easy
2–6 hours depending on route
Moderate physical condition recommended for paddling and managing river currents
Trukees Canoe and Cabin Rentals in Pocahontas offers flexible self-guided river floats along the Black River. From short family-friendly paddles to full-day adventures, they provide vehicle pickups and watercraft rentals to suit every pace.
Pocahontas, Arkansas, sits along the winding Black River, a vital artery threading through the region’s lush hardwood forests and rugged bluffs. Here, Trukees Canoe and Cabin Rentals serves as a gateway for paddlers and floaters seeking a hands-on connection with one of the area's least urbanized waterways. The company specializes in self-guided canoe, kayak, and motorized boat adventures featuring several key river stretches: Blacksferry to Dunn, Dalton to Stubblefield, and the scenic 90 Bridge to Dunn route. For visitors wanting flexibility, Trukees offers vehicle pickup options, enabling seamless shuttle logistics without the hassle of round trips.
The natural environment surrounding these river runs is marked by sturdy oak and hickory forests, occasional limestone bluffs, and calm riffles broken by gentle currents. Wildlife such as kingfishers, herons, and river otters often surface, adding to the quiet river rhythm. On the water, travelers might spot driftwood clusters carried downstream or pause to rest on sandbars where the current mellows.
Beyond the classic float trips, Trukees also provides daily beach rentals and water features like The Babysitter Water Slide—popular for families and casual outings. The Cruiser and The Long Haul • 14-Miles offer options for those with a taste for longer journeys. Evening-specific trips such as Date Night and Family Night highlight the company’s community feel, encouraging visitors to enjoy the river’s glow and local camaraderie.
Trukees Canoe and Cabin Rentals stands out for its consistent focus on user-friendly DIY boating paired with dependable equipment and flexible scheduling. It’s an ideal base for those who want to shape their own pace on the Black River, whether covering a few miles between drop points or embarking on a full-day paddle. This approachable setup complements the unspoiled Arkansas river landscape and invites both beginners and seasoned paddlers to engage deeply with the outdoors.
Coordinate vehicle drop-off and pickup points in advance to maximize your floating time without backtracking.
Water conditions can affect float safety and difficulty; spring runoff or heavy rains may increase currents.
Open stretches of river have limited shade—hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are recommended.
Rocky or sandy river bottoms mean foot protection improves comfort and safety both on and off the water.
The Black River has long supported local communities, historically serving as a transport route and fishing resource.
Trukees promotes Leave No Trace principles to protect the river's ecosystem and supports local stewardship efforts.
Mandatory for safety on all watercraft.
Protect feet on rocky shorelines and in the water.
Keeps personal items dry during river floats.
Necessary to prevent sunburn on exposed river sections.
summer specific