Eleven Point River

Missouri

Mark Twain National Forest
Eleven Point Ranger District
#4 Confederate Ridge Road
Doliphan, Missouri 63935

Designated Reach: October 2, 1968. The segment extending downstream from Thomasville to State Highway 142.

Classification/Mileage: Scenic — 44.4 miles; Total — 44.4 miles.

The River

The Eleven Point River has been recognized and loved for its rich history and outstanding scenic beauty since early settlement days. A 44-mile portion of the Eleven Point between Thomasville, Missouri, and the Highway 142 Bridge became one of the eight initial components of the National Wild and Scenic River System in 1968.

About half of the lands within the Eleven Point Scenic River area are private lands, while the remainder of the area is National Forest System land. The private lands along the river are managed by scenic easements to assure protection of their scenic values and natural resources. Public entry of these lands is prohibited. River users should study the river map and be alert for private property or scenic easement signs located along the river course to avoid trespass.

The River

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, Missouri, it gains considerable width and depth as it proceeds southeastward. 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. River birch is abundant along the shore, and aged sycamores lean out across the river from their shoreline moorings. In some places, the canopy of green closes overhead.

Floating on the Eleven Point

To the experienced canoeist, the Eleven Point is a relatively easy river (Class I and Class II on the International Scale) requiring intermediate experience. Snags, trees and rootwads still remain the most dangerous of all obstacles and on occasion may require scouting from shore. Although canoes are the time-tested means of travel through fast water, flatbottom Jon boats are used on the river, primarily for fishing trips. You may encounter some boats with motors. Motor boats are restricted to a 25 hp limit.

Fishing

Smallmouth bass, rock bass, walleye and trout are eagerly sought by anglers on the Eleven Point. All fishing is subject to state of Missouri regulations. Non-residents may purchase a three-day or annual license. A trout permit is also required if you are in possession of trout. Gigging is popular, but not permitted within the Wild Trout management area. To prevent illegal fishing practices and possible citations, review and study the latest fish and game regulations published by the Missouri Department of Conservation.

Regulations and Use Hints

To maintain the river's scenic quality, please remember the following:

• select existing campsites. Latrines are provided at developed float camps.
• It is prohibited to possess or use any glass beverage or glass food container within the designated boundary of the Eleven Point Scenic River.
• Learn hunting and fishing seasons and respect all outdoor enthusiasts. Wildlife may be taken only under Missouri Department of Conservation hunting and fishing regulations and only when you hold an appropriate license.
• Discharging of firearms must be limited to areas away from developed float camps or other sites where people could be injured. Snakes, frogs, birds and other wildlife are part of the river ecology and should not be used for target practice.
• Respect private property rights. Being upon private lands under scenic easement is a violation of state trespass laws and Secretary of Agriculture's regulations.
• Outboard motors are limited to a maximum of 25 hp.