Let's face it: sometimes, the Natural State can get downright hot. Perhaps even worse, it gets super humid, too, which definitely doesn't help things to feel any better. To us, though, that's all the more reasons to start planning some water activities! Here at Only In Your State, we fully support chasing waterfalls in addition to floating along the state's lakes and streams. Take a tube or canoe down one of these float trips in Arkansas to ease you into warmer days.

1. Spring River

You will certainly not be breaking a sweat during your Spring River trip. The calm waters and constantly crisp 58° water temperature make this a perfect float for those hot, muggy days. One of our favorite put-ins along the Spring River is at the Many Islands Camp & Canoe Rental. They offer a rather unique vessel: the Paddiyak. It's that green tube on the right in the picture above.

Address: 2988 Many Islands Road, Mammoth Spring, Arkansas, 72554

2. Caddo River

The Caddo is a stand-out for family-friendly float trips. The 40-mile long stream has plenty of put-ins for a variety of trips, but we love the Caddo Gap-to-Glenwood portion. It's about 6 miles long, and it balances anot-too-fast pace with a not-too-slow pace. A good campground at this access point is at Arrowhead Cabin & Canoe Rental as well.

Address: 69 Arrowhead Drive, Caddo Gap, Arkansas, 71935

3. Saline River

The quiet waters of the Saline are perfect for a relaxing tube float or even some water-based yoga! Another top pick river for family adventures, the Saline features peaceful forests and serene farmland. If you're not wanting to spend the full day on the water, take Peeler Bend to Lyle Park for a shorter (under four hours) float. For rentals and SUP yoga, head to Saline River Canoe!

Address: 1 River Crest Circle, Benton, Arkansas, 72019.

4. Big Piney Creek

Big Piney features an unforgettable cruise through the forest. This stream has a variety of water adventures from swift rapids near Limestone to a much more relaxing pace through Long Pool. The Long Pool to Twin Banks is our favorite for family floats. It's about five miles long with just enough Class I rapids to keep it exciting. Moore Outdoors can outfit and shuttle your family to the Twin Banks Campground nearby as well!

Address: 53 Old Highway 7, Dover, Arkansas, 72837

5. Little Maumelle River

If you'd prefer more scenery than the typical open-river float, try a pleasant paddle on the Little Maumelle. The giant cypress trees in the bayou make for a one-of-a-kind river adventure. It's also one of the few streams to have a floating platform for true, on-the-water camping. Pinnacle Mountain State Park routinely offers guided tours along the Little Maumelle, too.

Address: 11901 Pinnacle Valley Road, Roland, Arkansas, 72135

6. Ouachita River

The Ouachita River has options for thrilling canoe excursiouns as well as laid-back lazy floats. One section that highlights the latter of the options is from Remmel to Rock Port. The route does have a few Class I rapids, but nothing that would displace your cooler's tube. The end of this route is at the Ouachita River Whitewater Park. The park has plenty of spaces for picnics and games, as well as waters perfect for paddling practice.

Address: 904 Riverview Drive, Malvern, Arkansas, 72104

7. Buffalo National River

A whole article (or two) could easily be dedicated to the multitude of adventure along the Buffalo. The entire river offers numerous spots for whitewater paddles and lazy floats. One of the most beloved sections is from Ponca to Kyle's Landing, which takes about 5-6 hours to complete. The Buffalo Outdoor Center can help outfit your floating needs, they have day- and overnight-trip itineraries as well.

Address: 4699 AR-43, Ponca, Arkansas, 72670

Which stream is your favorite for a relaxing float? Share your favorite spots with us in the comments! We would also love to see your float photos in our Facebook Group, Arkansas Nature Lovers. You should join for your chance to be featured and to discover why there’s nothing better than Arkansas’ stunning landscapes.

One more river adventure to add to your Arkansas itinerary is this camp and float!