waters of Elk River and promises the experience of an unforgettable river journey. Lazy Days Resort’s location adds to the appeal of this adventure; nestled between the charming towns of Noel and Pineville, Missouri, this scenic Resort presents a unique opportunity to become immersed in nature while cooling off from the hot summer heat.

With its picturesque surroundings and charming small towns, visitors can also explore these additional attractions:

  • Hiking Trails
  • Fishing Spots
  • Local Eateries

Now that you are ready for an unforgettable outdoor experience that combines tranquility with adventure book your stay today at Lazy Days Resort to get floating down The Elk in Southwest Missouri’s McDonald County.

Get ready to create delightful memories as you connect with nature and embrace all the beauty of Southwest Missouri. They also have numerous cabin and camping options to choose from.

The staff at Lazy Days also invite you to read what other guests say about their time at Lazy Days Resort & Campground.

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

Craig SandersFloat Trips, McDonald County, Noel MO, Pineville MO, River Float, Southwest Missouri

Embrace Relaxation: Celebrating National Lazy Day on Thursday, August 10, 2023

Welcome to the wonderful world of National Lazy Day! A day dedicated to embracing relaxation, taking a break, and indulging in some much-needed self-care. The national day of celebration is a chance to slow down, unwind, and permit yourself to do absolutely nothing on Thursday, August 10, this year.

In today’s fast-paced world, where productivity is often praised above all else, it’s easy to forget the importance of taking time for ourselves. But on this particular day, we are reminded that rest and rejuvenation are essential for our overall mental well-being and physical health.

So that’s why today, we at Lazy Days Resort and Campground invite you to embrace National Lazy Day by taking a float trip down Elk River. It’s an opportunity to recharge your mind, body, and soul–a chance to step away from the constant hum of everyday life to exist in the present moment.

By embracing laziness on this designated day, you permit yourself to relinquish responsibilities and obligations. You can indulge in guilt-free relaxation day and activities such as:

  • River Floats
  • Kayaking or Canoeing
  • A Leisurely Nature Hike
  • Simply Lounge Around at one of Lazy Days Resort’s 12 Cabin Locations

Remember, self-care is not selfish; it is necessary for maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Taking time for ourselves allows us to replenish our energy reserves so that we can show up as our best selves in all areas of life.

So on this national day, you’re encouraged to embrace the art of doing nothing without guilt or judgment. Allow yourself the luxury of slowing down and giving your mind and body a well-deserved day of rest.

Celebrate this day by carving out moments of tranquility amidst the chaos. Embrace laziness as an act of self-love and reclaim your right to a relax without feeling guilty about it.

Book Your Blissfully Lazy Day River Float

Make a long weekend of this nationally celebrated day by booking a cabin stay at Lazy Days Resort, and while you’re at it, book your river float trips too. You can launch onto your 7.5-mile Elk River float right from the Resort’s property.

National Lazy Day reminds us that sometimes the most productive thing we can do is take care of ourselves. So go ahead—kick back, relax, and soak in every blissful moment of your lazy day this Thursday, August 10, 2023!Lazy Days Resort location is between the charming towns of Pineville and Noel, Missouri. Just a short one-minute drive southwest of Interstate 49, take exit 5 at mile marker 6.

Craig SandersCabins, Float Trips, Noel MO, River Float, Uncategorized

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

Diagram of the Fundamental Elements of a River Rafting Boat

When it comes to river rafting boats, the inflatable raft has fundamental elements that every member of a rafting team should know. In today’s blog, we’ll diagram those essential elements on a raft, pointing out and describing each area, including but not limited to:

  • Bow of a raft
  • River raft stern
  • Chafe pad
  • The thwart
  • Raft tube
  • A baffle
  • Seams
  • Raft Floor
  • Pressure release valve

River Rafting Boat

Most novice river-rafters in the four states region of U. S. know the bow and the stern area on a river raft. As the sport has grown and gained popularity, raft designs have evolved to meet the varying river conditions.

So whether you’re rafting down the calm waters of the Elk River near Noel, Missouri, or rafting the class I rapids of the Big Sugar near Pineville, Missouri, here are the essential design elements of a river raft.

Bow of a Raft

The front of a raft, or any watercraft, is known as the bow. The bow gives a raft lift to go over the waves, providing a drier float trip. There are also low-rise rafts commonly used along the Elk River, which is a calm water float trip.

River Raft Stern

The back of a raft is known as the stern. It’s commonly where a river guide would sit to perform master maneuvers for steering the boat on a whitewater rafting trip. But when it comes to the easy-flowing waters of the Elk River and the Big Sugar, you can self-guide your river float.

Chafe Pad

The chafe pads lower the friction caused by wear and tear since this is where you sit and paddle in a river raft.

The Thwart

The cross-section pieces are known as thwarts, which are positioned perpendicularly to the raft tubes to add rigidity to the raft. In addition, thwarts can act as a foothold to give paddlers leverage and support in swift-moving currents.

Raft Tube

All river rafts get designed with an air-filled tube, which gives a raft its buoyancy to stay afloat on a river. The perimeter tube gets subdivided into individual sections. The minimum diameter is 15 to 16 inches. The more surface area, the greater the flotation capacity.

A Baffle

The sections around the perimeter of the raft are the baffles, essentially individual chambers of air. A single raft can have as many baffles as needed, from bow to stern, to encompass the entire floor of a raft to hold 2 to 8 people. If one chamber, or baffle, gets punctured, the raft will stay afloat.

Seams

Each baffle gets conjoined through a specialty welding process that fuses two baffles that form the seams between each baffle.

Raft Floor

Like the baffles, the raft floor gets adhered to the bottom of the tube. Depending upon a specific raft’s design, the floor is sometimes wrapped entirely around the outside of the tube for added strength for whitewater rafting. However, the rivers of Southwest Missouri are not known for having wild whitewater rafting.

Pressure Release Valves

Also, a feature of a raft floor is the pressure-release valves found commonly on self-bailing rafts. Valves can get checked easily for leaks by sitting on the sides to listen for hissing.

Raft Valve

Inside the raft are side valves too. Although these valves can get blocked by gear in a loaded raft, the valves should be readily accessible in the event of over-inflation, or there’s an urgent hot air expanse that needs to be released.

Book Your Next River Float Trip

Book your next river float at Lazy Days Resort near Noel, MO, your premier rental location for river float trips. They also offer full hookup RVing, tent campsites, or cabin stays. Book your stay today at Lazy Days Resort and Campground today!

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

Sharon McClellanFloat Trips, River Float, River Rafts

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