A classic Smoky Mountain experience, river tubing is fun for all family members. It’s an affordable, relaxing way to enjoy nature and a great way to stay cool in the summer.
River tubing is one of our favorite ways to escape the summer heat. It’s an excellent alternative to canoeing or kayaking. It’s affordable, requires no experience, everyone gets their own tube, and it keeps everyone cool and happy. Plus, tubing is perfect for kids who might be too young for rafting.
There are two great spots for tubing on the Tennessee side of the Smokies: the Little River near Townsend and the Little Pigeon River near Sevierville. Despite the similar names, these rivers are different. To add to the confusion, the Little Pigeon River isn’t the same as the Pigeon River, which we covered in our post on whitewater rafting Confusing, right? We get it.
Both the Little River and Little Pigeon River offer clear water and beautiful scenery.
Smoky Mountain River Rat provides tubing on the Little River about 30 minutes from Gatlinburg. They offer two trips: the upper section, Outpost B, which is more adventurous and features great swimming holes; and Outpost A, their main location, which is family-friendly with small, refreshing rapids, scenic mountain views, swimming spots, and even a private rock jump! This section is suitable for ages 3+ and is dog-friendly. Both sections offer stunning scenery and plenty of swimming opportunities.
River Romp offers tubing on the Little Pigeon River, about 5 minutes from Pigeon Forge and 20 minutes from Gatlinburg. They offer a 2.5-mile trip starting from their office.
Whichever river or outfitter you choose, a shuttle bus will be provided. Depending on the float trip, they will either drive you to the starting point, from which you float back to their office, or you will start at their office and float to a pick-up point.
Both of these outfitters operate daily during the summer. It’s a good idea to call ahead to ensure they’re open during the spring and fall.
Smoky Mountain Outdoor Center is based on the Little River in Townsend. They also rent bicycles, and Townsend has great bike trails if you want to air-dry after tubing! This place is part of our Free Ticket program, offering over $700 worth of coupons in our Trip Cash gift to cabin guests.
It’s also wise to contact these outfitters to check the river’s water flow. While we’re not experiencing a drought in the Smokies, these rivers are stream-fed and their flow can vary.
River Tubing Outfitters
Smoky Mountain Outdoor Center
7138 E. Lamar Alexander Pkwy.
Townsend TN, 37882
865-448-3500
Web: smoctn.com
Open daily June-August.
Discounts for groups are available.
Smoky Mountain River Rat
205 & 209 Wears Valley Rd.
Townsend, TN 37882
865-448-8888
www.smokymtnriverrat.com/
Open daily June-August.
Discounts for groups are available.
River Romp
1980 Pittman Center Rd.
Sevierville, TN
(865) 774-5994
Web: riverromppf.mobi & Facebook
Open daily Memorial Day through Labor Day
Discounts for groups are available.
