Paddle with a Ranger: Vermillion River Bottoms

Park Event · Mississippi National River and Recreation Areas · Sep 5, 2026 · 10:00 AM–12:30 PM

Important Information

Limited seating is available. If you are unable to attend, please cancel your registration so another participant may join. Registrants will be placed in their selected boat type, though assignments may be adjusted for safety.

Event Overview

Explore a unique area of your national park with a National Park Service ranger. This guided paddle travels through the quiet back channels of the Vermillion River’s floodplain forest, an excellent place to observe wildlife such as bald eagles, great blue herons, prothonotary warblers, and muskrats. Routes vary throughout the summer as water levels change.

Registration Includes

• One seat in the selected kayak or canoe, a paddle, and a personal flotation device (PFD).
• Canoe and tandem kayak spots must be booked with a partner.
• Canoes and tandem kayaks may not be reserved by a single participant.

Weather & Preparation

Programs proceed rain or shine unless heavy rain or lightning requires cancellation. Decisions are made at least two hours prior to start time. Please bring sun protection, insect repellent, rain gear, snacks, and water. Binoculars are encouraged. Avoid leaving valuables in your vehicle.

Additional Details

• Personal boats cannot be accommodated.
• Participants must be comfortable maneuvering a kayak or canoe in moving water.
• This program is not recommended for first-time paddlers.
• Beginners may prefer the Pickerel Lake Paddle Share station.

Age Requirements

Participants must be 18 or older. Youth under 18 may attend only if seated in a tandem kayak or canoe with an adult from the same household.

Source: National Park Service (public domain).