Top-Notch Tube Trips

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Kayaking is popular at Blackwater River State Forest.

Photo Credit: Contributed Photo

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Ichetucknee Springs State Park is popular for tubing.

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Tubing at K.P. Hole County Park on the Rainbow River.

Photo Credit: Michaele Miller

Ready to get your float on? Enjoy the pristine waters and beautiful sites along these favorite Florida tube trips.

Imagine a trip where it’s just you and a couple of close friends or family members, a few necessities (think sunscreen and a beverage), a tube and a gin-clear Florida waterway. Yes, the classic tube trip is as memorable as ever — perhaps even more so in today’s world where there’s a constant stream of distractions. Unplug, unwind and make a lasting memory on one of these timeless tubing adventures — you’ll thank me for it.

Blackwater River State Forest/Coldwater Creek, Milton

Tucked way up in the top corner of northwest Florida is the Blackwater River and one of its tributaries, Coldwater Creek. The Blackwater River’s reputation as an outstanding tubing destination is known throughout the Southeast. The area draws a huge number of visitors looking to beat the summer heat. You won’t find a tube trip like this anywhere else. It’s the only unspoiled sand bottom river left in the United States. For tube trips and shuttles, check out Adventures Unlimited or Blackwater Canoe — both can get you on the water in minutes. Like most places, trips vary in length and duration; plan for three to five hours on the water.

You won’t find a tube trip like this anywhere else. It’s the only unspoiled sand bottom river left in the United States.

Ichetucknee Springs State Park, Fort White

You’ve heard of it; now it’s time to experience it. A tube trip on the Ichetucknee River is legendary — 212 million gallons of 72-degree water flow from the Ichetucknee Springs group daily, pushing tubers along on trips lasting up to three hours. Several options are available depending on your put-in location, with the longest trip starting at the north entrance of Ichetucknee Springs State Park. For the protection of the waterway, no food or beverages are allowed. Tube rentals are available at several locations just outside the park entrances. As for all summer tube trips, arrive early in case the park reaches capacity, which it often does.

Rainbow River, Dunnellon

Another tuber’s paradise is the Rainbow River, where you’ll find a few different options for trips. At K.P. Hole County Park, you can rent tubes and float for four hours downriver to the S.R. 484 bridge take-out location. Be warned — you’ll need to self-shuttle for this float, so invite several friends along with an extra vehicle.

Visitors who want to float the upper part of the Rainbow River can rent tubes at the Rainbow Springs State Park tube entrance on 180th Avenue Road. This is a two-hour float with tram services that take you back to the entrance point. Your admission fee also allows for access to the headsprings entrance of Rainbow Springs State Park.

If You Go:

Remember, you’ll be on the water for several hours, so make sure to bring along proper sun protection — sunscreen and a hat are your best friends on a tube trip. Pack your cell phone, camera and other essential items, such as medication, in a small dry-bag, which can be found at most outfitters and outdoor stores. In the summer months, thunderstorms are common, so make sure to check the weather forecast before beginning your float.

Blackwater River/Coldwater Creek:
http://www.fl-dof.com/state_forests/blackwater_river.html
http://www.adventuresunlimited.com/
http://www.blackwatercanoe.com/

Ichetucknee Springs State Park:
http://www.floridastateparks.org/ichetuckneesprings/

Rainbow River:
K.P Hole County Park
http://www.floridastateparks.org/rainbowsprings/