The Ozark Float Trip on the Current River runs through the heart of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways in southern Missouri — the first national park unit established to protect a free-flowing river system. The Current River is fed by dozens of massive cold-water springs, keeping water temperatures near 60°F even in August, making it one of the most scenic and refreshing float destinations in the Midwest. The Van Buren to Akers Ferry corridor is the most popular section, winding through forested limestone bluffs, gravel bars ideal for camping, and spring branches that bubble directly from the hillside into the river.
Outfitters such as Akers Ferry Canoe Rental and Big Spring Canoe supply well-maintained canoes and sit-on-top kayaks rated for all skill levels. Both operators include vehicle shuttle service, transporting paddlers and gear to the put-in point and retrieving vehicles at the take-out. Multi-day trips are common — outfitters can also arrange riverside campsite reservations within the National Park Service corridor.
The Current River requires no advanced paddling skill for its standard sections; current is gentle to moderate, with only minor riffles and gravel shoals between flat pools. Beginners can confidently manage an 8-mile half-day run, while experienced paddlers opt for 3-day journeys covering 30 or more miles of continuous wilderness corridor. Age limits vary by outfitter, but most accept children aged 4 and older on shared canoes with adult supervision.
Equipment provided by rental operators includes canoe or kayak, paddles, US Coast Guard-approved life jackets, and a dry storage bag for personal items. Paddlers should bring river shoes with ankle support, a change of dry clothing sealed in a separate dry bag, sunscreen, food for the day, and ample drinking water. Cell signal is limited throughout the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, so a paper map of the river sections is advisable on multi-day trips. The National Park Service maintains primitive campsites at regular intervals, accessible only by water.
Safety briefings are provided at the outfitter's base before launch. The most significant hazard is log jams at river bends during high-water conditions following heavy rain. Outfitters monitor river gauge readings and will advise against or postpone trips if conditions are unsafe. The Missouri State Water Patrol provides emergency rescue coverage along the corridor.
The best season runs May through October, with May and June offering the highest water levels and lush green scenery. September produces ideal conditions — water warms to comfortable swimming temperatures, crowds thin considerably after Labor Day, and autumn colour begins appearing in the hardwood bluffs. July and August see the heaviest weekend traffic at popular camping bars; weekday trips during those months offer a quieter experience.
Activity facts
- Where
- Van Buren (Ozark National Scenic Riverways)
- Duration
- Half day to 3+ days
Equipment
Provided by outfitter: canoe/kayak, life jacket, dry bag, paddles. Bring: sunscreen, water, food, river shoes, change of clothing.
Location
Akers Ferry, 2351 MO-88, Salem, MO 65560
37.0892, -91.3218 View on map
Highlights
- Spring-fed Current River stays near 60°F, ensuring refreshing paddling through Missouri's peak summer heat
- Multi-day expeditions camp on scenic gravel bars within the Ozark National Scenic Riverways corridor
- Outfitters at Akers Ferry provide full shuttle service, canoe or kayak rentals, and life jackets
- Eight-mile half-day route through forested limestone bluffs suits first-time paddlers and families
- Wildlife corridors along the riverbanks host great blue herons, river otters, and white-tailed deer
Tips for visiting
- Book weekend float rentals at least two weeks in advance from Memorial Day through Labor Day — outfitters fill quickly
- Pack all food, sunscreen, and extra water in the dry bag provided; riverside resupply is not available on most sections
- Wear old river shoes with ankle support rather than flip-flops; gravel bars require firm footing when portaging over shallow riffles
- Check the USGS Current River gauge at Van Buren before departure; flows above 4 feet make for faster, more technical paddling
- September weekdays offer the best combination of uncrowded access, warm water for swimming, and early autumn foliage
Frequently asked questions
Do I need paddling experience to float the Current River?
No prior experience is required for the standard Akers Ferry to Round Spring section. The current is gentle and the river is shallow in most stretches. Outfitters provide a safety briefing and basic paddle instruction before launch.
How far in advance should the trip be booked?
Weekend trips from late May through August should be booked at least two to three weeks ahead. Outfitters at Akers Ferry can fill up more than a month in advance for summer holiday weekends. Weekday slots are usually available with shorter notice.
Can the trip be done as an overnight or multi-day float?
Yes. The Current River corridor has National Park Service-maintained primitive campsites accessible by water. Outfitters coordinate multi-night rentals and can arrange drop-off of camping gear at the put-in point.
What happens if it rains during the trip?
Light rain is common and does not require cancellation. Heavy rainfall upstream can raise river levels quickly, making some sections faster and potentially dangerous. Outfitters monitor gauge data and will delay or reroute trips when conditions are unsafe.
Are pets permitted on the river?
Well-behaved leashed dogs are welcome in National Park Service-managed areas along the river corridor. Check with the specific outfitter regarding their policy on dogs in rental canoes or kayaks before booking.