10 Things You Should Know Before Visiting Noel, Missouri for a River Weekend

Planning your first Elk River float trip? Here are five things that will make your Noel weekend even better.

1. Arrive and Book Early During Peak Season

Summer weekends fill fast — especially around holidays. Plan ahead and book early. If you’re looking for summer events in Noel MO or the best Elk River after-party, planning ahead makes all the difference.

For a weekend itinerary plan, visit this post for a recommendation.

2. Know Your Float Route

• Ask your outfitter how long your float is and how many hours your should expect to be on the river.

• If you are floating with your own kayak, map out your put in spots and scout your take out spot. You will need two cars to shuttle from your take out spot. A popular public access put in is Mt. Shira, with a take out point at Noel City Park public river access.

3. Glass on the River is Illegal.

Do not bring glass onto your float. If you are caught with glass you will get a ticket. It is illegal. If glass shatters in the river rocks it is hard to see and dangerous to people and river life.

4. Do not forget river shoes

The Elk River has a rock and gravel beaches. The rocks are sharp and you do not want to go barefoot all day.

5. Bring a river snack

A river day can be long, and you want to be sure you will make it to the after party. Bring something to eat on the river to keep your energy up.

6. Don't be afraid to wear something outrageous

The Elk River is all about having fun. Wear something silly or look out for locally planned theme floats. Just make sure whatever you wear is easy to swim in.

7. Saturdays Start Early at Shadow Lake

Shadow Lake opens at 2 PM on Saturdays during summer — meaning the party can start long before sunset. Skip the hassle of floating and have all of the fun of a day on the river by grabbing a table at the bar to watch the floaters go by.

8. You Can Tie a Boat on to the Deck at Shadow Lake

Shadow Lake has boat tie-offs on their riverside walkway. There are stairs that go up to the bar from the water for easy access.

9. Shadow Lake has a shuttle for float after-party

Shadow Lake has a sober ride shuttle that will bring you to and home from the bar depending on where you are staying locally. Call 417-475-3790 to book your ride. Shadow Lake is the spot for nightlife on the Elk River. Do not miss the party. For a list of eligible campgrounds visit Shadow Lake's info page here.

For a list of current Shadow Lake events visit their event page.

10. Shadow Lake has a shuttle for float after-party

Shadow Lake has a sober ride shuttle that will bring you to and home from the bar depending on where you are staying locally. Call 417-475-3