What do I need for a safe and legal Buffalo River float trip?
1.) A choice of a river section to float. This depends on water levels and your experience. Except in a rain event, the later in the summer, the farther down the river you must go to have enough water. Concessionaires are helpful with this.
https://www.nps.gov/buff/planyourvisit/floating.htm
https://www.nps.gov/buff/planyourvisit/river-accesses-mileage.htm
2.) A weather prediction of the river section AS WELL AS upriver.
3.) A canoe/kayak/raft and a shuttle. Concessionaires for the park can be found here:
https://www.nps.gov/buff/canoe-rentals.htm
4.) Personal flotation for you and each passenger. (An inner tube is considered a craft and not a pfd.).
5.) Water/non-alcoholic fluids (not in glass) for the trip and beyond for an emergency. Floatable coozies are required by law for open containers while floating.
6.) Snacks/food for the trip with extra to share or for an extended emergency stay.
7.) A mesh bag for trash. Secure it to a water craft.
8.) Sunscreen/hat/sunglasses. Water shoes that strap to your feet.
9.) All equipment including coolers should be secured to a water craft and secured shut. This keeps trash off the river.