Bull Shoals to Batesville, Arkansas
2027 race dates coming soon
The race
Come and join us in one of the most unique, challenging, and fun events in the country. The National White River Canoe and Kayak Race will take you down some of the most scenic country in America.
The race is an adventure of over a hundred miles from the heart of the Ozark Mountains near Bull Shoals Lake to the foothills of Batesville, Arkansas. Since 1966, Scout crews and adult paddlers have raced it in aluminum and cruising canoes, kayaks and unlimited boats, camping together along the river each night.
Foggy starts, fast water and quick changes.
View the photo galleryThe course
The race starts in the shadow of Bull Shoals Dam and follows the White River through the Ozarks to Batesville, with quick changes and camps along the way.
Wednesday: check-in and boat inspections at Bull Shoals White River State Park, followed by dinner and the race meeting.
Day 1 · Thursday
Dam releases keep the current moving, but fog can be heavy early in the morning.
Day 2 · Friday
The Calico Rock 20/20 Club serves cookies and treats at the quick change.
Day 3 · Saturday
The hardest paddling day: the river slows and widens, and the first leg is the longest of the race.
Miles from the start, per the 2026 race guide. The schedule may change with water levels.
Plan your race
2027 registration isn't open yet. Send us a note and we'll email you when dates are set.
Email me when it opensEntry fees, divisions, the race-week schedule, safety gear, spectator tips and FAQ.
Read race infoNew to the race? Building a team, training, team roles and a packing list.
Read the guideNearest airports, where to stay along the river, food and supplies, and things to do.
Plan your tripRace stories
Paddlers look back on six decades of fog, storms, rivalries and quick changes on the White River.
In 1966 I was a junior at North Little Rock High School (Arkansas) and in my younger days had been a Boy Scout and when Sea Scout Ship 107 was organized and sponsored by the North Little Rock Yacht Club I immediately became a member. The adult leader of the Ship was Mr. Jay Robison. I do not…
Read the story: The First White River Canoe Race in 1966I went to Boy Scout summer camp a thousand years ago (mid-60s) and learned to paddle a canoe. For me it was the best part of camp. I "graduated" to Explorer scouting (Post 385 North Little Rock, AR) and in 1968 I heard about the White River Canoe Race for Explorer scouts. I knew I had to do it,…
Read the story: Kim A. StoryIt was a dark and stormy morning; each team was timidly getting their boat set up for the 18 mile leg of the 40th annual White River Canoe Race. Ruth and I were busy filling our camelbacks, zipping our PFDs, and making sure our boat didn’t fill up with water before we even began paddling. Tave…
Read the story: Canoes of FireGet involved
Get in touch about racing, volunteering or supporting the race.
Questions about divisions, registration or race week? We're happy to help.
Hear first when 2027 dates and registration are announced.
From safety boats on the water to carrying boats around the dams, the race relies on volunteers.
Support a race that has been running since 1966 and reach paddlers and families from across the country.
Send your favorite race photos for the gallery.
Thank you
Interested in supporting the race? Get in touch.
