Lazy Days

Resort & Campground on Elk River

Tag: Lazy Days Resort

Tag: Lazy Days Resort

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, Elk River Float, 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, Elk River Float, Kayaks, Noel MO, Pineville MO, River Float, River Rafts, RVing

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, Elk River Float, Location, Noel MO, Pineville MO, River Float

A Riverside Cabin Retreat Along the Elk River in Missouri

If you’re looking for a great vacation spot near Pineville, and Noel, MO, consider renting a cabin retreat along the Elk River at a property equipped to deliver on the following:

  • Cabin rental retreats along Elk River
  • Vacation amenities
  • Premier location
  • Booking your cabin retreat online

Cabin Rental Retreats Along the Elk River

A perfect spot for an Elk River getaway, this one-story cabin is spacious and boasts 15 bedrooms, three bathrooms, a laundry, and riverfront views. There is plenty of parking directly outside the cabin, so you can park up front, making it easy to unload and load up.

Your riverside retreat location sits along the riverbanks of the Elk River. The largest cabin is a full-fledged 4,000 square feet vacation rental home with border windows that let in ample natural light, framing the outdoor scenery’s tranquility.

Capable of accommodating groups of up to 30 people. The riverside retreat at Lazy Days Resort boasts 15 bedrooms, each with a full-sized bed for two.

Vacation Amenities

The cabin retreat comes fully furnished with expansive living room space and a full-sized kitchen for gathering and lounging. In this cabin riverside retreat, you and the other guests will have adequate space even with a whole house full of friends!

Other features that make this riverside cabin retreat perfect for a week-long vacation are plenty of bathrooms and ample deck space for outdoor dining with an expansive riverside view—an ideal riverside cabin retreat with the ultimate getaway for weekend warriors too.

Premier Location

Cabin retreats like this rental are perfect for event stays too. It’s ideal for a girls’ weekend. So it’s always a good idea to be aware of booking requirements and cancellation policy since many resorts, like Lazy Days, have a two-night minimum stay on weekends.

The ideal cabin retreat at Lazy Days Resort is outfitted with float equipment, including a scheduled private shuttle to transport you and your friends back to your cabin retreat afterward.

Booking Your Cabin Retreat Online

The perfect location for your cabin retreat is between the charming towns of Noel and Pineville, MO. They are just a one-minute drive West of Interstate 49 at exit 5 near mile marker 6. Lazy Days Campground is situated along the tranquil Elk River banks and offers camping, float trips, and comfortable cabin accommodations.

Please plan on spending some time away from it all at Lazy Days Resort & Campground in the Ozark Mountains of Southwest Missouri to take a slow float down The Elk. Make the most of your cabin retreat experience by booking your stay today!

Craig Sanders15-Bedroom Cabin, Cabins

Cabin Rental Stay: Planning A Reunion With Friends

Are you planning a reunion with friends? Cabin rentals are a great way to get everyone together for a fun and memorable weekend.

Whether you’re reuniting with college friends or catching up after a long work week, a cabin stay should offer a variety of amenities to make your reunion a special occasion.

From spacious decks to cozy fireplaces, trying to find something to suit everyone’s taste can be hard. In this blog post, we’ll discuss how to plan a friends reunion at a venue with cabin rentals which:

  • Accommodate large groups
  • Offers a convenient location to near by towns
  • Have close proximity to I-49 for easy accessibility

Determine Group Size

When planning a reunion with friends, you’ll need to determine how many people will stay in your group. Lazy Days Resort offers cabins that can accommodate groups of 3-30 people, perfect for any size gathering.

They have one treehouse cabin that sleeps up to twelve, and there are also cabin rentals excellent for smaller group reunions of two or three. Located between Noel and Pineville, Missouri, along the Elk River, the cabins make an ideal setting for a gathering friends.

The area offers plenty of outdoor activities for everyone to enjoy. Float trips are available on the Elk River and Big Sugar for group rafts, kayaks, and canoe rentals.

If you don’t feel like floating, why not find a lovely shade tree to relax under? You can also take one day to stroll through the charming towns of Pineville and Noel, Missouri.

The cabins are the perfect setting to catch up with friends while grilling outdoors and sipping on a few cocktails near a campfire. No wonder people come from across the four states to visit this special place!

Consider Amenities

When planning a reunion with friends, the amenities offered at the venue location are as essential as the size of cabin you rent. That makes proper planning critical to running smoothly for everyone during their stay.

So be sure to look up the details on the guest policy or give the Resort a call at (417) 223-3498.

to have your questions  answered ahead of time so you and your group get the most out of your stay! Here are three important reminders to considering when booking for a large group:

  1. Does the resort supply linens, towels, and toiletries?
  2. Are guests required to bring their own kitchen utensils and cookware?
  3. Know the designated quiet hours for the resort.

An important aspect of planning a reunion at a resort with cabins is ensuring each guest has a bed for sleeping. Always plan on booking a space with extra beds for guests who change their minds and show up at the last minute.

Be sure to remind your friends to pack a sleeping bag, pillow, and towels. It is also essential to determine who in the group will bring cooking supplies, such as:

  • Pots and pans
  • Cooking utensils
  • Paper plates
  • Plasticware and cups

Everyone in your group can contribute to food and drinks to ensure there’s enough to last throughout the entire cabin stay. As a group, it’s helpful to share responsibilities after each meal or activity so that everything stays organized and neat throughout your time together. 

Finally, it’s beneficial to let you friends know in advance what the resort’s designated quiet hours are so everyone can rest well without any disturbances.

Choose A Location for a Friends Reunion

Lazy Days Resort is the perfect spot to gather with your friends for a reunion. For groups seeking a cabin experience right along the Elk River, Lazy Days offers unbeatable views and river excursions in the four states—Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma.

Plus, cabins at Lazy Days can comfortably sleep groups of 10 to 30 people. All large group cabins come with running water, air conditioning, a coffee pot, a refrigerator with freezer, a full-sized kitchen stove, ample deck space overlooking Elk River, television cable, and WiFi service.

Cabins that sleep 1-3 people at Lazy Days Resort are perfect for small group reunions. These cabins come equipped with air conditioning, a small refrigerator, WiFi service, and outdoor grilling only. 

If you’re ready to plan your reunion, look for Lazy Days Campground on Google Maps, and you’ll discover they are located less than a 2-hour drive from any major city in the four states. Lazy Days Resort and Campground, just outside Pineville and Noel, Missouri, is conveniently located one minute West of I-49; take exit 5 near mile marker 6.

It’s the perfect location for a fun-filled weekend near Pineville, Missouri. They are taking reservations now for May 1 through October 31, 2023. Make your reservation today to guarantee your spot!

Craig SandersCabins, Treehouse Cabin

Essential Paddle Grips Every River Floater Should Know

Whether you’re new to river sports or a born river explorer, there is much to be said about proper paddle grips. While gripping a river paddle may seem instinctive, improperly grasping a paddle with both hands holding onto the shaft is a primary reason for injuries sustained in the boat. Although, keep in mind that most rivers in Missouri are easy enough to float down without an expert river guide.

So if you’re paddling down the easy flow of the Elk River outside Noel, Missouri, or maneuvering the class I or II rapids in the Big Sugar Creek near Pineville, Missouri, paddle grip is an essential piece of knowledge that serves you and your fellow floaters well.

Paddle Grips

Regarding paddle grip, keeping hold of a paddle while rafting, canoeing, or kayaking a river ranked as a class I rapid or above is essential. However, it may not be as crucial while floating down Elk River because it’s rated lower than a class I rapid, making it an ideal family-friendly float. 

Therefore, knowing the two common paddle types can help you better prepare for when you must paddle. Whether you’re launching from the river edge or paddling to shore, there are different grip styles for both of these paddles:

  • Single-blade Paddle
  • Double-blade Paddle

Single-Blade Paddle

Canoes and rafts generally come outfitted with a single-blade paddle because there can be more than one paddler for these types of watercraft.

Single-blade paddles come with two different types of grips: asymmetrical and T-grip. The asymmetrical grip generally gets used in lake crafts, like canoes. However, most river vessels come with a T-grip design.

Both grip designs give a paddler the most significant leverage with the least resistance. Depending upon which side of the craft you are paddling on, you will always wrap your palm around the T-grip cross body.

For example, paddlers on a raft on the right side of the boat will grasp the T-grip with their left hand. While paddlers on the left side of the rivercraft hold the t-grip using their right hand.

In a canoe, it depends upon whether there is a solo paddler or a two-person paddle team. If there are two paddlers, the team must communicate well which side of the boat they should paddle on to direct the craft to shore or cross-river. 

For solo paddlers with single blades, it’s a matter of swapping hand positions to ensure the cross-body hand is always holding the paddle grip, depending upon which side of the canoe the blade is on. 

In other words, if the blade is in the water to the paddler’s left, the right-hand grasps the T-grip. If the paddle blade is in the water to the paddler’s right, the left hand will grab the top of the T-grip (as seen with the paddler above). 

The other hand will always hold on to the shaft. For canoes, that will depend upon where you’re seated, in the bow (front) or the stern (rear). It will be the strongest paddler sitting at the stern who instructs the person seated at the bow. That’s because the person in the stern will steer the boat.

However, paddling in a river raft is different. First, it depends upon which side of the craft you sit on. If you’re seated on the port (left) side of the raft, your left hand will hold onto the shaft of the paddle, while those sitting on the starboard (right) side of the vessel grasp the paddle shaft with the right hand. 

Double-Blade Paddle

On the other hand, kayakers use a double-blade paddle, which provides greater efficiency in traversing river currents and slightly improves a kayaker’s speed. For kayakers paddle lengths can range from approximately 79″ to 81″. 

The blades are typically feathered and can rotate using a center ferrule, meaning the blades on a kayak paddle can rotate in opposing directions. That gives kayakers an advantage in wind conditions and the ability to paddle upstream.

The grip on a double-blade paddle is pretty straightforward: you wrap both hands around the shaft between the blades. Keeping your hands slightly wider than shoulder length apart and bent at 90 degrees at the elbow is the most comfortable position in a kayak.

Book A Stay Along Elk River in Missouri

Looking for an ideal location along the Elk River? Contact Lazy Days in Noel, MO, the premier rental site for river float trips. They offer prime Elk River RVing, tent campsites, and recently upgraded cabin rentals. So book your stay today at Lazy Days Resort and Campground!

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

Read what past guests had to say about Lazy Days Resort.

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

Choosing A River Float Craft for You and Your Fellow Floaters

Whether you’re a novice river rafter or an expert river kayaker, knowing which river float craft is suitable can be a big decision for yourself and your fellow floaters. That’s where this helpful tool can help you make the best selection when booking your next Elk River or Big Sugar float trip.

You’ll discover the specific differences between three float vessel options commonly available to choose from when you book your stay at a Noel, MO, campground on Elk River.

  • River raft
  • Individual kayak
  • Tandem kayak
  • Multi-person canoe

Elk River and Big Sugar Creek

There are some distinct differences between Elk River and Big Sugar Creek.

The Elk River is an ideal family-friendly river with few rapids and fewer river obstacles. Presently running at a depth of 4.28 feet, making its flow rate suitable and manageable for river floaters seeking to cool off. On the other hand, the Big Sugar Creek categorizes below a class I rapid, and at certain times of the year, it ranks as a class II.

The Big Sugar is running at a depth between 3.90 and 5.88 feet. Although considered low in some areas, the chances of a watercraft dragging the river bottom or having to portage are low.

River Raft

There are two standard river rafts for any Elk River float trip. There is a 12-13 foot raft that seats six people comfortably. You can also select a 14-15 foot raft for 8-people. Both crafts are well suited for a gentle float down Elk River with little paddling and negotiating required. 

Individual Kayak

If you are one for individual sports, a personal kayak is ideal for you or anyone paddling alongside you down the Elk River or the Big Sugar Creek. Bound to deliver a unique kayaking experience to test your reflexes and challenge you with a good cardio workout.

Tandem Kayak

Two-person kayaks, also known as tandem kayaks, are an excellent choice for those who play well on a team. You’ll work together to paddle to increase or slow your speed as a team. The perfect watercraft for any couples weekend in a Noel, Missouri, campground.

Tandem kayaks perform well on Elk River and Big Sugar Creek this time of year.

Multi-Person Canoe

Most canoes can be paddled down river easily by one or two people. But most canoes can hold up to three people comfortably. These river vessels are superior in lightweight aluminum construction that shine in paddle control down Elk River or the Big Sugar Creek.

Book Your Elk River RVing Campsite

If you’re ready for a relaxing weekend stay, Lazy Days Resort and Campground is a one-minute drive southwest of Interstate 49. Take exit 5 at mile marker 6. The resort is conveniently nestled between the towns of Noel and Pineville, Missouri.

Lazy Days in Noel, MO, is the premier rental for river float trips. Call Lazy Days to book your Elk River RVing site now! 

Discover what other guests had to say about Lazy Days Resort.

Craig SandersCampsites, Canoes, Elk River Float, Kayaks, Noel MO, River Rafts, RVing

River Float Essentials for Your Elk River Float Trip

If you live in the four states region of southwest Missouri, you are probably familiar with the leading summer activity of river float trips. It’s a tradition and right of passage for many families and young people across the four states.

Of all the summer activities, river float trips rank high on the list of priorities for staying cool during summer. But before launching off in your favorite float vessel, consider all the river float essentials you need to pack into the craft as you head downriver.

Float Trip Essentials

While you might not think you would need to pack a lot for a float trip downriver. What more is there to ask for on a hot summer day in July than the cool easy flowing currents of an Ozark river.

Honestly, there is a lot to consider, especially if your float trip lasts four hours. Of course, there are lots of things to consider in a self-guided float trip, but at the same time, you don’t have to take the kitchen sink with you either.

Here is a short list of “must haves” in your river float device. 

  1. Watercraft patch kit
  2. Sunblock and Sunscreen
  3. Quick dry clothing
  4. Sunglasses and straps
  5. Food and water
  6. First Aid Kit
  7. Dry Sack
  8. Ziploc bags
  9. Disposable waterproof camera

River Float Craft 

Depending on the type of float vessel, you may need to ask the rental company if they supply an air pump and raft patch kit, just in case anything goes wrong. Many float trips in southwest Missouri are self-guided nontechnical rafting trips. That means gentle flowing rivers are calm enough that the class rating is below a class-I river.

Sunblock and Sunscreen

Here’s an important one, protecting your skin from the sun. That also includes protecting your eyes, ears, nose, lips, and head. You want to keep everything well-covered while having fun in the sun. Even a river seemingly shrouded in tree cover can reflect 25% or more UV light off the water’s surface. Of course, you can always try an article of UPF-rated clothing too.

River Clothing Gear

UPF clothing is ideal for any outdoor activity for skin pigmentations–light or dark. The clothing works to filter out ultraviolet rays, A and B. Otherwise known as UVA and UVB light.

Quick drying layers of clothes are an absolute must when river rafting. From swimming suits to river footwear, it’s best to dry quickly after a day on the river. That way, you don’t need to carry a towel, and you don’t have to try and keep dry while on the river.

If possible, steer clear of cotton clothing, opting for layers with a wicking material that will pull moisture away from your core and dry faster. Ideal river clothing will also include zippered pockets to carry the all-important state identification, keeping it from getting lost in the drink.

Don’t forget your sunglasses and straps; you don’t want those expensive UV polarizing shades to be lost to the river forever. But, it can help to keep your eyes protected from all those ultraviolet rays. 

If you grew up floating the river of Missouri, you know they can be pretty shallow this time of year, so proper river footwear. If your river vessel is a raft, neoprene booties are a solid choice, which cling to a wet raft better than many other shoes. 

Items to Consider

You might ask the boat rental people if the vessels come equipped with a first aid kit, just in case anyone scraps a shin.

Be sure to drink responsibly. Always remember to bring along a few Ziploc bags for trash. The more we all do our part to keep our rivers clean, the more beautiful the scenery and the float for everyone.

Smoother Sailing Tips

Utility bungee cords are an excellent form of insurance to keep your ice, water, and food contained within the ice chest. 

Lastly, who doesn’t want to record all the river memories? Most of us are always trying to catch that next big viral image or video to post on our social media sites, so grab an inexpensive disposable waterproof camera to hold onto to capture those precious moments.

Book Your Elk River or Big Sugar Float Trip

If you’re ready to cool off, book a float trip down Elk River or the Big Sugar 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.

To book your campsite now, Lazy Days today!

Also take a moment to read what our recent guests had to say.

Craig SandersCabins, Campsites, Elk River Float, Noel MO, RVing

Four Snack Ideas for Float Trips Down Missouri’s Elk River

There’s never a dull moment spent on a 7.5-mile float trip down Elk River toward Pineville, Missouri. Locals and visitors enjoy this seasonal activity of time spent with family and friends gently floating down the river.

After all, you can burn up to 350 calories an hour depending on your body weight and the river’s class rating or difficulty. Alright, so you might not burn 350 calories floating down Elk River.

That raises a good point: Elk River is rated below a class-I river, meaning it has few rapids and fewer river obstacles to negotiate. That makes it an ideal family-friendly float river.

It also helps to understand that Elk River’s average depth measures 3.3 feet, which places it into a low flow rate category that is calm and manageable for novice river-goers seeking to stay cool this summer. 

Although, no float trip is complete without a dry sack to tow along down the river. But what is so special about the dry pack? Aside from keeping everything dry, it’s an excellent way to tote along four snacks with a purpose.

  1. Sweet and Sour
  2. Protein Boosters
  3. Drinks for Hydration
  4. Fresh Fruit and Vegetable

All these snack ideas provide sustainable energy and hydration to keep your energy up, which helps you enjoy every minute on the river.

Sweet and Sour Snacks

There is no better combination for managing your electrolytes when it comes to sweet and sour snacks. The heat index in southwest Missouri can be particularly brutal in July, so keeping your electrolytes stable with a balanced blend of sugars and salts will help keep you having fun and staying calm and more relaxed while in the sun.

A fantastic sweet and sour snack that is pre-packaged and re-sealable is trail mix, a must-have on Elk River. Trail mixes are available premade or ho; here’s an easy recipe we found online. 

To keep it simple, you can grab some Ziploc snack bags and toss in your favorite salted nut or seed, throw in a preferred dried fruit, like raisins, a few M&M’s, and BAM; you’ve got a personalized trail mix for your float trip.

Protein Snack Boosts

Protein is an excellent choice for float trips. It can help sustain your energy levels all day long. For example, one cup of nuts has 27 grams of protein, which equals 813 calories.

If you’re watching your calorie intake, you can always reach for a Quest White Chocolate Raspberry, which contains 190 calories and only 1 gram of sugar.

Hydrating Snacks

Drinking river water is not advisable, so you should be packing plenty of hydrating snacks. It may sound strange to think of water as a snack, but water intake speeds up your metabolism, making you feel full.

It plays a significant role in staying well-hydrated while outdoors. After all, your body will sweat more than three liters of water an hour just sitting in the sun. That works out to six pounds of water weight loss in a single hour.

While you might not think of hydration as a snack, it’s essential to being out in the sun all day. A good rule of thumb is having 64 ounces of water for every person in a floating device. In addition, some manufacturers make water bladders that hold up to 100 fluid ounces of water.

Pack Fresh Fruits and Vegetable Snacks

Other excellent snack choices are fresh fruits and vegetables, like apples, pears, oranges, or carrots. All these choices can play a part in replenishing your electrolytes too.

Dehydrated fruits are also an excellent option since these snacks are less like to bruise or get mashed while on the river.

Top Snack Picks 

For us at Lazy Days Resort & Campground, our top picks for a well-packed dry sack for a float down Elk River is a snack-size bag of shelled pistachios, a Cliff bar, chili cover dried mangos, 32 ounces of bottled water, and one packet of strawberry kiwi flavored Propel.

Booking Your Elk River Float

If you’re planning a float trip down Elk River, we at Lazy Days Resort & Campground would love to have you stay with us. We offer all our guests access to set off on an Elk River float trip right from our property. 

We have some of the valley’s premier Elk River RVing sites at the Lazy Days Resort. We are only a one-minute drive southwest of Interstate 49. Take exit 5 at mile marker 6. The resort location is between Noel and Pineville, Missouri.

Book your stay today and your float trip too. Here’s what some of our recent guests had to say about their stays at Lazy Days Resort & Campground!

Craig SandersCampsites, Elk River Float, Noel MO, Pineville MO, RVing