{"id":1033,"date":"2017-05-31T13:50:56","date_gmt":"2017-05-31T18:50:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/visitmowp.local\/articles\/missouri-summer-float-trips\/"},"modified":"2026-05-31T18:35:33","modified_gmt":"2026-05-31T23:35:33","slug":"missouri-summer-float-trips","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.visitmo.com\/articles\/missouri-summer-float-trips","title":{"rendered":"Your Guide to Float Trips in Missouri"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Nothing says summer in the Show-Me State quite like a float trip. If you\u2019re new to floating or want to pick up a few tips before you head to the water, this guide is for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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What is a Float Trip?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Take a relaxing trip down a pristine river in a raft, canoe, kayak or tube \u2013 that\u2019s floating in Missouri. The current does much of the work, but you\u2019ll need to paddle a bit to stay on course and navigate the slower-moving sections of the stream. The chill, recreational journey is primarily focused on taking in the surroundings, making occasional stops at gravel bars for snack breaks, swimming and fishing.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Stops on the gravel bar are a common part of a float trip! The perfect chance to cool off and grab a snack.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Floating in Missouri<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

More than a dozen rivers in Missouri offer varying experiences. As a general rule, the waterways located close to Missouri\u2019s major metro areas attract larger crowds, while streams deep in the Ozarks are frequented by smaller groups, anglers and families.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Floating Capital of Missouri<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

A small community, approximately 2 hours from Springfield and 1.5 hours from St. Louis, is heralded as the float capital of the state \u2013 Steelville, Missouri. Floating experiences here are known to be a blast and draw larger crowds. Surrounded by major waterways, including the Meramec, Huzzah and Courtois rivers, as well as popular resorts, Steelville\u2019s prime location also offers an array of other outdoor activities: hiking, fishing, camping<\/a> and visiting nearby state parks. Along with activities, there are popular eateries frequented by locals and visitors alike \u2013 Dairy Isle & Grill<\/a>, where American fare, shakes and ice cream specialties fill the menu, and Rich\u2019s Famous Burgers, a restaurant known for its country breakfasts and unique burger choices. Seriously, one is topped with bacon, peanut butter and strawberry jam on grilled Texas Toast. Sounds unusual, but one bite and it all makes sense!<\/p>\n\n\n

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Missouri Float Trip Locations<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Meramec, Huzzah and Courtois Rivers<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Click image to open map.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n