Eleven Point National Scenic River

The Eleven Point National Scenic River was established in 1968 as a 44 mile scenic river, free of impoundments with a largely undeveloped shoreline and watershed. This portion of the river between Thomasville, Missouri and the Highway 142 bridge is near Gatewood, Missouri. It became one of the 8 initial units of the National Wild and Scenic River system in 1968. 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, it gains considerable width and depth as its proceeds south-eastward. 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. ACCESS TO THE RIVER: There are currently eleven designated access points to the river by vehicle. Of these access points, 7 are managed to a standard that includes boat ramps and vault toilets. The remaining 4 access sites are managed to a lesser standard to encourage use by those wishing to avoid higher user densities. In addition, there are 8 float camps designated on the river to provide overnight camping for river users. WHO CAN USE THE RIVER: The river has been designated for both motorized and non-motorized use. The motorized users must adhere to a 25 horsepower limit. FISHING: There are opportunities aplenty for small mouth bass and pan fish. Special regulations apply. Go to www.mdc.mo.gov [https://www.mdc.mo.gov/] for more information. Trout fishing starts at the confluence of the Greer spring branch and the river. Greer is the world's 10th biggest spring and doubles the size of the river while turning it into a cold water fishery. This is the beginning of the blue ribbon trout section which extends about 6 miles to Turner Mill spring. Flies and artificial lures only are allowed (soft plastic and baits are prohibited) and there is a limit of 1 fish at least 18 inches. There is a strong population in this section of river.  For Steam Flow and Flooding forecast visit the Quick Link section in the right column or Click here [http://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/mtnf/?cid=FSEPRD512630]. For More Information on floating, camping and access points on the Eleven Point Scenic River Click here [http://www.fs.usda.gov/detailfull/mtnf/?cid=STELPRDB5190747&width=full].