Elk River Float Trips

Clear spring-fed river in Southwest Missouri with scenic float trips

50 miles floatable
Beginner to Intermediate
4.5 ft - optimal
Crowd: Low to Moderate

About Elk River

The Elk River is a beautiful spring-fed stream in Southwest Missouri, known for its crystal-clear water and scenic limestone bluffs. The river offers excellent floating, swimming, and fishing opportunities with a mix of calm pools and mild rapids. Popular with families and perfect for a relaxing day on the water.

Key Features

  • Crystal clear spring-fed water
  • Limestone bluffs and caves
  • Excellent swimming holes
  • Good smallmouth bass fishing
  • Less crowded than other rivers
  • Scenic Ozark scenery

River Stats

Total Length:
50 miles floatable
Average Depth:
3-6 feet
Water Temp:
65-72°F summer
Difficulty:
Beginner to Intermediate

Popular Float Sections

Cowskin to Pineville

Beginner
6 miles2.5-3.5 hours

Pineville to Cyclone Bridge

Beginner
7 miles3-4 hours

Cyclone Bridge to Noel

Beginner
6 miles2.5-3.5 hours

Noel to Ginger Blue

Beginner
8 miles3.5-4.5 hours

Full Day Float

Intermediate
13 miles5-7 hours

Live River Conditions

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Crowd LevelLow to Moderate
Water ClarityClear

Best Time to Float

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec