Platte Falls Conservation Area, just east of Platte City, is a paddler’s dream tucked into 2,300+ acres of Missouri wild. The star attraction here is the “Duck’s Head” loop—a clever little bend in the Platte River that forms a 2.5 mile horseshoe, letting you put in and take out at two concrete ramps that sit just a few hundred meters apart. It’s the kind of float that feels like magic: no shuttle, no stress, just an hour or so of scenic paddling through quiet river curves surrounded by birdsong and bluff views. Whether you're solo or rolling deep with friends, it’s the perfect quick-hit river escape. One thing to note - the concrete ramps occasionally get caked with mud as the river rises and falls so be prepared to encounter that possibility. A little extra water to rinse off afterwards goes a long way. Thankfully, the Missouri Department of Conservation folks do a good job of blading off the excess mud from time to time, so you shouldn’t encounter those conditions super often.

If you're after a longer float, head upstream to the Sharps Station Access. It’s got everything you need—concrete ramp, wide-open parking, and a straight shot into the kind of float that could fill your whole afternoon. Beyond the river, Platte Falls also features an archery range and some low-key trails if you feel like mixing it up. Whether you’re in it for an hour or all day, this spot offers some of the easiest, most rewarding paddling you’ll find in the region.

For more information about the area include maps, rules, and regulations, visit the official Missouri Department of Conservation page for the Platte Falls Conservation Area.