Canoe & Kayak Trips

Choose Your River Experience

The Turkey River winds through some of Northeast Iowa’s most peaceful and scenic landscapes, offering a variety of paddling experiences for every type of day on the water. Some routes drift past quiet sandbars and shaded bends, while others stretch into full-day journeys through open valleys and small-town corridors.

The Elkader to Motor Mill trip can be reserved online. All other routes require a quick call or text to reserve your canoe or kayak and arrange shuttle service.

Old stone mill by a river with a metal bridge and trees in the background.

Elkader to Motor Mill

6.5 Miles | 2.5–3 Hours

Our most popular trip follows the Turkey River from just south of Elkader to the historic Motor Mill. It’s a relaxed float with steady water, sandy shorelines, and plenty of space to slow down and enjoy the scenery.

Sandbars along the route make great stopping points, and the sandy river bottom makes this stretch especially popular for fishing and wading.

A calm river flows between green trees under a blue sky with white clouds.

Big Springs to Elkader

8.5 Miles | 3–4 Hours

Starting at Big Spring Campground, this route flows into Elkader, passing the Big Springs Trout Hatchery along the way. It’s a steady, scenic paddle with a mix of open water and wooded riverbanks.

Motor Mill through trees on Turkey River float

Motor Mill to Garber

12.5 Miles | 4–5 Hours

South of Motor Mill, the river opens into quieter, wider stretches of the Turkey River Valley known for its calm flow and wide views of the surrounding landscape.

Green Kayak on River Bank

Littleport to Garber

12.5 Miles | 4–5 Hours

This unique stretch begins on the Volga River at the former town of Littleport before joining the Turkey River roughly 1.5 miles upstream from Garber. It offers a rare chance to experience two connected waterways in a single outing.

Two people in a red kayak on a river by a rocky, grassy shore under a partly cloudy sky.

Elkader to Garber

18.5 Miles | 6–7 Hours

A full-day river trip with a mix of scenery, open water, and longer stretches between access points. Paddlers should plan to be on the water by noon to complete this route comfortably.

Person kayaking on a river with trees and greenery in the background.

Elgin to Elkader

20 Miles | 5–7 Hours

This route begins at Gilbertson Park in Elgin and passes Big Spring Park and Frieden Park before reaching Elkader. Primitive campsites along the way make it a potential overnight option.

Paddlers must exit the river just upstream of the Elkader dam.

Need Help Choosing a Trip?

Every stretch of the Turkey River offers something a little different. If you’re unsure where to start, we’re happy to help you choose the right route.

Illustration of a yellow kayak with two yellow paddles crossed under it.

Ready to Plan Your Day?

The Turkey River is waiting. Choose your route and we’ll help you plan the right trip for your day.