9 Lazy Rivers Near Cleveland That Are Perfect For Tubing On A Summer’s Day
When the summer heat descends upon the Buckeye State, there’s no better respite than to pick up, pack up, and go tubing in Cleveland. Between our epic water parks and numerous lazy rivers, we have quite the set-up here in Cleveland, Ohio! And when it becomes so unbearably hot, don’t stay inside — slather on the sunscreen and take full advantage of our amazing water recreation by making a splash! And yes, we mean “make a splash” in the most literal of ways. There are so many lazy rivers near Cleveland that there is always a great destination to kick back, cool off, and relax as you float away from reality for a much-needed break. We’ve compiled a list of the coolest water parks within an hour and a half of the city that make for epic summer tubing in Cleveland.
1. Mohican Adventures, 3045-3058 State Route 3 South, Loudonville
Though a bit of a drive, this spectacular experience is well worth the trip. Mohican Adventures offers guests the opportunity to float down the Mohican River, flowing with a natural current while you enjoy the sights and sounds of the Loudonville wildlife. Relaxing tubing adventures are available through Labor Day, so make the most of the summer season! This is perhaps our most favorite option for tubing near Cleveland!
Mohican Adventures Canoe Livery & Fun Center, 3045 OH-3, Loudonville, OH 44842, USA
This epic waterpark in Ohio is all fun, all the time. Pioneer Waterland & Dry Fun Park is a hidden gem that offers waterslides and wading pools, plus all kinds of dry-land activities such as go-karts, toddler-friendly playgrounds, and much more. On a warm summer's day, you'll likely want to enjoy the water features first. A gentle lazy river makes a great place to soak up some rays and relax. If you're craving a bit more of an adventure, you can challenge a friend or family member to an exhilarating waterslide race! Afterward, dry off during a high-speed go-kart race or epic pedal boat ride.
Pioneer Waterland & Dry Fun Park in Chardon, 10661 Kile Rd, Chardon, OH 44024, USA
Though its home base is in Cleveland Heights, NatureVation brings Ohioans face-to-face with epic adventures all around Northeast Ohio. NatureVation is a local adventure company — their awesome staff will literally take you on an adventure in the great outdoors. NatureVation Outdoor Adventures has transformed the Cuyahoga into a natural lazy river, and you haven't lived until you embark on this fun float.
You'll be treated to elegant snacks following your adventure, but while you're on the water, you'll feel like you're in another world. The beauty and serenity of this river will contrast wildly with the visions of Downtown Cleveland that have made the river so iconic!
Kalahari Resorts is one of Ohio's coolest indoor water parks. With both indoor and outdoor waterparks (as well as a Safari Outdoor Adventure Park), there's always something to do at the Africa-themed Kalahari Resort. As it is located in Sandusky, Kalahari is an ideal day trip for Clevelanders -- not too far to drive, and full of indoor water features that ensure that unpleasant weather will not interfere with your plans! In fact, the indoor water park covers more than 170,000 sq. ft., making it the nation's largest. (You can even catch some rays beneath the Texlon transparent roof on a sunny day.)
The Kokosing River is one of Ohio's best-kept swimming hole secrets. And, Kokosing Valley is the only livery on the river, so you are ensured a fairly private float down this natural lazy river. Plan to camp out during your visit, because the natural environment around the river is stunning.
Kokosing Valley Camp & Canoe, 25860 Coshocton Ave, Howard, OH 43028, USA
6. Cedar Point Shores, 1 Cedar Point Drive, Sandusky
Cedar Point Shores is the most epic water park in Ohio, open each year through Labor Day, and it's always a good time to visit! This 18-acre destination is the largest of its kind in Ohio, and you won't want to miss the opportunity to splash around with your family this summer. Whether you prefer relaxing poolside or sliding down an adrenaline-pumping waterslide, you'll find there's no shortage of things to do at Cedar Point Shores. The tot-only area ensures lots of little-kid fun, while older kids will have fun zipping down the waterslides at exhilarating speeds and testing the limits on thrilling waterpark rides.
Cedar Point Shores, 1 Cedar Point Dr, Sandusky, OH 44870, USA
7. Crooked River Adventures, 13468 Main Market Road, Burton
Conveniently located off of the highway, this lovely livery is only a short commute from Cleveland. You'll adore the natural wonder of the Cuyahoga River ... just remember to bring sunscreen and insect repellent when you go tubing in Cleveland!
Crooked River Adventures, 13468 Main Market Rd, Burton, OH 44021, USA
Great Wolf Lodge is another local destination for a weekend trip, especially for those looking for epic water park fun in Ohio. A bit of a trek from Cleveland, this indoor water park is worth the adventure. Not only will you adore the lazy river, but the myriad water slides aren't too shabby, either.
Great Wolf Lodge Water Park | Sandusky, 4600 Milan Rd, Sandusky, OH 44870, USA
9. Loudonville Canoe Livery, 424 West Main Street, Loudonville
Loudonville Canoe Livery is another opportunity to explore the banks of the Mohican River from the water. Enjoy two hours of relaxing tubing on the cheap, traversing a total of three miles along this scenic river. Our advice? Check out one of the outfitter's "moonlite float trips" when they're offered!
Loudonville Canoe Livery, 424 W Main St, Loudonville, OH 44842, USA
Summer is the most splendid time of year in the Buckeye State, and we guarantee you’ll stay cool all season long when you go floating in Cleveland. Enjoy any of these relaxing rivers for a fun way to de-stress and cool off. And if you are feeling particularly adventurous, consider staying for a long weekend at one of the campgrounds listed above!
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
The OIYS Visitor Center
Tubing in Cleveland
June 17, 2022
Sarah M.
What are some spots for swimming in Cleveland?
With our location just off the Third Coast's lovely Lake Erie, Cleveland is well-positioned to take advantage of some of the best beaches and lakes in Ohio! Some of our favorites? Huntington Beach, which we think is one of the finest beaches in the Cleveland Metroparks. It is Blue Wave Certified by the Clean Beaches Council, so you can feel confident knowing that this distinguished beach is both fun and the first on Lake Erie to be awarded for its cleanliness. You'll love this vibrant beach and the views it offers of Downtown Cleveland!
East Harbor State Park features 1,800 acres waiting for your exploration, and different parts of the shoreline offer swimming, boating, and fishing spots. Headlands Beach State Park is celebrated as the longest natural beach in Ohio. What sets it apart from other beaches is its flora, much of which is typically only found along the Atlantic coast. And of course, if you've ever been to Cedar Point, you've doubtlessly glanced over the fence at the white sandy shores of Lake Erie. Did you know that the beach is available to all Cedar Point guests? Next time you head to the amusement park or take advantage of Cedar Point Resorts, you have to check it out — it's the perfect place to cool off on a hot summer's day in Ohio!
Cleveland In Your Inbox
Thank you! You'll receive your first newsletter soon!
Nikki is a lifelong Ohioan with a love for literature. She holds a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Akron and has enjoyed publishing her written work since 2007. She has a love of travel and does so frequently, though she believes that home is where the heart is — she continues to work in and around Cleveland as a digital content specialist to this day, working on everything from commercial scripts and social media posts to grassroots marketing initiatives.
