Class II Chariton River, IA/MO

The Chariton River winds its way through a mixture of timber, posture and crop land. The rough, wooded terrain adjoining the Chariton River valley supports important wildlife habitats as evidenced by the abundance of deer and turkey.

 

One of the best and safest times to float the Chariton River is when the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is discharging water from Rathbun Lake at a rate of 100 to 500 cubic feet per second. At this rate, the river has about a one-quarter-bankfull depth and has a moderate current for good floating. Higher river conditions con be floated but are not recommended for novices. (Iowa Canoe Guide)