The Big River, like its sister tributary of the Meramec, the Bourbeuse, is slow. It differs mainly in that it flows through a more heavily populated area, yet there are many pleasant places along it. Upper sections near the “lead belt” are subject to many of the effects of urban population and are not recommended even when there is enough water to float there. Sections both above and below Washington State Park are more attractive, and the park makes an excellent base of operations for base camped floats. Old mills and mill sites add interest. The area is so close to St. Louis that it can be reached in little more than an hour’s driving from that city.
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Map courtesy of http://missouricanoe.org