{"id":14011,"date":"2025-07-29T08:58:05","date_gmt":"2025-07-29T13:58:05","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/?p=14011"},"modified":"2025-09-03T09:34:24","modified_gmt":"2025-09-03T14:34:24","slug":"how-to-float-the-river","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/how-to-float-the-river\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Float the River"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Find out everything you will need to float the river with kids, plus a list of fun rivers to float across the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_79_2 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<label for=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-693fbdcb8f466\" class=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-label\"><span class=\"ez-toc-cssicon\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/label><input type=\"checkbox\"  id=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-693fbdcb8f466\" checked aria-label=\"Toggle\" \/><nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/how-to-float-the-river\/#How_to_Float_a_River_with_Kids\" >How to Float a River with Kids<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/how-to-float-the-river\/#What_to_wear_while_floating_the_river\" >What to wear while floating the river:<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/how-to-float-the-river\/#Other_Items_to_Bring\" >Other Items to Bring<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/how-to-float-the-river\/#What_else_to_bring_but_leave_in_the_car_until_the_end\" >What else to bring, but leave in the car until the end:<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/how-to-float-the-river\/#Where_to_Float_a_River_with_Kids\" >Where to Float a River with Kids<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/how-to-float-the-river\/#Florida\" >Florida:<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/how-to-float-the-river\/#Georgia\" >Georgia:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/how-to-float-the-river\/#Idaho\" >Idaho:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/how-to-float-the-river\/#Oklahoma\" >Oklahoma:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/how-to-float-the-river\/#Oregon\" >Oregon:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/how-to-float-the-river\/#Texas\" >Texas:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/how-to-float-the-river\/#Virginia\" >Virginia:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/how-to-float-the-river\/#Washington\" >Washington:<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Float_a_River_with_Kids\"><\/span>How to Float a River with Kids<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/IMG_4072.jpg\" alt=\"How to float the river with kids\" class=\"wp-image-14033\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/IMG_4072.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/IMG_4072-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/IMG_4072-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/IMG_4072-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/IMG_4072-200x150.jpg 200w, https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/IMG_4072-400x300.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/IMG_4072-600x450.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/IMG_4072-800x600.jpg 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>One of our favorite outdoor activities to do as a family is float the river. It&#8217;s relaxing and fun. We typically float for half a day so somewhere between 3 &#8211; 5 hours. If you&#8217;ve never floated a river, it can be a little intimidating even though there&#8217;s no skill needed. There are a few designated areas that I call out below where you can float.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are some things you need to know before you float. For example, what to wear and how to chill your drinks.&nbsp; Use your judgment and make sure conditions are safe before heading out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_to_wear_while_floating_the_river\"><\/span>What to wear while floating the river:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Clothes and shoes that can get wet like your swimsuit<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"line-height: 1.428571429;\">Shoes that stay on your feet, like river sandals, aqua socks, or even tennis shoes you don&#8217;t mind getting wet. Do not wear flip flops.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sunglasses<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"line-height: 1.428571429;\">If you wear glasses, straps to keep them secure are a good idea.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hat<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3H6h5Hb\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Wearable Drybag<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Other_Items_to_Bring\"><\/span>Other Items to Bring<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Raft or tubes: <\/strong>In Texas, tubes are ideal, because it&#8217;s so hot and the water is warm. In Oregon and Idaho, rafts are better because the water is so cold.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Life jackets<\/strong>: Laws vary by state, but everyone should always have a<a href=\"https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/inflatable-life-vest-for-kids\/\"> life jacket.<\/a>&nbsp;Never take a child into a river without a life jacket.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Paddles<\/strong>: You may not need them, but on the off chance you do, you will be happy to have them with you.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sunscreen<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Snacks<\/strong>: Pack snacks with minimal packaging.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Non-alcoholic beverages<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Water: <\/strong>It&#8217;s important that everyone stays well hydrated while out in the sun.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Mesh laundry bag<\/strong>:&nbsp;I use a mesh laundry bag and fill it with drinks and tie it to our raft. Typically the water is so cold it will keep the drinks super cold.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Waterproof camera<\/strong>: Nowadays there are lots of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/water-proof-camera-a-must-when-traveling\/\">waterproof cameras<\/a> on the market.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3Hb8suV\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Air Pump<\/a><\/strong>: You will want to quickly fill up your tubes and rafts. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_else_to_bring_but_leave_in_the_car_until_the_end\"><\/span>What else to bring, but leave in the car until the end:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A change of dry clothes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Towel<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What Not to Bring<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Glass bottles or containers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Styrofoam coolers or cups<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_Float_a_River_with_Kids\"><\/span>Where to Float a River with Kids<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"920\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/Float-the-river-with-kids.jpg\" alt=\"How to Float the river with kids\" class=\"wp-image-14031\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/Float-the-river-with-kids.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/Float-the-river-with-kids-300x230.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/Float-the-river-with-kids-768x589.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/Float-the-river-with-kids-1024x785.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/Float-the-river-with-kids-200x153.jpg 200w, https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/Float-the-river-with-kids-400x307.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/Float-the-river-with-kids-600x460.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/Float-the-river-with-kids-800x613.jpg 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Florida\"><\/span><strong>Florida:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Fort White offers the most popular place to float in Florida at<strong> Ichetcucknee Springs State Park<\/strong> and is open May &#8211; September.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><b>Visitors bringing tubes into the park:<\/b>&nbsp; Enter park at the north park entrance located at 8294 SW Elim Church Road.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Drivers will leave tubes and passengers at the tube drop off location in the upper parking lot area.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Drivers will proceed to the South main entrance parking area located at 12087 SW U.S. Highway 27.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Drivers will purchase a shuttle bracelet for transportation to North main entrance tube drop off from the general store. (The driver can also purchase tram bracelets for everyone in their party)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Visitors renting tubes <\/b>from within the park will need to enter the park at South main entrance&nbsp;instead, located at 12087 SW U.S. Highway 27.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Between Jacksonville and Tallahassee is&nbsp;<strong>Madison Blue Spring State Park<\/strong>, where you can float on weekends from May to September.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In Apopka, you can float&nbsp;<strong>Rock Springs Run<\/strong> in Kelly Park.&nbsp;Bring your own, or rent tubes for&nbsp;$5 &#8211; $7 from private outfitters located just outside the park.&nbsp;The float trip is short, it only takes about 25 minutes. &nbsp;When you are done, it is a 5-minute walk on a paved sidewalk back to the start. The deepest part is about 5 feet and is much shallower in many places.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In High Springs you can do a short float down the Santa Fe River at Ginnie Springs. Put in at Devil&#8217;s Spring and float for an hour. You will exit at Twin Spring and walk back to where you parked. It takes around 15 minutes to walk back on the tubing trail. There are free air stations located in the park.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In Holt, in the Florida panhandle is Blackwater River State Park. Blackwater River offers a four-mile stretch of water that will take you 3-5 hours to float.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Spring Creek in Marianna near Tallahassee offers a four-hour tubing experience. &nbsp;Start at Merrit\u2019s Mill Pond where Spring Creek opens up to the Chipola River.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Georgia\"><\/span><strong>Georgia:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Near <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/2-day-atlanta-itinerary-for-families\/\">Atlanta<\/a>, in Roswell, you can float the Chattahoochee River. You will only want to float here if it is over 80 degrees outside because the water is cold.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In Blue Ridge, the Toccoa River offers smooth rides through the Blue Ridge Mountains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Idaho\"><\/span><strong>Idaho:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In Boise, you can float the<strong>&nbsp;Boise River<\/strong>.&nbsp; (Some people even surf it, but we just float!)&nbsp;You can&nbsp;park your car at&nbsp;<a title=\"Ann Morrison Park \u2013 Boise, ID\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/family-fun-in-boise-id\/\">Ann Morrison Park&nbsp;<\/a>and catch a bus.&nbsp;For a few dollars, the bus will take you up the river and drop you off at Barber Park. Last time we paid $2 per adult and they didn&#8217;t charge me for the kids. At the drop off point, there&#8217;s air available and you can inflate your raft or tube. You can also rent a raft or tube where they drop you off.&nbsp;<b>I recommend using a raft because this river is extremely cold<\/b>. It takes about two hours to float back down to the park. There are two small drops so you will have to hang on to your kids a few times.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Oklahoma\"><\/span><strong>Oklahoma:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Float-the-Washita-River.jpg\" alt=\"Float the Washita River\" class=\"wp-image-51745\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Float-the-Washita-River.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Float-the-Washita-River-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Float-the-Washita-River-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Float-the-Washita-River-768x768.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In Oklahoma, in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/chickasaw-country\/\">Chickasaw Country<\/a>, you can float the Washita River. <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/p\/Washita-River-Floats-61559723348238\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Washita River Floats<\/a><\/strong> will take you up the river and drop you off for a 4 mile float. It will take between 2.5 &#8211; 4 hours depending on how the river is moving.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Oregon\"><\/span><strong>Oregon<\/strong>:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are several rivers that you can float in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/oregon-swimming-spots\/\">Oregon<\/a>, but we tend to stick to the same one. We float the <strong>Sandy River<\/strong> near Troutdale, Oregon. Start at Dabny State Park and pull out at Lewis and Clark state park. You do have to pay to leave your car in both of the parks. The last time we went it was $5 and they took credit cards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Texas\"><\/span><strong>Texas<\/strong>:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><figure><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-7337\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/img_8203-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"Schlitterbahn\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/img_8203.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/img_8203-600x450.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/img_8203-300x225.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>For the most part, there are shuttles available along popular Texas rivers. In Texas, the only legal access points are where bridges cross a navigable river. Keep this in mind if you&#8217;re doing it yourself and not using a shuttle service. The tube rental\/shuttle companies are fairly cheap and make the whole thing super easy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/romantic-getaway-to-san-antonio-texas\/\">San Antonio<\/a>, you can float the&nbsp;Comal or Guadalupe River. Near San Antonio in Bandera is also the Medina River that can be floated<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/best-wineries-near-san-marcos\/\">San Marcos<\/a>, you can float the San Marcos River.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/things-to-do-in-austin-with-teenagers\/\">Austin<\/a>, you can float the Barton Creek Greenbelt. There are no shuttles or tube rental outfits here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the Dallas\/Fort Worth area, you can float the Trinity River.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/places-to-go-tubing-in-texas\/\">Best Places to go Tubing in Texas<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Virginia\"><\/span><strong>Virginia:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Most people float the South Fork of the&nbsp;Shenandoah River in Shenandoah Valley. Virginia has a no drinking in public law, so leave the booze at home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Washington\"><\/span><strong>Washington:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Yakima River Canyon is a popular place to float near Yakima, Washington.&nbsp;&#8211; Start at Umtanum for a three-hour float to Roza. Leave one car at&nbsp;Roza, this is where you will pull out of the river. It will likely cost $5 per car to park.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"column\">&nbsp;<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"column\">&nbsp;<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/How-to-float-the-river.png\" alt=\"How to float the river\" class=\"wp-image-14384\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/How-to-float-the-river.png 683w, https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/How-to-float-the-river-200x300.png 200w, https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/How-to-float-the-river-640x960.png 640w, https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/How-to-float-the-river-400x600.png 400w, https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/How-to-float-the-river-600x900.png 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"boutique-widget\" data-widget-id=\"1256184\">\r\n                <script type=\"text\/javascript\" language=\"javascript\">\r\n                    !function(d,s,id){\r\n                        var e, p = \/^http:\/.test(d.location) ? 'http' : 'https';\r\n                        if(!d.getElementById(id)) {\r\n                            e     = d.createElement(s);\r\n                            e.id  = id;\r\n                            e.src = p + ':\/\/widgets.rewardstyle.com\/js\/boutique.js';\r\n                            d.body.appendChild(e);\r\n                        }\r\n                        if(typeof window.__boutique === 'object') if(d.readyState === 'complete') {\r\n                            window.__boutique.init();\r\n                        }\r\n                    }(document, 'script', 'boutique-script');\r\n                <\/script>\r\n                <div class=\"rs-adblock\">\r\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/\/assets.rewardstyle.com\/images\/search\/350.gif\" style=\"width:15px;height:15px;\" onerror=\"this.parentNode.innerHTML=&#039;Turn off your ad blocker to view content&#039;\" alt=\"\" title=\"\">\r\n                    <noscript>Turn on your JavaScript to view content<\/noscript>\r\n                <\/div>\r\n            <\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-pale-ocean-gradient-background has-background\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\"><strong><em>Get Travel Insuranc<\/em><\/strong>e<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-normal-font-size\">Unfortunately, there are a lot of things that can go wrong on any trip. Be prepared for the worst with travel insurance. We use <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\" href=\"https:\/\/www.kqzyfj.com\/click-3447064-11554307?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.travelexinsurance.com%2F\" target=\"_blank\">Travelex<\/a> or <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/safetywing.com\/nomad-insurance\/?referenceID=25051219&amp;utm_source=25051219&amp;utm_medium=Ambassador\" target=\"_blank\">Safety Wing<\/a> (often cheaper).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\"><strong><em>Book Flight<\/em><\/strong>s<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I use <a href=\"https:\/\/go.skimresources.com?id=131465X1593760&amp;xs=1&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.skyscanner.com%2F\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Skyscanner<\/a> to find flights. I use it so much, I wrote an entire guide to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/how-to-use-skyscanner-to-find-cheap-flights\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"29604\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">finding cheap flights with Skyscanner<\/a>! Another option for finding deals is <a href=\"https:\/\/www.anrdoezrs.net\/click-100774867-15639604\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">FlightHub<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\"><strong><em>Book a Place to Stay<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-normal-font-size\">I recommend using <a href=\"https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/expedia?&amp;aid=mommytravels&amp;link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.expedia.com%2F\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Expedia.com<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/hotelscom?&amp;aid=mommytravels&amp;link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.hotels.com%2F\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Hotels.com<\/a> for most hotel bookings. I prefer to book directly with <a href=\"https:\/\/prf.hn\/click\/camref:1100luTrN\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Marriott<\/a> when I stay there because of their excellent military discount. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-normal-font-size\">If you prefer staying in a vacation rental instead, I recommend <a href=\"https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/vrbo?&amp;aid=mommytravels&amp;link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.vrbo.com%2F\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">VRBO<\/a>. If you are looking for a hostel, I use <a href=\"https:\/\/hostelworld.tp.st\/NhhmXq0A\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">HostelWorld<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\"><strong><em>Choose Activities and Tours<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-normal-font-size\">To find great activities in any area I use <a class=\"ads noskim\" href=\"https:\/\/www.viator.com\/?pid=P00095795&amp;mcid=42383&amp;medium=link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\"><strong>Viator<\/strong><\/a>. If we are visiting a city with lots of popular attractions I always check <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jdoqocy.com\/click-3447064-11554803?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.citypass.com%2F\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">CityPass<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pogopass.com?affiliate_code=mommytravels\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">PogoPass<\/a>, and <a href=\"https:\/\/prf.hn\/click\/camref:1100luTpZ\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">GoCard<\/a> to see if they have discount cards available. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.anrdoezrs.net\/click-100774867-15523952\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Groupon<\/strong><\/a> also tends to have a lot of local travel deals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-normal-font-size\">When I want to book a full-on multi-day tour I use <a class=\"ads noskim\" href=\"https:\/\/www.tourradar.com\/sales\/weekly-deals?utm_source=partner-mommy-travels&amp;utm_medium=text&amp;utm_campaign=general\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">TourRadar<\/a>. They&#8217;ve got fantastic weekly deals. If going somewhere in Mexico or the Caribbean, I use <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tkqlhce.com\/click-3447064-13845617?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.applevacations.com%2Fdeals%2F%23%21%2F\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Apple Vacations<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\"><strong><em>Rent a Car or Get a Lyft<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>More often than not, Lyft is cheaper than Uber. Use my <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lyft.com\/i\/MEAGAN160305?utm_medium=p2pi_iacc\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Lyft link for an $18 credit<\/a>! For a car rental in any country, I recommend <a href=\"https:\/\/www.kqzyfj.com\/click-100774867-15735340\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Hertz<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.discovercars.com\/?a_aid=mommytravels\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Discover Cars<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\"><strong><em>Save Money on Gas<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/upside.app.link\/AdQQeJRU5Hb\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Upside<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/upside.app.link\/AdQQeJRU5Hb\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">a free app gets you cash back on gas! Use promo code <strong>RV2Q2<\/strong> to get an extra 15\u00a2\/gal bonus on your first purchase<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\"><strong><em>Get a Visa<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I use <a class=\"ads noskim\" href=\"https:\/\/www.ivisa.com\/?utm_source=mommytravels\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">iVisa<\/a> to get all of my Visas. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\"><strong><em>Travel Printables<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.etsy.com\/shop\/MommyTravelsMedia\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1036\" height=\"906\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Mommy-Travels-Etsy-Printables.png\" alt=\"Mommy Travels Etsy Printables\" class=\"wp-image-50332\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Mommy-Travels-Etsy-Printables.png 1036w, https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Mommy-Travels-Etsy-Printables-300x262.png 300w, https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Mommy-Travels-Etsy-Printables-768x672.png 768w, https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Mommy-Travels-Etsy-Printables-200x175.png 200w, https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Mommy-Travels-Etsy-Printables-400x350.png 400w, https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Mommy-Travels-Etsy-Printables-600x525.png 600w, https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Mommy-Travels-Etsy-Printables-800x700.png 800w, https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Mommy-Travels-Etsy-Printables-150x131.png 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1036px) 100vw, 1036px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"700\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/bmc_qr.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44922\" style=\"width:144px;height:auto\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/bmc_qr.png 700w, https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/bmc_qr-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/bmc_qr-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/bmc_qr-66x66.png 66w, https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/bmc_qr-200x200.png 200w, https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/bmc_qr-400x400.png 400w, https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/bmc_qr-600x600.png 600w, https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/bmc_qr-96x96.png 96w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>If you found this information helpful consider <a href=\"https:\/\/www.buymeacoffee.com\/mommytravels\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">buying me a cup of coffee<\/a> aka helping me pay to put kids through college! Just scan the QR code or click the link. As always, thank you for your support!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><em><strong>Disclosure<\/strong>: This post contains affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended but doesn&#8217;t cost you any extra. Please check out our&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/policy\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"6929\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">disclosure policy<\/a>&nbsp;for more details. Thank you for your support!<\/em><\/h6>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\">\n{\n  \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\",\n  \"@graph\": [\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"BlogPosting\",\n      \"@id\": \"https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/how-to-float-the-river\/#article\",\n      \"headline\": \"How to Float the River: A Family Guide\",\n      \"description\": \"Learn how to float the river safely and enjoyably\u2014from choosing the right tube and spot to safety tips and packing essentials for a fun, relaxing day.\",\n      \"image\": {\n        \"@type\": \"ImageObject\",\n        \"url\": \"https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/how-to-float-the-river.jpg\",\n        \"width\": 1200,\n        \"height\": 630\n      },\n      \"author\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Person\",\n        \"name\": \"Meagan Wristen\",\n        \"url\": \"https:\/\/www.mommytravels.net\/about\/\"\n      },\n      \"publisher\": {\n        \"@type\": 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