Kayaking the Big Maumelle River: A Scenic Adventure Near Little Rock

Pinnacle Mountain State Park offers some of the most accessible and scenic paddling opportunities in Central Arkansas, and kayaking the Big Maumelle River from the park’s boat launch to the Highway 300 bridge and back is a route that showcases the region’s natural diversity without straying far from the city.

A Diverse Ecosystem in Central Arkansas

This stretch of the Big Maumelle River winds through a biologically rich corridor of wetlands, bottomland hardwood forest and cypress-lined backwaters. The route, approximately 6 miles round trip, is ideal for a half-day paddle with plenty of opportunities to pause, explore side channels and take in the beauty of a Central Arkansas landscape shaped by both water and time.

The river offers a quiet, meandering path that invites paddlers of all skill levels. With minimal current and broad stretches of calm water, it’s a trip that appeals to both first-time kayakers and experienced river-goers alike.

Wildlife Encounters Around Every Bend

One of the joys of paddling this stretch of the Big Maumelle is the abundance of wildlife. Great blue herons, ospreys and belted kingfishers are frequently spotted soaring overhead or perched along fallen logs. Watch the banks closely and you may catch a glimpse of white-tailed deer, raccoons or even a beaver slipping silently into the water.

Fishing on the Big Maumelle River offers anglers a peaceful setting and a chance to reel in a variety of freshwater species. The slow-moving, cypress-lined waters are home to largemouth bass, spotted bass, crappie, bluegill, longear sunfish, and channel catfish. The river’s structure—fallen logs, submerged stumps, and overhanging vegetation—provides ideal cover for fish, especially in the warmer months. Early morning and late evening are prime times for casting from a kayak or the bank, and anglers often find success using soft plastics, spinnerbaits, or live bait. No matter what your after, the Big Maumelle offers a laid-back and rewarding experience..

In spring and summer, turtles crowd sun-drenched logs, and the calls of frogs echo through the cypress knees. Birders will appreciate the diversity of songbirds and waterfowl, especially during migration seasons.

Easy Access and Close to the City

The boat launch at Pinnacle Mountain State Park is well-maintained and includes ample parking, clean bathrooms, a playground, and a large rentable pavilion, making it one of the easiest spots to begin a paddling trip near Little Rock. From there, paddlers can follow the river westward, keeping an eye out for the Highway 300 bridge, the perfect turnaround point before heading back downstream.

Unlike longer, more remote routes, this trip is ideal for an after-work paddle or a weekend outing that doesn’t require an entire day or a shuttle setup.

Proximity to Little Rock

Located just a short drive from downtown Little Rock, the Big Maumelle River offers a convenient nature escape for city residents and visitors alike. The combination of easy access, peaceful scenery and rich biodiversity makes this paddle route one of the best-kept secrets in Central Arkansas.

Whether you’re looking for solitude on the water, an opportunity to spot wildlife or just a relaxing float close to home, kayaking the Big Maumelle River delivers an experience that connects you to the natural rhythm of Arkansas. A water gage is available here. You can also float the Little Maumelle River, more information on that trip is in our article from 2021.

---

This article was originally published on ArkansasOutside.com, your trusted source for outdoor news and updates in The Natural State. Unless otherwise credited, all photos included in this piece are the property of Arkansas Outside, LLC. We take pride in sharing the beauty and adventures of Arkansas through our lens—thank you for supporting our work!