The Mighty Mississippi
Where the River
Calls You Home
Helena sits at one of the most storied stretches of the Mississippi River. Whether you're here to paddle, fish, or simply watch the barges roll by, the river shapes everything we do.
Guided Adventures
Quapaw Canoe Company
John Ruskey has been paddling the Mississippi since 1982. Today, his Quapaw Canoe Company offers some of the most remarkable guided expeditions on the river—paddling hand-built 30-foot cypress voyageur canoes through the wild heart of the Lower Mississippi.
Based in Clarksdale, Mississippi, Quapaw leads trips from Cairo, Illinois to New Orleans, with most activity concentrated in the 500 miles between Memphis and Vicksburg—where the river reaches its full, mature magnificence.
Helena offers excellent river access for Quapaw expeditions. Stay with us the night before your trip, and we'll make sure you're rested and ready to meet the river.
2024 SBA Small Business of the Year
Quapaw Canoe Company was recognized nationally for 25 years of excellence in outdoor adventure and youth leadership.
25+
years guiding the Mississippi
Source to Sea
For the Long-Distance Paddler
Every year, 30 to 50 paddlers attempt to travel the full length of the Mississippi River—roughly 2,450 miles from Lake Itasca, Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico. It's one of the great endurance adventures in North America.
Helena sits at a critical point on that journey. By the time you reach us, you've navigated the Upper Mississippi's locks and dams, survived the barge traffic below St. Louis, and entered the wild Lower Mississippi. You've earned a real bed.
We've hosted numerous through-paddlers over the years and understand what you need: a safe place for your boat, a hot shower, a good meal, and maybe some help with resupply or logistics.
“In the paddling community, we call helpful locals ‘River Angels.’ Think of us as yours in Helena.”
What We Offer Through-Paddlers
- Secure boat storage on property
- Shuttle to/from the Helena boat ramp
- Local knowledge of river conditions and access points
- Help with resupply runs (grocery, gear, post office)
- Hot breakfast to fuel your next stretch
World-Class Fishing
Catfishing the Mississippi
The Mississippi River around Helena is legendary catfishing water. Blue cats, channel cats, and flatheads grow to trophy size in these deep, muddy waters. Anglers come from across the country to test themselves against some of the biggest catfish in North America.
The Helena boat ramp provides excellent access to prime fishing spots. It's a well-maintained launch point whether you're bringing your own boat or meeting a guide.
Throughout the year, major catfish tournaments draw serious anglers to our stretch of the river. If you're competing or just chasing your personal best, The Edwardian Inn offers a comfortable home base that's far better than sleeping in your truck.
100+
lb blue cats
Year
round fishing
Easy
boat ramp access
DIY Adventures
Float It Yourself
Not every river adventure requires a guide. If you've got your own boat and the experience to handle moving water, the Mississippi and its tributaries offer endless exploration.
Mississippi River
The main channel is serious water—respect the barges and the current. But the backwaters, sloughs, and oxbow lakes offer calmer paddling and exceptional wildlife viewing. The Helena boat ramp is your access point.
Experience level: Intermediate to Advanced
St. Francis River
A more intimate paddling experience through the St. Francis National Forest. Scenic float trips with good fishing opportunities. Several put-in points within easy driving distance.
Experience level: Beginner to Intermediate
L'Anguille River
A peaceful blackwater stream perfect for kayaks and canoes. Cypress trees, wildlife, and a pace that lets you forget about time. Great for photography and birding.
Experience level: Beginner friendly
Helena Boat Ramp
The primary access point for the Mississippi River in Helena. Paved ramp, adequate parking, and direct access to the main channel and backwaters.
Located at the foot of Cherry Street, downtown Helena
From The Inn
We're about 10 minutes from the boat ramp. Happy to help with shuttle logistics, local knowledge, or recommendations for guides and outfitters.
Contact us with questions →Plan Your River Trip
Whether you're paddling the length of the Mississippi, chasing trophy catfish, or booking a guided trip with Quapaw, we'd love to be your home on the river.