Safety and Responsibility
We encourage you to follow the Leave No Trace for Rivers Seven Principles:
Stay safe! The Iowa DNR and American Canoe Association have many great resources for river safety.
Be responsible and respectful!
- Plan Ahead and Prepare – Learn about river-specific issues, regulations and permits. Know river skills and carry the necessary equipment to enjoy the river safely.
- Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces – Durable surfaces include water, rock, gravel and sand. Focus activity where vegetation is absent. Leave put-ins, take-outs and campsites clean and natural looking.
- Dispose of Waste Properly – Pack it in, pack it out. Learn about regulations pertaining to human waste and dispose of it properly. Generally, the best practice is to pack out human waste.
- Leave What You Find – Appreciate ancient structures, artifacts, rock art and other natural objects but leave then undisturbed. Avoid introducing non-native or invasive species by cleaning equipment between trips.
- Minimize Campfire Impacts – Carry a fire pan or build a mound fire. Consider using stoves for cooking. Learn about local fire regulations.
- Respect Wildlife – Observe wildlife from a distance. Avoid feeding wildlife and always properly store food and trash. Control pets or leave them at home.
- Be Considerate of Other Visitors – Respect other visitors and the quality of their experience. Communicate with other river users about your floating and camping plans to avoid conflicts.
Stay safe! The Iowa DNR and American Canoe Association have many great resources for river safety.
- Check the local forecast before your trip. Iowa weather is unpredictable. Dress appropriately. Stay off the river if you see lightning or hear thunder. Visit the water levels page to learn when it is safe to use the river.
Be responsible and respectful!
- Know how you are getting back to your vehicle once your trip is finished. There are no public accesses between the designated water trail accesses, and few bridges and roads near the river. There are also no lights along the river, so be aware of sunset times and bring flashlights if you plan to paddle after dark.
- If you are renting from a local outfitter, make sure you make reservations in advance, show up on time, and finish on time.
- In case of an emergency, call 911 if possible. Keep in mind that you may not have service along parts of the water trail, so have a backup plan in case of emergency. Pay attention to landmarks and mile markers so you know where you are if someone needs to find you.
- Do not camp or hang out on sandbars or streambanks without landowner permission, as these are almost entirely privately owned with the exception of a few public parks where accesses are located.
- Do not dig for fossils or artifacts. Again, most of the land is privately owned, and digging also contributes to soil erosion.
- Always tell someone your plans, especially if you are paddling alone.
