Canoeing Arkansas in Sept.

[Dave Holaway]

Hello,

I am from Arizona and will be in Arkansas in late Sept. for a family reunion in Hot Springs. My wife and I would like to do a 3 to 4 day float prior to or after the reunion. I've checked the status of several rivers, but it appears that Sept. is generally a dry month, and low river levels. Anyone have experience or knowledge of a 30 mile float or so, Class 1 or easy 2 (we have a 18 1/2 foot Wennonah canoe...not suitable for anything more serious), with nice camping etc? Also dog friendly. Did the Neches River in East Texas a couple years ago and it was a nice float through the Big Thicket National Preserve with great beaches for camping.

I know I can check as the time gets closer for river levels, but hoped someone had some good suggestions for rivers that will most likely be floatable in Sept., short of a drought.

Nice wewbsite and we appreciate the opportunity to chat with like minded souls.

[Lupe]

It may be possible to float the Buffalo, particularly the lower reaches which remain float-able longer, but it will be rain dependent, and odds are probably not high (not unheard of, but you will need to get lucky!). If we have a dry summer, then the only reliable water might be to go further north to the Current River in Missouri. Because it is spring fed, it will have reliable water even if it's very dry. You could make tentative plans for the Buffalo, water-permitting, but have the Current River as a back up.

Either one will have nice camping on gravel bars if you want to river camp, or campgrounds that you could base out of for day trips.

I hope the weather cooperates for you!

[Richard]

The best time to visit the Current is in the fall. The springs are spectacular.

But don't forget Hot Springs. Hot Springs is surrounded by some nice lakes. You should consider Lake Ouachita. Lots of primitive island camping options available along the north shore.

Click on this thread for more info on Lake Ouachita.
http://forums.arkansascanoeclub.com/vie ... lle#p87220" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

[johnnybiggun]

If there is water a three day trip on the Ouachita is possible & not far from H.S.....Map attached.... The Mcguire access between Cherry Hill & Ink is not on the map....Shirly Creek campground between Pine Ridge & Oden also
not on the map....Between McGuire & Dragover you should be able to find a 3 day to your liking....As you know river level is the key that time of year....

http://www.arkansas.com/outdoors/canoei ... W%29+River" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

[DeBo]

If you enjoyed Big Thicket, there are numerous places to paddle through the Lower White River system and lower Arkansas River. Lots of wildlife viewing possible there and sandbar camping. If you are lucky enough to have water in Bayou DeView, you can see old growth cypress trees ranging in age from 500 to 1000 years in age.

[Dave Holaway]

Not sure how this works....I hope I'm responding to all those who sent me information. If not, I try to figue it out. Pretty much a Ludite around technology. Do appreciate the info. Sounds like there are some options, and at least one of those will work if we're flexible.

Thanks,
Dave Holaway