Welcome to the Middle Raccoon River! It's as simple as driving to the dam in Redfield, IA and parking the vehicle.  We will drive you up river to where the journey begins and you paddle back down to your vehicle (Don't forget your keys!).  There are 5 different drop off points so depending upon how many hours you are looking to be out will be the deciding factor on which access point you will be dropped in.  So grab your family and friends, along with a sense of humor and prepare for an excellant adventure.    The full length trip starts up river approximately 17 miles at Lennon Mills in Panora.  Camp Riverside is roughly 4 hours downstream for those looking to spend 2 days on the river.  It's a great place to pitch the tents, and enjoy the riverside campgrounds.  Reservations are required in advance for the campgrounds. The average group will spend 4-6 hours, depending on water levels and sandbar breaks.  It's a great way to spend a weekend!  We provide the kayaks, paddles and life jackets.	The Middle Raccoon is the perfect river for the beginner to aquire their skills.  The slow pace, shallow waters and sandbars make it a nice peaceful relaxing float.  It's nice to get away from the busy work week and just kick back in the sun with good friends and family to have a nice relaxing time. The most common phrase we hear from first time kayakers is "I can't believe I've never done this before because it's so relaxing!".  Just bring plenty to drink and eat and everything else will take care of itself.
A great way for couples to spend quality time and experience the outdoors.	* Kayak one of Iowa's protected rivers. * Numerous sand bars great for camping and fishing. * Just a few little bends that make you work on your paddling skills (as shown on Homepage).  And hey....if you do hit a rock and fall in, it's about 2-3 foot deep.   To be on the safe side just prepare yourself to get wet........and have a good time!  So if you do decide that your phone is necessary, bring a dry bag. * Located west of Des Moines approximately 40 minutes. (Exit 100 west of Des Moines off I-80, head north 10 minutes to the Dam in Redfield) There is also a Casey's general store in Redfield for picking up last minute supplies.  After kayaking enjoy "Off Sides" in Redfield, gotta love a pizza place that use Grazziano's sausage, if you like a pizza with a little spice, then try the "Slammer".
Breanna, 8 years old, had a great time floating with her dad in late August.  A great relaxing place for family & friends!   River's Access LLC Brian Keller 515-971-8820	Taken from the bridge at Camp Riverside (Cowles Access) during a Tornado watch, the river was a bit swollen. But makes for a fun ride in early spring.