Annual Holiday Party and Potluck
2024-12-05 18:00 - 20:30 (America/Chicago) | Shrewsbury Community Center, meeting room 1, 5200 Shrewsbury Ave,, Shrewsbury, MO, 63119, United States
Come join us for a fun night of food and conversation with paddling friends. The Morgarts have graciously offered to provide the meat again this year. So, bring a side dish and enjoy!
The potluck will be in our usual room on the second floor of the Shrewsbury Community Center.
Please sign up by purchasing a ticket so we know how many to expect:

Annual New Year's Day Paddle on the Meramec
2025-01-01 10:30 - 15:00 | Route 66 SP boat ramp, 50 S Outer Road, Eureka, MO, 63025, United States
January 01/01/2025 @ 10:30 am Free – $11.50
Planning on doing my New Years Day paddle again this year. The plan is to meet at the Route 66 Park boat access at 10:30 am. We will be paddling upstream to where the Big River meets the Meramec and back to the put-in. We will stop for a short break and stretch on a gravel bar by the confluence of the two rivers. This is about a 6 mile paddle in total. Since we will be returning to the put-in there will not be any shuttling. This is generally flat water with little current
until we get close to the confluence so longer boats do better, but as everybody knows I generally don’t hurry on the water. Please be aware of the water and weather conditions and dress appropriately ( no cotton). If you do not have a dry suit or wet suit, bring additional clothes in a waterproof dry bag just in case (better safe than sorry). This trip as all trips will be weather and water conditions dependent and I will monitor these and post any cancellation or changes
to the plan just before the event, so be sure to check the website for these. I plan on eating a late lunch at Altos Cantina if anyone wants to join me.
Ps: When you sign up would you also go to the link in club sanctioned trip comments and add your name so other club members can see who is coming.
Trip leader: Dennis Strubberg (dfstrubberg@yahoo.com)
To attend this trip/event:

You must reserve ticket for each person attending (see tickets below).
This provides the trip coordinator with important information for safety and communication and gives the club important information we need for reporting to ACA within 30 days of the event.
You must fill out an event-specific waiver. This waiver link includes options for ACA members and non-members, as well as adults and minors: https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/e/Wni2icqJViApWC9dLiS6ke/

To chat about this event: If you want to chat about who is going, ask questions, arrange carpools, or check last minute updates, please see the relevant post on the Club-Sanctioned Trip Into & Comments section of our forums: Club Sanctioned Trip Info & Comments – St. Louis Canoe & Kayak Club (stlcanoekayak.com)

January Monthly Club Meeting
2025-01-02 19:00 - 20:30 | Shrewsbury Community Center, 5200 Shrewsbury Ave., St. Louis, MO, 63119, United States
This month’s meeting will include a presentation from MRWTA on the Mississippi Meanderings event being held later this month. The business meeting will cover the club’s financials and elicit input on various topics.
The St. Louis Canoe & Kayak Club holds an open monthly meeting on the first Thursday of every month, with some exceptions: we are usually off in July, we often hold a picnic in September, and we hold a holiday party in December. Meetings are open to ALL, whether you are a member, joining us after a break, or checking us out for the first time! See events calendar for upcoming meetings.
Meetings are held in the second floor meeting room at: Shrewsbury City Center, 5200 Shrewsbury Ave, St. Louis, MO 63119. The room is open at 6:30pm for socializing and the meeting begins at 7pm. If inclement weather or other circumstances prevent in-person meeting, we will send out an email to members and hold the meeting via Zoom.
Meetings can be accessed virtually by Zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82042351004?pwd=[REDACTED]

Mississippi Meanderings
2025-01-25 12:00 - 17:00 | MO
https://mississippiriverwatertrail.org/event/mississippi-meanderings-2025/

February Monthly Club Meeting
2025-02-06 19:00 - 20:30 | MO
This month’s meeting will include a presentation from Team River Runner’s Sally Haywood on ACA instructor certification. She will cover the various levels of certification, and the process for becoming certified and maintaining certification. Also, Perry Whitaker from the Alpine Shop will be discussing spray skirts.
The St. Louis Canoe & Kayak Club holds an open monthly meeting on the first Thursday of every month, with some exceptions: we are usually off in July, we often hold a picnic in September, and we hold a holiday party in December. Meetings are open to ALL, whether you are a member, joining us after a break, or checking us out for the first time! See events calendar for upcoming meetings.
Meetings are held in the second floor meeting room at: Shrewsbury City Center, 5200 Shrewsbury Ave, St. Louis, MO 63119. The room is open at 6:30pm for socializing and the meeting begins at 7pm. If inclement weather or other circumstances prevent in-person meeting, we will send out an email to members and hold the meeting via Zoom.
Meetings can be accessed virtually by Zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82042351004?pwd=[REDACTED]

Ice Jam at the Dam
2025-02-15 10:00 - 14:00 | National Great Rivers Museum, 1 Lock and Dam Way, Alton, IL, 62002, United States
February 15 @ 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
The fourth annual Ice Jam at the Dam winter festival is being held at the National Great Rivers Museum. It will be a day of winter-themed fun, including live music from Chris Cahill & Co., educational vendor booths, food trucks, tours of the lock and dam, winter movies in the theater, crafts for kids, and more.
SLCKC will be participating in this event. This year our booth will be indoors (!!!). We need volunteers to be at our table. If you can help, please email our outreach committee chairperson, Randy Norris: randynorr@gmail.com

Women's Retreat
2025-02-15 16:00 - 2025-02-17 10:00 | Huzzah Hideaway
Ladies’ Huzzah Hideout Galentine Retreat

Saturday, February 15th @ 4pm – Monday, February 17th 10:00 am. (Monday is a federal holiday)
Come join us at the amazing Huzzah Hideout cabin in Crawford County, MO situated at the confluence of the Huzzah and Courtois Rivers. $150.00 for Sunday breakfast and dinner, Monday breakfast, and 2 nights lodging. Participants will bring Saturday evening appetizers and Sunday lunch. Activities include hiking, paddling (if weather permits), hot tub, barrel sauna, yoga, vision board, and a cozy fireplace. This is a great opportunity to relax and pamper yourself as well as get to know some of the other ladies in SLCKC. Cabin includes 3 bedrooms and a large sleeping room in basement. A short walk to the Huzzah River.
Limit: 12 participants.
To attend this event:

You must fill out a smartwaiver. (This is new.) Here is the link: https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/e/Kmd7icASC5uLAgwdF3aDLF/
You MUST pay when you register.
Pay with Dorine’s Venmo (below)
Email Dorine at the same time to let her know you are coming. dorinetrappers2022@gmail.com
Payment is nonrefundable but transferable (unless trip is canceled). You will get to pick your sleeping spot when you register, so register early.

To chat about this event: If you want to chat about who is going, ask questions, arrange carpools, or check last minute updates, you can email Dorine and/or see the relevant post on the Club-Sanctioned Trip Into & Comments section of our forums: Club Sanctioned Trip Info & Comments – St. Louis Canoe & Kayak Club (stlcanoekayak.com)

March Monthly Club Meeting: First Aid Training
2025-03-06 18:30 - 20:30 | MO
Please Note: This meeting will be held in the council chambers on the first floor of the Shrewsbury Community Center.
This month we are pleased to have Kathy Pszonka giving us an abbreviated first aid training.
The St. Louis Canoe & Kayak Club holds an open monthly meeting on the first Thursday of every month, with some exceptions: we are usually off in July, we often hold a picnic in September, and we hold a holiday party in December. Meetings are open to ALL, whether you are a member, joining us after a break, or checking us out for the first time! See events calendar for upcoming meetings.
Meetings are usually held in the second floor meeting room at: Shrewsbury City Center, 5200 Shrewsbury Ave, St. Louis, MO 63119. The room is open at 6:30pm for socializing and the meeting begins at 7pm. If inclement weather or other circumstances prevent in-person meeting, we will send out an email to members and hold the meeting via Zoom.
Meetings can be accessed virtually by Zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82042351004?pwd=[REDACTED]

Big Creek Trip
2025-03-15 09:00 - 17:00 | Sam A. Baker State Park store, Patterson, MO, 63956
March 15 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm Free – $11.50
This is an intro to whitewater trip that is appropriate for paddlers with intermediate to advance skills. You owe it to yourself to check out Big Creek. It is not really all THAT big, but it is beautiful. The easy Class I to II rating means that even paddlers with little whitewater experience can have fun without risking life and limb unless the creek is in flood stage, then WATCH OUT! Typical of creek boating, this one has some tight, technical turns that can make trees and bushes jump out and bite you when the creek flows high and strong currents develop. However, paddlers with competent boating skills should be able to navigate the “hazards” without a lot of difficulty. There are 2 nice little rock gardens that are easily portaged if you do not want to run them. The short run gives an all-day experience that ends in the very scenic Sam A. Baker State Park, a perfect place to camp when you are finished with your run.
The appropriate boats are all plastic boats under 15 feet. We will meet at the Sam A Baker State Park Store at 9:00 AM and then shuttle up to the 143 bridge to start. Dress for immersion. Wet suits or dry suits are preferred. Bring change of clothes in a dry bag. Helmets are not required but are advised. You will also need to bring a lunch and drinks for the trip. This is a 10-mile trip.
Directions I-55 south to US 67 south for 80 miles you will get off on MO 34 west and then turn right onto MO 143 to the park. We will meet at the store which is on the right side of the highway.

Trip Leader : Dave Haessig 314-304-7970 dghaessig@yahoo.com
To attend this trip/event:

You must reserve ticket for each person attending (see tickets below).
This provides the trip coordinator with important information for safety and communication and gives the club important information we need for reporting to ACA within 30 days of the event.
You must fill out an event-specific waiver. This waiver link includes options for ACA members and non-members, as well as adults and minors: https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/e/o4thXdSQDdb4fhvxtQ4YFX/

To chat about this event: If you want to chat about who is going, ask questions, arrange carpools, or check last minute updates, please see the relevant post on the Club-Sanctioned Trip Into & Comments section of our forums: Club Sanctioned Trip Info & Comments – St. Louis Canoe & Kayak Club (stlcanoekayak.com)
We will also be posting on the Club Sanctioned Trips forum the names of people who have signed up for the trip.

Club table at Alpine Shop Spring Showcase
2025-03-28 17:00 - 2025-03-30 17:00 | Alpine Shop
Come help us staff our table at the Alpine Shop Spring Showcase. If you can help, please email Randy, our outreach chairperson: randynorr@gmail.com
Randy will also be doing a presentation on Sunday at noon on the best places to paddle in St. Louis.

April Monthly Club Meeting
2025-04-03 18:30 - 20:30 | Shrewsbury Community Center, meeting room 1, 5200 Shrewsbury Ave,, Shrewsbury, MO, 63119, United States
This month one of our members, Cathy McCredie, will be showing us stretching exercises for kayaking. This is so important to keep our muscles from injury, especially as we get older. Cathy wrote:
“We will cover both stretching and strengthening. This will be a participatory presentation. I suggest wearing comfortable clothing.”
We will also be doing a follow-up discussion of trip planning.
The St. Louis Canoe & Kayak Club holds an open monthly meeting on the first Thursday of every month, with some exceptions: we are usually off in July, we often hold a picnic in September, and we hold a holiday party in December. Meetings are open to ALL, whether you are a member, joining us after a break, or checking us out for the first time! See events calendar for upcoming meetings.
Meetings are usually held in the second floor meeting room at: Shrewsbury City Center, 5200 Shrewsbury Ave, St. Louis, MO 63119. The room is open at 6:30pm for socializing and the meeting begins at 7pm. If inclement weather or other circumstances prevent in-person meeting, we will send out an email to members and hold the meeting via Zoom.
Meetings can be accessed virtually by Zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82042351004?pwd=[REDACTED]

Lake Carlyle Paddle - This trip has been cancelled.
2025-04-05 10:00 - 2025-04-06 17:00 | Eldon Hazlet State Park boat ramp, Carlyle, IL, 62231, United States
April 5 @ 10:00 am – April 6 @ 5:00 pm
This trip has been cancelled.

Buffalo River Trip
2025-04-12 08:00 - 2025-04-13 17:00 | Steel Creek Campground, Buffalo River Trail, Jasper, AR, 72641
April 12@ 8:00 am– April 13 @ 5:00 pm Free – $11.50
This is a car camping trip on the Buffalo River. We will paddle the upper Buffalo starting at Steel Creek and paddle to Kyle’s Landing Saturday and Sunday we will paddle from Kyle’s Landing to Erbie. Appropriate boats are all plastic boats 15 feet or shorter. This trip is for intermediate to advanced paddlers. There is camping both at Steel Creek (reservable through recreation.gov) and Kyle’s landing (first come first get). You will need to bring camping gear and food. On Saturday we will hike to Hemmed in Hallow, which is off the river. You will want to bring hiking shoes or boots. Saturday’s paddle will be 8 miles and Sunday’s is 6 miles. You will need to pack lunch for both days and plenty to drink. Dress for immersion, preferably a drysuit or wet suit or change of clothes in a dry bag.
Buffalo became the Buffalo National River by Act of Congress on March 1, 1972, and was the first river ever designated as a “national river”, a designation that protects natural rivers from dams, impoundments and other obstructions that change the character of the river and disrupt the natural land and water life that flourishes there. The Upper section has all of the whitewater rapids to be found along the river but also features some very beautiful topography among which are sink holes and caves, springs and waterfalls, 500+ foot tall bluffs overlooking the river and many interesting rock formations that captivate the attention of those into rock structures and the stories they tell. The Upper Buffalo is a great place to paddle in northern Arkansas.
The scenery coming out of the Ozarks is breath-taking. With a gradient of about 11 feet per mile the river drops at a respectable rate, creating a good current when there is adequate water to paddle. The milky green color of the water, due to naturally occurring infusions of minerals, is characteristic of several Arkansas rivers including the Buffalo. Water temperatures can be quite cold (low 40’s) in the dead of winter, and a comfortable 80+ degrees in mid-summer. While not the biggest rapids in Arkansas, the Upper Buffalo offers spectacular vistas and good, fun rapids that for novice to intermediate paddlers.
The Upper Buffalo National River is rich in ecosystem diversity. The banks are lined with dense forests of gorgeous trees that are home to many species of birds, animals and plants. Though seldom seem, there are black bears and mountain lions in this area, so be careful about how you store food and anything else with a fragrance that may smell like food to an animal. You may also see a herd of elk grazing in the pasture on the right as you enter the launch area at the Ponca low water bridge. Skunks and raccoons may be the biggest “threat” you will encounter. If you are into off-river exploration, then a short hike up to Hemmed-in-Hollow will reveal the highest waterfall in this part of the nation – a 200-foot high cascade with a plateau from which you can gaze down upon the river below. The trail can be tough on those without adequate conditioning for somewhat steep climbing, but the view is worth the effort! Be sure to bring your camera.

Trip Leader Dave Haessig 314-304-7970 dghaessig@yahoo.com
To attend this trip/event:

You must reserve ticket for each person attending (see tickets below).
This provides the trip coordinator with important information for safety and communication and gives the club important information we need for reporting to ACA within 30 days of the event.
You must fill out an event-specific waiver. This waiver link includes options for ACA members and non-members, as well as adults and minors: https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/e/mHaqrk7yQ49aCoT26Fx38F/

To chat about this event: If you want to chat about who is going, ask questions, arrange carpools, or check last minute updates, please see the relevant post on the Club-Sanctioned Trip Into & Comments section of our forums: Club Sanctioned Trip Info & Comments – St. Louis Canoe & Kayak Club (stlcanoekayak.com)
We will also be posting on the Club Sanctioned Trips forum the names of people who have signed up for the trip.

Meramec River Overnight
2025-04-22 10:00 - 2025-04-24 15:00 | Woodson K Woods Conservation Area, Steelville, MO, MO, 65565, United States
April 22@ 10:00 pm – April 24@ 3:00 pm Free – $11.50
3 day, 2 night kayak camping on the Meramec River
Fed by the Meramec Spring and many smaller springs, the Meramec is floated most of the year. The most floated sections are those between Meramec Spring and Meramec State Park, although there is still much reasonably attractive river down to St. Clair or even Pacific. Beyond that point, however, real estate developments, railroads, and industry may make the river unattractive to some paddlers. For those who do not mind these distractions, the river is floatable right down to the Mississippi. Difficulty: I, seldom II.
This will be a leisurely paddle from Woodson K Woods Conservation area (mile marker 26.2) to Onondaga Cave State Park (mile marker 68.4). and we’ll stop for photo opportunities and for anything that looks interesting. Bring enough food and water and other beverages for 3 days and two nights. Bring appropriate camping and paddling gear for the forecasted weather. Remember that your paddle gear is determined by the water temperature. A dry suit or wet suit may be advisable. If you are interested in camping before or after the trip, Onondaga State Park is a good place, but you need to make your own arrangements. Let the Trip Leader know if you are going to do this.
This trip is suitable for minors who are strong paddlers (we will be covering over 30 miles.)
Recommended boats: canoes and 12′-14′ kayaks.
We can meet at REI (1214 Town and Country Crossing Dr, Town and Country, MO 63017) on Hwy 141 at 10am to caravan to take out at Onondaga State Park. We will consolidate cars there and drive up to put in at Scott’s Ford Access, or we can meet you at the river access.
We will post trip updates on the trip forum.
https://mostateparks.com/park/onondaga-cave-state-park
https://www.floatmissouri.com/plan/missouri-rivers/meramec-river/
Trip leader: Eileen Lenkman eileen.lenkman@sbcglobal.net
To attend this trip/event:

You must reserve ticket for each person attending (see tickets below).
This provides the trip coordinator with important information for safety and communication and gives the club important information we need for reporting to ACA within 30 days of the event.
You must fill out an event-specific waiver. This waiver link includes options for ACA members and non-members, as well as minors. https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/e/JGRJJF76UkYp4xLmcsHNwY/

To chat about this event: If you want to chat about who is going, ask questions, arrange carpools, or check last minute updates, please see the relevant post on the Club-Sanctioned Trip Into & Comments section of our forums: Meramec River Trip April 22-24 – St. Louis Canoe & Kayak Club

Bourbeuse River Fishing (or not) Trip
2025-04-26 07:00 - 17:00 | Mill Rock Access Bourbeuse River
April 26 @ 7:00 am – 5:00 pm Free – $11.50

This will be a 7-mile leisurely float from Mill Rock Access to Wenkel Ford. Fishing is the primary purpose of the trip, but it is open to anyone interested in a slower pace. This underutilized river is surprising scenic with sandstone bluffs along a good portion of this route. Fishing is usually good. This trip is appropriate for paddlers with an intermediate skill level. Please do not bring a boat over 14′ long.
Minors are welcome if accompanied by their parent.
Bring a lunch, snacks, and enough liquids to stay hydrated. Sunscreen, bug spray, sunglasses and a hat would probably come in handy. PFD’s will be required. Since the water will still be fairly chilly, a change of clothes in a dry bag should be brought in case of immersion. This trip will be contingent on a favorable river level and weather on the day of the event.
Meet at the Eureka Walmart parking lot at 7AM to consolidate gear to as few vehicles as possible, then proceed to the put in point at Mill Rock Access. We would then shuttle as many vehicles as possible to Wenkel Ford.
If anyone feels they must drive directly to the put in point take I-44 west and get off at exit 225 in Sullivan. Turn right and immediately left on Hwy WW to Hwy 185 ( about 1/2 mile.) Turn right on Hwy 185 and go about 2 miles to Hwy H. Take Hwy H 11 miles to Mill Rock Rd. turn right on Mill Rock Rd. and go 2.5 miles to Access. Do not follow directions from any GPS device, as it will take you to the wrong side of the river where there is no parking and no access.

Trip leader: Gary Strohmeyer gstroh@sbcglobal.net

To attend this trip/event:

You must reserve ticket for each person attending (see tickets below).
This provides the trip coordinator with important information for safety and communication and gives the club important information we need for reporting to ACA within 30 days of the event.
You must fill out an event-specific waiver. This waiver link includes options for ACA members and non-members, as well as adults and minors: https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/e/BjoUzt9C6xPAWLJxvAGqBj/

To chat about this event: If you want to chat about who is going, ask questions, arrange carpools, or check last minute updates, please see the relevant post on the Club-Sanctioned Trip Into & Comments section of our forums: Club Sanctioned Trip Info & Comments – St. Louis Canoe & Kayak Club (stlcanoekayak.com)
We will also be posting on the Club Sanctioned Trips forum the names of people who have signed up for the trip.

May Monthly Club Meeting
2025-05-01 18:30 - 20:30 | Shrewsbury Community Center, meeting room 1, 5200 Shrewsbury Ave,, Shrewsbury, MO, 63119, United States
May 1 @ 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm

Jim Bensman will have a presentation on a GPS app for kayakers.
The St. Louis Canoe & Kayak Club holds an open monthly meeting on the first Thursday of every month, with some exceptions: we are usually off in July, we often hold a picnic in September, and we hold a holiday party in December. Meetings are open to ALL, whether you are a member, joining us after a break, or checking us out for the first time! See events calendar for upcoming meetings.
Meetings are usually held in the second floor meeting room at: Shrewsbury City Center, 5200 Shrewsbury Ave, St. Louis, MO 63119. The room is open at 6:30pm for socializing and the meeting begins at 7pm. If inclement weather or other circumstances prevent in-person meeting, we will send out an email to members and hold the meeting via Zoom.
Meetings can be accessed virtually by Zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82042351004?pwd=[REDACTED]

Little Piney Creek Trip
2025-05-03 09:00 - 17:00 | Newburg Access, Newberg, MO, United States
May 3 @ 9:00 am Free – $11.50
The Little Piney is a tributary of the Gasconade River in south central Missouri. It flows from the Lane Sprints through the town of Newburg to the Gasconade River. The Little Piney is more creek than a river and has excellent fishing and some technical paddling. It doesn’t often get clear of debris, so there are a lot of fallen trees that can cause jams. That is where the technical part comes in. If you are in a kayak, you may be able to wriggle around most of them. In a canoe, not so much. It also takes some precise turning to get around the jams, so if you are a novice, you will either be portaging or falling out of your boat a lot.
We will meet at the Newburg access at 9:00 am, then shuttle up to the put in. This will be a 10-mile paddle. Appropriate boats are plastic boats under 15 feet. This trip is appropriate for all paddlers. There is a possibility of log jams that we may have to portage around. You will need to bring a lunch and liquids to drink.
Trip Leader Dave Haessig 314-304-7970 dghaessig@yahoo.com
Direction I-44 west and exit 179 highway T south to Newburg access where the highway crosses the Little Piney. It is about an hour and 45 minutes from mid St. Louis.

To attend this trip/event:

You must reserve ticket for each person attending (see tickets below).
This provides the trip coordinator with important information for safety and communication and gives the club important information we need for reporting to ACA within 30 days of the event.
You must fill out THIS waiver if you ARE an ACA member (even if you already have an annual waiver signed with ACA). This is a NEW waiver our club will be using for the rest of the year, and you only need to sign this waiver once. (Where it says, “Name of Event”, put “SLCKC annual waiver.”) https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/e/VSyMLYT6M3s3w4jDmWBhwN/
If you or your attending child are not an ACA member, fill out this waiver. It includes options for adults and minors:

https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/e/cacBcijaVgHMfpfjRKHXMo/

To chat about this event: If you want to chat about who is going, ask questions, arrange carpools, or check last minute updates, please see the relevant post on the Club-Sanctioned Trip Into & Comments section of our forums: Club Sanctioned Trip Info & Comments – St. Louis Canoe & Kayak Club (stlcanoekayak.com)
We will also be posting on the Club Sanctioned Trips forum the names of people who have signed up for the trip.

Current River Weekend Overnight
2025-05-10 08:00 - 2025-05-11 17:00 | Akers Ferry Lower Canoe Access, Akers Ferry Lower Canoe Access, Jadwin, MO 65501, Jadwin, MO, 65501, United States
May 10 @ 8:00 am – May 11 @ 5:00 pm Free – $11.50
Ticket sales end May 7th.
Trip leader: Ed Bayham edwardbayham@gmail.com
This will be a weekend overnight kayaking trip on the beautiful Current River. We’ll be leaving from Aker’s Ferry (mile marker 15.7) and paddle to the Lower Round Spring Access (mile marker 34.2), spending Saturday night on a gravel bar somewhere. People can drive down Saturday morning or spend Friday night at Round Spring State Park https://www.nps.gov/ozar/planyourvisit/round-spring-campground.htm. (Akers campground is closed from the flooding last year.) You will make your own camping reservation if applicable. Arrangements can be made to carpool if there is interest. Our goal is to start the back shuttle at 8am on Saturday morning so if you are considering driving down Saturday morning, don’t be late.
The most spring-fed of all the Ozark rivers, the Current River may be floated at almost any time of the year, particularly below Welch Spring. It seldom freezes over and has been a favorite for the annual New Year’s float of a large group of Missouri canoeists. Due to the increase in size of the river and the frequency of motorboats below Big Spring, most canoe trips are made on the sections above Big Spring. In normal water, it is a very safe river with no sections which could properly be termed rapids.
Difficulty: I, occasionally II. Please be aware that there may be some small rapids and strainers. Know what to do if you encounter a strainer. River Hazards & How To Survive Them | Paddling.com
https://missouriscenicrivers.com/current-mile-by-mile
This trip is suitable for minors who are strong paddlers.
Recommended boats: canoes and 12′-14′ kayaks.
To attend this trip/event:

You must reserve ticket for each person attending (see tickets below).
This provides the trip coordinator with important information for safety and communication and gives the club important information we need for reporting to ACA within 30 days of the event.
You must fill out THIS waiver if you ARE an ACA member (even if you already have an annual waiver signed with ACA). This is a NEW waiver our club will be using for the rest of the year, and you only need to sign this waiver once. (Where it says, “Name of Event”, put “SLCKC annual waiver.”) https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/e/VSyMLYT6M3s3w4jDmWBhwN/
If you or your attending child are not an ACA member, fill out this waiver. It includes options for adults and minors: https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/e/C6JexJaUvHDnK8xnPwmuhT/

To chat about this event: If you want to chat about who is going, ask questions, arrange carpools, or check last minute updates, please see the relevant post on the Club-Sanctioned Trip Into & Comments section of our forums: Current River Overnight May 10-11 – St. Louis Canoe & Kayak Club

4th Annual Rendezvous on the Ridge
2025-05-10 09:00 - 20:00 | MO
9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
The Ozark Riverways Foundation is sponsoring this event at Big Rock Candy Mountain to celebrate the history and culture of the Ozark mountain people along the Ozark National Scenic Riverways.
For more information, visit https://www.ozarkriverwaysfoundation.org/events/rendezvous-on-the-ridge-rrmx5

Gasconade River Trip
2025-05-17 08:00 - 2025-05-18 17:00 | Schlicht Springs Access, Riverside Road, Crocker, 65452
May 17 @ 8:00 am – May 18 @ 5:00 pm Free – $11.50
The Gasconade, probably named for French settlers from the province of Gascony in southwestern France, is reputed to be one of the most crooked rivers in the world. Entirely within Missouri, the river winds nearly 300 miles from its source near Hartville to the Missouri River, which is an airline distance of about 120 miles. In an area near Waynesville, you can float for 15 miles and be only two miles overland from your put-in. Although it has less gradient than some Ozark rivers, the Gasconade has some surprisingly fast sections, yet is still a good, safe family float stream. Because the river flows through the Mark Twain National Forest, write to the National Park Service Houston Ranger District for maps showing where camping is available.
Dru Pippin describes the Gasconade well in The Rivers of Missouri when he says, “…steep bluffs, gorgeous cuts, hairpin turns, and lazy eddies; hardwoods, softwoods and dogwoods, hidden logs, protruding boulders that weathering has tumbled from adjacent cliffs, wildflowers and shrubs, birds and bees, four-legged creatures quenching their thirst at my water’s edge, while listless white clouds float above as though convoying my trip.” Difficulty: I, seldom II.
We’ll be putting in at Schlicht Springs Access, mm 106.1, on Riverside Road off Hwy 133 (Schlicht Springs Access – Google Maps). There is camping there according to the Paddler’s Guide. We will paddle to the Riddle Bridge Access, mm 129.9, off Route Y (https://maps.app.goo.gl/t5ZX5bvR12CVSEUEA), stopping on a gravel bar somewhere Saturday night. (Gasconade II section in Paddler’s Guide to Missouri)
We will most likely drive down early Saturday morning.
Bring enough food and water for the weekend and check the forecast for the appropriate camping and paddling gear.
This trip is suitable for minors who are strong paddlers (it has a slow current).
Recommended boats: canoes and 12′-14′ kayaks..
We will post trip updates on the trip forum.

Trip leader: Eileen Lenkman eileen.lenkman@sbcglobal.net

To attend this trip/event:

You must reserve ticket for each person attending (see tickets below).
This provides the trip coordinator with important information for safety and communication and gives the club important information we need for reporting to ACA within 30 days of the event.
You must fill out THIS waiver if you ARE an ACA member (even if you already have an annual waiver signed with ACA). This is a NEW waiver our club will be using for the rest of the year, and you only need to sign this waiver once. (Where it says, “Name of Event”, put “SLCKC annual waiver.”) https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/e/VSyMLYT6M3s3w4jDmWBhwN/
If you or your attending child are not an ACA member, fill out this waiver. It includes options for adults and minors:

https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/e/s6JqGiXvn2KhXKamwXEFy6/

To chat about this event: If you want to chat about who is going, ask questions, arrange carpools, or check last minute updates, please see the relevant post on the Club-Sanctioned Trip Into & Comments section of our forums: Club Sanctioned Trip Info & Comments – St. Louis Canoe & Kayak Club (stlcanoekayak.com)

North Fork of the White River family trip.
2025-05-24 08:30 - 2025-05-25 17:00 | North Fork of the White Recreation Area, Pottersville, MO, 65790, United States
May 24@ 8:30 am – May 25@ 5:00 pm Free – $11.50
We will do day paddles on the North Fork of the White River from Twin Bridges from our base campground. On Saturday we will paddle 10 miles from North Fork campground to Blair Bridge. We will meet at 8:30 at North Fork boat ramp. On Sunday we will paddle 6 miles from the Hebron Access to Twin Bridges. We will meet at Twin Bridges at 9:00 Saturday. There will also be a fee to park and take out at Twin Bridges.
We will be camping at the North Fork Recreation area at the North Fork of the White and Highway CC. It has campsites, showers and cabins which is where highway 14 meets the North Fork River. Directions: From West Plains, MO take State Route CC west, (18 miles) and the site is on the left side of the road.
This trip is for intermediate to advance skill levels and appropriate for all plastic kayaks less than 16 feet long and all canoes.
Forming in far southwest Texas County, in the Mark Twain National Forest of the Missouri Ozarks, is the North Fork of the White River, a 78-mile long, Class I to II stream with an almost perpetual, spring-fed flow that runs south through Douglas and Ozark Counties to Northfork Lake along the Arkansas border. This beautiful wilderness river is characterized by excellent quality, crystal clear water, banks lined with hardwood trees, a usually swift current, small ledge drops and standing waves that provide excitement, though not too much technical difficulty. The river is navigable by boaters with even modest skills and experience. A moderate gradient averaging about 7.5 feet per mile (fpm) maintains a gentle current that makes paddling easy.
From its headwaters to SH 76, the river flows about 28.5 miles along a narrow channel among dead-fall debris strainers. Access near the top is a little less inviting than on reaches below. The middle reach from SH 76 to SH 14, where popular paddle and fishing trips usually begin, is about 24.1 miles of gorgeous river, natural scenery and few people. This section is ideal for those looking for a trip away from crowds. The lower reach runs about 25.4 miles from SH 14 to Northfork Lake Public Access just below US Highway 160 at Tecumseh, and is the most popular reach of the river. Spring and summer months produce large crowds of canoeists, kayakers and tubers enjoying the gorgeous water with its steady 4 mph current where boaters can either paddle or float, depending upon their desires. Several springs feed additional water into the river, as well as contributing to the natural scenic appeal of the North Fork. Some of the ledges produce drops of 2-3 feet, just to make it interesting. The USFS operates excellent campgrounds at North Fork Camp and the Missouri Department of Conservation has one at Patrick Bridge, two of the intermediate access points between the SH 14 put-in and Northfork Lake. True hazards are few, but depending upon flow conditions, the Dawt Mill low-head dam and the low-water bridge below it, as well as some of the ledge drops, can pose risks to less experienced paddlers, though easy portages offer ways around them. Bring your camera and enjoy this fantastic, moderate whitewater stream that is boatable almost year-round.
Tip leader Dave Haessig (dghaessig@yahoo.com 314-304-7970.)
We will post trip updates on the trip forum.
To attend this trip/event:

You must reserve ticket for each person attending (see tickets below).
This provides the trip coordinator with important information for safety and communication and gives the club important information we need for reporting to ACA within 30 days of the event.
You must fill out THIS waiver if you are not an ACA member (minors without an ACA membership must also have this waiver filled out): https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/e/FsaS2rycbPA6PkQUL6me47/
If you are an ACA member and have either an ACA annual waiver or LCKC annual waiver filled out, you do not need to sign a waiver for this trip.
If you are an ACA member but have not yet signed an annual waiver, or you believe it may expire soon, fill out this waiver: (It is visible to our club admin AND acts as an ACA annual waiver.) https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/e/VSyMLYT6M3s3w4jDmWBhwN/

To chat about this event: If you want to chat about who is going, ask questions, arrange carpools, or check last minute updates, please see the relevant post on the Club-Sanctioned Trip Into & Comments section of our forums: Club Sanctioned Trip Info & Comments – St. Louis Canoe & Kayak Club (stlcanoekayak.com)

Missouri River Trip
2025-05-24 09:00 - 17:00 | Blanchette Public Access Boat Ramp, North 2nd & Olive Street, St. Charles, MO, 63301, United States
May 24 @ 9:00 pm – May 24@ 5:00 pm Free – $11.50
Weldon Springs Conservation Area (https://mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/places/weldon-spring-conservation-area) to the Blanchette Boat Ramp, St Charles, Missouri. Mile marker 44.3 to 27.8. We will meet at the Blanchette Public Access Boat Ramp, North 2nd & Olive Street, St Charles, MO 63301, at 9:00. (see map below.)
This day trip requires at least intermediate paddling skills. Participants MUST have rescue and self-rescue skills. It is not recommended for minors. Please contact Eileen if you have questions about this.
Need to have at least a 14′ boat.

To attend this trip/event:

You must reserve ticket for each person attending (see tickets below).
This provides the trip coordinator with important information for safety and communication and gives the club important information we need for reporting to ACA within 30 days of the event.
You must fill out THIS waiver if you ARE an ACA member (even if you already have an annual waiver signed with ACA). This is a NEW waiver our club will be using for the rest of the year, and you only need to sign this waiver once. (Where it says, “Name of Event”, put “SLCKC annual waiver.”) https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/e/VSyMLYT6M3s3w4jDmWBhwN/
If you or your attending child are not an ACA member, fill out this waiver. It includes options for adults and minors:

https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/e/6S8byvnXREGd98szkZBmTY/

To chat about this event: If you want to chat about who is going, ask questions, arrange carpools, or check last minute updates, please see the relevant post on the Club-Sanctioned Trip Into & Comments section of our forums: Club Sanctioned Trip Info & Comments – St. Louis Canoe & Kayak Club (stlcanoekayak.com)

June Monthly Club Meeting: The Green River
2025-06-05 06:30 - 20:30 | Shrewsbury Community Center, meeting room 1, 5200 Shrewsbury Ave,, Shrewsbury, MO, 63119, United States
June 5 @ 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm

Kathy Pszonka, one of our amazing paddlers, will be presenting about her trip on the Green River.
The St. Louis Canoe & Kayak Club holds an open monthly meeting on the first Thursday of every month, with some exceptions: we are usually off in July, we often hold a picnic in September, and we hold a holiday party in December. Meetings are open to ALL, whether you are a member, joining us after a break, or checking us out for the first time! See events calendar for upcoming meetings.
Meetings are usually held in the second floor meeting room at: Shrewsbury City Center, 5200 Shrewsbury Ave, St. Louis, MO 63119. The room is open at 6:30pm for socializing and the meeting begins at 7pm. If inclement weather or other circumstances prevent in-person meeting, we will send out an email to members and hold the meeting via Zoom.
Meetings can be accessed virtually by Zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82042351004?pwd=[REDACTED]

Cancelled: Carlyle Lake Weekend Paddle
2025-06-07 10:00 - 2025-06-08 17:00 | Eldon Hazlet State Park boat ramp, Carlyle, IL, 62231, United States
June 7@ 10:00 am – June 8@ 5:00 pm Free – $11.50
We will be meeting at the boat ramp at Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area on Saturday, June 7th at 10am. We will be paddling both Saturday and Sunday. This trip is suitable for both sea kayaks and shorter boats and all skill levels. Those in non-sea kayak boats will be exploring the lake shore and observing wildlife.

People can camp at Eldon Hazlet State Park, coming in on Friday night or Saturday morning but you’ll have to make reservations at Camping at Eldon Hazlet You can also drive in from St Louis for the day, either or both Saturday and Sunday. Exact details about camping and the paddles will be discussed in the forum as people sign up.

Extensive information on Carlyle Lake including all the campgrounds (including reservation links) is available at the Carlyle Lake Corps of Engineers site: Carlyle Lake, Illinois – Recreation.gov

Trip leader: Eileen Lenkman eileen.lenkman@sbcglobal.net
To attend this trip/event:

You must reserve ticket for each person attending (see tickets below).
This provides the trip coordinator with important information for safety and communication and gives the club important information we need for reporting to ACA within 30 days of the event.
You must fill out THIS waiver if you are an ACA member (even if you already have an annual waiver signed with ACA). This is a NEW waiver our club will be using for the rest of the year, and you only need to sign this waiver once this calendar year for all events. (Where it says, “Name of Event”, put “annual waiver.”) https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/e/VSyMLYT6M3s3w4jDmWBhwN/
If you or your attending child are not an ACA member, fill out this waiver. It includes options for adults and minors: https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/e/7W5H4LkeVbihKUfMjz6Srb/

To chat about this event: If you want to chat about who is going, ask questions, arrange carpools, or check last minute updates, please see the relevant post on the Club-Sanctioned Trip Into & Comments section of our forums: Club Sanctioned Trip Info & Comments – St. Louis Canoe & Kayak Club (stlcanoekayak.com)

Annual Skills Clinic
2025-06-21 09:00 - 17:00 | Council Bluff Lake, Council Bluff Lake, Kaolin Township, MO, 63623
This event is now full.
If you want to be put on a waitlist, please contact Joan Twillman at joantwillman@gmail.com

Our Annual Skills Clinic will be held at Council Bluff Lake near Potosi, MO. Come on out to learn deep water skills in a kayak or canoe with others in a group at your skill level. You’ll learn skills for communication, strokes, turning, stopping, self-rescue, and partner-rescue, depending on the needs of each classes’ participants.
A few teaser details:

We have reserved a group campsite at Council Bluff for Friday and Saturday nights. If you are signed up for the clinic, camping there is being paid for by the club.
Optional Sunset to Dark Paddle on Friday evening, June 20.

This Clinic is SO MUCH FUN, and our favorite event of the year. Plus, it is the best deal we know of in paddling education because it is FREE for those who are in both members of ACA and SLCKC.  (If you are not a member of ACA, the cost is $11.50.) Usually, kayaking instructors charge about $125 for classes. But each of our instructors volunteers to teach at our clinic! Plan on getting wet, happy, and tired as you learn new skills!
In addition to our regular kayaking classes for adults and kids, there are new classes, too:

MR 340 paddlers– ways to get back in your boat and other tips from 340 veterans with a cumulative couple-dozen years of experience in the race and some trophies.
Assessment– pre-requisite to becoming an ACA level 2 instructor.  This ACA sanctioned class is for participants with experience and a desire to teach kayaking.
Adaptive Paddling– Extra help with confidence, orthopedic, balance, or other issues from experts in adapting techniques or equipment for individual paddling success.
Canoeing– Just what it sounds like.

Please mention if you want to be in one of these new classes on the questionnaire you will be getting before the clinic
To attend this trip/event:

You must reserve ticket for each person attending (see tickets below). (If you want to be in the MR340 class, there are separate tickets for this.)
This provides the trip coordinator with important information for safety and communication and gives the club important information we need for reporting to ACA within 30 days of the event.
If you are an ACA member and have either an ACA annual waiver or SLCKC annual waiver filled out, you do not need to sign a waiver for this event.
If you are an ACA member but have not yet signed an annual waiver, or you believe it may expire soon, fill out this waiver: (It is visible to our club admin AND acts as an ACA annual waiver.) https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/e/VSyMLYT6M3s3w4jDmWBhwN/
If you or your attending child are not an ACA member, fill out this waiver. It includes options for adults and minors: https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/e/otJPMjmgy3TUq5FPHRkBsi/

To chat about this event: If you want to chat about who is going, ask questions, arrange carpools, or check last minute updates, please see the relevant post on the Club-Sanctioned Trip Into & Comments section of our forums: Annual Skills Clinic June 21 at Council Bluff Lake. – St. Louis Canoe & Kayak Club

Kids and Family Paddle on Big River
2025-06-22 09:00 - 17:00 | Mammoth Access Big River, De Soto, MO, 63020, United States
June 22@ 9:00 pm – 5:00 pm Free – $11.50
This is a trip designed specifically for kids and families. We will Paddle from Mammoth Access to the Merrell Horse Access, which is 5 miles, with plenty of stops swimming and playing. Bring your favorite water toys, squirt guns and super soakers to partake in the fun. We will meet at the Mammoth Access at 9:00 am to shuttle and paddle the river. This trip is for all paddler skills levels and all boats are welcome. You will need to bring a lunch and drinks.
Trip Leader Dave Haessig 314-304-7970 dghaessig@yahoo.com
Directions MO 21 south and turn right onto highway H. Go about 4 miles and turn left on Mammoth Rd.
To attend this trip/event:

You must reserve ticket for each person attending (see tickets below).
This provides the trip coordinator with important information for safety and communication and gives the club important information we need for reporting to ACA within 30 days of the event.
You must fill out THIS waiver if you ARE an ACA member (even if you already have an annual waiver signed with ACA). This is a NEW waiver our club will be using for the rest of the year, and you only need to sign this waiver once. (Where it says, “Name of Event”, put “SLCKC annual waiver.”) https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/e/VSyMLYT6M3s3w4jDmWBhwN/
If you or your attending child are not an ACA member, fill out this waiver. It includes options for adults and minors: https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/e/84zgNP923CGQUXmtuXnwVG/

To chat about this event: If you want to chat about who is going, ask questions, arrange carpools, or check last minute updates, please see the relevant post on the Club-Sanctioned Trip Into & Comments section of our forums: Club Sanctioned Trip Info & Comments – St. Louis Canoe & Kayak Club (stlcanoekayak.com)

Drost Park Paddling Event
2025-06-28 12:00 - 17:00 | Drost Park, E Division St., Maryville, IL, 62062, United States
June 28 @ noon – 5:00 pm Free
Come out and kayak on June 28th from noon to 5pm at Drost Park in Maryville IL. Boats, gear, and safety personnel is all provided for free. Pre-registration is required by calling 618-223-8965. You will be assigned an hour during the day to kayak on the lake. There will be a short Safety Orientation, then you will pick a life jacket, a paddle, a boat, and launch onto the lake. Safety boaters will be on the lake to assist you. We have a variety of kayaks for you to choose from in all shapes and sizes.
Boaters less than 10 years of age are not allowed to kayak solo. We do have a minimum number of tandems that an adult and child can share. Registration is on a first come first serve basis. Drost Park is located off Vadalabene Drive, then south on Schiber Court past Alfonzo’s Pizzeria to Myron Provence Parkway which is the park entrance. Visit the website: www.vil.maryville.il.us for a map to Drost Park.
Several organizations have teamed together to make this event possible for you. They include Alpine Shop, Team River Runner, USACE, Mississippi River Water Trail, STL Canoe and Kayak, and others volunteering their time.

No July Club Meeting
2025-07-03 08:00 - 17:00 | Shrewsbury Community Center, meeting room 1, 5200 Shrewsbury Ave,, Shrewsbury, MO, 63119, United States
We take July off and then meet again in August.

Current River Overnight
2025-07-16 08:00 - 2025-07-17 17:00 | Two Rivers Boat Ramp, County Rd 235-F, Eminence, MO, 65466, United States
July 16 @ 10:00 am – July 17 5:00 pm Free – $11.50
Planning on an overnighter paddle on the Current River with gravel bar camping. You will need to get all gear and supplies in your kayak or canoe. The plan will be to meet at the Two Rivers boat ramp at 10:00 am Wednesday to combine boats and shuttle up to the put-in at Round Spring. I will be monitoring weather and water conditions and will confirm paddle Tuesday afternoon if conditions look okay.
Please post any questions or comments on the Club Sanctioned Trip Forum. Current River Overnight July 16-17 – St. Louis Canoe & Kayak Club
Tip leader: Dennis Strubberg dfstrubberg@yahoo.com
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To attend this trip:

You must reserve a ticket for each person attending (see tickets below).
You must fill out a waiver. – non-ACA members: (minors without an ACA membership must also have this waiver filled out): https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/e/LFRn6dUVBU9je7Rf43Z2NQ/ – ACA members who have not yet signed an annual waiver, or you believe it may expire soon, fill out this waiver: (It is visible to our club admin AND acts as an ACA annual waiver.) https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/e/VSyMLYT6M3s3w4jDmWBhwN/

If you are an ACA member and have either an ACA annual waiver or SLCKC annual waiver filled out, you do not need to sign a waiver for this trip.
If you do not have a waiver signed and a ticket by Tuesday, you will not be able to attend.

Directions:

Take I-55 S, US-67 S and MO-32 W/State Hwy 32 W to State Hwy N in Iron Township

1 hr 20 min (77.4 mi)
Follow State Hwy N to MO-21 S/MO-49 N/MO-72 W in Lesterville Township.

22 min (18.9 mi)

Take MO-106 W to State Hwy V in Eminence Township

47 min (41.9 mi)

Turn right onto State Hwy V
Destination will be on the right

Alpine Shop Pint Night
2025-07-16 18:00 - 21:00 | Alpine Shop
July 16@ 6:00 pm – May 25@ 9:00 pm $10.00
The Alpine Shop is hosting a Pint Night for the Missouri Paddling Coalition, which SLCKC is a member of. $10 for all the beer you want. Mark Fingerhut will be giving a presentation. All proceeds go to MOPadCo, which is a grass roots organization dedicated to making paddling accessible to all. We gather every other month around the state to share information, plan events, and support each other and paddling sports in our region. http://mopaddling.org/
You do not need a ticket for this event but can pay at the door. Our club will host a table with information about SLCKC. If you have any questions, contact carolyn.stlcanoekayak@gmail.com
