There is a general rule of thumb for floating the Mulberry. The deeper we get into summer, the further downriver we have to start our float. Occasionally we will get enough rain to change that rule. But for the most part it pretty much stands true. By mid-June, floating Byrd’s to Turner Bend on the Mulberry River is a popular choice for many paddlers.
When the water level is above 3 feet, floating Byrd’s to Turner Bend on the Mulberry River is a really great float. At 2-3 feet, you’ll drag in a few spots and have to paddle more, but still have a run float. At 2 feet, you’ll probably have to start at Redding Campground. So for me, 3-4 feet is the sweet spot for this part of the river. I have been able to do this float a few times when most other rivers were dried up. (But one could say this about most rivers.)
Directions
This is one of the easiest rivers in Arkansas to access. The access points for this float are about 45 minutes north of the Ozark exit from I-40. From Hwy 23, aka “The Pigtrail”, go east along Cass Oark Rd (Hwy 215). After passing Redding Campground, you will see signs for Byrd’s Adventure Center. These points are mapped out for you below:
What to Expect
Emerald Water and Class I-III Rapids
Floating Byrd’s to Turner Bend on the Mulberry River is an 8 mile float. From Byrd’s, it is 4 miles to Redding access area, making it a perfect halfway point if you want to do a shorter float. As I mentioned, if the water level is at 2 feet or less, you just about have to skip Byrd’s and start at Redding. From there it is a pretty quick 4 mile float to Turner Bend, so stop often if you want to make the most of it.
With ideal float conditions, you can expect mostly class I-II rapids. American Whitewater says class I-III. The only part I would consider class III is what they call “The SAC”. That is a set of rapids close to the end that runs steep and fast into a gigantic boulder. Anytime a set of rapids has a name, it’s usually cause for concern. But don’t let this one scare you. It may seem a bit intimidating to some, but you’ll be fine. There will be a sign on the right-hand bank warning you it’s coming up. When you get there, stay on the inside of the curve (right-hand side). When the water takes you to the boulder, paddle hard a couple of times on the left, and then paddle hard on the right. No problem! See video below. Aside from that, the rest of the rapids are pretty easy class I-II, but fun.
Scenic Beauty
This is a very beautiful scenic area. Although it may not have the towering bluffs of the Buffalo, it does have some nice bluffs on the river. Along the way you’ll see lots of cool rock formations, giant boulders. There’s a set of rapids that shoots under a concrete bridge, which is fun. And about halfway between Byrd’s and Redding is an area where cold spring water trickles from the hillside into the river. It’s a nice place to stop and take a break. For that, just keep an eye out on the left side for the large flat rocks and water trickling from the hill.
This is not a big party river like the Spring or parts of the Buffalo. But you are likely to encounter lots of fun, friendly people (and their dogs – yep, it’s pet friendly) on the Mulberry. There may be a few over-served patrons, but overall it’s a pretty family-friendly river. And the people working at Byrd’s and Turner Bend outfitters are very friendly and knowledgeable. The people on and around this river are another thing that makes the Mulberry one of my favorites. At the end of the float you will see the big bridge at Turner Bend. Stay on the left side. Use the takeout before the bridge if you’re parked on that side of the highway. If you park in the campground, you can use the takeout after the bridge.
Plan Your Trip
One of the great things about the Mulberry is how easily accessible it is. All the access points are off Cass Oark Rd, which hugs the river running east and west. The access points are easy to get in and out with no long gravel roads to travel. They may get a little crowded sometimes. So if you’re self-shuttling and leaving a car, better get there fairly early. That’s another thing – this river is super easy to self-shuttle. You can drive from Byrd’s to Turner Bend in 15 minutes. For a small parking fee, you can leave a car at either of the outfitters if you end your float there. But if you cannot self-shuttle, the good folks at the outfitters can get you where you want to go.
For this float, or anything above Byrd’s, it’s best to check the water levels on American Whitewater. The river sections in green on their site, are good to go. If you’re still not sure, call Byrd’s to get real-time info on the river conditions. If you are renting a kayak or canoe, it’s best to call the outfitter ahead of time anyway to reserve. Speaking of calling, it’s hard to get a cell signal anywhere on Cass Oark Rd. So if you’re meeting or coordinating with others, you’ll need to get close to the Turner Bend store for a signal.
Accomodations
There are several options for spending the night. Byrd’s, Turner Bend, and Redding Campground all offer tent camping sites with various options. Turner Bend has a few cabins for rent. And Byrd’s offers RV/Camper sites – some with full water and electric hookups. Food options are plenty too. Turner Bend Store has a great deli. Byrd’s has a full-service riverside restaurant. And just down the road in Oark, the Oark Cafe has some of the best burgers and homemade pies in the state. If you are a first time floater, check our gear list for all you’ll need. Remember, no glass of any kind on the river, and be sure to keep your trash in a bag. This is a really special area. So be sure to leave no trace, and keep this river beautiful. Enjoy the float!
