Float Trip Planning 101: What to Pack for a Day on the Elk River

The river is flowing, the weather is warming up, and the floats are hitting the water! Whether it’s your first time floating the Elk River or you’re the go-to trip planner for your crew, knowing what to pack can make or break your day.

We’re feeling it. The sun’s coming out, the gear is coming down from storage, and campers and float crews are already calling about reservations. That can only mean one thing—Shady Beach Campground in Noel, Missouri, is getting ready to open for the 2025 season!

Nothing says summer quite like a float trip with friends, and there’s no better place to do it than on the Elk River in Noel, Missouri. With its gentle current, scenic surroundings, and lively atmosphere, the Elk River is the perfect destination for a day (or weekend) of floating, fun, and relaxation.