1. What items should I bring to float the White River?

For a safe and enjoyable float, consider packing the following essentials: wear quick-drying clothing appropriate for the weather and avoid cotton as it holds moisture. Protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen, sunglasses, a towel for covering your legs and a hat, even on cloudy days. Bring along water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized, especially for longer trips. Use a waterproof bag or dry box to keep your valuables like phones and cameras dry. While we supply life vests, additional safety items like a whistle or towel to cover your legs could be beneficial. These items will help make your kayaking experience more comfortable and memorable. We provide a life jacket, paddle, paddle tether, dry box and a laminated landmark photo card with every kayak rental at no extra charge and no extra fees. 

2. How does the Kayak Rental Process Work?

Renting a kayak from us is easy and convenient. Start by selecting your full day kayak rental quantity online. Next, book your rental through our website or by phone, providing a valid ID and credit card for the security deposit. You simply drive to the starting put-in location on the White River and we supply the kayak, a life vest, a paddle, a paddle tether, and a dry box for your possessions that need to stay dry. Once you’re done, simply return the kayak and the other supplies to us at the end of your rental and we will be there at the take-out location to pick you up in our shuttle van. The Shuttle van will take you back to your vehicle where you launched from. It's that easy and we hope you enjoy every moment on the White River!

3. What's the benefit of using White River Floats?

We could go on forever, but the main points are: 

The White River always has water, the water level and current make it a super easy float. The White River is a Level 1 float and great for all ages and all skill levels. The drive is completely asphalt roads so no riding down long bumpy dirt roads in your vehicle, or our shuttle van. Our shuttle van is clean and our kayaks are different brands and styles so your group can choose which one they would like to paddle, or you can switch during your float. The scenery is amazing, wildlife is amazing and If you have to cancel a float at a different river or creek, as long as we have availability, you can float the White River with White River Floats. The shuttle ride back to your vehicle is only 12-15 minutes.   

4. What types of kayaks are available for rent?

We provide a wide range of kayaks to meet various preferences. Our selection includes single kayaks for solo adventures, fishing kayaks with rod holders and children size kayaks for the smaller paddler. Each type of kayak is tailored for specific persons and activities, ensuring that whether you're enjoying the calm current guided paddle or an adventurous fishing trip, we have a wide selection of kayaks for your needs. We do not have tandem kayaks and do not advise it on the White River floats. 

5. Can I bring my own kayak to float the White River?

Yes, select and purchase the $20.00 Shuttle Only option. You will only pay for the ride back to your vehicle after your float is over. We shuttle from the Rim Shoals Access (Google Maps Location) parking lot back to the Wildcat Shoals Boat Ramp (Google Maps Location) parking lot. We will strap your kayak to our trailer and we have room to carry your gear back to your vehicle as well. 

6. Can I bring a child to float the White River?

Yes, children are welcome to float but they are the responsibility of the adult. The White River is an easy float but since the river has a current, it can be challenging at times. We do have children size kayaks for rent. Children must be 5 years or older to float at White River Floats, LLC.. The children size kayaks are for 5-10 Year olds with a maximum weight of 130 lbs. All children 12 years of age or younger must wear a life jacket (It is the law). 

7. Are dogs allowed to come during my float?

We are dog lovers, but unfortunately we do not allow dogs to float. The simple reason is, some people that will be on the shuttle van with you may have allergies to dogs and we never know when those people will be riding in the shuttle with the dogs. It is also safer to leave them at home where they are safe and sound. We would never forgive ourselves if something happened to your fur baby during one of our floats.

8. How long does the float take?

The 10.5 Mile float from Wildcat Shoals Boat Ramp to Rim Shoals Access can take close to 5 hours with the water at minimum flow level but can be less time if the Bull Shoals Dam is releasing water or generating power. It also depends on if you stop to take breaks. There are easy landmarks that give you an idea of how close you are to completing your float. A laminated landmark map will be included in your dry box.

9. What if there is bad weather?

White River Floats will contact you right up to the morning of your float if bad weather is expected. Even though there is bad weather in the forecast, it is Arkansas and the weather can change hourly. We will do our best to watch the radar and local weather to ensure your float will be safe. If bad weather moves in quickly, it is best to pull over to the shore and take cover under your kayak until the weather passes. There are other pick up spots along the White River that we could pick you up if you can not complete the float. 

10. What wildlife will I possibly see?

Wildlife is all over the White River. You will possibly see Trout, Eagles, White Tail Deer, River Otters, Geese, Ducks, Turtles, Blue Herron Birds and Snakes are possible but rare as the water is usually around 55 degrees.

11. What if someone gets hurt, sick or turns over?

If someone is severely hurt or injured, we recommend to call 911. If someone gets sick, we can pick them up at a half way point. We will take the sick person back to their car. If you turn over in your kayak, the number one thing is to stay with your kayak. Keep your life jacket on. Try to collect your things that fall out of the kayak, then make your way to the shore to  get back in your kayak. The number one rule is to stay calm and don't get pinned between your kayak and any other obstacles in the water. 

12. What if I damage or lose White River Floats, LLC property?

Things happen and we understand that sometimes they are out of your control. There is a replacement fee for losing a kayak of $500. If the property is damaged, there will be a repair fee for whatever it costs to repair the items damaged. Your card on file will be charged if items are lost or damaged. This agreement is in the signed waiver. 

13. Can I reserve just one kayak or do I need to reserve in groups?

Yes, we will launch anyone who has a reservation no matter how many people are booked at the same time as you.  

14. What is the cancelation policy?

White River Floats, LLC has a 14-day cancellation policy on all kayak rentals.  Cancellations made more than 14 days prior to your reservation will be charged a 10% cancellation fee. Cancellations less than 14 days will be charged the full amount, or if you decide not to use the reserved kayak at all.