summer gravel bar camping

[jamesLR]

Good morning everyone! I have a family and want to start canoe/camping this summer. We are NOT looking for whitewater since I have small children. We are looking for lazy paddling, swimming, fishing, etc., in a place with abundant gravel bars for weekend camping trips. Lower Buffalo is perfect, but I hear that the water levels won't allow us to visit all summer? Are there any rivers with good gravel bar camping that typically produce enough water through out the summer months for what we're looking for?

Thanks!

[Deuce]

Welcome James. The lower Buffalo is indeed perfect. Every time I visit I fall deeper in love with her. She's really your best bet for family friendly canoe camping. Add this link to your browser and consult it whenever you're thinking about a trip. http://www.troop142bsa.org/buffalo_national_river.htm" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false; It provides direct links to the gauges and summarizes the recommendations for each range. In terms of floatable levels, as long as the HWY 14 gauge is at least two feet you should be fine. Might do a little dragging, but so what? It's summer. Everyone will want to get wet any way, right? About the only other possibility when it gets really dry is the White. It's not really gravel bar camping, but you can assemble something that will feel like it. Keep an eye on this page for trips in the making, and keep in mind that posting a trip here constitutes an open invitation that may or may not result in additional company, but I can promise you if it does it will be great company. I have a nine year old daughter who will be accompanying me on trips this year. Maybe we can put something together.

[Richard]

Don't forget the lakes. If you are into primitive camping then I would highly recommend Lake Ouachita, particularly the Buckville area. Lots of islands to camp on. Keep in mind that Lake Ouachita can generate some big waves if it is windy.