Boating Tips

    The Mulberry River is not for inexperienced boaters unless the river level is fairly low, or unless the inexperienced are accompanied by experienced boaters.
    Know the current river level and what to expect at that level. Do not get on the river if it exceeds the safe level for your ability.
    Be frank about your paddling ability. Don't overestimate it. This goes for all members of your group.
    Do not canoe/kayak alone. Be responsible for the members of your group.
    Each group should have a leader who is knowledgeable about the river. Each group should have an assigned lead and sweep canoe. These boats should be manned by the most experienced and responsible members of the group.
   Always wear your life jacket.
   Wear appropriate clothing and be prepared to get wet. The rainy season is the canoeing season so be prepared for inclement weather. During the late fall and early spring, wool, polypropolyene and/or wetsuits are recommended. Blue jeans are very cold when wet.
    Hypothermia is perhaps the biggest potential danger facing canoeists. Don't hesitate to get off the river if you begin to shiver uncontrollably. Loss of motor skills acompanies this and you could capsize and get even colder. Warm liquids, dry clothes, a fire, and the warmth of another person's body will help recovery.
    Stay sober. Your paddling ability can be seriously impaired by alcohol or drugs. Intoxicated persons are much more likely to suffer from hypothermia. Save the bottled fun for after the run.
    You should be a good swimmer before you try canoeing. If you capsize in a rapid, get upstream of the canoe and float on your back with your feet up and in front of you until you reach calm water. Do not attempt to stand in swift water.
    Kneel down in your canoe for better stability.
    Floods can cause trees to fall across the main channel. Portage around a fallen tree if you see one.
    Approach rapids and blind curves cautiously. Some rapids may need to be scouted. Enter a rapid only after the previous boat has cleared safely.
    Only 2 persons per canoe unless you are experienced and the river is at a mild level.
    Do not take excessive gear in canoes. Everything you take with you stands to get lost or wet.
    Do not take car keys on the river.
    Arrange your shuttle before departing. Know the landmarks of your takeout and don't overshoot it.
    Get off the river immediately if heavy rain is causing the river to rise quickly. Pull your boat to high ground and walk out to river right since that is where the access road is.
    Keep the Mulberry clean. Place all litter in the mesh trash bag we provide for each canoe. Tie the bag and all items in the canoe. Loose items in the bottom of your canoe, such as cans or clothing, will become litter when you turn over. Styrofoam ice chests are not recommended because they usually get crushed to pieces.
    Arkansas state law prohibits glass on the river. In addition, state law requires that your ice chest must have a secured lid to prevent spills. Also, your beverage must be in a floatable holder to prevent cans/bottles from littering the river. THIS LAW IS ENFORCED, SO BE PREPARED!

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