Canoe Trips

Cadron Creek has many enjoyable miles of water for the novice and intermediate
paddler. As Cadron Creeks drains the Ozark plateau, cuts through Batesville
Mountain and winds its way down to the Arkansas river the character of the river
is constantly changing. From easy ripples and long pools to roaring cascades of
high standing waves--whatever sort of adventure you choose Cadron Creek can
deliver.

Cadron Creek is considered an intermediate run with Class I-II+ whitewater that
will keep you on your toes at every turn. There are many exciting shoals and willow
jungles and blind curves add to the suspense. Cadron Creek is enclosed by dense
stands of hardwood forests and towering bluffs. This is very beautiful and remote
country and you will encounter only a few signs of civilization. But you will find
adventure..... Come enjoy!

Hartwick Mill Run - 6 miles, 3-4 Hours

Above Batesville Mountain Campground the Cadron is a quiet Ozark stream meandering through rolling
countryside. There are frequent ripples and shoals but the rapids are gentle. Off the beaten track and
floatable only during a few months of the year this is where you can find true wilderness solitude. This is a
very scenic run for those learning to canoe or families with small children. There are very few obstacles and
many nice places to swim. Attractions include remants of the old Hartwick Mill which operated on the creek
from 1868 until destroyed in the great flood of 1927--the "Big One".

Batesville Mountain Run - 12 miles, 5-6 Hours

This is a beautiful float, particularly during the last few miles where the canyon deepens and the tempo picks
up with Class II rapids. The wilderness is nearly untouched and high bluffs, cascading waterfalls and spring
flowers abound. This is a great run for families and beginners. Pack a lunch and stop at Batesville Mountain
Campground--picnic tables can be found right on the beach front (steps will take you to campground and
other facilities). Look for Wolf Pen waterfall and Indian Rockhouse (at the entrance of Pinnacle Springs
Campground). Highly recommended!

Pinnacle Springs Run - 4 miles, 2-3 Hours

This is a short, frolicking run that is very popular on the weekends. Here the gradiant averages 13 feet per
mile and the paddler will find rocky shoals (up to Class II+), quiet pools and rugged bluffs. A favorite with
whitewater enthusiasts "surfing" is possible at higher water levels. The put-in is near Pinnacle Springs, a
flourishing resort community in the 1880's. A dozen bath houses were found in this town, along with two
hotels, a college, a saloon, a skating rink, and even a cotton gin. There are inspiring views at Pinnacle Point
Gap and Owl's Home Bluff and Bear's Cave are popular attractions. This section has a number of shoals--
Right Back At Ya, Daddy's Knee, etc--that require good boat control. One rapid in particular--Cathedral
Shoals--is Class III at optimum levels ( > 4.5 feet). The rapid is steep and requires maneuvering to avoid large
rocks lying in the middle of the channel. This is an excellent winter run with many large ice formations on the
bluffs in the colder days of the year.

With nearly 60 miles of floatable stream Cadron Creek Outfitters can arrange
a perfect adventure for you. We also provide service to Cove Creek, Archey
Fork, East Fork of Cadron Creek, and the South Fork of the Little Red River as
may be requested and available. And late summer relief from the sun and
good fishing can be found on our "Bogoloosha" trips.

Cove Creek Run - 14 miles, 6-8 Hours

When the water level is just right (4-5 feet) there is no better adventure for the intermediate paddler. This run
begins with the Pinnacle Springs Run and just keeps getting better and better. Although the gradient eases
up, there is enough whitewater to satisfy paddlers including the notorius "Rock of Gibralter". (Hint: Draw hard
to right to avoid this house-sized obstacle or backferry into the eddy on the left above the boulder and drop
through the narrow chute on the left.) This is the most challenging float trip on the North Cadron and in high
water, standing waves to four feet are capable of swamping open canoes. Other attractions include Alum
Bluff Cave, Illusion Bluff and some of the deepest swimming holes on the creek. This is a long run and it
requires an early start and good physical stamina.

The Heart of Cadron Creek - 26 miles, 2 Days

Combining Batesville Mountain and Cove Creek Runs this is a good two day trip for those who prefer not to
carry their gear with them. The first day skirts Batresville Mountain and its high bluffs and brings you into
Pinnacle Springs Campground for the evening. Upon awaking the next morning you return to your water and
continue with your adventure. This is our most popular two day trip and it truly covers the heart of Cadron
Creek. A great introduction to an extended adventure.

Top To Bottom - 30+ miles, 3 Days

As most of the property adjacent to Cadron Creek is held by private landowners it is hard to put together a
multi-day adventure but we have done it. Day one finds you near the headwaters of Cadron Creek once home
to a tribe of Osage Indians. From there you'll paddle intimate waters and watch the bluffs tower higher and
higher as you skirt Batesville Mountain. You'll enjoy the solitude and intimate beauty your first night camping
(or staying at a cabin) at Batesville Mountain Campground. On day two you will follow Cadron Creek's ever-
increasingly turbulent waters as it cuts through Batesille Mountain. Expect whitewater excitment. You can
camp and dry-out that night at either Pinnacle Springs Campground or at our new Riverside Camp. On the
third day you'll enjoy more whitewater, a long expanse of wilderness and the splendid beauty and loneliness
of Cove Creek Run. This trip is all about good!