If you’re looking for the best river floats in Arkansas, you’re in the right place. The Natural State is home to several lazy rivers that are perfect for a leisurely float. So, when the weather is just right, grab a tube or pick up a paddle and head to one of these amazing lazy rivers in Arkansas.
- Buffalo National River
Google/Stephanie Camp It’s everyone’s go-to, so we might as well list it first! The Buffalo National River is an absolute treasure in the Natural State and one of the best lazy rivers in Arkansas. The 150-mile long river has endless floating opportunities for all skill levels that can last an afternoon or week. For more detailed navigation on the Buffalo, read our full article here.
- Kings River
Google/John Hazmat Haddad The gentle curves of the Kings River will keep your interest afloat as you glide through the water. The river is under protection of the Arkansas Nature Conservancy, so all of its scenery is pristine. Pick an afternoon to float around or make it a weekend adventure. The Kings River Outfitters can help you with shuttling and rentals; visit them here.
- Ouachita River
Wikipedia/Robert Nunnally There’s nothing more refreshing than floating through the Ouachita National Forest. This river has plenty of floating options but a favorite for lazy tubers is the 10-mile stretch from Oden to Rocky Shoals. The Forest Service maintains five float camps along the river, should you choose to make a full weekend of the river’s activities.
- Saline River
Facebook/Saline River Canoe Not every float trip has to be a multi-day marathon. One of the most popular trips down the Saline River is from Peeler Bend to Lyle Park. This short-and-sweet float only takes about two hours, which is perfect if you have younger river enthusiasts. The Saline River Canoe can help you out with any rentals.
- Caddo River
Facebook/Arkansas State Tourism Some of the Caddo can be rather rough but a peaceful float can be found between Glenwood and Amity. This stretch is about eight miles and is filled with long pools for swim breaks with a few mild rapids to keep it interesting. Caddo River Camping and Canoe Rental has everything you need to get out on the water.
- Big Piney
Facebook/Moore Outdoors If you’re craving more adventure then try the wilder rapids of Big Piney. The majority of the 67-mile-long creek is perfect for whitewater paddlers, but that’s not your only option. From Arkansas 164 to Lake Dardanelle, the creek calms down considerably for laid back floats. Don’t forget to stop at Long Pool Recreation Area for a swim break. For more information on Big Piney, click here.
- Spring River
Google/Daniel Paull Spring River is accessible to paddlers year-round since it’s constantly being fed by Mammoth Springs, the largest spring in the state. The chilly waters are particularly irresistible during summer and attract floaters and kayakers, as well as fishers. Ready to get out on the Spring River? Click here.
- Mulberry River
Google/Courtney King Like the Big Piney, the Mulberry can definitely attract whitewater enthusiasts. However, under the right circumstances (when the river isn’t too high) the Mulberry can be a refreshing float trip. Around Turner Bend, laid-back floaters need to look for river levels around 1.8 – 1.9. Keep track here.
- Little Maumelle
Facebook/Arkansas State Tourism Paddling will be needed but the slow flow of Little Maumelle will still enchant you this summer. This relaxing trip through the wetlands is just minutes from downtown Little Rock. The William Kirsch Preserve (which contains an excellent float on the Little Maumelle) was originally supposed to be used for housing development but was thankfully donated to The Nature Conservancy in Arkansas in 2014. Learn more about Little Maumelle here.
- White River
TripAdvisor/ARhorse The White River may be known as the state’s best fishing river but it’s also one of the best lazy rivers in Arkansas. After Calico Rock, the river slows down from its quick-paced stream to a much more relaxing trip. Keep in mind that depending where you put in the next take-out spot will be quite a ways away. So this river is best for overnight stays. When you’re ready to plan your float down the White River, check out the Riley’s Outfitter website.
- Eleven Point River
Facebook/Ozark Gateway Tourist Council The Eleven Point River may have more fame for its headwaters in Missouri but don’t underestimate the Arkansas side of this water trail. The spring-fed river is reliable all year but will be a great cool-off during any hot Arkansas summer. For more information on Eleven Point, click here.
There are some incredible lazy rivers in Arkansas – any of which are perfect for a relaxing float. What are your favorite lazy rivers in Arkansas? Did we forget your favorite? Share your favorite floats in the comments. We’d love to see the trips you take in our Facebook group, Arkansas Nature Lovers. Join for your chance to be featured and to discover why there’s nothing better than Arkansas’ stunning nature.
Google/Stephanie Camp
It’s everyone’s go-to, so we might as well list it first! The Buffalo National River is an absolute treasure in the Natural State and one of the best lazy rivers in Arkansas. The 150-mile long river has endless floating opportunities for all skill levels that can last an afternoon or week. For more detailed navigation on the Buffalo, read our full article here.
Google/John Hazmat Haddad
The gentle curves of the Kings River will keep your interest afloat as you glide through the water. The river is under protection of the Arkansas Nature Conservancy, so all of its scenery is pristine. Pick an afternoon to float around or make it a weekend adventure. The Kings River Outfitters can help you with shuttling and rentals; visit them here.
Wikipedia/Robert Nunnally
There’s nothing more refreshing than floating through the Ouachita National Forest. This river has plenty of floating options but a favorite for lazy tubers is the 10-mile stretch from Oden to Rocky Shoals. The Forest Service maintains five float camps along the river, should you choose to make a full weekend of the river’s activities.
Facebook/Saline River Canoe
Not every float trip has to be a multi-day marathon. One of the most popular trips down the Saline River is from Peeler Bend to Lyle Park. This short-and-sweet float only takes about two hours, which is perfect if you have younger river enthusiasts. The Saline River Canoe can help you out with any rentals.
Facebook/Arkansas State Tourism
Some of the Caddo can be rather rough but a peaceful float can be found between Glenwood and Amity. This stretch is about eight miles and is filled with long pools for swim breaks with a few mild rapids to keep it interesting. Caddo River Camping and Canoe Rental has everything you need to get out on the water.
Facebook/Moore Outdoors
If you’re craving more adventure then try the wilder rapids of Big Piney. The majority of the 67-mile-long creek is perfect for whitewater paddlers, but that’s not your only option. From Arkansas 164 to Lake Dardanelle, the creek calms down considerably for laid back floats. Don’t forget to stop at Long Pool Recreation Area for a swim break. For more information on Big Piney, click here.
Google/Daniel Paull
Spring River is accessible to paddlers year-round since it’s constantly being fed by Mammoth Springs, the largest spring in the state. The chilly waters are particularly irresistible during summer and attract floaters and kayakers, as well as fishers. Ready to get out on the Spring River? Click here.
Google/Courtney King
Like the Big Piney, the Mulberry can definitely attract whitewater enthusiasts. However, under the right circumstances (when the river isn’t too high) the Mulberry can be a refreshing float trip. Around Turner Bend, laid-back floaters need to look for river levels around 1.8 – 1.9. Keep track here.
Paddling will be needed but the slow flow of Little Maumelle will still enchant you this summer. This relaxing trip through the wetlands is just minutes from downtown Little Rock. The William Kirsch Preserve (which contains an excellent float on the Little Maumelle) was originally supposed to be used for housing development but was thankfully donated to The Nature Conservancy in Arkansas in 2014. Learn more about Little Maumelle here.
TripAdvisor/ARhorse
The White River may be known as the state’s best fishing river but it’s also one of the best lazy rivers in Arkansas. After Calico Rock, the river slows down from its quick-paced stream to a much more relaxing trip. Keep in mind that depending where you put in the next take-out spot will be quite a ways away. So this river is best for overnight stays. When you’re ready to plan your float down the White River, check out the Riley’s Outfitter website.
Facebook/Ozark Gateway Tourist Council
The Eleven Point River may have more fame for its headwaters in Missouri but don’t underestimate the Arkansas side of this water trail. The spring-fed river is reliable all year but will be a great cool-off during any hot Arkansas summer. For more information on Eleven Point, click here.
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Address: Buffalo National River, Arkansas, USAAddress: Kings River Township, AR, USAAddress: Ouachita River, United StatesAddress: Saline River, Arkansas, USAAddress: Caddo River, Caddo, AR 71923, USAAddress: Big Piney Creek, Arkansas, USAAddress: Spring River Township, AR, USAAddress: Mulberry River, Arkansas, USAAddress: Little Maumelle River, Arkansas, USAAddress: White River, Arkansas, USAAddress: Eleven Point River, United States
The OIYS Visitor Center
Lazy Rivers In Arkansas April 07, 2021 Daniella DiRienzo Are there any other lazy rivers in Arkansas? The options for a relaxing float in the Natural State don’t end with the rivers mentioned above. There are also a few man-made lazy rivers that are perfect for leisurely, on-the-water fun. Parrot Island Water Park, for instance, is home to Crocodile Creek, a 500-foot long lazy river. Don’t let the name fool you, though. It’s as relaxing as can be and includes a waterfall as well as a few other surprises. A great choice for families, the park offers double tubes, which allow parents to enjoy the lazy river with young children. Which Arkansas swimming hole is perfect for a refreshing dip? The numerous lazy rivers in Arkansas aren’t the only options for cooling off on a hot summer day. Countless swimming holes fill the Natural State. You’ll find a couple at the Blanchard Springs Recreation Area. Sylamore Creek runs right through the recreation area and boasts two popular swimming holes. A great place to spend an entire day, the main swimming area features a bathhouse and pavilion. The other swimming hole is located just a short distance, across a low-water bridge. Remember, the swimming areas are subject to closures, so make sure to check with the recreation area prior to visiting. Where else can I cool off in Arkansas? Of Arkansas’ swimming holes, Kings River Falls in Witter ranks pretty high up there. A little slice of paradise, the 10-foot waterfall is surrounded by idyllic scenery. Even better, the pool below the fall is perfect for splashing around. Accessing Kings River Falls requires trekking along a 0.9-mile out-and-back trail, making for a 1.8-mile round-trip. The effort is completely worth it, though, as the end reward is a cascade that’s as refreshing as it is picturesque.
The OIYS Visitor Center
Lazy Rivers In Arkansas
April 07, 2021
Daniella DiRienzo
Are there any other lazy rivers in Arkansas? The options for a relaxing float in the Natural State don’t end with the rivers mentioned above. There are also a few man-made lazy rivers that are perfect for leisurely, on-the-water fun. Parrot Island Water Park, for instance, is home to Crocodile Creek, a 500-foot long lazy river. Don’t let the name fool you, though. It’s as relaxing as can be and includes a waterfall as well as a few other surprises. A great choice for families, the park offers double tubes, which allow parents to enjoy the lazy river with young children. Which Arkansas swimming hole is perfect for a refreshing dip? The numerous lazy rivers in Arkansas aren’t the only options for cooling off on a hot summer day. Countless swimming holes fill the Natural State. You’ll find a couple at the Blanchard Springs Recreation Area. Sylamore Creek runs right through the recreation area and boasts two popular swimming holes. A great place to spend an entire day, the main swimming area features a bathhouse and pavilion. The other swimming hole is located just a short distance, across a low-water bridge. Remember, the swimming areas are subject to closures, so make sure to check with the recreation area prior to visiting. Where else can I cool off in Arkansas? Of Arkansas’ swimming holes, Kings River Falls in Witter ranks pretty high up there. A little slice of paradise, the 10-foot waterfall is surrounded by idyllic scenery. Even better, the pool below the fall is perfect for splashing around. Accessing Kings River Falls requires trekking along a 0.9-mile out-and-back trail, making for a 1.8-mile round-trip. The effort is completely worth it, though, as the end reward is a cascade that’s as refreshing as it is picturesque.
The OIYS Visitor Center
The OIYS Visitor Center
The options for a relaxing float in the Natural State don’t end with the rivers mentioned above. There are also a few man-made lazy rivers that are perfect for leisurely, on-the-water fun. Parrot Island Water Park, for instance, is home to Crocodile Creek, a 500-foot long lazy river. Don’t let the name fool you, though. It’s as relaxing as can be and includes a waterfall as well as a few other surprises. A great choice for families, the park offers double tubes, which allow parents to enjoy the lazy river with young children.
Which Arkansas swimming hole is perfect for a refreshing dip?
The numerous lazy rivers in Arkansas aren’t the only options for cooling off on a hot summer day. Countless swimming holes fill the Natural State. You’ll find a couple at the Blanchard Springs Recreation Area. Sylamore Creek runs right through the recreation area and boasts two popular swimming holes. A great place to spend an entire day, the main swimming area features a bathhouse and pavilion. The other swimming hole is located just a short distance, across a low-water bridge. Remember, the swimming areas are subject to closures, so make sure to check with the recreation area prior to visiting.
Where else can I cool off in Arkansas?
Of Arkansas’ swimming holes, Kings River Falls in Witter ranks pretty high up there. A little slice of paradise, the 10-foot waterfall is surrounded by idyllic scenery. Even better, the pool below the fall is perfect for splashing around. Accessing Kings River Falls requires trekking along a 0.9-mile out-and-back trail, making for a 1.8-mile round-trip. The effort is completely worth it, though, as the end reward is a cascade that’s as refreshing as it is picturesque.
