One of the most scenic fall float trips is along the Current and Jack’s Fork Rivers in south central Missouri near the town of Salem. This area is part of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, the first national park area to protect a river system. Spring-fed, cold and clear, the Current and Jack’s Fork Rivers are ideal for canoeing, swimming, boating and fishing. Here are some tips for a fall float trip along the Current and Jack’s Fork Rivers.
Whether you plan to float for a weekend or an entire week, most folks choose to camp at the Pulltite Campground. For $14 per night, campers have access to a bathhouse with warm showers and flushing toilets. Grassy areas are available for all types of camping whether you plan to stay the night in a tent, pop-up trailer or RV. While many folks bring their own boats, there are outfitters in the area where boats can be rented.
The Current and Jack’s Fork Rivers are both class I rivers, meaning they are suitable for all skill levels whether it’s your first float trip or your tenth. The Current River has crystal clear water, long pools, a few swift riffles, a number of springs and gorgeous bluffs. The Jack’s Fork River is smaller than the Current but has the same water characteristics and scenery. Portions of the Jack’s Fork have tight turns requiring more moving water skills so you’ll need to have your wits about you. Taking a float trip on either of these rivers in the fall will give you a front row seat to some of the most stunning scenery in the Ozarks, especially since the rivers are less crowded. In fact, this time of year you may only see two or three other parties on the river. While the rowdy party types have gone back to the cities, only the serious paddlers remain.
Taking a fall float trip means being prepared for Missouri’s cooler weather. Temperatures can dip as low as 30 to 50 degrees and reach highs from 55 to 85 degrees in the afternoons and early evenings. Rain in the fall can last as long as a day or two with severe thunderstorms in late September and October. Be sure to bring extra clothes, keeping them in watertight bags, and even ponchos. You never know what Mother Nature will send your way. It’s best to be prepared.
For paddling you’ll need a canoe or kayak, paddles, life jacket, boat shoes, small cooler, sunglasses and retainer strap, sunscreen, water bottles, hat, waterproof bags/containers. For tent or pop-up camping be sure to bring a 20 degree sleeping bag, pillow, rain fly for your tent, air mattress or sleeping pad, stove, cooking gear, paper plates and eating utensils. They say the wise traveler travels light but the wide range of fall temperatures means dressing in layers. Rain gear, t-shirts under sweatshirts with shorts along with a stocking cap and light gloves are all a must.
If you’re staying for the week, there may be a few days when you don’t want to paddle. The Alley Spring Pool and Mill are worth seeing. Located seven miles west of Eminence, MO, on Missouri Route 106, the Alley Spring Pool and Mill is one of the most photographed spots in the Missouri Ozarks. The mill has been completely restored to working order, with much of the original milling equipment still in place, and is open on weekends. Another fun spot to visit on a day you’d prefer not to paddle is Rocky Falls, just 13 miles east of Eminence, MO. Rocky Falls is a beautiful place for a picnic or a short hike.
