St. Louis Canoe & Kayak Club

Mississippi Earthtones Festival
2025-09-20 12:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | Alton Amphitheater, Alton Ampitheater, Alton, IL, 62067, United States
September 20 @ 12:00 am – 10:00 pm; Alton Main Street
Our club will again have a booth at this free & family-friendly event, which features 100+ educational booths, live music, interactive art experiences and performances, as well as great local food & beverages. The goal is to bring people to Downtown Alton to celebrate life on the Mississippi River and learn about ways that we can all be good stewards of our environment.
This event is in conjunction with the Great Rivers Rendezvous, sponsored by the Mississippi River Water Trail Association.
We are looking for volunteers to staff our booth for 2- or 3-hour shifts until dark. It really is a lot of fun. If you can help, please contact Randy, our outreach coordinator, at randynorr@gmail.com

MRWTA also needs volunteers for the Rendezvous. Many hands are needed for this large annual social paddle event held on the Mississippi River between Portage Des Sioux and Alton. The one-day event has three starting points with an optional lock-thru.
The two day event starts on the Illinois River, continues to the Mississippi River with overnight camping followed by paddling the following day on the Missouri River. More details are included with the sign-up link below.

Some of you have already signed on but please fill out the form (via the sign-up link) to tell us your assignment preferences. There’s also a link for those who have not yet signed an annual waiver with MRWTA.
VOLUNTEER SIGN UP LINK-
https://forms.gle/eU5oQ9sqGvV67PjQ7

National Public Lands Day
2025-09-27 | MO
September 27, 2025
National Public Lands Day (NPLD) is the largest single-day volunteer event for public lands held across the United States each year on the fourth Saturday in September.

Join us to remove invasive bush honeysuckle at the Hall’s Ferry unit of Big Muddy National Fish & Wildlife Refuge. A small-scale trash cleanup may also take place around the work area. We will carpool to the site, as parking is limited along the road by the unit. Meeting spot TBD, updates will be sent when available, so please RSVP to Andrew Dreas at andrew_dreas@fws.gov or 660-537-6842.
Details are at https://www.neefusa.org/npld/halls-ferrybig-muddy-nfwr/honeysuckle-removal

North Fork of the White 2-day paddle
2025-09-27 08:00 - 2025-09-28 17:00 | North Fork of the White Recreation Area, Pottersville, MO, 65790, United States
September 27@ 8:00 am – September 28@ 5:00 pm Free – $11.50
Two, day paddles with campground camping in-between. On Sept 27 we will paddle from North Fork Campground to Blair Bridge (10 miles; mile marker 29.2 to 39.4). On September 28th we’ll paddle from Hebron to Twin Bridges (6 miles; mile marker 18.7 -to 24.1).
Saturday AM: Meet at 8:00 at North Fork Campground to shuttle and paddle.
Sunday AM: Meet at 9:00 at Twin Bridges to shuttle and paddle.

There are 2 camping options:

North Fork Campground. This campground has water and vault toilets and Mark Twain National Forest : Recreation Site – North Fork Recreation Area
Twin Bridges. This campground has showers and cabins.Twin Bridges West Plains

This trip is for beginner to intermediate skill levels and appropriate for all plastic kayaks less than 16 feet long and all canoes.
North Fork is a class I difficulty but can also have some class II sections, depending on water level. Class II is defined as, “Moderate difficulty with low consequences. Moving water with identifiable rapids and regular waves; clear passages exist between rocks and hazards. Minimal gradient loss. Some maneuvering is required.”
Description of the North Fork:
The spring-fed North Fork of the White River is a near-perpetual stream offering abundant opportunities for canoeing, kayaking and slow rafting on flatwater with occasional Class I riffles that is very well suited for just about any paddler regardless of experience. The river courses through Mark Twain National Forest in extreme southcentral Missouri, approaching the Arkansas State Line as it flows into Norfork Lake just above its confluence with the mainstream of the White River southeast of Bull Shoals Lake.
The area is very scenic, and the lower 25 miles are very popular with canoeists and kayakers in spring and summer months. Cool, clear waters and excellent shade from the sun make the North Fork a very enjoyable place for family outings, and the nearly 50 miles of river that normally can be paddled without having to dodge dead-fallen tree debris offers opportunities for multi-day trips for those wanting more than just a few hours on the water.
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Please check out the Club Sanctioned Trips forum for additional information as it is posted, or to ask questions or post comments. Club Sanctioned Trip Info & Comments – St. Louis Canoe & Kayak Club
Tip leader: Dave Haessig dghaessig@yahoo.com 314-304-7970.
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 (including minors without an ACA membership): https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/e/FsaS2rycbPA6PkQUL6me47/

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 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/

New Haven Movie Night, Camping, and Paddling
2025-10-24 17:00 - 2025-10-25 17:00 | New Haven, MO
MO Paddling Coalition is a collective source of information/resources about paddling in Missouri (and the surrounding areas). Member organizations and friends of MOPadCo gather every other month in locations around the state to share information, plan events and support each other and paddling sports in our region. SLCKC is part of this organization.
On Friday, October 24, come gather together at Paddle Stop Brewery in New Haven to watch a movie, then camp out at the campground by the river. Then on Saturday we will do a paddle together on the Missouri River.
More information coming soon.

Cache River Trip
2025-10-25 | Barkhausen-Cache River Wetlands Center, 8885 IL-37, Cypress, IL, 62923, United States
We will be paddling in the swamp and see many amazing things including the oldest tress in the state of Illinois. The Cache River State Natural Area is situated in southernmost Illinois within a floodplain carved long ago by glacial floodwater of the Ohio River. When the Ohio River adopted its present course, it left the Cache River to meander across rich and vast wetlands. Among the outstanding natural features are massive cypress trees whose flared bases, called buttresses, exceed 40 feet circumference. Many are more than 1,000 years old, including one that has earned the title of state champion bald cypress because of its huge trunk girth, towering height and heavily branched canopy.

We will meet at the Barkhausen-Cache River Wetlands Center at 9:00 AM and then go to the put in.

Skill Level: This trip is appropriate for all paddlers and all boat types (not paddle boards), including tandems. You need to be able paddle 6-7 miles in flat water with no current and navigate tight turns.

Camping: There is a lovely campground with electricity in the city of Karnak by the Cache River (Campground | villageofkarnak). There are also several campgrounds in the Shawnee National Forest, including Fern Clyffe (Ferne Clyffe State Park)

Trip Leader: Dorine Johnson and Dave Haessig

To attend this trip/event:

You must reserve ticket for each person attending (see tickets below).
Ticket sales end October 25 at noon.
If you are not an ACA member (American Canoe Association), you must fill out this waiver: https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/e/HSLHz4zy8ewoMNeVfQhRbM/ (Minors without an ACA membership must also have this waiver filled out)

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. However, if you do need to sign an ACA annual waiver, fill this out: https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/e/VSyMLYT6M3s3w4jDmWBhwN/ It is visible to our club admin AND acts as an ACA annual waiver.

November Monthly Meeting: Dressing for the Weather
2025-11-06 18:30 - 20:30 | Shrewsbury Community Center, meeting room 1, 5200 Shrewsbury Ave,, Shrewsbury, MO, 63119, United States
Now that fall starting to cool things down, Kathy Pszonka will be taking about how to dress for the cold when paddling.
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]

Annual Holiday Party
2025-12-04 18:00 - 20:00 | 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 club will be providing meat, so please bring a dish to complete our holiday meal. And get a ticket as soon as possible so we know how many to buy for.
The potluck will be in our usual room on the second floor of the Shrewsbury Community Center.

January Monthly Meeting: Trip Planning for the Year
2026-01-08 18:30 - 20:00 | Shrewsbury Community Center, meeting room 1, 5200 Shrewsbury Ave,, Shrewsbury, MO, 63119, United States
Come and share with us what trips you would like to see planned for the year. We would like to post 6-8 trips on the calendar but will add more as the year goes on. We will also have another trip-leader training in the early spring. More information on this will be coming out soon.

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 on the second floor, 5200 Shrewsbury Ave, St. Louis, MO 63119. The meeting will start promptly at 6:30 pm and we will have time for socializing following the meeting agenda. 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]

February Monthly Meeting
2026-02-05 18:30 - 20:00 | Shrewsbury Community Center, meeting room 1, 5200 Shrewsbury Ave,, Shrewsbury, MO, 63119, United States
This month Johnathan Lehmann will give a presentation about the Missouri Whitewater Championship and how we can be judges for this event.
We also have some news and changes to share with the club.
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 on the second floor, 5200 Shrewsbury Ave, St. Louis, MO 63119. The meeting will start promptly at 6:30 pm and we will have time for socializing following the meeting agenda. 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]

Trip Leader's Training
2026-02-28 09:00 - 12:00 | MO
Please join us as we discuss what it requires to be a trip leader, and how to be a successful leader. This training is different than the one last year.
This is a required workshop for anyone leading a club sanctioned trip. It is also appropriate for members who are thinking about it and want more information, as well as members who lead or want to lead Common Adventures.
Location to be announced.
A light breakfast and coffee will be provided.

March Monthly Meeting
2026-03-05 06:30 - 20:00 | MO
Melissa Sauter, president of Mississippi River Water Trails, will be speaking on Managing Outdoor Scenarios from a Risk Management Perspective. Melissa has ACA training in this area, and many years of experience. We are excited to have her as our guest speaker. She is a member of MRWTA as well as our club.
The St. Louis Canoe & Kayak Club holds an open monthly meeting on the first Thursday of every month, although we are usually off in July. We hold a picnic at George Winter Park in September and 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.
This meeting will be held in the second-floor meeting room at: Shrewsbury City Center on the second floor, 5200 Shrewsbury Ave, St. Louis, MO 63119. The meeting will start promptly at 6:30 pm and we will have time for socializing following the meeting agenda. 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 Whitewater Trip
2026-03-21 08:30 - 16:00 | Sam A. Baker State Park store, Patterson, MO, 63956
March 21 @ 8:30 am – 5:00 pm (Free – $11.50)
Big Creek is a tributary of the St. Francis River flowing about 19.2 miles between the Highway K bridge just west of Annapolis through Sam A. Baker State Park to its confluence with the Saint. Starting in Iron County, Big Creek ends in Wayne County near Lodi and US Highway 67. This narrow “crick” can be a docile lamb at normal to low water levels or a roaring lion in high water conditions. Its rapids are exciting, especially considering the tight nature of the creek and the control necessary to avoid creek banks, trees, brush and obstacles that may occasionally find their way into the streambed. It is a canoe and kayak only stream – rafts would be just too bulky and awkward for this small waterway. It is gorgeous with a capital “G”, so bring your camera and take a lot of photos.
Meeting location: We will meet at the store at Sam A Baker State Park at 8:30 am and shuttle up to Des Arc. We will paddle 10 miles to the low water bridge at Sam A Baker.
Camping options: Sam A. Baker State Park.
Big Creek is a Class II River, sometimes getting to a Class III during high water.
Class II: Straightforward rapids with wide, clear channels which are evident without scouting; occasional maneuvering may be required, but rocks and medium-sized waves are easily missed by trained paddlers; swimmers are seldom injured and group assistance, while helpful, is seldom needed.
Class III: Rapids with moderate, irregular waves which may be difficult to avoid and which can swamp an open canoe; complex maneuvers in fast current and good boat control in tight passages or around ledges are often required; large waves or strainers may be present but are easily avoided; strong eddies and powerful current effects can be found, particularly on large-volume rivers; scouting is advisable for inexperienced parties; injuries while swimming are rare; self-rescue is usually easy but group assistance may be required to avoid long swims.
Skill level required: Paddlers should have intermediate skill level (paddlers should be comfortable in the water as well as on it, know a wide variety of paddling strokes, can navigate around hazards, be proficient in class II moving water, knows eddy turns, and can help in rescues.)
Possible hazards or difficult sections of water paddled (other hazards may also be encountered on the trip): This section of Big Creek has 2 rock gardens that are easy to portage around if you feel you cannot paddle them. There are also rapids, two rock gardens (significant rocks that are in the way of the paddler and create obstacles to paddle around, thru, and over), a low water bridge, obstacles to navigate around, possible strainers, creek banks, trees, brush and obstacles that may occasionally find their way into the streambed, among other hazards.
Type of Boat: Whitewater boats are not required but your boat should be plastic and under 15 feet in length.
Participants must bring:

HELMET (NOT a bicycle helmet)
a complete change of clothes in a dry bag, if not wearing a dry suit.
lunch and drinks
U.S. Coast Guard approved PFD (life jacket)
“pealess” whistle

For a list of items to bring that might be helpful for new paddlers, here is a link: Kayaking Gear for Every Trip
How to dress: Dress for immersion. A dry suit or wetsuit is needed or change of clothing in a drybag.
Minors are welcome if accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
Please check out the Club Sanctioned Trips forum for additional information, or to ask questions or post comments. Club Sanctioned Trip Info & Comments – St. Louis Canoe & Kayak Club
Risks involved: Paddlesports and related ACTIVITIES INVOLVE RISKS AND DANGERS OF DAMAGE TO PERSONAL PROPERTY AND SERIOUS BODILY INJURY, INCLUDING PERMANENT DISABILITY, PARALYSIS, AND DEATH. These Risks and dangers may be caused by my own actions or inactions, the actions or inactions of others participating, leading, or helping in the Activity, and the condition in which the Activity takes place. There may be OTHER RISKS AND SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC LOSSES either not known to me or not readily foreseeable at this time.
Tip leader. Dave Haessig (314)-304-7970.
You must reserve a 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.
If you purchase a ticket for this trip but decide you cannot attend, PLEASE contact the trip leader to let them know.

If you are an ACA member, please make sure you have an annual waiver signed on their website and have linked your account with St. Louis Canoe and Kayak Club. You must have re-signed this waiver since January 1, 2026 because they have updated their website. Here are instructions: Linking your ACA account to St. Louis Canoe and Kayak..docx
If you are not an ACA member (American Canoe Association), you will be asked to sign a paper waiver from ACA at the meet-up location.

Upper Buffalo River Paddle (free - $11.50)
2026-04-11 08:00 - 2026-04-12 15:00 | Steel Creek Campground, Buffalo River Trail, Jasper, AR, 72641
We will be paddling the Buffalo River between the Steel Creek Campground to Kyle’s Landing on Saturday and Kyle’s Landing to Erby on Sunday, with base camping Saturday night.
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 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. The buffalo River National Park has several beautiful hikes including the Goat Trail, Lost Valley and Whitaker Point Trail so you can add a few extra days to your trip to enjoy them.
Meeting Location: Steel Creek Campground, 8:00 April 11.
Camping options: Steel Creek Campground Saturday night (Friday night is optional). Reservations can be made at www.recreation.gov
Water classification:
Class II: Straightforward rapids with wide, clear channels which are evident without scouting; occasional maneuvering may be required, but rocks and medium-sized waves are easily missed by trained paddlers; swimmers are seldom injured and group assistance, while helpful, is seldom needed.
Possible hazards or difficult sections of water paddled (other hazards may also be encountered on the trip):
This section of the Buffalo has some rapids, swift currents and turns, and possible obstacles to navigate around, as well as possible strainers.
Skill level required:
Confident Beginner (paddler who has a strong forward stroke, knows other basic strokes, has stamina and skill to finish a 10-12-mile river trip, and can maneuver their boat through and around obstacles in moving water.)
Type of boat required: Plastic boats under 15′
Participants must bring:

If the air or water temperature is chilly, a complete change of clothes in a dry bag. (if not wearing a dry suit.)
water
lunch and drinks for each day’s paddle
U.S. Coast Guard approved PFD (life jacket)
“pealess” whistle
bug spray
snacks

For a list of items to bring that might be helpful for new paddlers, here is a link: Kayaking Gear for Every Trip
How to dress: Dress for immersion. A dry suit or wetsuit is needed or change of clothing in a drybag. No cotton. If wearing sandals, they should have back straps.
Minors are welcome on this trip if a parent or guardian attends.
Please check out the Club Sanctioned Trips forum for additional information as it is posted, or to ask questions or post comments. Club Sanctioned Trip Info & Comments – St. Louis Canoe & Kayak Club
Risks involved: Paddlesports and related ACTIVITIES INVOLVE RISKS AND DANGERS OF DAMAGE TO PERSONAL PROPERTY AND SERIOUS BODILY INJURY, INCLUDING PERMANENT DISABILITY, PARALYSIS, AND DEATH. These Risks and dangers may be caused by my own actions or inactions, the actions or inactions of others participating, leading, or helping in the Activity, and the condition in which the Activity takes place, There may be OTHER RISKS AND SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC LOSSES either not known to me or not readily foreseeable at this time.
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Tip leader: Dave Haessig (314-304-7970)
To attend this trip/event:
You must reserve a ticket for each person attending (see tickets below).
This provides the trip leader with important information they need for safety and communication, and information the club needs for ACA reporting.
If you purchase a ticket for this trip but decide you cannot attend, PLEASE contact the trip leader to let them know.

If you are an ACA member, please make sure you have an annual waiver signed on their website and have linked your account with St. Louis Canoe and Kayak Club. You must have re-signed this waiver since January 1, 2026 because they have updated their website. Here are instructions: Linking your ACA account to St. Louis Canoe and Kayak..docx
If you are not an ACA member (American Canoe Association), you will be asked to sign a paper waiver from ACA at the meet-up location. Here is the waiver to read before attending the trip: aca_waiver__release_of_liab

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Bryant Creek Paddle
2026-04-13 09:00 - 2026-04-14 16:00 | Vera Cruz Access Campground, State Highway AV, Ava, MO, 65608, United States
April 13 @ 9:00 am – April 14 @ 4:00 pm (Free – $11.50)
Bryant Creek is a scenic Ozark stream in southern Missouri known for wilderness character, fishing, and paddling. There are springs, creeks, and scenery features such as bluffs, hardwood forests and pine stands. It is a relatively wild stream and provides only slightly less paddling mileage than the North Fork. It has less volume than the North Fork and is more difficult to float because it is narrower and has more obstacles, but it also has some fast riffles.
Camping options: We will be camping at the Vera Cruz Access campground. State Hwy AB, Ava, MO 65608. There is no need to make reservations; first come, first serve.
This is a Class I, sometimes Class II, river.
Class I: Fast-moving water with riffles and small waves; few obstructions, all obvious and easily missed with little training; risk to swimmers is slight; self-rescue is easy.
Class II: Straightforward rapids with wide, clear channels which are evident without scouting; occasional maneuvering may be required, but rocks and medium-sized waves are easily missed by trained paddlers; swimmers are seldom injured and group assistance, while helpful, is seldom needed.
Skill level required: Confident Beginner (paddler who has a strong forward stroke, knows other basic strokes, has stamina and skill to finish a 10 to 12-mile river trip, and can maneuver their boat through and around obstacles in moving water.)
Type of boat required: Over 10′ length.
Participants must bring: *

U.S. Coast Guard approved PFD (life jacket)
a “pealess” whistle
If the air or water is chilly, a complete change of clothes in a dry bag (if not wearing a dry suit).
Water and a snack.
As we will be base camping, you will need to bring camping gear and food.

* For a list of items to bring that might be helpful for new paddlers, here is a link: Kayaking Gear for Every Trip
How to dress: Appropriate clothing for kayaking. No cotton. If wearing sandals, they should have back straps.
This trip is only for adults over 18 years old.
Please check out the Club Sanctioned Trips forum for additional information as it is posted, or to ask questions or post comments. Club Sanctioned Trip Info & Comments – St. Louis Canoe & Kayak Club
Hazards or difficult sections of water paddled (other hazards may also be encountered on the trip):
Portages, strainers, fast riffles, and obstacles.
Risks involved: Paddlesports and related ACTIVITIES INVOLVE RISKS AND DANGERS OF DAMAGE TO PERSONAL PROPERTY AND SERIOUS BODILY INJURY, INCLUDING PERMANENT DISABILITY, PARALYSIS, AND DEATH. These Risks and dangers may be caused by my own actions or inactions, the actions or inactions of others participating, leading, or helping in the Activity, and the condition in which the Activity takes place, There may be OTHER RISKS AND SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC LOSSES either not known to me or not readily foreseeable at this time.

Tip leaders: Shelly Green and Dorine Johnson
To attend this trip/event:
You must reserve a 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.
If you purchase a ticket for this trip but decide you cannot attend, PLEASE contact the trip leader to let them know.

If you are an ACA member, please make sure you have an annual waiver signed on their website and have linked your account with St. Louis Canoe and Kayak Club. You must have re-signed this waiver since January 1, 2026 because they have updated their website. Here are instructions: Linking your ACA account to St. Louis Canoe and Kayak..docx
If you are not an ACA member (American Canoe Association), you will be asked to sign a paper waiver from ACA at the meet-up location. Here is the waiver to read before attending the trip: aca_waiver__release_of_liab

Jack's Fork Trip
2026-05-09 08:30 - 2026-05-10 15:00 | Rymers Campground, Birch, MO, United States
We will be paddling Jack’s Fork both Saturday and Sunday, and base camping Saturday night.
The Jacks Fork is a great Class I river with a moderate gradient (average about 7.1 fpm) and typical Ozark abundance of gorgeous rock formations and plant life that accentuates it. The Jacks Fork could be a Norman Rockwell painting of Americana. It offers runs of several distances, from short trips to multiple day expeditions that tour the river from The Prongs to the confluence of the Current River east of Eminence.
We can hike up to Jammed up Cave on Saturday
Meeting Location: Rymer’s Campground
Camping options: You can camp at Rhymers Campground, which is primitive camping, and first come basis. Or you can camp at Ally Springs with reservations www recreation.gov
Water classification:
Class I: Fast-moving water with riffles and small waves; few obstructions, all obvious and easily missed with little training; risk to swimmers is slight; self-rescue is easy.
Possible hazards or difficult sections of water paddled (other hazards may also be encountered on the trip):
Jack’s Fork is a windy little river with swift current if the water level is up. You may encounter some obstacles in the water and some strainers.
Skill level required:
Beginner (paddler who has a proficient forward stroke, knows other basic strokes, and can maneuver their boat in Class 1 moving water.)
Type of boat required: plastic boats.
Participants must bring:

lunch and drinks for each day on the river
U.S. Coast Guard approved PFD (life jacket)
“pealess” whistle
bug spray
sunscreen
camping gear and food.

For a list of items to bring that might be helpful for new paddlers, here is a link: Kayaking Gear for Every Trip
How to dress: Dress for immersion with a change of clothing in a drybag. No cotton. If wearing sandals, they should have back straps.
Minors are welcome on this trip if a parent or guardian attends.
Please check out the Club Sanctioned Trips forum for additional information as it is posted, or to ask questions or post comments. Club Sanctioned Trip Info & Comments – St. Louis Canoe & Kayak Club
Risks involved: Paddlesports and related ACTIVITIES INVOLVE RISKS AND DANGERS OF DAMAGE TO PERSONAL PROPERTY AND SERIOUS BODILY INJURY, INCLUDING PERMANENT DISABILITY, PARALYSIS, AND DEATH. These Risks and dangers may be caused by my own actions or inactions, the actions or inactions of others participating, leading, or helping in the Activity, and the condition in which the Activity takes place, There may be OTHER RISKS AND SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC LOSSES either not known to me or not readily foreseeable at this time.
————————————————————-
Tip leader: Dave Haessig (314-304-7970)
To attend this trip/event:
You must reserve a ticket for each person attending (see tickets below).
This provides the trip leader with important information they need for safety and communication, and information the club needs for ACA reporting.
If you purchase a ticket for this trip but decide you cannot attend, PLEASE contact the trip leader to let them know.

If you are an ACA member, please make sure you have an annual waiver signed on their website and have linked your account with St. Louis Canoe and Kayak Club. You must have re-signed this waiver since January 1, 2026 because they have updated their website. Here are instructions: Linking your ACA account to St. Louis Canoe and Kayak..docx
If you are not an ACA member (American Canoe Association), you will be asked to sign a paper waiver from ACA at the meet-up location. Here is the waiver to read before attending the trip: aca_waiver__release_of_liab

Spring River Trip with MWA
2026-05-29 08:00 - 2026-05-31 17:00 | Spring River Oaks Campground, 1868 River Oaks Trail, Mammoth Spring, AR, 72554, United States
Get ready for a great weekend on the Spring River in Hardy, Arkansas! This beautiful, spring‑fed river runs a consistent 58°F and offers excellent Class I–II whitewater, perfect for both advanced beginners and intermediate paddlers.
This is a joint venture with Missouri Whitewater Association.
We’ll be paddling the Dam 3 to Spring River Oaks Campground stretch (about 8 miles), which features:
• Fun, moderate current
• Small waterfalls and 1–2 ft. drops
• Eddies, small surfing waves
• A busy Saturday crowd — with things calming down on Sunday
Weekend Schedule

Paddling both Saturday and Sunday
We will meet at Spring River Oaks at 10 AM on Saturday and Sunday
Mexican Feast on Saturday evening (burritos, beans, and all the fixings)
Camping at Spring River Oaks Campground Friday and Saturday nights

Water classification:
Class I: Fast-moving water with riffles and small waves; few obstructions, all obvious and easily missed with little training; risk to swimmers is slight; self-rescue is easy.
Class II: Straightforward rapids with wide, clear channels which are evident without scouting; occasional maneuvering may be required, but rocks and medium-sized waves are easily missed by trained paddlers; swimmers are seldom injured and group assistance, while helpful, is seldom needed.
Skill level required: Confident Beginner (paddler who has a strong forward stroke, knows other basic strokes, has stamina and skill to finish a 10-12 mile river trip, and can maneuver their boat through and around obstacles in moving water)
How to dress: Dress for immersion. A dry suit or wetsuit is needed or change of clothing in a drybag. No cotton. If wearing sandals, they should have back straps.
Participants must bring: (Take this off the Request form for STL Canoe & Kayak Club trip/event.)

If the air or water temperature is chilly, a complete change of clothes in a dry bag. (if not wearing a dry suit.)
water
lunch for Saturday
U.S. Coast Guard approved PFD (life jacket)
“pealess” whistle
camping gear and food

For a list of items to bring that might be helpful for new paddlers, here is a link: Kayaking Gear for Every Trip
Minors are welcome on this trip if a parent or guardian attends and if they have the above skills.
Please check out the Club Sanctioned Trips forum for additional information as it is posted, or to ask questions or post comments. Club Sanctioned Trip Info & Comments – St. Louis Canoe & Kayak Club
Risks involved: Paddlesports and related ACTIVITIES INVOLVE RISKS AND DANGERS OF DAMAGE TO PERSONAL PROPERTY AND SERIOUS BODILY INJURY, INCLUDING PERMANENT DISABILITY, PARALYSIS, AND DEATH. These Risks and dangers may be caused by my own actions or inactions, the actions or inactions of others participating, leading, or helping in the Activity, and the condition in which the Activity takes place, There may be OTHER RISKS AND SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC LOSSES either not known to me or not readily foreseeable at this time.
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Tip leader: Gary Palmer and Dennis Pierce (202-725-8167). Russ Aargaard is trip coordinator for MWA.
To attend this trip/event: You must reserve a ticket for each person attending (see tickets below).
This provides the trip leader with important information they need for safety and communication, and information the club needs for ACA reporting.
If you get a ticket and then cannot go for any reason, let the Trip Leader know.

If you are an ACA member, please make sure you have an annual waiver signed on their website and have linked your account with St. Louis Canoe and Kayak Club. You must have re-signed this waiver since January 1, 2026 because they have updated their website. Here are instructions: Linking your ACA account to St. Louis Canoe and Kayak..docx
If you are not an ACA member (American Canoe Association), you will be asked to sign a paper waiver from ACA at the meet-up location. Here is the waiver to read before attending the trip: aca_waiver__release_of_liab

Annual Skills Clinic
2026-06-13 08:00 - 17:00 | Council Bluff Lake, Council Bluff Lake, Kaolin Township, MO, 63623
Our annual Skills Clinic at Council Bluff Lake is coming soon! If want to refine your paddling skills, meet new people, and learn how to make it look easy, this is the event for you! We teach how to paddle more effectively, how to communicate on the water, how to rescue yourself and others, and how to have fun doing it. Our qualified instructors are all volunteers. That means that this event is the best value ever. It’s FREE to all who are members of both St. Louis Canoe and Kayak Club and ACA and costs just $11.50 for those who are not ACA members. (Usually, instructors charge about $125 for a class.)
Classes will be designed according to your needs. We have options that cover canoe, kayak, and sit-on-top, and a kids’ class. Please share the ideas that you would like to see covered.
A few teaser thoughts:
Camping is provided FREE for clinic participants at group sites 1 and 2 at Council Bluff Lake campground, June 12 and 13. You can also reserve an individual site yourself.
We will have our evening paddle on the lake Friday night. This is so much fun! Come with lights to put on your boat.
We are thinking of adding a Friday night “Try a Boat Option” if there are enough of you who are willing to let others try out your boats and paddles prior to an evening paddle on the lake.
We hope you can join us!

Moving Water Skills Clinic
2026-06-20 08:00 - 17:00 | Cedar Hill Park, 6801 Cedar Hill Rd,, Cedar Hill, MO, 63016, United States
June 20 @ 9:00 am – 4:00 pm Free – $11.50
Cedar Hill Park, 6801 Cedar Hill Rd. Cedar Hill MO 63016
This is a great opportunity to learn safety on small rivers, It’s not a white water clinic, but you will learn self-rescue techniques such as what to do if you capsize, how to avoid strainers, swimming defensively and aggressively in fast water, how to throw and catch a throw rope, simple boat extraction with throw rope, walking in fast water currents, catching eddys, ferrying in fast currents, wet exits, T rescues, avoiding foot entrapments, assisting a swimmer to shore, bulldozing a boat to shore , and emptying a boat full of water. No shuttle will be needed. All skills will be learned at Cedar Hill Park. Pit toilets available. No drinking water. This is not suitable for small children or anyone not physically able to walk down steep terrain or able to float down faster currents with PFD on. Debbie Dyle and Dorine Johnson, both ACA level 2 instructors, will be assisting Kathy Pszonka
Members will benefit from both the Annual Clinic, held the Saturday before, and this clinic, as different skills will be taught.
This event is appropriate for beginners and intermediate paddlers. It is not appropriate for minors.
Dress for immersion, air and water temperatures. You will be wet.
What to bring: Bring a recreational kayak or canoe (whatever boat you use for rivers), PFD, Skirt if you have one, Helmet( bike helmet is sufficient), paddle, throw rope if you have one, dress for immersion as you will get wet, nose plugs if desired because you head will get wet, lunch, water , dry clothes for changing into, camp chair, any medication you might need, sunscreen.
Specific risks involved with this clinic:

exposure to water
submerged rocks and obstacles
swimming in fast currents with PFD on
sun
insects

Please check out the Club Sanctioned Trips forum for additional information as it is posted, or to ask questions or post comments. Club Sanctioned Trip Info & Comments – St. Louis Canoe & Kayak Club
Risks involved: Paddlesports and related ACTIVITIES INVOLVE RISKS AND DANGERS OF DAMAGE TO PERSONAL PROPERTY AND SERIOUS BODILY INJURY, INCLUDING PERMANENT DISABILITY, PARALYSIS, AND DEATH. These Risks and dangers may be caused by my own actions or inactions, the actions or inactions of others participating, leading, or helping in the Activity, and the condition in which the Activity takes place, There may be OTHER RISKS AND SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC LOSSES either not known to me or not readily foreseeable at this time.
Trip Leader: Kathy Pszonka iamakayaknmom@hotmail.com
There is a limit of 20 participants. Please get tickets below.

Women and the MR 340 Race
2026-06-27 13:30 - 22:30 | Weldon Springs Conservation Area, 6990 S Missouri 94, St. Charles, MO, 63304
Women are underrepresented among 340 racers but have a higher rate of finishing the race. Our staff wants to be part of the success of this new wave of racers. This is a tough race and there are so many details for you to handle. We want to answer your questions, tell you stories, and let you know the things we wanted to know when we started. We hope you love your time on the water.
Location: Weldon Spring Conservation Area, Blanchette Landing, and the river between.
Target: 16 women, registered to race the MR-340 in 2026 who have never finished it
Staff: 8 women with knowledge, experience, training, and time on the river
Purpose: Building a community of female racers with emphasis on fun, confidence, skills, and river knowledge
Sample Topics: Preparations, strategy, navigation, hazards, hygiene, night paddling, safety
Cost: $25. Many thanks to River City Outdoors who made this class possible through their grant and St. Louis Canoe and Kayak Club, sponsor: providing information and support before, during, and afterward. Thia fee is non-refundable.
We will meet at Weldon Springs Conservation Area for introductions, river talk, and discussions about the race. Move upstream to quiet water to practice getting in and out of boats from the water for those who choose to participate. Leaving boats at Weldon with our ground crew, we will drive to Blanchette landing, watch the river and cover additional topics. The shuttle will take us back to Weldon to start our 20-mile trip observing the effects of the topography on the current, noting bridges, sand dredges, tows and barges, dikes and dams, navigation markers, and places to access the land. As the sun goes down, we will see everything literally in a different light. Takeout is at Blanchette at 10:30 p.m.
To attend this class:

Register for the MR 340.
Become a member of St. Louis Canoe and Kayak Club through the free membership we have for participants of this event. Membership Levels – St. Louis Canoe & Kayak Club
Log into your new account and get a ticket for this event (below).
Have an up-to-date ACA waiver or, if you’re not a member of ACA, you can sign a paper waiver at the event.

We are only able to accommodate 16 attendees but will create a waiting list when that number is filled.
Once you sign up by purchasing a ticket, we will be sending you additional information. If you have questions or things to discuss, please contact us at missouripaddlerjoan@gmail.com

Risks involved: Paddlesports and related ACTIVITIES INVOLVE RISKS AND DANGERS OF DAMAGE TO PERSONAL PROPERTY AND SERIOUS BODILY INJURY, INCLUDING PERMANENT DISABILITY, PARALYSIS, AND DEATH. These Risks and dangers may be caused by my own actions or inactions, the actions or inactions of others participating, leading, or helping in the Activity, and the condition in which the Activity takes place, There may be OTHER RISKS AND SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC LOSSES either not known to me or not readily foreseeable at this time.

Big River Kids and Family Trip (free-$11.50)
2026-06-28 09:00 - 17:00 | Mammoth Access Big River, De Soto, MO, 63020, United States
This is a 5-mile paddle from Mammoth Access to Merrell Horse access. Because it is a short paddle, we’ll have lots of time to stop and play.
The Big River is a tributary of the Meramec River. Around the Washington State Park area, the river is probably at its very best. The few whitewater rapids you will encounter will be in the Class I range, and you should not have any difficulty negotiating them. The scenery is awesome, with deep forests lining the banks of a wide river. We will stop often to splash and play.
We will meet at Mammoth Access at 9:00 am.
Water classification:
Class I: Fast-moving water with riffles and small waves; few obstructions, all obvious and easily missed with little training; risk to swimmers is slight; self-rescue is easy.
Possible hazards or difficult sections of water paddled (other hazards may also be encountered on the trip): There are few hazards on this river, but obstacles to paddle around and small strainers are always a possibility.
Skill level required: This trip is appropriate for beginner paddlers.
Type of boat required: all boats.
Participants must bring: (Take this off the Request form for STL Canoe & Kayak Club trip/event.)

water
lunch/snacks
U.S. Coast Guard approved PFD (life jacket)
“pealess” whistle
bug spray
sunscreen
squirt guns and toys would be fun

For a list of items to bring that might be helpful for new paddlers, here is a link: Kayaking Gear for Every Trip
How to dress: Appropriate clothing for kayaking. No cotton. If wearing sandals, they should have back straps.
Minors are welcome on this trip. A parent or guardian needs to also attend.
Please check out the Club Sanctioned Trips forum for additional information as it is posted, or to ask questions or post comments. Club Sanctioned Trip Info & Comments – St. Louis Canoe & Kayak Club
Risks involved: Paddlesports and related ACTIVITIES INVOLVE RISKS AND DANGERS OF DAMAGE TO PERSONAL PROPERTY AND SERIOUS BODILY INJURY, INCLUDING PERMANENT DISABILITY, PARALYSIS, AND DEATH. These Risks and dangers may be caused by my own actions or inactions, the actions or inactions of others participating, leading, or helping in the Activity, and the condition in which the Activity takes place, There may be OTHER RISKS AND SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC LOSSES either not known to me or not readily foreseeable at this time.
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Tip leader: Dave Haessig 314-304-7970
To attend this trip/event:
You must reserve a ticket for each person attending (see tickets below).
This provides the trip leader with important information they need for safety and communication, and information the club needs for ACA reporting.
If you purchase a ticket for this trip but decide you cannot attend, PLEASE contact the trip leader to let them know.

If you are an ACA member, please make sure you have an annual waiver signed on their website and have linked your account with St. Louis Canoe and Kayak Club. You must have re-signed this waiver since January 1, 2026 because they have updated their website. Here are instructions: Linking your ACA account to St. Louis Canoe and Kayak..docx

If you are not an ACA member (American Canoe Association), you will be asked to sign a paper waiver from ACA at the meet-up location. Here is the waiver to read before attending the trip: aca_waiver__release_of_liab

North Fork of the White (free-$11.50)
2026-08-15 08:00 - 2026-08-16 17:00 | North Fork of the White Recreation Area, Pottersville, MO, 65790, United States
This a 2-day trip with base camping at the North Fork or Twin Bridges Campground. We will be paddling the first day from the North Fork Recreation area to Blair Bridge. We are unsure of the second day paddle at this point, as we are waiting for Twin Bridges to open up for the season and to see if MDC repairs the Hebron access.
The spring-fed North Fork of the White River is a near-perpetual stream offering abundant opportunities for canoeing, kayaking and slow rafting on flatwater with occasional Class I to II riffles that is very well suited for just about any paddler regardless of experience. The river courses through Mark Twain National Forest in extreme southcentral Missouri, approaching the Arkansas State Line as it flows into Norfork Lake just above its confluence with the mainstream of the White River southeast of Bull Shoals Lake. The area is very scenic, and the lower 25 miles are very popular with canoeists and kayakers in spring and summer months. Cool, clear waters and excellent shade from the sun make the North Fork a very enjoyable place for family outings, and the nearly 50 miles of river that normally can be paddled without having to dodge dead-fallen tree debris offers opportunities for multi-day trips for those wanting more than just a few hours on the water.
We will be meeting at 8:00 am on Saturday, Aug. 15 at the boat ramp in the North Fork Recreation Area.
Camping options:
There is camping at North Fork campground which is primitive and first come. You can also camp or get a cabin at Twin Bridges campground.
Water classification: Class I and Class II:
Class I: Fast-moving water with riffles and small waves; few obstructions, all obvious and easily missed with little training; risk to swimmers is slight; self-rescue is easy.
Class II: Straightforward rapids with wide, clear channels which are evident without scouting; occasional maneuvering may be required, but rocks and medium-sized waves are easily missed by trained paddlers; swimmers are seldom injured and group assistance, while helpful, is seldom needed.
Possible hazards or difficult sections of water paddled (other hazards may also be encountered on the trip):
This river has swift current, a drop-off to paddle over, large rocks to navigate around, riffles, wave trains, possible strainers (downed trees), cold water temperatures, undercut rocks, and potential for entrapment.
Skill level required:
Confident Beginner (paddler who has a strong forward stroke, knows other basic strokes, has stamina and skill to finish a 10-12 mile river trip, and can maneuver their boat through and around obstacles in moving water.)
Type of boat required: Plastic, 15′ or shorter.
Participants must bring:

A helmet (a bicycle helmet is not acceptable)
A complete change of clothes in a dry bag.
water
lunch for on the river
U.S. Coast Guard approved PFD (life jacket)
“pealess” whistle
sunscreen
bug spray
camping gear and food

For a list of items to bring that might be helpful for new paddlers, here is a link: Kayaking Gear for Every Trip
How to dress: Dress for immersion. The water can be cold. No cotton. Sandals must have back straps.
Minors are welcome on this trip if a parent or guardian attends.

Please check out the Club Sanctioned Trips forum for additional information as it is posted, or to ask questions or post comments. Club Sanctioned Trip Info & Comments – St. Louis Canoe & Kayak Club
Risks involved: Paddlesports and related ACTIVITIES INVOLVE RISKS AND DANGERS OF DAMAGE TO PERSONAL PROPERTY AND SERIOUS BODILY INJURY, INCLUDING PERMANENT DISABILITY, PARALYSIS, AND DEATH. These Risks and dangers may be caused by my own actions or inactions, the actions or inactions of others participating, leading, or helping in the Activity, and the condition in which the Activity takes place, There may be OTHER RISKS AND SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC LOSSES either not known to me or not readily foreseeable at this time.
————————————————————-
Tip leader: Dave Haessig (314-304-7970)
To attend this trip/event:
You must reserve a ticket for each person attending (see tickets below).
This provides the trip leader with important information they need for safety and communication, and information the club needs for ACA reporting.
If you purchase a ticket for this trip but decide you cannot attend, PLEASE contact the trip leader to let them know.

If you are an ACA member, please make sure you have an annual waiver signed on their website and have linked your account with St. Louis Canoe and Kayak Club. You must have re-signed this waiver since January 1, 2026 because they have updated their website. Here are instructions: Linking your ACA account to St. Louis Canoe and Kayak..docx
If you are not an ACA member (American Canoe Association), you will be asked to sign a paper waiver from ACA at the meet-up location. Here is the waiver to read before attending the trip: aca_waiver__release_of_liab

Ticket sales end Aug. 12 at 5:00 pm.

Current River Camping and Kayaking
2026-09-26 08:00 - 2026-09-27 17:00 | Cedar Grove Canoe Access, route 651, Jadwin, MO, 65501
This is a 2-day paddle with base camping at Pulltite.
Saturday we will put in at Cedar Grove and take out at Pulltite. On Sunday we will put in at Pulltite and take out at Upper Round Springs.
The Current River is a year-around stream with adequate flow almost anytime. It is a flatwater river that is fed by more springs than any other Missouri river, keeping its flow constant. The river drops at a rate of about 4.4 feet per mile. Its designation as part of the National Scenic Riverways program protects the Current River under federal law from over-commercialization, damming or otherwise obstructing the flow of the river or disrupting natural plant and biological life on and around the river. Surrounding the river are dense stands of maples, hickories, oaks, elms and many other species of hardwood trees, all of which provide a visual feast during the fall season when the colors begin to change. The Current River is known for its astounding natural beauty amid Ozark vistas that were made for photo postcards. With many springs to see, and some are quite amazing for the volume they pump into the river, and other topographical wonders to explore there is plenty to keep you busy and interested on any part of this beautiful river.
Be sure to bring along a camera (and drybag!) with plenty of film, compact flash cards or disc memory for the photos you will surely want to take.
Meeting Location: Cedar Grove access, 8:00 am.
Camping: Pulltite Campground.
Water classification: The Current River is a Class I (occasionally Class II) river.
Class I: Fast-moving water with riffles and small waves; few obstructions, all obvious and easily missed with little training; risk to swimmers is slight; self-rescue is easy.
Class II: Straightforward rapids with wide, clear channels which are evident without scouting; occasional maneuvering may be required, but rocks and medium-sized waves are easily missed by trained paddlers; swimmers are seldom injured and group assistance, while helpful, is seldom needed.
Possible hazards or difficult sections of water paddled (other hazards may also be encountered on the trip):
Strainers, root wads, rocks and other obstacles to navigate around.
Skill level required:
Beginner (paddler who has a proficient forward stroke, knows other basic strokes, and can maneuver their boat in Class 1 moving water.)
Type of boat required: As the Current River is somewhat rocky, you may want to bring a plastic (“rotomold”) boat.
How to dress: Dress for immersion. The Current River is spring fed, so it is cold year-round. No cotton. If wearing sandals, they should have back straps.
Participants must bring: (Take this off the Request form for STL Canoe & Kayak Club trip/event.)

A complete change of clothes in a dry bag.
water
lunch for 2 days on the river
U.S. Coast Guard approved PFD (life jacket)
“pealess” whistle
bug spray
sunscreen
camping gear and food

For a list of items to bring that might be helpful for new paddlers, here is a link: Kayaking Gear for Every Trip
Minors are welcome on this trip if a parent or guardian attends.
Please check out the Club Sanctioned Trips forum for additional information as it is posted, or to ask questions or post comments. Club Sanctioned Trip Info & Comments – St. Louis Canoe & Kayak Club
Risks involved: Paddlesports and related ACTIVITIES INVOLVE RISKS AND DANGERS OF DAMAGE TO PERSONAL PROPERTY AND SERIOUS BODILY INJURY, INCLUDING PERMANENT DISABILITY, PARALYSIS, AND DEATH. These Risks and dangers may be caused by my own actions or inactions, the actions or inactions of others participating, leading, or helping in the Activity, and the condition in which the Activity takes place, There may be OTHER RISKS AND SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC LOSSES either not known to me or not readily foreseeable at this time.
————————————————————-
Tip leader: Dave Haessig 314-304-7970
To attend this trip/event:
You must reserve a ticket for each person attending (see tickets below).
This provides the trip leader with important information they need for safety and communication, and information the club needs for ACA reporting.
If you get a ticket and then cannot go for any reason, let the Trip Leader know.

If you are an ACA member, please make sure you have an annual waiver signed on their website and have linked your account with St. Louis Canoe and Kayak Club. You must have re-signed this waiver since January 1, 2026 because they have updated their website. Here are instructions: Linking your ACA account to St. Louis Canoe and Kayak..docx

If you are not an ACA member (American Canoe Association), you will be asked to sign a paper waiver from ACA at the meet-up location. Here is the waiver to read before attending the trip: aca_waiver__release_of_liab

Ticket sales end Sept. 26 at 5:00 pm.

Eleven Point River Overnight (free-$11.50)
2026-10-17 08:00 - 2026-10-18 17:00 | Greer Crossing Recreation Area, Hwy. 19, Winona, MO, 65588
We will be paddling from Greer Crossing on Saturday to Riverton Access on Sunday with camping on the river Saturday night.
The Eleven Point River is not for everybody, but for those wanting a semi-wilderness trip down a gorgeous river offering easy whitewater and scenic beauty that is hard to match, this is the place to paddle in Missouri. It is fed by some of the loveliest wild springs in the state. Those of the upper river are relatively small, but Greer Spring, which is the second largest within the state, is surrounded by walking fern and other vegetation in its natural state. The main outlet boils from its basin and plunges down the hillside to the Eleven Point River 1.25 miles away. The average flow is more than 300 cubic feet per second, and the drop is 62 feet. However, a raft run down the spring several years ago resulted in a drowning. The spring is on private property and has been graciously left open to the public, but permission to float the spring will not be given. Greer Spring nearly doubles the size of the river and makes the Eleven Point below Hwy. 19 quite floatable even in dry years. An 11-mile section of the river below Greer Spring is managed by MDC for rainbow trout. An area known as The Irish Wilderness, through which the river runs, is well named and indicates the character of this cool, fast river. The Eleven Point is a National Scenic River.
You can see a description of this river in Terrain Magazine: Mysteries of the Eleven Point River in the Missouri Ozarks – Terrain Magazine
Meeting Location: Greer Crossing Recreation Area boat ramp at 8:00 am Saturday.
Camping options:
We will be camping on the river Saturday night with optional camping at Greer Crossing (first come basis) on Friday night.
Water classification: Class I with some Class II
Class I: Fast-moving water with riffles and small waves; few obstructions, all obvious and easily missed with little training; risk to swimmers is slight; self-rescue is easy.
Class II: Straightforward rapids with wide, clear channels which are evident without scouting; occasional maneuvering may be required, but rocks and medium-sized waves are easily missed by trained paddlers; swimmers are seldom injured and group assistance, while helpful, is seldom needed.
Possible hazards or difficult sections of water paddled (other hazards may also be encountered on the trip): tight turns, strainers, root wads, obstacles to navigate around.
Skill level required:
Confident Beginner (paddler who has a strong forward stroke, knows other basic strokes, has stamina and skill to finish a 10-12 mile river trip, and can maneuver their boat through and around obstacles in moving water.)
Type of boat required: Boats big enough to carry gear for camping
How to dress: Dress for immersion. A dry suit or wetsuit is needed or change of clothing in a drybag. No cotton. If wearing sandals, they should have back straps.
Participants must bring:

A complete change of clothes in a dry bag. (if not wearing a dry suit.)
water
lunches for on the river.
U.S. Coast Guard approved PFD (life jacket)
“pealess” whistle
camping gear packed in dry bags for camping on the river.

For a list of items to bring that might be helpful for new paddlers, here is a link: Kayaking Gear for Every Trip
Minors are welcome on this trip if a parent or guardian attends.

Please check out the Club Sanctioned Trips forum for additional information as it is posted, or to ask questions or post comments. Club Sanctioned Trip Info & Comments – St. Louis Canoe & Kayak Club
Risks involved: Paddlesports and related ACTIVITIES INVOLVE RISKS AND DANGERS OF DAMAGE TO PERSONAL PROPERTY AND SERIOUS BODILY INJURY, INCLUDING PERMANENT DISABILITY, PARALYSIS, AND DEATH. These Risks and dangers may be caused by my own actions or inactions, the actions or inactions of others participating, leading, or helping in the Activity, and the condition in which the Activity takes place, There may be OTHER RISKS AND SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC LOSSES either not known to me or not readily foreseeable at this time.
————————————————————-
Tip leader: Dave Haessig (314-304-7970)
To attend this trip/event:
You must reserve a ticket for each person attending (see tickets below).
This provides the trip leader with important information they need for safety and communication, and information the club needs for ACA reporting.
If you get a ticket and then cannot go for any reason, let the Trip Leader know.

If you are an ACA member, please make sure you have an annual waiver signed on their website and have linked your account with St. Louis Canoe and Kayak Club. You must have re-signed this waiver since January 1, 2026 because they have updated their website. Here are instructions: Linking your ACA account to St. Louis Canoe and Kayak..docx
If you are not an ACA member (American Canoe Association), you will be asked to sign a paper waiver from ACA at the meet-up location. Here is the waiver to read before attending the trip: aca_waiver__release_of_liab

Ticket sales end October 15 at 9:00 pm

Bourbeuse River Paddle and Picnic
2026-11-14 08:00 - 16:00 | Uhlemeyer Access, Union, MO
This is a 1-day paddle from Uhlemeyer access to Robertsville State Park boat ramp. We will have a potluck afterward at Robertsville State Park.
“Although the Gasconade has a reputation for being crooked, the meandering of the Bourbeuse is more extreme. It winds for nearly 100 miles with an airplane distance of only 27 miles. This is a relatively small, slow river which is not as clear as many of the streams farther south.” (A Paddler’s Guide to Missouri) It is one of 2 major Tributaries of the Meramec River, the other being Big River. “It provides some rather good bass fishing, has many picturesque features and is surprisingly little cut up by roads crossing it. It is seldom floatable in summer above Bartel Bend (Hwy. H) and becomes rather “civilized” beyond the first Union Bridge.” (Float Missouri) Anyone can paddle the Bourbeuse.
Meeting Location: Uhlemeyer Access (Exit I-44 at Route 0 and go south to the access, which is immediately to the west.)
Water classification:
Class I: Fast-moving water with riffles and small waves; few obstructions, all obvious and easily missed with little training; risk to swimmers is slight; self-rescue is easy.
Skill level required:
New Beginner (paddler with little to no skills.)
Type of boat required: any
How to dress: Dress for immersion. A dry suit or wetsuit is needed or change of clothing in a drybag. No cotton.
Participants must bring: (Take this off the Request form for STL Canoe & Kayak Club trip/event.)

A complete change of clothes in a dry bag. (if not wearing a dry suit.)
water
lunch
U.S. Coast Guard approved PFD (life jacket)
“pealess” whistle
food for potluck afterward if you want to participate

For a list of items to bring that might be helpful for new paddlers, here is a link: Kayaking Gear for Every Trip
Minors are welcome on this trip if a parent or guardian attends.

Please check out the Club Sanctioned Trips forum for additional information as it is posted, or to ask questions or post comments. Club Sanctioned Trip Info & Comments – St. Louis Canoe & Kayak Club
Risks involved: Paddlesports and related ACTIVITIES INVOLVE RISKS AND DANGERS OF DAMAGE TO PERSONAL PROPERTY AND SERIOUS BODILY INJURY, INCLUDING PERMANENT DISABILITY, PARALYSIS, AND DEATH. These Risks and dangers may be caused by my own actions or inactions, the actions or inactions of others participating, leading, or helping in the Activity, and the condition in which the Activity takes place, There may be OTHER RISKS AND SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC LOSSES either not known to me or not readily foreseeable at this time.
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Tip leader: (Include phone number)
To attend this trip/event:
You must reserve a ticket for each person attending (see tickets below).
This provides the trip leader with important information they need for safety and communication, and information the club needs for ACA reporting.
If you get a ticket and then cannot go for any reason, let the Trip Leader know.

If you are an ACA member, please make sure you have an annual waiver signed on their website and have linked your account with St. Louis Canoe and Kayak Club. You must have re-signed this waiver since January 1, 2026 because they have updated their website. Here are instructions: Linking your ACA account to St. Louis Canoe and Kayak..docx
If you are not an ACA member (American Canoe Association), you will be asked to sign a paper waiver from ACA at the meet-up location. Here is the waiver to read before attending the trip: aca_waiver__release_of_liab

Ticket sales end Nov. 12 at 9:00 pm
