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

When summer weather is definitely upon us here in the Great Lakes State, there's one fantastic way to stay cool — by taking advantage of the best tubing in Michigan. When the muggy temperatures leave you feeling sluggish and overheated, and you're looking for fun things to do in Michigan, there’s nothing better than getting outside and relaxing in nature. We know it might be hard to drag yourself away from the air-conditioning, but trust us when we say that these nine lazy rivers in Michigan will make for the perfect summer activity. Don't worry if you don't know where to tube in Michigan: Grab a few friends and try one of these destinations for river tubing in Michigan — there's no better, unique, and fun-filled way to enjoy a hot day.

1. Chippewa River

This beautiful river, a tributary of the Tittabawassee River, can be accessed in and around Mt. Pleasant, located in the center of the state. You’ll be delighted by the river’s gentle currents and scenic views — and you can even bring a beverage or two to enjoy as you float down the waterway. Find out why the Chippewa River is the best lazy river for tubing in Michigan with Chippewa River Outfitters located at 3763 S Lincoln Road in Mt. Pleasant.

2. Thornapple River

Venture to Hastings and rent a tube for a two-and-a-half-hour journey down the Thornapple River, which offers the perfect combination of relaxation and natural wonder. Grab a few loved ones and embark on the ultimate summer adventure — just don’t forget the sunscreen! Take one of the best Michigan float trips with U-Rent-Em Canoe Livery, located at 805 W. Apple Street in Hastings.

3. Muskegon River

There are several options for enjoying a journey down this glorious river, and we recommend one of the best tubing trips in Michigan along the Muskegon River with Wisner Rents Canoes. Pick up a few tubes and spend a calming day bonding and cooling off on the river. Wisner Rents Canoes can be found at 25 W. Water Street in Newaygo.

4. Huron River

This stunning river winds through Southeast Michigan and serves as a focal point for summer fun in the region. Make your way to Ann Arbor and tube along the Huron River on the ultimate outdoor excursion. Bring your own tubes or rent your own from an outfitter like Skip's Huron River Canoe Livery — either way, you’re sure to have a blast. Skip's Huron River Canoe Livery is located at 3902 E Delhi Road in Ann Arbor. Tubing on the Huron River is one of the best things to do in summer in Michigan.

5. Rifle River

You’ll find several options to choose from when you explore the Rifle River when you stop by the River View Campground in Michigan. If you’re looking to enjoy the coolness of the water as you tube down the waterway, select the "wet-butt" option. Not eager to splash around? No worries! There’s also a "dry-butt" option. What’s not to love? Trips are either 1-1.5 hours or 4-6 hours long — the longest route is the most popular. River View Campground & Canoe Livery on the Rifle River can be found at 5755 N. Townline Road in Sterling.

6. AuSable River

The AuSable River is one of Michigan’s most lovely bodies of water, and it can be easily accessed from the town of Roscommon. Check out Paddle Brave Camp and Canoe and select from a variety of options to enjoy the waters of the South Branch of the AuSable River on a hot summer day. Paddle Brave Camp and Canoe is located at 10610 Steckert Bridge Road in Roscommon.

7. White River

This West Michigan river is an ideal spot to beat the heat all summer long. Visit Happy Mohawk Canoe Livery in the beautiful community of Montague, then rent a large tube and float down the river with the whole family in tow — or select an individual tube and "go with the flow." What a great way to spend a summer day in Michigan! Happy Mohawk Canoe Livery can be found at 401 E. Fruitvale Road in Montague.

8. Pine River

Venture to the gorgeous Huron-Manistee National Forest and explore this river, which provides the perfect place for outdoor adventures when the weather gets hot. It's one of the best places to go tubing in Michigan. Pine River Paddlesports Center offers a plethora of opportunities to appreciate the river, including — you guessed it — tube rentals. Visitors of all ages will be completely delighted. Pine River Paddlesports Center can be found at 9590 M-37 in Wellston.

9. Big Manistee River

No trip to Northern Michigan is complete without a few hours spent in the great outdoors, and the Big Manistee River is a must-see spot and promises one of the best tubing trips in Michigan. Open between Memorial Day and Labor Day, Wilderness Canoe Trips offers tube rentals that will bring you up close and personal with this scenic body of water. You’ll make memories to last a lifetime. Wilderness Canoe Trips is located at 6052 Riverview Road in Mesick.

What lazy rivers do you think have the best tubing in Michigan? Where are your favorite places to go tubing in Michigan? We would love to hear from you, so please share your favorite spots with us through our nominations page.