A summer day in Kentucky is best enjoyed near the water, or better yet, in the water cooling off on a hot day. There are many places to do this in the Bluegrass State, whether you want to relax poolside, hang out on a sandy beach, or take on a water adventure. If you’re looking for a great combination of relaxation and adventure, then Sheltowee Trace Adventure Resort tubing has the right excursion for you with river tubing in this scenic area of Kentucky. With this fun-filled company, you can tube down a portion of the Big South Fork River on this 5,000-foot natural lazy river in Kentucky. It’s among the best river tubing in Kentucky. This exciting and unique activity has summer written all over it.

The Big South Fork River in Kentucky is arguably the most scenic body of water in our state.
Flickr/Anthony
As it winds through rocky cliffs and beautiful forests, the river is a magical place to explore in Kentucky. You can do this in a number of ways (by train, by hiking trail, etc.), but why not get right out there on the water?
That's exactly what Sheltowee Trace Adventure Resort offers and this experience has summer written all over it.
Sheltowee Trace Adventure Resort
Weather and water conditions-dependent of course, the resort offers a tubing trip that takes you right onto this scenic river. There are single and double tubes available, and riders must be 7 years old for a single and 4 years old to ride along in a double. Life jackets are required for all tubers.
This particular tubing trip in Kentucky is unique in that it offers a bit of adventure, as well as a lazy river appeal.
Sheltowee Trace Adventure Resort
The trip takes approximately 1.5-2 hours and covers about a mile of the river. While much of the float is calm and relaxing, you'll also encounter some class I and II rapids along the way. The trip begins at the resort's store at the Blue Heron Mining Community Depot in Stearns, which is a great area to explore before or after your float on the water.

Related Stories

The Most Remote Lake In Kentucky Is Also The Most Peaceful

The Most Remote Lake In Kentucky Is Also The Most Peaceful

 The Small Town Lake In Kentucky That's An Idyllic Summer Day Trip

The Small Town Lake In Kentucky That's An Idyllic Summer Day Trip

 The One Pristine Inland Beach In Kentucky That Will Make You Swear You're On The Coast

The One Pristine Inland Beach In Kentucky That Will Make You Swear You're On The Coast
Sheltowee Trace Adventure Resort offers a number of other excursions that get you out on the water.
Facebook/Sheltowee Trace Adventure Resort
Take a raft right up to Cumberland Falls and enjoy a leisurely riverboat cruise for lunch, among others.
Did you know you can also go whitewater rafting in Kentucky? The resort offers this, as well.
Facebook/Sheltowee Trace Adventure Resort
For a true whitewater rafting experience, check out the spring trip that takes you on the Big South Fork River. There are also trips in summer and fall that take you to Cumberland Falls and are just as scenic as you can imagine.
If talk of whitewater and rapids seems intimidating, there are plenty of calmer choices for getting out on the water.
Facebook/Sheltowee Trace Adventure Resort
Take a kayak or canoe trip along a quiet stretch of the river. They also offer stand-up paddle boarding - another way to get right up next to Kentucky's largest waterfall.
If you don't live near these tubing and river adventures, Sheltowee Trace has several options for overnight accommodations.
Facebook/Sheltowee Trace Adventure Resort
Try something unique like spending the night in a covered wagon. You can also do more traditional camping in a rented cabin, or bring your own tent or RV.

Get a bird’s-eye view of this stunning river:

There are many opportunities to get out and experience the scenic rivers in our state, just be sure to always make safety the number one priority, with fun as a close second. A great way to do this is to tube on this natural lazy river in Kentucky with Sheltowee Trace Adventure Resort for a safe, exciting, and relaxing excursion this summer. Have you been to the best river tubing in Kentucky? What other water activities do you love to do in our state? Let us know in the comments!

For more information on tubing with Sheltowee Trace Adventure Resort, visit the official site and also follow along with them on Facebook. Tubing Office Address: Blue Heron Road, Stearns, KY 42647

Check out the other gorgeous areas along the Big South Fork National River.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Natural Attractions in Kentucky

William Suphan | June 21, 2023

What are the most peaceful places in Kentucky?

The most peaceful places in Kentucky include:

  • Grayson Lake State Park. This is 1,512 acres of pure natural beauty. Paddle on the lake or hike on a trail here and you’ll find sanctuary.
  • Land Between the Lakes. This is a vast region of lakes and forests where you’re sure to find a remote spot to camp in peace.
  • Carter Caves State Resort Park. You’ll find serene pools, verdant forests, and wondrous rock formations all over this beautiful place.
  • Dewey Lake. The crystal clear and vibrant blue waters here will soothe away all of your cares and worries.

Find out more about the most peaceful places in Kentucky.

What are some bucket list natural attractions in Kentucky?

Bucket list natural attractions in Kentucky include:

  • Cumberland Falls. This is the largest waterfall in the state and has several scenic trails where the views will take your breath away.
  • Black Mountain. You’ll find overlooks with amazing views as well as tons of hiking trails and lovely mountain peaks.
  • Raven Run Nature Sanctuary in Lexington. This is a beautiful and serene place to get away from it all and relax.
  • Red River Gorge. There are countless natural wonders here including natural arches, waterfalls, and stunning overlooks.

Learn more about bucket list natural attractions in Kentucky. 

What are the most incredible natural places in Kentucky?

The most incredible natural places in Kentucky include:

  • Mammoth Cave. This is a massive cave system and the extent of it is still being explored and discovered.  
  • Cumberland Gap Natural Historical Park. This utterly stunning park is full of rivers, lush forests, shimmering lakes, and breathtaking views.
  • Central Kentucky Wildlife Refuge. If you love seeing wild animals, this 500-acre preserve is the perfect place to do so.
  • Daniel Boone National Park. This park is replete with stunning waterfalls, scenic trails, idyllic camping spots, and so much more. 

Discover more about the most incredible natural places in Kentucky. 

Related Articles

Explore Kentucky

Featured Addresses
2001 KY-90, Corbin, KY 40701, USA