12 Lazy Rivers In Wisconsin That Are Perfect For Tubing On A Summer’s Day

Those folks next door like to tout their 10,000 lakes, but we here in Wisconsin known we've got just as many amazing lakes, rivers and waterways to enjoy. In fact, the state DNR says we have more than 8,400 miles of rivers in our great state.

While some of those rivers are mighty and some have powered mills and served industry, we've also got quite a few tamer waterways that serve as perfect Wisconsin tubing rivers on which to spend a few lazy summer hours.

In every part of the state, you can find a company or campground willing to rent you a few inner tubes and arrange transportation so you can take in the beauty of Wisconsin from another vantage point.

Here are a dozen tubing rivers in Wisconsin where you can find providers or public access areas for a lazy day of floating.

1. Apple River - New Richmond

Way up in the northwest corner, almost all the way to Minneapolis, the Apple River has a bit of something for everyone - slow, relaxing water, and some quicker-moving rapids that should help satisfy the adventure levels of everyone in your family. That's what makes it some of the best river tubing in Wisconsin.

2. Wolf River - White Lake

There are two parts of the Wolf River here, so we're counting them separately. This section drops nearly 450 feet over 28 miles and the water is moving quickly. This is less of a lazy float and more of a challenge, but the water is crystal clear, and the surroundings are spectacular. It's location near the south end of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest definitely helps make this a worthwhile trip.

3. Wolf River - Keshena

Heading south, this bit of the Wolf River is better for beginners as it provides some calmer water and more of a lazy experience. A bit north of Shawano, it's a little easier to reach and is more family-friendly in every way.

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4. Red Cedar River - Chetek

5. Crystal River - Waupaca

A great tubing trip for beginners, the Crystal River is like training wheels for the bigger Waupaca River. And the float only lasts about an hour, so you can head out as many times as you'd like or get your fill with one and head home til the next time.

6. Grant River - Potosi

Over in the southwest corner of the state, almost to Iowa, the scenic Grant River cuts through some of the bluffs and rock ledges you're used to see on a bigger river a bit north of here.

7. Manitowish River - Manitowish Waters

There are a ton of small tributaries in this area, giving you plenty of places to hop on the water and chill out. But make sure you look up - the likelihood is high that you'll spot an eagle, loon, or other wildlife as you float.

8. Nemakegon River - Trego

Approximately three hours long, this trip is calm and relaxed and you can do it more than once in a day! As part of the St. Croix National Scenic Waterway, you know the views here are stunning.

9. Lower Black River - Black River Falls

Midway between Baraboo and Eau Claire, but right off I-94, this location is a bit of a hidden gem. Never crowded and with a bit lower water depth, you'll find some sandbars to relax on before you float on away.

10. Peshtigo River - Crivitz

The upper part of the Peshtigo, above Crivitiz, provides some of the best rapids anywhere in the state. But below the city the river widens and mellows out, making it the perfect spot for a float.

11. Wisconsin River - Wisconsin Dells

By far the most popular area, due to its proximity to the Dells, this part of the river offers islands, sandbars, and, of course, the famous Dells that have been around for a few million years or so.

12. Sugar River - Brodhead

Located south of Madison near the Illinois border, the Sugar River is definitely the option that's closest to the state's two biggest cities. It's a perfect, calm, relaxing little float down the river here, perfect for a quick day-trip getaway.

There's nothing like a lazy afternoon on one of our fabulous Wisconsin tubing rivers. What's your favorite outdoor activity in the summertime? Let us know in the comments below!