The Piney & Gasconade are nice. Current. 11pt, Jacks, & Buffalo are better in terms of scenery. NFOW & Bryant Creek are nice too. Have not floated the James, Elk, Big Sugar or Spring in the Southwest corner of Missouri. I'm sure it's good to, but not familiar with it. As Joe pointed out..Your time is valuable. Look close to home first so you can max your river time. Over a 2hr drive one way.....Day trippable, but prefer overnight.4-5 hour drive warrants a 3 night stay .