Drift down Ohio’s serene Mad River with Birch Bark Canoe Livery’s beginner-friendly 5-mile trip. This easy paddle combines gentle currents, shaded riverbanks, and a charming waterfall for a laid-back floating experience.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal paddling required, making it accessible for children and seniors with basic mobility.
Wildlife
History
The Mad River area was historically used for modest farming communities, reflected in landmarks like the Tractor Crossing waterfall.
Conservation
Birch Bark Canoe Livery promotes sustainable recreation practices to protect the Mad River’s water quality and riparian habitats.
Birch Bark Canoe Livery
Drift down Ohio’s serene Mad River with Birch Bark Canoe Livery’s beginner-friendly 5-mile trip. This easy paddle combines gentle currents, shaded riverbanks, and a charming waterfall for a laid-back floating experience.
Birch Bark Canoe Livery operates on the Mad River and offers tubing trips, a beginner-friendly 5‑mile float, and tent camping for overnight stays.
Trip offerings include the 2 Hour Tube Only Trip, the 4 Hour Tube Only Trip, The Scout — 5 Mile Trip, and flexible Camping options. Tube trips feature shuttle service for easy returns and require no paddling, allowing guests to relax while floating through shaded river areas with wildlife viewing. The 2 Hour Tube Only Trip covers about 2.5 miles and emphasizes a short, easy float. The 4 Hour Tube Only Trip spans about 5 miles, passes a mini waterfall, and offers extended time on the water for scenic enjoyment. The Scout is a beginner-friendly, self-guided 5‑mile float with minimal paddling, lush tree cover, crystal-clear water, and a notable "Tractor Crossing" waterfall.
Camping options allow visitors to pitch tents and stay overnight with flexible stay lengths suited to quick getaways or longer retreats. Trip summaries list distances, durations, shuttle logistics for tube floats, and float difficulty so visitors can select the right experience on the Mad River. Scheduling details, equipment rental options, and safety guidelines are provided by the livery at booking and check-in to set clear expectations.
River Location
Mad River
Scenic river for tubing
Trip Durations
2–4 hours
Short and longer floats
Trips Offered
4 Trips
Tube floats and camping
Camping Available
Tent camping
Flexible stay options
Select a 2‑hour float, a 4‑hour tubing route, The Scout 5‑mile self-guided trip, or an overnight tent camping stay — check trip details and availability.
Wear appropriate footwear
Bring rugged water shoes or old sneakers to protect your feet from slippery rocks and river debris.
Pack sunscreen and bug spray
The heavy tree cover provides shade but not complete protection from sun or insects—come prepared.
Secure your valuables
Use a dry bag to keep phones, keys, and snacks safe and dry during the float.
Arrive early for shuttle pickup
Plan to check in at least 15 minutes before your launch for a smooth shuttle ride to Lippincott Road.
Water shoes
Protects feet from rocky riverbeds and keeps you comfortable during and after the float.
summer
Dry bag
Keeps valuables dry and secure while on the water.
Sunscreen
Protects skin from sun exposure even in shaded areas.
spring
Bug spray
Helps prevent insect bites common near riverbanks in warmer months.
summer