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Whitewater Floating in the Ouachitas In the Ouachita Mountains, the clear and sparkling waters of the Little Missouri and Cossatot rivers have created often noisy and always picturesque cascades where the streams have etched their way through ridges of upturned rock. And, while those two and parts of other Arkansas streams are recommended only for experienced canoeists and kayakers, many Arkansas waterways offer trips suitable for novice and intermediate floaters. On most Arkansas creeks and the upper reaches of most small and mid-sized rivers, sufficient water levels for floating generally occur from late fall through mid-June, depending on rainfall. Year-round floating is usually possible on middle to lower stretches of most rivers. Another stream drawing family and other group outings is the Caddo River, particularly its six miles between Caddo Gap and Glenwood in Montgomery and Pike counties. Like many of Arkansas's popular float streams, the Caddo features large gravel bars suitable for picnics and natural pools ideal for swimming. Fish, however, are not the only fauna to be enjoyed along the creeks and rivers traversing the state's more remote terrain. The variety of wildlife that may be seen includes bear, bobcat, deer, beaver, mink, wild turkey and a variety of other birds, especially belted kingfishers and great blue and green herons in search of a meal. While Arkansas's streams offer plenty
of safe water for novices in search of a rewarding experience of
the state's backcountry, floating in a canoe, kayak or other craft
can be made dangerous by high water levels and exceeding the limits
of one's skills. Local outfitters can provide information on stream
conditions. Floating the Ouachita and Caddo Popular among floaters are sections of the upper Ouachita and Caddo rivers, which offer opportunities for wildlife watching and fishing for smallmouth and other bass species and sunfish. The waters of both are suitable for families and ideal for shoreline picnics and swimming. Flowing through the national forest, the Ouachita offers remote scenery, which includes some of the mountains' rare stream-carved bluffs. Overnight trips on the stream can include stays at any of five forest service float camps. The Caddo, which begins near Norman and runs southeast for 28 miles before leaving the county, flows through more developed areas, but still provides scenic journeys. Outfitters are available on both streams. Cossatot River State Park/Natural Area Designated a National Wild and Scenic
River, the Cossatot offers adventurers the most challenging whitewater
in Arkansas. Where the stream snakes over and between upturned Ouachita
Mountains' strata to create Cossatot Falls, rapids and drops rated
up to Class V in difficulty are prevalent. Because of its upland
watershed, the Cossatot rises and falls relatively quickly so floaters
are advised to call ahead to verify sufficient water levels. A new
state park visitors center is under construction and is expected
to open in summer 2004. It will have exhibits focusing on the river
and a wildlife viewing area. The park's more than 5,480 acres extend
about 11 miles on both sides of the river from just above the Ark.
246 bridge east of Vandervoort to about 1.5 miles below the U.S.
278 bridge east of Wickes. Facilities include campsites, picnic
sites and hiking trails, including the 17-mile River Corridor Trail.
(870) 385-2201, www.ArkansasStateParks.com.
Talimena National Scenic Byway
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