Let’s Float the Namekagon River!
ENJOY THE VIEW
Who else is in need of a relaxing trip down the calming waters of the Namekagon River? It’s time to rent a tube and plan your next journey. The Namekagon River boasts breathtaking scenery and makes for a phenomenal spot to bring the family for a tubing adventure. The peaceful waters allow for an enjoyable experience all while giving you the opportunity to experience what the Northwoods is all about through picturesque views and abundant wildlife.
You’ll notice that the majority signs of human development virtually disappear as you make your way down the winding river. This is partly due to the Namekagon River being one of the eight original rivers to be designated as a protected area by the National Wild and Scenic Rivers Act of 1968 – making the Namekagon part of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. It is also known as the cleanest tributary of the Mississippi River. You are permitted and encouraged to bring food and drinks with you; however, glass items are strictly prohibited. The NPS, volunteers, and visitors go above and beyond to keep the Namekagon clean and clear. So when you do decide to make a trip – aim to leave the river a little cleaner than you found it.
Be PREPARED – Pack These Things!
Your float can last anywhere from 1 hour to 3.5 hours depending on where you decide to float. That being said, you want to be prepared for the journey. Be sure to let your friends/family know where you are going to be floating and an estimated time that you plan to get off the water, and if possible, keep your phone on you at all times. We went ahead and put together a quick and easy list of 10 things that will make or break your trip. Whatever you do, don’t forget these items!
- Phone – Purchase a waterproof case before your trip! (they even make ones that float)
- More water than you think you need
- Sunscreen and Bug Spray
- River Map
- Waterproof shoes
- Rope/carabiners (you can always purchase some from the rental shop)
- Cooler (with ice!)
- Sunglasses
- Don’t forget the snacks!
- BONUS: Waterproof Bluetooth speaker
These 10 simple items will take your tubing trip to the next level. If you are hoping to see wildlife, throw in a pair of binoculars and/or a waterproof camera, as well! Scared that your 100 proof sunscreen won’t be strong enough to save your skin? Invest in a sunhat so that you can create your own shade! The more you plan ahead, the happier you will be at the end of your trip.
BE RESPECTFUL
There are some days where the river is enjoyed by many tubers, kayakers, canoers, and more. We ask that you be respectful to those around you by giving separate parties space to socially distance, and keep your music down to an appropriate level. As hard as it is to believe, your tubing neighbors may not love Toby Keith as much as you do.
RENT YOUR EQUIPMENT
Below is a list of local businesses that offer tube rental services and other essential items needed for your float.
Lower Namekagon River
W2108 Larson Road, Springbrook, WI, 54875. 715-766-2277
Trip Locations: Namekagon Dam Landing to Trego.
Services: Canoe, kayak, and tube rentals. Shuttle service for non-rentals. groceries, food service, and campsites.
W4606 US Highway 63, Trego, WI 54729. 715-379-0024
Trip Locations: Big Bend Landing to Earl Park
Services: Tube rentals.
N7504 Wagon Bridge Rd, Trego, WI, 54888. 715-635-3300
Trip Locations: Namekagon River, St. Croix River: Gordon Dam Landing to Boom Site Landing.
Services: Canoe, kayak, paddleboard, and tube rentals. Shuttle service for non-renters. Groceries and food service. Campsites.
N7470 Log Cabin Dr., Trego, WI, 54888. 715-635-2959 or 1-877-867-6757
Trip Locations: St. Croix and Namekagon Rivers.
Services: Canoe, kayak, and tube rentals. Shuttle service for non-renters. Groceries and campsites.
Pardun’s Canoe Rental & Shuttle Service
7595 Main St., Highway 77, Danbury, WI 54830. 715-656-7881
Trip Locations: Namekagon River: Hayward to Riverside Landing. St. Croix: Gordon Dam to Highway 70.
Services: Canoe, kayak, and tube rentals. Shuttle service for non-renters.
Upper Namekagon River
11544 N. Highway 63, Hayward, WI 54843. 715-634-2331
Trip Locations: Cable Landing to Stinnett Landing.
Services: Canoe, kayak, and tube rentals. Shuttle service for non-renters. Groceries and food service. Campsites.
N7550 Canfield Dr., Trego, WI, 54888. 715-635-3300 or 715-635-3211
Trip Locations: Namekagon River, Gordon Dam Landing to St. Croix Falls.
Services: Canoe, kayak, paddleboard, and tube rentals. Shuttle service for non-renters. Groceries and food service. Campsites.
N7470 Log Cabin Dr., Trego, WI, 54888. 715-635-2959 or 1-877-867-6757
Trip Locations: St. Croix and Namekagon rivers.
Services: Canoe, kayak, and tube rentals. Shuttle service for non-renters. Groceries and campsites.
Pardun’s Canoe Rental & Shuttle Service
7595 Main St., Highway 77, Danbury, WI 54830. 715-656-7881
Trip Locations: Namekagon River: Hayward to Riverside Landing. St. Croix: Gordon Dam to Highway 70.
Services: Canoe, kayak, and tube rentals. Shuttle service for non-renters.
Find additional outfitters HERE. We hope that your river trip is safe, fun, and full of memories that you will cherish for the rest of your life. For more information on tubing along the Namekagon, daily updates on river conditions, and online maps, visit https://namekagonriver.org/tubing/.