Enjoy the hot and hazy days of summer tubing on the St. Croix or Namekagon Rivers. Imagine floating the day away along the gentle current and riffles of this scenic riverway! Witness the beauty and tranquility along this northwoods river as dragonflies swirl about on the breeze above you and native fish swim below. Travel at the pace of the river current for a wonderful day on the waters of these pristine rivers.
What to Bring
Wear a bathing suit or quick drying shorts and shirt. Old sneakers, aqua socks, or river sandals will protect your feet from rocks. A towel and dry change of clothes packed in a plastic bag come in handy at the journey’s end and you can put your wet suit in the bag! Protect yourself from the sun with a wide-brimmed hat sunglasses and sunscreen. Many tubers leave the river with a severe case of sunburn. Bring along food and water, too. And don’t forget your sense of adventure as you travel at the pace of nature for the day.
Things to Know
Help keep the St. Croix and Namekagon rivers a beautiful place to visit by following these rules:·
- No glass beverage containers are allowed on the river. Glass and bare feet don’t mix.
- Carry out all of your own trash. There are NO garbage cans along the riverway. Individuals are responsible for removing their own trash. Littering is against the law and fines are possible.
- Do not jump into the river from bridges, cliffs or trees. Drowning and injury have occurred. For your safety this activity is not allowed on the riverway.
- Be aware of your noise level. Some river users come to experience the peace and quiet of this scenic area. Please respect the other river users while enjoying your day.
- Tubing is becoming a popular past time for river fun and relaxation, but it is not without danger. Though it appears as if “anyone” can do it, tubing is recommended only for people who are able to swim. Life vests should be worn at all times and are required by federal law to be worn by children under 13. It takes no special skill to drift on a tube on the river’s current, however, your personal safety and that of children should be taken into account.
This activity is not recommended for people with the following conditions:
Previous back or spinal injuries.
Under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Prone to heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
Severe allergies to plants, animals or insects. (Help can be quite far away.)
Many outfitters along the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway rent tubes as well as canoes and kayaks. Contact them for rates, locations served, and reservations.
