6 Lazy Rivers In Minnesota That Are Perfect For Tubing On A Hot Day
When the warm weather arrives, it’s time to let the fun begin. What better way to kick things off than by taking a long, leisurely float down one of the best lazy rivers in Minnesota to float? There are plenty to choose from, but for a truly relaxing day of tubing, these are some of the most relaxing rivers in the state to enjoy whenever the weather gets hot enough that you’ll need to cool off. Keep this list on the back burner for a fun day trip!
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life. While we continue to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, please take proper precautions or add them to your bucket list to see at a later date. If you know of a local business that could use some extra support during these times, please nominate them here: onlyinyourstate.com/nominate
The Otter Tail River offers summer fun for the family - and you don't even need to own your own tube. The easiest way to float this northern Minnesota river is to rent a tube from K & K Tubing in Detroit Lakes. They'll outfit you with everything you need to have a good time. The ride is about 2 hours, and you can even take your second ride of the day for free! Click here for more information.Address: 33551 State Highway 34, Detroit Lakes. You’ll love a day spent out on the water. And if you have time, enjoy some swimming in Minnesota, too!
In east-central Minnesota, the slow-moving Rum River is the perfect choice for cooling off on a hot day. It runs about 150 miles north-south starting at Mille Lacs Lake. But if you're looking to make a day of it, try out Country Camping in Isanti. This campground also doubles as a tube rental place, complete with a shuttle ride. The 2-mile float takes about two hours, so you're sure to soak in some rays while you ride the river.
In southeastern Minnesota, the Cannon River meanders from Waterville to Red Wing, crossing over 100 miles in its path. The river is relatively calm, though there are some spots that can be dangerous. For that reason, it may be best to plan your trip around a tubing outfitter who can let you know when the river is a little rough. Welch Mill is the go-to place for this area, offering rentals for both short and long trips. The short trip is around 45 minutes, while the long trip can stretch up to two hours. Rentals cost $10-$12 depending on the day. 4. Root River
Southern Minnesota's Root River area is one of the most beautiful places in Minnesota. It's full of charming towns and fantastic trails. And it's all centered on the Root River, an ideal lazy river that is perfect for tubing. There are a few outfitters on the river, including Root River Outfitters and Eagle Cliff Campground in Lanesboro. Pricing and drop-off points are a bit different for each one, but is reasonable and will give you a great day on the river. Click here and here for more information. In fact, just take the entire weekend off and camp at Eagle Cliff! It’s the perfect summer getaway to relax and have fun. Addresses: Root River Outfitters: 109 Parkway Avenue South, Lanesboro; Eagle Cliff Campground: 35455 MN-16, Lanesboro.
The Zumbro River spans about 65 miles in southern Minnesota, and it's a fantastic ride no matter where you decide to enter. Lined with trees, the river is a beautiful escape from the daily grind and a must-do for those who love to get outside. Zumbro Valley Canoe Rental - a few miles outside of Rochester - is also a tube outfitter that will make sure you have all that you need for your trip. Their 7-mile adventure takes about three hours, running from Zumbro Falls to Hammond. Water parks in Minnesota have nothing on this fabulous tube run down the easy and enjoyable Zumbro River. When the weather spikes, this is the place to be! Click here for more information. Address: 61772 Highway 63, Zumbro Falls.
The last of our lazy rivers is by no means the least. The Platte River flows from Platte Lake to the Mississippi River in Benton County, running through beautiful central Minnesota scenery. If you're looking for an outfitter to help make your trip easier, Two Rivers Campground & Tubing is the one to choose. A tube rental costs $12 and comes with shuttle service. What better way to while your summer away? One of the best lazy rivers in Minnesota, you’ll want this float right at the top of your list. For more information about tubing this great river, hidden waterpark in Minnesota
Address: 33551 MN-34, Detroit Lakes, MN 56501, USA
Address: 27437 Palm St NW, Isanti, MN 55040, USA
Address: 26389 County 7 Blvd, Welch, MN 55089, USA
Address: 109 Parkway Ave S, Lanesboro, MN 55949, USA
Address: 35455 MN-16, Lanesboro, MN 55949, USA
Address: 61772 US Hwy 63, Zumbro Falls, MN 55991, USA
Address: 5116 145th St NW, Royalton, MN 56373, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Best Lazy Rivers In Minnesota
May 11, 2021
Megan McDonald
What are the warmest months in Minnesota?
Summer highs in Minnesota tend to average in the 80’s, perfect weather for floating down the beautiful rivers in the state. But July definitely takes the cake for the hottest weather, recording some record-breaking highs of over 100 degrees! But your average day will be in the late 70’s to mid 80’s, perfect for a summer’s day.
What is there to do in the summer in Minnesota?
Besides swimming, kayaking, floating, and other great water activities, there’s lots to do in Minnesota during the summertime. Take in a ball game, hike out to see beautiful waterfalls, or enjoy a nice icy sip of one of Minnesota’s famous draft beers outside in the sunshine.
Address: 33551 MN-34, Detroit Lakes, MN 56501, USA
Address: 27437 Palm St NW, Isanti, MN 55040, USA
Address: 26389 County 7 Blvd, Welch, MN 55089, USA
Address: 109 Parkway Ave S, Lanesboro, MN 55949, USA
Address: 35455 MN-16, Lanesboro, MN 55949, USA
Address: 61772 US Hwy 63, Zumbro Falls, MN 55991, USA
Address: 5116 145th St NW, Royalton, MN 56373, USA
Minnesota In Your Inbox
Thank you! You'll receive your first newsletter soon!
Betsy is a Minneapolis-based writer who's lived in Minnesota for 20 years. If you know of any amazing Minnesota restaurants, nature areas, or other attractions, feel free to let her know about them at brathburn@onlyinyourstate.com or on Twitter @betsyrathburn.
Love Minnesota?
Thank you! You'll receive your first newsletter soon!
