9 Lazy Rivers in Maine That Are Perfect for Tubing on a Summer’s Day

For the most part, a Maine summer means sun and warm (not hot!) temperatures. Then, there are the days when the mercury rises, and it can feel like a real effort to do anything that requires physical activity. Even activities like kayaking across a lake can be too much effort when all you want to do is relax. This season, when you're feeling called to the water but would really rather relax, consider doing a little bit of both! These lazy rivers in Maine make for some great, super-chill river tubing. All you have to do is grab a PFD, kick back, and let the water carry you to your next destination (but keep a paddle handy, of course!).

1. Stroudwater River, Portland

If you're based in Portland, Maine, the Stroudwater River is an excellent option for enjoying the water without devoting an entire day. Drive about 20 minutes from the city and make your way to the Portland Trails parking lot. You'll insert your tube here and proceed about a mile and a half toward the Tate House Museum. Plan to get out at the River’s Edge Drive trailhead by mapping things out before you leave. This is one of the best places to go river tubing in Maine during summer.

2. Bullfrog Adventures, Caratunk

Bullfrog Adventures offers three different tubing options for those who want to have someone else plan the logistics. Choose between a self-guided or group tubing trip down the Kennebec River. Another group trip also takes place on the Dead River. In addition to tubing, Bullfrog Adventures offers canoeing and kayaking trips, and you can even book a site for the night in their campground! Visit the Bullfrog Adventures website for more.

3. Ogunquit River, Ogunquit

While short, this might be the most well-known lazy river on the list. Most of the time, a visit to this area will reveal a calm body of water. Not great for tubing at first glance. But, show up halfway between high tide and low tide, and you'll find this river picking up its pace as it heads to the ocean. While not fast, a ride here will take you around the bend to the beach where you'll then jump out and start all over again! Visit AllTrails to see the Ogunquit River Paddle Trail.

4. Three Rivers Whitewater Rafting, West Forks

If you're not interested in planning a lazy river trip, consider booking through a tour company. Three Rivers Whitewater Rafting offers a variety of river adventure, from tubing to whitewater to inflatable kayaks. Tubing trips run down Kennebec River, while inflatable kayak options also include the Dead River and the Seboomook.

5. Royal River, Yarmouth

The Royal River is a good option for people who have a little extra time as this lazy river in Maine is VERY lazy. In fact, some people plan on coming with a kayaker who can add some pulling when necessary. Head to Route 9 near Old Town House Park to put in. The float is about five miles heading to the town boat launch near East Elm Street. If you don't have a kayak or canoe, someone in your group can rent one in town.

6. Saco River, Fryeburg

The Saco River comes with some differing opinions. Some feel it's a great multi-hour trip on a nice river, while others feel it's been overrun by loud drinking parties. Both are probably true depending on when you go. If you choose to make the trip, you can put in at Swans Falls and get out at the Canal Bridge. This will take about four hours. Bring plenty of sunscreen as you'll be in the direct sun for the majority of the trip, but it's sure to be a fun yet relaxing thing to do in summer in Maine!

7. Androscoggin River, Bethel

In addition to fun kayak trips and a campground, Bethel Outdoor Adventure Campground & River Trips rents tubes for a trip down the Androscoggin. If you'd like to arrange for a shuttle to drop you off and pick you up, they'll handle that, too, for an additional cost.

8. Presumpscot River, Portland

The Presumpscot River has a few different options depending on how far you'd like to travel in your tube. To start, head to the Hannaford located in the Riverside neighborhood. Then enjoy the ride down to the Sebago to the Sea trailhead on Blackstrap Road. If you're looking for something longer there's another trailhead where you can hop off on Overset Road. CAUTION: Whatever you choose, be careful to get out of the water before the falls!

9. Crooked River, Waterford

You can stay at an Airbnb accommodation known as the Camp Copper which is definitely best in the summer due to its waterfront location. Put a tube in the nearby Crooked River and make your way downriver. The river is such a serene body of water, and will make you relax before you head back to your secluded cabin vacation rental for some more R&R.

Maine's waterways are seemingly endless, and with so much natural beauty to admire along your float, tubing is definitely one of the best ways to enjoy a hot summer day! Have you been river tubing in Maine? Once you're done spending time on these Maine lazy rivers, think about a meal overlooking one. Check out one of our favorite riverfront restaurants in Maine for a great meal wiith great views.

Do you have a favorite lazy river to go river tubing in Maine? Tell us about it on our nomination page, and you just might see your suggestion featured in an upcoming article.

And if you're looking for an even easier way to enjoy the water, how about a windjammer sailing trip? This trip is between 1.5 and 2 hours and is sure to be an unforgettable adventure on the water!