Confluence of Arkansas and Mississippi

[Lew]

I live in SW MO and the last 40 miles of the Arkansas River intrigues the heck out of me. I'd like to float from L&D 2 down to the confluence, but I'm having a hard time figuring out just how you'd take out.

I know there is an outfitter in Mississippi, but their trips float on down to Greenville, MS. We'd prefer to stay off of the Mississippi.

Thanks in advance for anybody that can provide a clue. Thinking of a trip in May, so plenty of time.

[Jim Krueger]

Lew,

I also think that is an interesting area, and scenic. Here at home, I have a framed poster-sized picture of the Yancopin railroad bridge over the lower Arkansas River. I have had this picture for about twenty years or more when one of the state agencies sponsored several river posters for Arkansas Heritage Month. I have always liked the lush and placid look of the river in this shot.
From the satellite view of the confluence, as well as the ARG&F atlas, there does appear to be a road going down to the river about two miles back upstream from the confluence. It looks like it is dirt, and running on levees to a great extent so I don't know how doable it is or if it is even open to access. My only suggestion regarding a possible road access would be to visit with the folks at the Desha County courthouse in Arkansas City, they might be able to put you in touch with the two Game & Fish officers assigned in that area to ask. Looks like the closest ARG&F regional office otherwise is located in Monticello. Only other suggestion I have is to explore this section via motorboat Good Luck.

Best Regards
Jim

[Deuce]

Welcome aboard, Lew. I like your idea. Two suggestions. First, if you haven't already visit with the outfitter. Even though his operation isn't exactly where you want to be he still might be able to help or know another river rat who can. Second, check out this site. http://www.riverlorian.com/rivercharts.htm" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false; That's the link to a chart CD they sell. That may be just what you're looking for (or not), but you might also find some useful info on the site. If nothing else there's some really fun reading there. I've killed many an hour on it. Good luck with the quest, and keep us posted on your findings and trip plans if any develop.

[Lew]

Thanks to you both and I'll follow-up on those ideas. We're looking at May or later, so no big hurry.

I have spoken with Quapaw Canoe over in Clarksdale, but they're not like any outfitter I know. They basically told me to go to rivergator.org and it would have information on there.

I also spoke with the Desha Sheriff's Department and I swear - it was like talking to the Louisiana Sheriff in Live and Let Die. You boys need to get off of that river!

Love the AG&F idea and i'll get on that. I'll let you know the results and if we do the float, it'll be the more the merrier.