Marten hit on something I've observed regarding the "last day." 

I used to plan our last camp so we had an easy 2-3 hour paddle out the next morning.  But we often experienced "the horses are headed to the barn" syndrome.  By noon on the penultimate day, the group begins to think, "Do we really want to set up and break down another camp, just for a 2-3 hour paddle in?"  That question invariably leads to "Let's push on out this afternoon.  I can already taste a cheeseburger and chocolate malt!"  Exactly what Marten mentioned. 

So now I plan the last night's camp a full day's paddle from the take out point.  I try to get over any big body of water, to avoid getting winded, but I am careful not to get too close, and thus avoid the "horse-to-barn" syndrome. 

prouboy