Paddle the Lower Current River

Paddle the Lower Current

NPS Photo

The Current River is the largest of the two pristine navigable waterways within Ozark National Scenic Riverways. Over 100 miles of the Current River are within park boundaries but portions are only navigable during certain times due to low river levels. Popular put in locations on the Lower Current include: Two Rivers, Powder Mill, Waymeyer, and Big Spring.

Please see our river safety information before heading out.

Below are estimated float times for each section of river, they vary depending on the amount of water flow. Please check river levels or closures on our park Facebook page before departing. 

Estimated Float Times (in hours):

Van Buren to Big Spring: 2hrs
Two Rivers to Powder Mill: 3hrs
Waymeyer to Van Buren: 3hrs
Big Spring to Cataract: 4hrs
Big Spring to Gooseneck: 6hrs
Van Buren to Gooseneck: 8hrs
Powder Mill to Van Buren: 10hrs
Two Rivers to Big Spring: 14hrs

Authorized outfitters can rent you a canoe, kayak, double kayak, raft or tube and shuttle you to and from the river. Please see the list of authorized outfitters below. 

 

Two Rivers Canoe Rental 888-833-4931
Hawthorne Canoe Rental 573-323-8156
The Landing Canoe Rental 573-323-8156
Big Spring RV Camp 573-323-8328
Current River Outfitters 573-323-8156

Details

Activity

Paddling

Pets Allowed

Yes

Activity Fee

No

If using an outfitter a fee is implemented, no charge for private vessels.

Reservations

No

Some reservations are required for certain outfitters. 

Season

Year Round

Time of Day

Day, Dawn, Dusk

Accessibility Information

Paddling can be accessible with user provided adaptive equipment. Outfitters do not rent adaptive equipment at this time.