How to Go Tubing on the Delaware River

The Delaware River touches several states. It creates natural borders between Delaware, Pennsylvania, New York and New Jersey. Its natural beauty makes it an ideal destination for anyone in the Northeast who wants to go tubing.

Things You'll Need

• Inner tube
• Sunscreen
• Shuttle bus
• Rope
• Snacks and drinks
• Cooler
• Life jackets

Instructions

1. Schedule a tubing vacation during the on season. Most parks and tourist spots along the Delaware River entertain guests between spring and summer months. While you'll be able to go tubing at any time of the year, it's easier to coordinate a tubing trip with the help of a tourist-friendly "float house."

2. Reserve your tubing trip early, especially during the most popular months. Many float houses require reservations to make sure that the proper equipment and staff are on hand.

3. Schedule your tubing trip between noon and 5 p.m. so you can be on the river during the hot daylight hours.

4. Pack all necessary supplies and equipment before leaving for your tubing trip. Bring snacks, beverages, a cooler, towels and plenty of sunscreen. While you may be able to purchase these items at a float house or tourist-friendly convenience store, you'll probably pay a premium price.

5. Select the right float for tubing. Rent smaller tubes for children or to store your cooler. You may want to look for inner tubes with plastic rings attached so that you can leash your inner tubes together to form a caravan.

6. Schedule a time for a shuttle bus to meet you at your destination point. After a few hours on the river, you'll end up miles from where you started. You'll need a shuttle service to bring you back to the float house.

7. Enter the river at a designated launch point. Recline in the inner tube and enjoy the trip. Lay inside the tube's donut hole so your body stays afloat while your hands, feet and buttocks are allowed to dangle in the cool water.

8. Return any tubing equipment you've rented and reclaim your security deposits. Many float houses will offer showers and restaurants for you to clean up and recharge after a day on the river.

Tips & Warnings

• Negotiate a special price by booking a reservation for a large group. Many float houses use discounted rates to attract groups. Call ahead or go to float house websites to see whether you'll qualify for a reduced fare.

• Always wear a life jacket while floating on the river. Even if the water is shallow, currents can make it difficult to keep your head above water should your inner tube capsize. Float houses will have life jackets available for rent.