While winter is typically mild, and fall and spring are so short you’ll miss them if you blink, summers in Arkansas are long and brutal. If you’re visiting our beautiful state from mid-May to September, extreme heat is highly likely. Thankfully, the state is covered with glorious shady forests and more waterways than you could ever explore. The best way to enjoy the scenery is to join the Arkansas natives on the water! In this article, we’ll explore the best Arkansas kayaking spots, give you some insider tips, and help you plan the perfect Natural State getaway!
A Bit About Arkansas Kayaking
In addition to forested mountains and wonderful hiking trails, Arkansas boasts 2,340 lakes and reservoirs and over 90,000 miles of rivers, streams, and tributaries. Families float the calm rapids of the Buffalo on wholesome camping trips, and adult friends link long lines of tubes to tipsily meander the weekend away on the Spring River. No matter what kind of adventure you’re looking for, you can find it on the waterways of Arkansas!
The Best Arkansas Kayaking Spots to Explore This Summer
As a Natural State native, here are some of my favorite Arkansas kayaking spots!
Local Tip: There’s no such thing as kayaking, canoeing, or tubing in Arkansas. In the local vernacular, it’s all just “floating.”
Example: “We’re going to float the Buffalo this weekend.”
1. Buffalo National River
- Put-in Address: Ponca Low-Water Bridge, Hwy 43, Ponca, AR 72670
- Length and Difficulty: 10.7-mile float to Kyle’s Landing; easy to moderate—Class I rapids, with the possibility of Class II at high water levels.
- Rentals: Buffalo Outdoor Center, 4699 AR-43, Ponca, AR 72670. This is the largest and most popular rental company for this route, as it is located by Low Water Bridge near the put-in. Their website is also a great spot to monitor water levels and floating advisories.
- Camping: Kyle’s Landing Campground, located right by the river, offers a rustic and peaceful experience with tent sites shaded by tall trees. There’s tons of camping near Ponca and Jasper as well.
The Buffalo is America’s first national river, and its stunning limestone bluffs make it a favorite with both visitors and locals. There are more than 20 put-in spots along the river, which is divided into three major float sections: The Upper, Middle, and Lower Buffalo. The Upper is arguably the most stunning Arkansas kayaking spot, but it’s only really floatable in the spring and early summer when the water levels are high.
This stretch from Ponca to Kyle’s Landing feels remote but has great tourist amenities. Depending on timing and luck, you have opportunities to spot elk, explore caves, and trek to waterfalls. It’s enough for most floaters, taking 4-6 hours to complete. You’ll pass Big Bluff and the tallest waterfall between the Rockies and the Appalachians. If you want a full weekend, camp at Kyle’s Landing and float to Pruit the next day.
Visiting Hemmed-in-Hollow Falls
About six miles in, you pass Jim’s Bluff, then the river turns sharply to the left and you go through a set of rapids. Shortly after, on your left, you’ll see a pull-off (looks like a kayak parking lot on busy days). Stop here and take the short out-and-back trail to see the falls from its base.
Nearby Activities: Hike Lost Valley Trail for a short but rewarding trek to a waterfall inside a cave or enjoy the adrenaline of ziplining at Buffalo Outdoor Center.
Best For: Nature enthusiasts and adventurous families.
Price: As the most popular float in the state, this one is a bit pricier. Kayaks are $75/day and the vehicle shuttle service is a separate $46. You will also need to book Saturday floats well in advance during high season.
Local Tip: To save some dough, bring two vehicles and park one at Kyle’s Landing. Avoid the shuttle fees.
2. White River
- Put-in Address: Cotter Trout Dock: 321 Big Spring Pkwy, Cotter, AR 72626
- Length and Difficulty: 14-mile float to Buffalo Springs; easy.
- Rentals: Rileys Outfitter: 129 County Road 640 Mountain Home, AR 72653
- Camping: Bull Shoals-White River State Park offers spacious sites with electric hookups, hot showers, and a peaceful riverside setting.
The White River is renowned among Arkansas Kayaking spots for its world-class trout fishing and calm waters. Its gentle current and lush, tree-lined banks create a relaxing environment, perfect for beginner paddlers or those looking for a peaceful day on the water.
Riley’s will hook you up with a rental and a shuttle ride upstream from Buffalo Springs to Cotter Bend. You’ll float back downstream (5-7 hours) to Buffalo Springs. There are several lovely spots to pull off for a stream paddle or a picnic on the shoals.
Nearby Activities: Take a guided fishing tour to catch some of the region’s famous trout. Tour Bull Shoals Dam to marvel at its engineering, or enjoy a peaceful walk in Big Spring Park.
Best For: Families, beginners, and fishing enthusiasts.
Price: Kayak rental with shuttle fee included: $45
3. Mulberry River
- Put-in Address: Turner Bend, 20035 AR-23, Ozark, AR 72949
- Length and Difficulty: 10.6-mile float to Campbell Cemetery; challenging.
- Rentals: Turner Bend Outfitters (same address as put-in).
- Camping: Turner Bend Campground provides riverside campsites with fire pits, picnic tables, and easy river access.
The Mulberry River offers thrilling Class I to III rapids and gorgeous Ozark mountain scenery. Flowing through dense forests and rocky landscapes, this river is especially exciting during spring when water levels are high. There are also opportunities for a deep-water swim break.
Nearby Activities: Hike sections of the Ozark Highlands Trail for stunning views, or go cliff jumping at Bluff Hole Park.
Best For: Adventure seekers and experienced paddlers in spring or fall, and family-friendly in summer.
Price: Kayak with shuttle fee: $65
Warning: There’s a curve with a sandbar on the right that features a whirlpool rapid and a large bluff on your left. It’s the spot where most amateurs flip and lose their picnic lunch. You’ll know it’s coming, as there will likely be a crowd of folks with beers on the sandbar, waiting to watch you crash! We will chase down your lunch and help ya back in your boat though. Welcome to Arkansas Southern hospitality.
4. Caddo River
- Put-in Address: Glenwood City Park, 727 Lakeshore Dr, Glenwood, AR 71943
- Length and Difficulty: 7-mile float to Caddo Gap; easy to moderate.
- Rentals: Caddo River Camping and Canoe, 26 Hwy 8 E, Glenwood, AR 71943.
- Camping: Riverside camping at Caddo River Camping and Canoe features spacious sites, a friendly family atmosphere, and amenities like picnic tables and clean restrooms.
The Caddo River’s crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches make it a favorite for families. Tubing is the more popular water adventure here, but kayaking is growing. The Caddo is one of the most consistent floats and features Class I and II rapids at high water levels.
Nearby Activities: Visit Downtown Hot Springs for excellent food and a traditional bathhouse experience, dig for diamonds at Crater of Diamonds State Park, or explore the Ouachita National Forest’s hiking trails.
Best For: Families and casual adventurers.
Price: A bargain at $43 including shuttle and all taxes!
5. Kings River
- Put-in Address: Rockhouse Access, Rockhouse Rd, Berryville, AR 72616
- Length and Difficulty: 7.7-mile float to Trigger Gap; easy to moderate.
- Rentals: Kings River Outfitters, 8190 AR-221, Eureka Springs, AR 72632.
- Camping: Kings River Outfitters Campground offers basic but well-kept tent sites along the river and a separate cabin site.
The Kings River is a serene waterway known for its biodiversity and scenic beauty. Flowing through the Ozarks, it features clear waters, gravel bars, and plenty of opportunities for birdwatching and photography. Its calm demeanor and untouched landscapes make it a peaceful escape for wildlife lovers.
Nearby Activities: Explore the vibrant art and dining scene in Eureka Springs, hike Hobbs State Park’s trails, or visit Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge to see rescued big cats.
Best For: Relaxation seekers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Price: $80 including shuttle
6. Big Piney Creek
- Put-in Address: Helton’s Farm Access, AR-164, Hagarville, AR 72839
- Length and Difficulty: 7-mile float to Long Pool; moderate to challenging.
- Rentals: Moore Outdoors, 276 AR-164, Dover, AR 72837. (479) 331-3606
- Camping: Long Pool Recreation Area offers campsites nestled in the forest, with picnic tables, fire rings, and easy access to the river.
Arkansas kayaking doesn’t get better than Big Piney Creek—beloved for its clear, spring-fed waters and challenging rapids. Surrounded by the Ozark-St. Francis National Forest, the creek offers a remote and adventurous experience. It’s a shorter river but with quick-flowing whitewater.
Nearby Activities: Visit Haw Creek Falls for stunning cascades, hike Pedestal Rocks Trail for unique rock formations, or explore the Ozark-St. Francis National Forest.
Best For: Solitude seekers and adventure paddlers.
Price: Call for updated prices.
7. Spring River
- Put-in Address: Dam 3, Mammoth Spring, AR 72554
- Length and Difficulty: 10-mile float to Many Islands; easy to moderate.
- Rentals: Many Islands Camp & Canoe Rental, 2988 Many Islands Rd, Mammoth Spring, AR 72554.
- Camping: Many Islands Campground offers shaded sites with fire pits, picnic tables, and river views, making it a perfect base for families or groups.
Fed by Mammoth Spring, the Spring River maintains a cool, steady flow year-round. Its clear waters and mild rapids make it a popular summer destination. Known as the “party river,” the Spring is lively and fun, attracting groups of friends looking for social paddling or tubing experiences.
Nearby Activities: Visit Mammoth Spring State Park to see one of the largest natural springs in the U.S., and browse the antique shops in Hardy.
Best for: Adult friend groups
Price: Kayak and shuttle fee: $43
Arkansas Kayaking Tips and Final Thoughts
Arkansas kayaking is an adventure and one of the best ways to experience the Natural State, but you need to know a few things to succeed.
- Rivers can be dangerous just after rain; Always check the water level and advisories.
- We do have poisonous snakes in Arkansas, including water moccasins. They can be aggressive but don’t bother them, and they usually won’t bother you.
- Spring, fall, and early summer after rain are the best times to float.
- Waterproof sunscreen, bug spray with Deet, and lots of water are musts!
Pay attention to safety briefings, wear a hat, and have a blast on the Arkansas rivers this summer!