Float Like A Pro
Be in the Know, Float Like a Pro
Stay safe, respect the river, and don't be "that guy."
Walking toward the Main Gate for a show at Hayden Homes Amphitheater it's impossible to miss the flotillas of tubes, SUPs, rafts, and folks enjoying the lovely Deschutes River that flows through the Old Mill District. Often we see brave folks floating during the concerts, soaking in the last rays of sunshine and the talent of world class musicians. Why would you want to be anywhere else on a toasty Central Oregon summer day? We get it.
We also want to assist folks with information on how to float like a pro -- where to park, how to shuttle, ways to respect the riparian area -- you get it.
Parking for Floaters:
Park & Float: located at Simpson Ave. and Bradbury Way, across from The Pavilion at 1000 SW Bradbury Way. The Park and Float has free parking, rental services, access to the river shuttle and more. It’s a convenient one-stop location for a day of river fun. Shuttle rides are $5. (Directions)
Riverbend Park, 799 SW Columbia St. (westside) (Directions)
McKay Park, 166 SW Shevlin Hixon Dr. (westside) (Directions)
Miller’s Landing Park, 80 NW Riverside Blvd. (eastside) (Directions)
Ride the River shuttle service:
The Ride the River shuttle starts and ends at Park & Float, beginning June 14 (weather permitting) and ending on Labor Day. Round trip makes transportation easy for river users with shuttles departing every 15-20 minutes from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Advanced tickets available at Tumalo Creek Kayak & Canoe. Reservations for 2025 season are available now. On your reservation date, check-in at Park & Float for the wrist band valid the entire day.
If your plan is to float from Riverbend Park to Drake Park we highly recommend parking in “the middle” across from The Pavilion to split up your walk time. It's about one mile before and one mile after. Please respect neighborhoods, businesses and parking time limits. Also note new neighborhood parking permit requirements and tow zones.
Protect the river + respect fellow floaters:
Every summer, more than 250,000 people take to the Deschutes, which means it’s up to all of us to keep it clean and safe. Follow the Enjoy - Protect - Respect guidelines by securing your belongings, using durable tubes, and respecting local wildlife. A stress-free float starts with preparation, let's break it down:
· Safety first. Tumalo Creek Kayak & Canoe provides a quick but essential safety talk before you hit the water. Pay attention, it covers everything from river etiquette to navigating currents.
· Shoes save the day. Water shoes or river sandals will protect your feet from unexpected rocky surprises. Flip-flops? Leave them in the car for afterwards.
· No dogs allowed. As much as we love our four-legged friends, rental tubes aren’t built for paws and claws.
· Leave the drinks on dry land. Alcohol isn’t allowed on the river, so save the celebratory sip for later.
· Life jackets are free. PFDs (personal flotation devices) are available at no extra charge. They’re not just a good idea, they’re required for children 12 and under.
· Secure your gear. No one wants to fish for their phone mid-float, so bring a dry bag or leave valuables behind.
So, what do you say? Ready to float, soak up the sun, and be a steward of the Deschutes? Gear up, plan ahead, and make every river day one to remember... just don't be that guy.
