KJFM NEWS — TRIPPIN’ appears in every issue of the Eagle 102 Patriot. The Patriot can be found on news stands throughout the Twin Pike Region.
It is prime time for outdoor adventures and the bi-state area has no shortage of options from which to pick. Instead of hiking, biking, climbing, or riding, why not enjoy the outdoors in the most relaxing way possible… a float trip!?
A float trip is pretty much like riding an inner tube down a lazy river. Instead of being in a loud waterpark, you get to be outside enjoying nature, floating down a river in your tube, raft, kayak or canoe.
There are float trips assisted by outfitters that provide groups with guidance and materials to get through the trip. Individuals can also plan their own course.
Many outfitters will equip groups with life jackets and float gear, then transport parties to a drop-off point. Groups can enjoy the ride down the river and float back to the camp or to a coordinated pick-up point. Outfitters also offer various lodging opportunities as well as other amenities.
Float trips are one of the most popular ways to take in the Illinois River. There are many outfitters along the river including All

American Floats, Arrowhead Resort, Eagle Bluff Resort and War Eagle Resort. They provide guests with camping locations, restrooms, showers and other amenities.
All American Floats offer trips of four, nine and 13 miles. Diamondhead Resort provides a more luxurious stop including campgrounds, a nine-hole disc course, golf course, horseshoe pits and lighted basketball and volleyball courts.
Those with large parties should consider the group lodge at Peyton’s Place. It accommodates up to 48 people and is ideal for large excursions. Peyton’s Place is also one of the oldest camps along the Illinois River and has been a go-to outfitter for decades.
With plenty of rivers and creeks to explore in Missouri, your float trip will be nothing short of exciting. In Missouri you can enjoy a scenic float down the Meramec River with several outfitters offering float trips.
The Niangua River is a popular float trip destination and a beautiful river. There are nearby canoe and float rental companies, and Riverfront Campground and Canoe is located on the banks to help floaters get set up with everything they could need.
Located in the middle of the state, the Big Piney River is another great option to float. Part of the river is in the Mark Twain National Forest. Beaver Creek is 44 miles long which is perfect for all day float trips or long excursions if you want to stop along the way. Beaver Creek Campground offers rentals if you are wanting to turn your trip into a multi-day float.
In the Springfield area the James River is perfect destination for a float trip. James River Outfitters provides rentals, shuttles and camping options.
Those looking for beautiful surroundings should look at Jacks Fork River for their float trip. The clear waters are surrounded by cliffs making for a stunning trip, but plan accordingly because water levels very depending on the time of the year.
Parties or families in the market for a multi-day adventure should head to Gasconade River. The river is hundreds of miles long so you can spend hours on hours on the river.
Watch for new adventures and places to explore throughout Missouri and Illinois in each issue of the Eagle 102 Patriot!