A young boy floats down a river in an inner tube

Elora Gorge | Destination Ontario

Where to go river tubing in Ontario

A young boy floats down a river in an inner tube

Elora Gorge | Destination Ontario

Before you go, check in with the tubing company on the weather, water levels, river conditions and to confirm the rental includes life vests. Then grab plenty of waterproof sunscreen, water shoes and get set to go with the flow.

River Rat Rentals near Thunder Bay

The Kaministiquia River flows down from the spectacular Kakabeka Falls into Lake Superior in Thunder Bay. Rent your tube from River Rat Rentals in Stanley, just west of the city. They’ll also arrange shuttle service to collect you at the end of the ride.

Location: Kam River, Thunder Bay

Where to stay: If your crew can’t get enough of splashing in the water, TownePlace Suites by Marriott in Thunder Bay would make a great family base with the indoor pool, fully equipped kitchens and complimentary breakfast.

Chillin’ N Tubing near Sudbury

The ultimate day of tubing and chillaxing awaits just northwest of Sudbury. Set out on a slow float down the Vermillion River for a couple of hours in innertubes that come equipped with built-in coolers for cold drinks and snacks.

Location: Vermillion River, Chelmsford

Where to stay: You’ve got plenty of options for places to stay in Sudbury, not to mention great attractions like Science North and Dynamic Earth to round out a family road trip.

Elora Gorge Park in Elora

One of Ontario’s prettiest little towns is also one of the province’s best places for river tubing. The gorge is a scenic set of rapids and cascades that are super fun to ride via inner tube. The park is open daily until September, just make sure to check water conditions and safety guidelines in advance. If a guided river tour is more your style, check out these piloted English Gondola-style punt rides offered by Elora Raft Rides.

LocationGrand River, Elora

Where to stay: The park offers both serviced and basic sites for camping plus a large splashpad so families can make it a multi-day, water-filled vacation.

Ottawa City Rafting in Ottawa

Experience a guided tubing adventure on mini rapids and flat waters down the Ottawa River from Bates Island to the Canadian War Museum. Witness the beautiful views of the Capital and Parliament as you float, paddle or swim to the shoreline.

Location: Ottawa River

Where to stay: From campgrounds to unique hotels, there are a variety of places to stay while visiting Ottawa.

Saugeen Springs RV Park in Hanover

Tubing ride times vary with the water levels, but basically you can alternate between the shorter 45-minute run or the two-hour run from the Saugeen Springs RV Park in Hanover. The park offers camping, RV rentals, cabins and cottages, but also provides tubing day packages for visitors during the weekdays. After riding your river donut, savour a tastier version. Schultz’s Gone Totally Baked is a local staple for delicious donuts and other baked goods in town.

Location: Saugeen River, Hanover

Big Creek Tubing in Norfolk County

Big Creek is a beautiful, meandering waterway that flows through Norfolk County to Lake Erie. It has been described as Canada’s Amazon for its slow current, deep waters and lush, overhanging forest foliage along the shoreline. Join Big Creek Tubing on a tubing voyage, packages include your boat, paddles, safety equipment, shuttle and parking.

Location: 157 Front Road, Port Rowan

Where to stay: With an array of lodging, including glamping, food and activities, Long Point Eco Adventures makes the perfect base for an adventurous getaway.

Wilderness Tours Resort in Ottawa Valley

The Ottawa River is famous for its high adrenalin white water rapids however it also features calmer sections perfect for peaceful floating. Located alongside the river, Wilderness Tours is an adventure resort that offers various accommodations and activities including the ultimate day of lazy river tubing.

Location: 1260 Grants Settlement Road, Foresters Falls

Last updated: February 21, 2024

Looking for Ontario travel advice?

Our experts are here to help you plan your perfect trip. Call or book today.