How about Lake Ouachita in Arkansas? Big lake with lots of kayaking possibilities. The LOViT trail
link has everything from easy rides through the forest to steeper, more difficult segments. There are COE CG's around the lake and a SP at the east end of the lake. We stayed at Tompkins Bend COE park. One can launch right from the lakeside campsites and also ride parts of the LOViT trail from the CG. Lots of other lakes and trails in the area. This might be closer to 12 hours, but a neat area to explore once you get there.
