Wild & Scenic · ~100 yards away

The Mulberry River

Clear water over gravel and rock, winding through hardwood forest and sandstone bluffs — one of only two federally designated Wild & Scenic Rivers in Arkansas, right outside the door.

  • 40+miles of river
  • I–IIIwhitewater class
  • ~100 ydfrom Cass House
  • ~2 mito Redding access

The River

A river for every kind of paddler.

The Mulberry runs roughly forty-plus miles with a moderate gradient, flowing through the Ozark National Forest. Long, calm stretches make it welcoming for beginners and families, while pockets of rapids reward more experienced paddlers when the water is up.

Because it's a free-flowing river, conditions change with the season and recent rain — part of what makes every trip a little different.

The Mulberry River near Cass House Add images/river.jpg

Water levels & difficulty

Ratings run from Class I to III depending on conditions.

  • Low water Late summer & fallClass I · family-friendly
  • Moderate Typical conditionsClass I–II · recreational
  • High water Spring & post-rainClass II–III · experienced

Float trip options

Pick a stretch to match your group and the day.

  • Half day
    6–8 miles
    3–4 hours
  • Full day most popular
    12–18 miles
    5–8 hours
  • Multi-day
    40+ miles, gravel-bar camping
    2+ days

Getting On the Water

Access points & outfitters

Rentals, shuttles, and put-ins are all just a few minutes from the house — no need to haul your own boats.

Access points

Redding Recreation Area — a developed USFS site about 2 miles away, with parking.

Turner Bend — outfitter and put-in about 3 miles away.

Outfitters

Turner Bend Outfitters (since 1911) — canoe, kayak & raft rentals with shuttle service, fuel, trail maps, and deli sandwiches.

Byrd's Adventure Center (since 1982) — rentals, camping, lodging, and riverfront dining.

When to Go

Best seasons on the Mulberry

March – May · Best whitewater

Higher spring flows bring the river to life with Class II–III water — the prime window for experienced paddlers chasing rapids.

June – September · Warm & easy

Lower, warmer water makes for relaxed family floats, swimming holes, and gravel-bar afternoons in the sun.

Tip: check current river levels and the forecast before you launch — a free-flowing river changes quickly after rain. Turner Bend and Byrd's can advise on day-of conditions.

Stay 100 yards from the put-in.

Cass House is your basecamp for the Mulberry — paddle all day, walk home, and dry off by the fire pit.