Warmer weather is quickly approaching in North Carolina, and chillin' in cool waters might be on many people's to-do lists. With a number of rivers and waterways in the state, there's bound to be a few worth visiting. If you're looking for North Carolina rivers to float the day away on, these seven tubing spots will be the perfect places to hang out with your friends and let the river take you away. Most of these destinations are super affordable too, offering a leisurely trip downstream for less than $20 a person. You might even find some rapids to add a little adrenaline rush to your time enjoying nature's natural waterparks. Pack the cooler, grab your friends, slather on that sunscreen, and don't forget the towel for your trip to these North Carolina rivers. Silver Creek Tubing Price: $10 per tube rental. Free parking on site. Address: 5373 Green River Cove Rd., Saluda, NC Why You Need To Go: There are a few different routes tubers can take depending on their skill level. There are even a few rope swings dotting the shoreline along the way for those who want to stop, enjoy the scenery, and get a little adrenaline flowing. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Michael Anthony (@michaelanthonyv) on Jul 4, 2017 at 11:23am PDT Website Smoky Mountain Tubing Price: $12 per person Address: 1847 Tsali Blvd., Cherokee, NC Why You Need To Go: Located on the Oconaluftee River, visitors can float down the river for a few hours. There are over 200 tubes in stock so guests won't be left waiting for their chance to chill. View this post on Instagram Forever forcing my dog to do fun things when literally all she wants to do is lay on the couch all day 🌊🐶 A post shared by Madelaine Mordenti (@msmordent) on Aug 3, 2019 at 1:09pm PDT Website Dan River Adventures Price: $18 for a standard tube, $40 for a double tube with cupholders Address: 724 Webster Rd., Stoneville, NC Why You Need To Go: There are multiple variations of tubes, kayaks, and canoes people can rent to go down the Dan River. You'll even find class I and II rapids on this waterway. Some tubes even have a cup holder for you to crack open a coldie as you float. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kelsey Shropshire (@kelsshropshire) on Jul 21, 2019 at 10:00am PDT Website Cape Fear River Adventures Price: $22 per adult. You can even add on a tube for your cooler for $11. Address: 100 S Main St., Lillington, NC Why You Need To Go: This adventure takes visitors down two miles of the river, which is surrounded by forests and wildlife. The trip will take around five hours, which is perfect for a hot summer day of lounging the stress away. View this post on Instagram Not accepting the fact that another summer has already come & gone by way too quick! How is it almost over?!? ☀️ 🌊 A post shared by REBECCA FIORENTINO (@beccafiorentino) on Aug 18, 2019 at 4:44pm PDT Website Dillsboro River Company Price: $20 to $25 per adult depending on which run you take. Address: 18 Macktown Rd., Sylva, NC Why You Need To Go: There are two sections at this location, but the high adventure tubing is for those who want a swift, fun float. Most rapids are class II and guests will be able to ride 5.5-miles down the river. No coolers are allowed at this location. View this post on Instagram Thank you to the whitewater kayaker who captured our outlook on life in one photo... Hubs attitude: I have no idea what’s coming but Woo Hoo let’s do it!! My attitude: I’m super uncomfortable and hate not knowing what’s coming but I’ll grit my teeth and try to get through it... . . #whitewaterrafting #coupleswhoadventuretogetherstaytogether #tuckasegeeriver #optoutside #visitnorthcarolina #exploremore A post shared by Alisa Ann (@alisaann_adventures) on Dec 16, 2019 at 3:17am PST Website Loafers Glory Rafting & Tubing Price: $20 per tube; optional $5 tube for your cooler also available. Address: 7550, 2637 NC-226, Bakersville, NC Why You Need To Go: Guests will float down the Toe River and the price includes a tube, a life jacket, a shuttle service to the put-in and pick up and an all-around relaxing float. View this post on Instagram We spent the day floating down the river today. ‘‘Twas a good day full of a lot of laughter and love. 💖 #bachelloretteparty #bridesmaids #asheville #northcarolina #floating A post shared by Kelsey Peterson (@kelseyyyyelizabeth) on May 25, 2019 at 2:48pm PDT Website Green River Price: $10 for 2 hours or $15 for 5 hours. Address: 5200 Green River Cove Rd., Saluda, NC Why You Need To Go: Guests will float next to a lush forest on this river run. You'll have 2 options to choose from. Whether you laze for a little while or float on all day long you'll get some beautiful nature views. View this post on Instagram summer vibez A post shared by Hannah Loftis (@hannahloftis) on Aug 7, 2019 at 5:10pm PDT Website So what are you waiting for? Add these tubing runs to your summer adventure bucket list. Happy floating! We strongly advise that before you go swimming or visit any location, you check the most recent updates on potential hazards, security, water quality, and closures. If you do plan to visit a location, respect the environment.
