Float trips are almost a rite of passage for people who live in the Midwest. Every summer, hundreds of families crowd along the rivers to fish, camp, hunt, kayak, swim and float. Many of these families have made it a ritual or tradition to bring their families and friends to the campsites for summertime fun. There are many activities that a family can pursue at these locations because they offer many things to do, and the best part is the low-cost vacation alternative for many families on a budget.
There are many rivers throughout Missouri that attract people primarily for the float trips held there. Such locations are Meramec, Big Piney River, the Current River, Jacks Fork and many more. The recommended time for planning a float trip is in June, July and August, combined with the perfect weather, this allows for ideal floating conditions.
A float trip can be planned for as little as three hours and as long as seven days. A person new to floating may want to plan a simple five to seven mile float, while the more adventurous, seasoned floater can go on a float trip lasting as much as seven days. A float trip can be customized to suit the needs of anyone and if you love water, then a float trip would be a great way to get away from it all.
There are a few simple rules that one must observe for personal safety when going on an overnight float trip. You must make sure that you have the proper equipment such as life-jackets, compass, flares, water-proof matches, map, compass and cellular or satellite phone in case of emergency. It is wise to advise others of where you will be camping and to stick to the itinerary, this will ensure the safety of everyone participating in the float trip.
Having basic first aid supplies is also a good idea, you never know when you may have a minor emergency and the last thing you want to do is be unprepared. Pack some gauze, cotton balls, antiseptic, tweezers and plastic bags, these are the most basic things you might need if you run into something unforeseen.
If you are planning to camp overnight you need to take ample provisions as well as some other things, to make sure you are prepared. Pack everything you need prior to the trip and double-check the list for anything you may be missing at the last minute. This allows you to focus your time on more enjoyable activities.
If you are going on an overnight camp remember to camp on high ground and keep food items in sealed plastic bags, suspended from the trees or locked in air tight containers. This will deter any curious animals from invading and destroying your campsite if you’re gone. Also make sure to tip your canoes over in the evening prior to bedtime, you don’t want them to be washed away during the night.
When breaking camp, be sure to dispose of any trash in the proper receptacles and help keep the campsite and river clean. Extinguish any fires or flammable materials prior to leaving. Always double check every detail, this is just good practice to use anytime you camp.
The best thing about float trips in Missouri is that at most locations there is an experienced staff that will assist the newcomers. They assist with a canoe rental, transport it to the float location, put it in the water and be there waiting for you at the end of the float.
If you ever get a chance to get to Missouri, there are many great locations available. You can bring your own canoe and equipment or you can also rent it at a relatively low cost. For many years people from all over the Midwest have flocked to the rivers of Missouri for summer fun and enjoyment.
