12 Lazy Rivers In Wisconsin That Are Perfect For Tubing On A Summer’s Day
Those folks next door like to tout their 10,000 lakes, but we here in Wisconsin known we’ve got just as many amazing lakes, rivers and waterways to enjoy. In fact, the state DNR says we have more than 8,400 miles of rivers in our great state.
While some of those rivers are mighty and some have powered mills and served industry, we’ve also got quite a few tamer rivers that serve as the perfect place to spend a few lazy summer hours.
In every part of the state, you can find a company or campground willing to rent you a few inner tubes and arrange transportation so you can take in the beauty of Wisconsin from another vantage point.
Here are 12 different river locations where you can find providers to give you tubing access for a lazy day of floating:
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Way up in the northwest corner, almost all the way to Minneapolis, the Apple River has a bit of something for everyone - slow, relaxing water and some quicker moving rapids should help satisfy the adventure levels of everyone in your family.
There's two parts of the Wolf River here, so we're counting them separately. This part drops nearly 450 feet over 28 miles and the water is moving quickly. This is less of a lazy float and more of a challenge, but the water is crystal clear and the surroundings are spectacular. Located near the south end of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest definitely helps make this a worthwhile trip.
Heading south, this bit of the Wolf River is better for beginners as it provides some calmer water and more of a lazy experience. A bit north of Shawano, it's a little easier to reach and is more family-friendly in every way.
This tributary of the Chippewa River north of Eau Claire is a great spot to get out on the water, whether it's in canoes or inner tubes. The river is wide here and perfect for a lazy day.
A great tubing trip for beginners, the Crystal River is like training wheels for the bigger Waupaca River. And the float only lasts about an hour, so you can head out as many times as you'd like or get your fill with one and head home til the next time.
Over in the southwest corner of the state, almost to Iowa, the scenic Grant River cuts through some of the bluffs and rock ledges you're used to see on a bigger river a bit north of here.
There's a ton of small tributaries in this area, giving you plenty of places to hop on the water and chill out. But make sure you look up - the liklihood is you'll spot an eagle, loon or other wildlife as you float.
Approximately three hours long, this trip is calm and relaxed and you can do it more than once in a day! As part of the St. Croix National Scenic Waterway, you know the views here are stunning.
Midway between Baraboo and Eau Claire, but right off I-94, this location is a bit of a hidden gem. Never crowded and with a bit lower water depth, you'll find some sandbars to relax on before you float on away.
The upper part of the Peshtigo, above Crivitiz, provides some of the best rapids anywhere in the state. But below the city the river widens and mellows out, making it the perfect spot for a float.
By far the most popular area due to its nearness to the Dells, this part of the river offers islands, sandbars and of course, the famous Dells that have been around for a few million years or so.
Located south of Madison near the Illinois border, the Sugar River is definitely the option closest to the state's two biggest cities. It's a perfect, calm, relaxing little float down the river here, perfect for a quick day-trip getaway.
What’s your favorite outdoor activity in the summertime? Let us know in the comments below!
Address: Apple River, WI, USA
Address: White Lake, WI 54491, USA
Address: Wolf River, WI, USA
Address: Red Cedar River, Wisconsin, USA
Address: Crystal River, Waupaca, WI 54981, USA
Address: Grant River, Potosi, WI 53820, USA
Address: River Rd, Manitowish Waters, WI 54545, USA
Address: Namekagon River, Wisconsin, USA
Address: Black River, Black River Falls, WI 54615, USA
Address: Peshtigo River, Wisconsin, USA
Address: Wisconsin River, Wisconsin, USA
Address: Sugar River, Wisconsin, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
tubing in Wisconsin
February 18, 2021
Jackie Ann
What are the best outdoor activities in Wisconsin?
No matter the season, Wisconsin has an abundance of natural attractions and outdoor activities to awaken an adventurous spirit in everyone. Hiking and biking enthusiasts as well as those seeking more adventurous sports will find no shortage of beautiful recreational areas to explore. Venture out to the Lake Superior Ice Caves at the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore and marvel at not only the spectacular caves, but the stunning arches and various ice formations along the shoreline, too. Also in the Apostle Islands region, discover Sand Island where water sport-lovers can kayak out on a sea cave journey. In the Stevens Point area, The Green Circle is a 27-mile looping trail beginning at the Schmeekle Reserve Visitor Center open to hikers and bikers with some sections available for wintertime skiing.
Are there any good swimming holes in Wisconsin?
When the warm weather hits there is no better way to spend an afternoon than cooling off at one of The Badger States’ many refreshing swimming holes. In Aniwa, swim among ancient volcanic rocks at the Dells of the Eau Claire River where you can relax amid lush scenery and babbling waterfalls. The 4-acre pond of Minooka Park in Waukesha is perfect for a family day of fun with lifeguards on duty daily in the summertime. Low boat traffic and waters with a depth of only 13 feet make Soo Lake in Newbold ideal for a day of splashing around. Pack a picnic and enjoy the lake’s scenic surrounding landscape for a picture-perfect day.
What are the best day trips in Wisconsin?
When you want to get out for a quick but memorable excursion, Wisconsin’s many day trip destinations make it easy to get away from it all. Surrounded by 40 neighboring lakes, the town of Chippewa Falls is an ideal spot full of historic charm and great outdoor activities. Float down the scenic Chippewa River relaxing on an inner tube or take in the town’s quaint sights by strolling through downtown. Make Blue Mounds your destination and visit Cress Springs Bakery. With locally sourced ingredients and an onsight mill, this beloved local bakery serves some of the best fresh bread in the state. Of course, taking an iconic Cheese Trail journey is something all Dairy State residents need to experience. Cheese lovers can follow a 200-mile loop from Madison and sample tasty treats from multiple locations all along the route.
Address: Apple River, WI, USA
Address: White Lake, WI 54491, USA
Address: Wolf River, WI, USA
Address: Red Cedar River, Wisconsin, USA
Address: Crystal River, Waupaca, WI 54981, USA
Address: Grant River, Potosi, WI 53820, USA
Address: River Rd, Manitowish Waters, WI 54545, USA
Address: Namekagon River, Wisconsin, USA
Address: Black River, Black River Falls, WI 54615, USA
Address: Peshtigo River, Wisconsin, USA
Address: Wisconsin River, Wisconsin, USA
Address: Sugar River, Wisconsin, USA
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