River Tubing and Kayaking FAQ - Delaware River

How long does it take to float down the river?

The tubing route is 5 miles long. Depending on the river conditions this can usually take 90 minutes to 3+ hours. Trips can be as little as 90 minutes when the river is fast or up to 4 hours when it is slow. Your rental is for one trip. The default reservation is for 4 hours, but your reservation is for one trip regardless of duration. 

How long is my tube or kayak rental?

River tube rentals are for one trip down the river. See above.

Kayak rentals are for 4 hours, though the 7 mile kayak route from Kingwood Boat Ramp to the stairs at Point Pleasant (NJ side) can be paddled in 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on river conditions. Kayaks must be returned on time or are subject to a 50% overtime charge. 

How long does it take to kayak down the river?

The kayaking route is 7 miles long, from Kingwood Boat Launch to the stairs at Point Pleasant (NJ side). Depending on the river conditions this can usually take 2 to 2.5 hours, but it may be quicker when the river is fast. Your rental is for up to 4 hours. Kayak trips may be slightly shorter if we use the Fairwood access to launch. You can launch at Fairview only if you are going with a group tubes, reducing the trip to 5 or 6 miles.  

Do I need a reservation for river tubing rentals?

Reserving online is strongly recommended. Walk-in customers can sometimes be accommodated, but cannot be guaranteed, and waiting time might be substantial. As a walk-in, you will be limited to our standard tube. Kayaks are typically not available for walk-ins. It is best to make your reservation online. Phone reservations are not always available. If you do make a phone reservation there is a $10 convenience fee.

How old do you need to be for Delaware River tubing and kayak rentals?

  • The minimum age for tubing with an open bottom tube is 8 years old.
  • The minimum age for tubing with a closed bottom tube is 6 years old.
  • The minimum age for kayaking is 10 years old in a tandem and 12 years old solo. Kayaking experience is required.
  • Under high river conditions, the minimum age may be increased and children may at times not be permitted. The decision of the manager is final on this.
  • All children under the age of 18 need to be accompanied by an adult at least 18 years of age. A parent or legal guardian must sign a waiver. 
  • All children under 12 must be tethered to an adult's tube.

Do I need to wear a PFD or life vest while tubing or kayaking?

You must wear an US Coast Guard approved-PFD at all times while tubing or boating. 

Do I need to sign a waiver?

A signed waiver is required for all adults. Minors under the age of 18 must have a waiver signed by a parent or legal guardian. Please sign your waiver in advance to save time at check-in. 

Can we bring alcohol on our tubing trip?

Alcohol is not permitted while tubing or boating, nor are you permitted to be inebriated at the start of your trip. Anyone with alcohol or found to be inebriated or under the influence of illegal drugs will be asked to leave. No refund will be given.

Can I bring my own tube or cooler float?

No. You must use our tubes and cooler float. You can bring your own cooler.

Can I bring my own PFD?

Yes, so long as it is an USGS approved Class III PFD and it fits properly.

Can I bring my own tube?

You may not bring your own tube. Only our rental tubes are permitted.

Is the Big Bear Gear Tubing Center at the Big Bear Gear Store?

No. The Big Bear Gear Tubing Center is located in Kingwood, NJ, about 15 miles from our store in Lambertville, NJ. The exact location is here. 

Our Delaware River tubing operation is located at the Cooley Tract of the D&R Canal State Park on Route 29. This is approximately 0.9 miles south of the Kingwood boat launch and 1.8 miles south of Frenchtown. Look for the yellow Big Bear Gear Tubing flags. You can search for the Big Bear Gear Tubing Center if you have an android phone and use GPS. Do not use Apple Maps.  
Please note, the Big Bear Gear Tubing Center is not located at our store, which is located in Lambertville, about 15 miles south. 

What is the refund policy?

Advance tickets may be refunded up to 24 hours prior to your reservation for individuals and up to 72 hours prior to your reservation for Group Sales. After that, tickets are non-refundable unless we close for inclement weather or river conditions and you cannot begin your trip. In that case you will be offered a refund or the opportunity to book for another date. On-site tickets are not refundable once you have boarded the van or shuttle. There are no refunds if your trip is cut short due to unexpected weather or river conditions. There are no refunds if your trip is terminated for violation of any of our policies.

Do children need supervision while tubing?

All minors (less than 18 year of age) require adult supervision at all times. At least one adult age 18 and over is required per six minors. Children under 12 must be tethered to an adult's tube. Parental or legal guardian consent is required for all minors.

Can I bring my pet?

For the safety of your pet, they are not allowed.

Is food available?

We have snacks and drinks but if you want sandwiches or a meal you should bring that with you.

Do I need a parking permit?

Yes. All vehicles require a parking permit. Key check is mandatory.