Missouri River

The Missouri River near St. Joseph offers an unforgettable paddling experience for those looking to explore one of North America's most iconic waterways—just be prepared for a bigger, faster river than your average float trip. Within a 45-minute drive of the city, paddlers can access the river at several key locations, including French Bottoms in downtown St. Joseph, which provides a concrete boat ramp and parking just off Missouri River Road. North of town, the Nodaway Island Conservation Area also features a ramp and is a great launch point for longer floats that follow the river’s natural bends and bluff-lined shores. A little further north is the Payne Landing Access which features a boat ramp. For southbound access, Lewis & Clark State Park and areas near Atchison provide additional entry points for day trips or overnight adventures. These stretches of the river are rich with sandbars, wooded banks, and wide-open water, making them ideal for canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding for experienced paddlers.

That said, floating the Missouri River comes with real risks not found on smaller streams like the Platte. The current is strong, large debris (like submerged trees) is common, and barge traffic is a factor south of St. Joseph. Paddlers should wear a properly fitted life jacket at all times, avoid launching during high water conditions, and plan their route carefully—especially if floating solo. Always let someone know your intended put-in and take-out locations. For fishing, the Missouri is a haven for catfish, especially flathead and blue cat, as well as drum and the occasional paddlefish. Bank fishing can be productive from public access points like French Bottoms and Nodaway Island, while boat anglers can explore deeper channels and eddies. For those with the right skill level and respect for the river’s power, this section of the Missouri offers unmatched solitude, scale, and beauty.

THE MISSOURI RIVER IS NOT A PLACE TO LEARN TO PADDLE AND ONLY EXPERIENCED PADDLERS SHOULD PURSUE THIS RIVER. For more information on paddling safety for the Missouri River, consult this safety tips guide provided by the Missouri River Watertrail website.