Thanks to all who have responded. It's going to come down to talking
to locals the very week we head down and be prepared to change our
float plan.

I think it'll definitely be the Buffalo River. One thing I need to
determine is what is a reasonable distance to paddle. I have maps, and
GPS waypoints for river miles and landmarks to help judge progress. I
don't want to have to kill ourselves to meet mileage goals but I also
don't want to paddle for two days and find out we're halfway down the
river. Again, I'm sure the local liveries can give us advice on the
best put-in for the number of days we want to be on the river.

Like you Michelle, I also have a kayak, an Eddyline Sea Star. Last
year, my buddies and I paddled for a few days off the Gulf Coast of
Mississippi and I loved it. I'd do it every weekend if I didn't live
in Ohio. My Sea Star spends a lot of time hanging in the garage.
Channel Islands...I envy you. Have fun.