Spring River in Arkansas

Trip Overview

The Spring River is a mild yet fun river suitable for beginners yet active enough for novice paddlers. It is a combination of long flatwater stretches with a few class 1 and class 2 rapids. The river takes 4-5 hours to paddle leisurely but could be done faster. The river gets very busy in the summertime yet can still be a pleasantly private river in the late fall and early spring seasons. The area is plush with great campsites on the river, but these fill up often and calling ahead is advised. Nearby in Hardy one can find hotels and many quaint stores. The spring river is a great family trip for paddlers of any level.

Directions:

On inerstate 55 in Arkansas take US-63 north exit 23b to Jonesboro Arkansas. This road becomes US 61 and takes you straight to Hardy, Arkansas. From Little Rock take US 167 north until it becomes US 62 straight to Hardy. There is a main put in and take out that is well maintained by many of the local canoe renters.

Resources:

The Spring River Beach Club offers lodging, camping, fishing and canoe rentals and is very accomodating to all paddlers.
http://www.springriverbeachclub.com/

Submitted by: William B. Rutledge