The Ouachita River runs right past Riverglen, gentle, clear and made for paddling. Grab a boat and let the current carry you.
There is no better way to see this corner of the Ouachitas than from the seat of a canoe or kayak. The upper Ouachita is a calm, spring-fed river with easy riffles, deep swimming holes and gravel bars made for a picnic, all framed by the national forest. Whether you want a lazy two-hour float, a full day on the water or a guided tour of crystal-clear Lake Ouachita, these nearby outfitters can set you up with boats, paddles, life jackets and a shuttle ride back. Most launch points are only minutes from the estate.
Local canoe and kayak rentals, with a quick blurb, contact details and the drive from Riverglen.
A long-running Ouachita River outfitter on a pretty stretch near Sims, renting canoes and kayaks with shuttle service. A friendly, no-fuss way to get on the water for a few hours or a full day of floating.
A local Pencil Bluff outfitter renting canoes and kayaks with shuttle service on the Ouachita, just around the corner from Riverglen. About as close as a put-in gets, so call ahead to confirm trips and times.
A riverfront spot in Pencil Bluff renting canoes, kayaks and tubes with shuttle service on a calm, scenic stretch of the Ouachita. Rentals may be reserved for guests staying on site, so it is best to call ahead.
An Oden outfitter on the Ouachita with canoe and kayak rentals, life jackets and shuttle all included. Ask about the easy Oden to Pencil Bluff run, a roughly 4-mile, two-hour float that makes a perfect relaxed day trip back toward Riverglen.
Guided kayak tours on the clear water of Lake Ouachita, with half-day and full-day options for every skill level. Reservations are required and there is no walk-up storefront, so book ahead and they will tell you where to meet.
Canoe and kayak rentals on the spring-fed Caddo River near Glenwood, a livelier float than the Ouachita when the water is running. A fun option for a day trip to the southeast if you want a change of scenery.
Distances are approximate driving miles from the Riverglen Estate. Trips, rentals and hours change with the season and river levels, so please call ahead.
Float the Ouachita, then come home to the fire pit and the quiet of the forest. Reserve your stay securely on Airbnb.