From STL
~1.5 hrs
From KC
~3 hrs
Water Clarity
9/10
Difficulty
Class II · Active paddling required · Not suitable for large rafts
Season
Apr – Jun
Planning a Courtois Creek float trip? Courtois (pronounced CO-tuh-way) is the Huzzah's quiet twin — narrow, technical, and one of the most beautiful floats in the Ozarks, with towering bluffs and crystal-clear water. The terrain naturally filters out big rowdy rafts. This guide covers where to put in and take out, the outfitters on the creek, live conditions, the best float segments with a river map, and what to know before you go.
Right Now
Live conditions on the Courtois
USGS gauge data, refreshed when this page loads. River conditions change fast — always confirm with your outfitter the morning of your trip.
— CFS
Fetching latest reading from USGS…
Recommended Outfitter
Where to book
Huzzah Valley Resort
Serves both the Huzzah and Courtois corridors. Canoe and kayak rentals with shuttle. Call ahead for Courtois access.
All Outfitters
Courtois Float Map & Outfitters
Tap any marker for phone, website, and directions. Pricing and hours change seasonally — confirm directly with the outfitter before booking.
4 outfitters on this river.
Float Tips
What to know before you go
Party Float tip: The Courtois is not a party river by nature — its narrow channel and technical bends filter out large rafts and casual groups. If your group wants energy and social atmosphere, the Huzzah is right next door and a better fit.
Chill Float tip: Widely considered one of the most beautiful floats in the Ozarks. Towering bluffs, deep woods, crystal-clear water, and almost no rowdy crowd. The technical paddling required is a feature, not a bug — it keeps the big rafts away. Perfect for couples, solo paddlers, serious anglers, and dogs.
Dog tip: The Courtois is one of the best dog float rivers in Missouri — quiet, clear, and with good gravel bar access. The technical nature of the river keeps crowds light, meaning more space for dogs. Call your outfitter to confirm dog policy.
Segments
Where to put in, where to take out
Recommended stretches with mileage and notes. Best segment to start with is highlighted in the segment notes below.
Berryman to Courtois Access~8–10 mi
The classic Courtois float. Narrow channel, tight bends, towering bluffs, and a deep woods feel throughout. Active paddling required — this is not a float where you drift and coast.
Courtois to Huzzah confluence
The lower Courtois flows into the Huzzah. For a best-of-both float, start early on the quiet Courtois and merge into the Huzzah party scene as you approach the confluence. Works as a long day or easy overnight.
Must-See Stops
Springs, caves, and bluffs to look for
Towering bluff corridor
The Courtois runs through one of the most dramatic bluff corridors in the Ozarks. Several bluffs rise steeply from the river — the scenery is a significant step up from the Huzzah.
Huzzah confluence
Where the Courtois flows into the Huzzah. The transition from quiet, technical water to the more social Huzzah is dramatic and worth experiencing on an overnight route.
Gravel bar camping spots
The Courtois has excellent gravel bar camping throughout. Remote feel even though civilization is close. Best overnight in late spring when water levels support a full run.
Fishing
What's biting on the Courtois
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Also Consider
Jacks Fork River
Similar quiet, technical character with more reliable water levels — Jacks Fork is the Courtois's Ozark cousin
FAQ
Courtois Creek float trip questions
How long does it take to float Courtois Creek?
Stretches like Berryman to Courtois Access run a half-day to a full day, depending on water level.
Is Courtois Creek good for beginners?
Not ideal. It's Class II, narrow, requires active paddling, and isn't suitable for large rafts. Better for capable paddlers in canoes or kayaks.
When is the best time to float Courtois Creek?
April through June, while spring water keeps this small creek runnable. It gets too low later in summer.
How far is Courtois Creek from St. Louis?
About 1.5 hours, near Sullivan in Crawford County.