“Because little nature lovers grow into big nature lovers!”
Kids are meant to be outside playing among nature. Canoeing on the Upper Missouri River is a perfect way to get kids outside. Help them unplug, find that inner child, and let the outside world melt away. It warms our hearts to see families of all ages enjoying themselves in the breaks. Our staff is trained with fun outdoor activities, arts/crafts and games to enhance your families experience with us. MRO’s trips are enjoyable for all ages and we do not have an age limit. However, we do ask that all participants are able to swim independently and are able to be seated in a canoe for up to 3 hours at a time.
River Games
A river trip just isn’t complete without some river games. Check out some of the games we play and things we bring!
- Water guns
- Glow in the dark Boche ball-
- Frisbee
- slack lines
- Kubb
- cornhole
- Spikeball
- Cards
- Cribbage
- Wolves and villagers (similar to Mafia)
- Contact- Fun word game
- The paddle game
- Library- YES! A “river library” comprising a variety of works on local and regional history (including the journals of Lewis and Clark), native American culture, the river’s geology, birds, wildflowers, and flora and fauna.
Why we encourage bringing kids on the river?
“Start them young.” River trips are a lifetime passion that you can pass on to your children and or grandchildren. Multi-day river trips are similar to car camping with lots of room for gear and good food. The biggest difference is that boats can get you to more remote areas than a vehicle and there is just one way to go, “down”.
The Missouri River offers stress free paddling due to its wide and shallow waters and a complete lack of snags, rocks, and rapids. Our trips are the perfect time to unplug from technology because there is no cell phone service and plenty of stuff to see and do around you. It’s a great time to be a kid, play in the mud, hike, play games, swim and hunt for treasures.
How do we accommodate for families?
Family tents- we have larger canvas wall tents that fit families and allow for more room.
3 person canoes- if you want the kids with you or with the guides, we offer 3 seat canoes that allow for more room and a middle passenger.
Car seats- although we don’t have car seats. We will make sure to bring yours in our passenger vans. Just give them to us on the morning of the trip.
Life vests- we have kids life vests. However, if you have some that your kids prefer please bring them. We can compare once you arrive.
How many kids can fit in a canoe?
This all depends on the ages of the kids, the paddling experience of adults and the guest ratio. However, generally speaking, 2 kids 10 and under can fit in one canoe with 1 or 2 adults or both kids can be split up into guides boats. Guides are good with kids and have a variety of games and trick to choose from
What extra gear should we pack for kids?
Kids on the river don’t require extra gear. However, pack what you would normally pack for a car trip (example: markers, coloring book, games, etc.)
Should we bring snacks?
We provide plenty of food and alternative options for kids. However, we do not provide chips, candy, or snack bars. We provide healthy, well-balanced meals with fresh fruit, veggies and homemade desserts. We are confident that your child will have plenty to eat and we always have some leftover fruit and dessert for snacks.
What is a good age for participation?
It truly depend on the child. As parents and teachers, we know that every child is different. They need to be able to swim independently and sit for 3-hour durations in the canoe every day.
