With 4 access points and a floating camping platform available for reservations, the Little Maumelle River provides a great float for a levels minutes from downtown Little Rock.

Towering cypress trees, sprawling American lotus and solitude near the city draw paddlers and anglers to the Little Maumelle River. The Little Maumelle River is free of rapids, although high water can create dangerous conditions around trees. At normal water level, paddling upstream is an option. Contact Pinnacle Mountain State Park for guided float trips, and canoe and kayak rentals.

Alert

The Little Maumelle River-Arkansas River confluence just west of the Interstate 430 bridge can be dangerous during high flow.

Wildlife

Watch for wading birds, ospreys, bald eagles, red-shouldered hawks, barred owls, migrating waterfowl and warblers. Beavers, white-tailed deer, raccoons and opossums are common along the water. Harmless broadbanded water snakes, an occasional alligator and several species of turtles live along the river.

Little Maumelle River Fishing

Anglers go for largemouth and spotted bass, crappie and bream. Minnows, jigs, spinners and light line are recommended. Fish for catfish on the bottom with worms, minnows and stink baits. Check Arkansas Game and Fish Commission fishing regulations.

Don’t Get a Ticket

According to Arkansas law, children 12 and under must wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket and anyone on a boat must have one ready to use. Vessels 16 feet and longer must have a throwable life preserver (type IV) aboard. Glass containers are illegal in boats such as canoes and kayaks that can be swamped easily. Paddlers must securely fasten cooler lids, and use attached closeable trash containers and floating holders for beverages.

Floating Camping Platform

Hidden among the cypress trees, not far from the banks of the Nature Conservancy in Arkansas’ William Kirsch Preserve at Ranch North Woods, floats a new camping platform. This is a spot for paddlers to stop for the night and experience solitude, stars and the sounds of nature. The platform is available by reservation only. To request a reservation, click here.