Easy online reservation process waivers could be filled out in advance or at the camp store during check-in. We boarded our bus and a 20 minute drive took us up river. Staff were already set up and ready to go with our reserved tandem kayak. It is a 6 mile float trip. If you're paddling the whole way you could probably get done in 2 1/2- 3 hours but most people are gonna take it leisurely stopping periodically and swimming as you go. You can easily plan on 4 to 6 hours depending on the length of your stops. This was a leisurely fun way to enjoy the river and very cost-effective. I'd highly recommend the tandem kayak for two people as opposed to a canoe. We loved easily being able to get in and out and dip our feet in when we wanted to. Definitely bring a sun hat and sunscreen. If you're on a kayak bungee cords, or para cord would've been nice to secure our things on the back. Water shoes are pretty much a must as the shallow areas and beaches are gravel and rock. Instructions by the staff were clear as far as navigating the river, identifying a halfway point and then we had no problem seeing where we were to get out back where we started at Meramec Caverns. Other activities to enjoy onsite include: caveman zip line, grandmas fudge factory, the cave cafe, Meramec cave tours, camping etc. read more