It's never too early to start planning summer vacations, and tubing is always an essential activity to include in your itinerary. From rugged natural beauty to the finest resort waterparks the Grand Canyon State has to offer, there is no shortage of the best lazy rivers in Arizona to help you beat the heat. I know I can't wait to cool off in one of these refreshing rivers!
Looking to feed your wanderlust? Sign up for our Bucket List Newsletter for a weekly peek at the best destinations throughout the country to inspire your next adventures.
1. Salt River
We wouldn't dream of kicking off this list with anything other than the one and only Salt River. It's easily the most popular destination for Arizona lazy river tubing, and -- in our humble opinion -- for good reason! Float trips range from two to five hours with Salt River Tubing, all of which feature the same leisurely current, striking canyon views, and wildlife. Enjoy your summer at Salt River Tubing on one of the most popular lazy rivers in Arizona.
2. Verde River
Named after its unmistakable blue-green waters, the Verde River is only one of two Arizona rivers classified as "wild and scenic." Its rugged beauty must be seen to believe, with lush greenery and jutting bluffs akin to a tropical oasis. Take a guided tour of one of the best floats in Arizona, or you can forge your own path! It's one of the best rivers to float in Arizona.
3. Colorado River
There are many opportunities for tubing in Arizona. The Colorado River is a great place to tube, from Yuma to Lake Mead and everywhere in between. Yuma River RV Park is one place along the river that offers tubing, kayaking, canoeing, camping, fishing, and more. Visit the Yuma River RV Parker website for details.
4. Hilton Phoenix Resort at the Peak (Phoenix)
If getting pampered in paradise is more on-brand for you, Arizona has no shortage of resorts with lazy rivers. The one at Hilton Phoenix Resort at the Peak is half a mile long and flows around a center island filled with palm trees. It's one of the best rivers to float in Arizona. The rest of the four-acre waterpark features plenty of opportunities to splash the day away, including a 130-foot-tall waterslide!
5. Golfland Sunsplash (Mesa)
Both a waterpark and family fun center, Golfland Sunplash has no shortage of attractions to keep the whole family entertained. The 800-foot-long Endless River is one of the most perfect lazy rivers in Arizona for some low-key fun in the sun, with water buckets spaced throughout offering a fun, lighthearted surprise. Check out one of the best floats on an Arizona lazy river.
Take a look at this video by @golfland:
6. JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort & Spa (Tucson)
One of Tucson's top-rated hotels, the JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass is one of the Arizona resorts with lazy rivers. It also features a multi-level pool and water slide. It's an ideal place to soak up some rays!
7. Arizona Grand Resort & Spa (Phoenix)
Rounding out the list is Arizona Grand Resort & Spa, another hotel boasting a rather impressive lineup of water attractions. Among them are a side-by-side active river, a wave pool, a hot tub, and an eight-story tower with three exhilarating slides. Spend the afternoon enjoying one of the best rivers to float in Arizona
How many of these lazy rivers in Arizona have you checked off your bucket list? Did we leave off your favorite spot? Let us know, and check out our previous article to learn more about the Salt River: This All-Day Float Trip will make your summer complete.
Are there any restaurants, businesses, or other attractions in Arizona you think the world should know about? Head over to our nomination page and give them a shoutout — you just might see your submission featured in an upcoming article!
Taking a road trip to any of the above destinations this summer? Take a look at our Ultimate Road Trip Packing List before you hit the road!
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!