Lazy Days

Resort & Campground on Elk River

Tag: river class

Tag: river class

River Statistics of Missouri’s Elk River and Big Sugar Creek

Missouri is home to some of the most mesmerizing rivers in the United States. The Elk River and Big Sugar Creek, with their unique and captivating beauty, will surely inspire and intrigue you. Their distinct characteristics set them apart, making them a must-visit for any nature enthusiast or rivergoer.

Whether you’re a seasoned rivergoer or a curious nature enthusiast, understanding the statistical aspects of these rivers can enhance your appreciation and experience. In today’s blog, we dive into the intriguing river statistics of the Elk River and Big Sugar Creek, exploring:

Elk River: A Flowing Gem

The Elk River flows through Missouri’s scenic landscapes, offering a haven for outdoor lovers. Its average flow rate is approximately 180 cubic feet per second (cfs), making it an ideal floating river year-round, which gives it a Class I river rating.

As of August 9, 2024, the current river depth is just under 3 feet, supporting an abundant ecosystem of wildlife, fish, and insects. You might spot bald eagles, deer, or even a river otter. The rich biodiversity will make you feel more connected to nature.

Big Sugar Creek: A Tranquil Escape

Big Sugar Creek, though lesser known, offers a serene and picturesque experience. Its flow rate is much slower than the Elk, averaging around 7.43 cfs this time of year with a depth of near 5 ft.

The tranquility will envelop you, making you feel relaxed and at peace. It’s the perfect spot for nature enthusiasts seeking a calm escape. Water levels in Big Sugar Creek are generally stable, but like all rivers, they can rise after significant rainfall and drop after long drought periods.

Comparing the Two River: Elk vs. Big Sugar

Although both rivers are part of the Elk River Watershed, the annual average water temperature is 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Each river offers a distinct experience that caters to different preferences, skill levels, activities, and ways to cool off.

With river widths ranging from 25 to 50 feet (ft.), the Elk River offers an easy floating experience with minimal paddling and steering, except around river bends and obstacles.

In contrast, Big Sugar Creek’s lower flow rate, paired with its narrowest width of 25 ft. and its widest at 75 ft. gives the creek a Class II river rating.

Where to Book Your River Float Trip

Missouri’s Elk River and Big Sugar Creek each offer distinctly different and engaging experiences for rivergoers. Understanding the statistical nuances of these rivers, from flow rates to each river’s classification rating, can help you choose the perfect river adventure.

Whether drawn to the Elk River’s easy currents or Big Sugar Creek’s tranquil waters, these flowing wonders promise unforgettable experiences and a deeper connection with nature. Your river float trip starts at Lazy Days Resort in Noel, Missouri, where you can enjoy comfortable camping facilities and a range of outdoor activities on both Elk River and the Big Sugar Creek near Pineville, Missouri.

They offer self-guided river float trips for all levels of experience. Book your river float trip today and embark on an unforgettable experience!

Book Elk River Floats

Book Big Sugar Creek Floats
Craig SandersBig Sugar Float, Elk River Float, Floating Elk River Missouri, Noel MO, Pineville MO, River Float

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