Redhorse Access

**Overview**
Redhorse Access provides fair canoe and kayak access to the Meramec River in Saint Clair, Franklin County. This is a non-ramp access point suitable for paddlers launching smaller craft. The site offers a convenient put-in for exploring this section of the Meramec, a popular paddling destination known for its scenic bluffs and relatively gentle current.

**What to Expect**
Paddlers should be prepared for sections with minimal current—some areas feel more like paddling across a wide, slow lake than a flowing river. The water is generally clean with light debris. This access point provides good positioning for day trips or multi-day excursions, with Meramec State Park facilities (including an official boat ramp and picnic areas) located nearby downstream around the 90-mile mark from the put-in. The Highway 47 bridge, roughly one-third of the way downstream, serves as a useful navigation reference.

**Practical Notes**
Come prepared to paddle actively in slower sections. The river corridor is well-used by both kayakers and canoeists, so expect to see other boaters, especially on weekends. Check water conditions before your trip, as current and paddling difficulty can vary seasonally.