For the most part, a Maine summer means sun and warm (not hot!) temperatures. But, on the days when the mercury climbs, it can feel like a real effort to do anything that requires physical activity. Even things like kayaking down a river are too much effort when all you want to do is relax. This season, when you’re feeling called to the water but would really rather relax, think about doing a little bit of both! These rivers make for some great, chill river tubing in Maine!

1. Stroudwater River, Portland
Stroudwater River, Portland, ME 04102, USA
Corey Templeton/Flickr
If you're based in Portland, this is a great option for enjoying the water without devoting an entire day. Drive about 20 minutes from the city and make your way to the Portland Trails parking lot. You'll put your tube in here and go about a mile and a half toward the Tate House Museum. Plan to get out at the River’s Edge Drive trailhead by mapping things out before you leave. This is one of the best places to go river tubing in the state.
2. Bullfrog Adventures, Caratunk
Bullfrog Adventures, U.S. 201, Caratunk, ME, USA
Julie / TripAdvisor
Bullfrog offers three different tubing options for those who want to have someone else plan the logistics. Choose between a self-guided or group tubing trip down the Kennebec River. Another group trip also takes place on the Dead River.
3. Ogunquit River, Ogunquit
Ogunquit, ME, USA
nolnd / TripAdvisor
While short, this might be the most well-known lazy river on the list. Most of the time a visit to this area will reveal a calm body of water. Not great for tubing at first glance. But, show up halfway between high tide and low tide and you'll find this river picking up its pace as it heads to the ocean. While not fast, a ride here will take you around the bend to the beach where you'll then jump out and start all over again!

Take a look at this video by @liamfogarty4137::
4. Three Rivers Whitewater Rafting, West Forks
Three Rivers Whitewater, 2265 US-201, West Forks, ME 04985, USA
Three Rivers Whitewater Rafting / Facebook
If you're not interesting in doing any of the planning for a lazy river trip, consider booking through a tour company. Three Rivers offers a variety of river adventure, from tubing to whitewater to inflatable kayaks. Tubing trips run down Kennebec River, while inflatable kayak options also include the Dead River and the Seboomook.

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5. Royal River, Yarmouth
Royal River, Maine, USA
Katie Wroniak/AllTrails
The Royal River is a good option for people who have a little extra time as this lazy river in Maine is VERY lazy. In fact, some people plan on coming with a kayaker who can add some pulling when necessary. Head to Route 9 near Old Town House Park to put in. The float is about five miles heading to the town boat launch near East Elm Street. If you don't have a kayak or canoe, someone in your group can rent one in town.

Take a look at this video by @doodydrone:
6. Saco River, Fryeburg
Saco River, United States
sara r / TripAdvisor
This river comes with some differing opinions. Some feel it's a great multi-hour trip on a nice river, while others feel it's been overrun by beer-guzzling partiers. Both are probably true depending on when you go. If you choose to make the trip, you can put in at Swans Falls and get out at the Canal Bridge. This will take about four hours. Bring plenty of sunscreen as you'll be in the direct sun for the majority of the trip.

Take a look at this video by @DragonFlyAerialsLLC:
7. Androscoggin River, Bethel
Bethel Outdoor Adventure and Campground, 121 Mayville Rd, Bethel, ME 04217, USA
Bethel Outdoor Adventure and Campground / Facebook
In addition to fun kayak trips and a campground, Bethel Outdoor Adventure rents tubes for a trip down the Androscoggin. If you'd like to arrange for a shuttle to drop you off and pick you up, they'll handle that too for an additional cost.
8. Presumpscot River, Portland
Presumpscot River Preserve, 99 Overset Rd, Portland, ME 04103, USA
Flickr/Jack Flanagan
This river has a few different options depending on how far you'd like to travel in your tube. To start, head to the Hannaford located in the Riverside neighborhood. Then enjoy the ride down to the Sebago to the Sea trailhead on Blackstrap Road. If you're looking for something longer there's another trailhead where you can hop off on Overset Road. CAUTION: Whatever you choose, be careful to get out of the water before the falls!
9. Crooked River, Waterford
Waterford, ME 04088, USA
damian entwistle/Flickr
You can stay at an Airbnb accommodation known as the Crooked River Tiny House which is definitely best in the summer. Put a tube in the Crooked River and make your way downriver. If you book yourself a stay at the Crooked River Tiny House, you can access it directly behind the house and make your way back home in about two hours.

Have you been river tubing in Maine? Once you’re done spending time on these Maine lazy rivers, think about a meal overlooking one. Check out our previous article to read about our favorite riverfront restaurants in Maine.

Do you have a favorite lazy river to go river tubing in Maine? Tell us about it on our nomination page, and you just might see your suggestion featured in an upcoming article.

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

More to Explore

Outdoor Adventures In Maine

Katie Lawrence | May 18, 2022

Where can I go river tubing in Maine?

There are many places to go river tubing in Maine. For example, float trips are offered by Three Rivers Whitewater in The Forks. From May through October, you can hop in a tube for a relaxing, 2-3 hour adventure on the beautiful Lower Kennebec River. Although Maine does have whitewater rapids, this trip is leisurely, so anyone aged five and above can participate.

Are there any lazy rivers in Maine?

Yes, there are plenty of lazy rivers in Maine and they are a great way to enjoy the state's gorgeous scenery. One favorite river is the Stroudwater River just outside of Portland. Beginning in the Portland Trails parking lot, this quick, 1.5-mile float takes you toward the Tate House Museum before stopping at the River’s Edge Drive trailhead.

What are the best waterparks in Maine?

One of the best waterparks in Maine is Funtown Splashtown USA in Saco. Part waterpark and part amusement park, this family-friendly destination has been a statewide favorite since 1967. Some of the best parts of this waterpark are:

  • The thrill rides
  • Water slides
  • Kid-appropriate attractions like a splash pad and wave pool

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