Eleven Point

The River

The Eleven Point River meanders through the picturesque Ozark hills of southern Missouri. Its course is cut in the shadows of steep bluffs, through sloping forested valleys and low-lying riparian ecosystems.

Barely more than a small stream at its upper reaches near Thomasville, Missouri, it gains considerable width and depth as it proceeds southeastward. Springs pouring from dolomite bluffs or rushing up from a vast network of underground flow systems provide a continuous source of water and beauty.

Alternating stretches of rapids and deep clear pools wind around moss-covered boulders and shading bottomland hardwood trees. River birch is abundant along the shore, and aged sycamores lean out across the river from their shoreline moorings. In some places, the canopy of green closes overhead.

Planning a River Trip

• Thomasville to Greer Access, 16.6 miles. Good solitude. Usually can be floated March through June.
• Greer Access to Turner Mill, 4.9 miles. Good short trip. Passes through Mary Decker Shoal. Interpretation of Turner Mill.
• Greer Access to Whitten Access, 11.4 miles. Popular one day float on weekends.
• Greer Access to Riverton, 19.0 miles. Excellent 2 day float. Can be done in one long day. Experience going through Halls Bay Chute.
• Riverton to Highway 142 Access, 8.7 miles. Good solitude, except more boats on the weekends. Slow part of river. Stop at the Narrows and walk to two major springs.

Floating on the Eleven Point

To the experienced canoeist, the Eleven Point is a relatively easy river (Class I and Class II on the International Scale) requiring intermediate experience. Snags, trees and rootwads still remain the most dangerous of all obstacles and on occasion may require scouting from shore. Although canoes are the time-tested means of travel through fast water, flatbottom Jon boats are used on the river, primarily for fishing trips. You may encounter some boats with motors. Motor boats are restricted to a 25 hp limit.

Canoeists should learn to read the water ahead. Whitewater riffles mean that rocks lie very close to the water surface and you are about to enter a “chute” where water flows faster. The safest course to follow is the smooth water, shaped like a “V” pointing downstream. Watch out for rootwads! Water rushes under and through the exposed roots of fallen trees and creates a hazardous condition. Learn to avoid obstructions. Back paddle as an aid to changing positions or use “draw” or “pry” strokes to move laterally.

Fishing

Smallmouth bass, rock bass, walleye and trout are eagerly sought by anglers on the Eleven Point. All fishing is subject to state of Missouri regulations. Nonresidents may purchase a three-day or annual license. A trout permit is also required if you are in possession of trout. Gigging is popular, but not permitted within the Wild Trout management area. To prevent illegal fishing practices and possible citations, review and study the latest fish and game regulations published by the Missouri Department of Conservation.

Camping

Float camps are available at various locations on the river. They are accessible by boat and provide a table, latrine, tent pad, and fire ring. Dispersed camping is allowed on gravel bars and on river banks. A Forest Service campground is located at Greer Crossing on Highway 19. Private campgrounds can be found in Alton, Greer and Riverton. No camping is allowed on scenic easements, which are private property.

For more information visit National Wild & Scenic Rivers

The Ozarks Hellbender

Found only in the White River Watershed the hellbender is the largest salamander found in North America.  It can reach lengths up to 74 cm (2.5 ft) and obtain a mass of over 2 kg (~ 4.5 lbs).  This permanently aquatic salamander has an overall robust, yet flatten appearance.  The head is more round than elongated, with small lidless eyes, and a very large mouth that wraps around almost half of the snout.  The head and back of the hellbender are usually an orangish to brown to gray color with black mottling.  They have 4 stubby legs and a paddle-like tail. For more information visit : ozarkhellbender.com