Campbell's Canoes, Kayaks & Tubing: Roscommon’s River Escape for Every Adventurer
Campbell's Canoes, Kayaks & Tubing offers a refreshing river tubing experience on Michigan's Au Sable River in Roscommon. This local favorite balances relaxed floating with practical guidance, making it ideal for both newcomers and seasoned paddlers eager to engage with nature’s flow.
Adventure Tips
Start Early for Tranquil Waters
Launching in the morning grants you cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and gentler currents — ideal for a relaxed tubing experience.
Wear Water Shoes
Gripping shoes protect feet on rocky shores and slippery riverbanks, ensuring safe entries and exits from the water.
Pack a Waterproof Dry Bag
Keep valuables and extra clothes dry by using a secure, waterproof bag — essential for protecting phones, keys, and snacks.
Hydrate and Protect from Sun
Bring plenty of water and apply waterproof sunscreen regularly to stay energized and shielded from the sun’s rays.
Campbell's Canoes, Kayaks & Tubing: Roscommon’s River Escape for Every Adventurer
In the heart of Roscommon, Michigan, Campbell's Canoes, Kayaks & Tubing stands out as the go-to local hub for river tubing and paddling adventures. The Au Sable River here is no passive waterway; it actively engages those who step into its current, daring you to drift along its clear, cool reaches that thread through verdant forests and open meadows. Whether you want an easy float or a more stirred experience, the section serviced by Campbell's provides a blend of manageable rapids and calm pools, perfect for casual floaters and thrill-seekers alike.
The tubing routes typically cover about 4 to 6 miles of river course, enough to feel like an escape but short enough to complete comfortably in an afternoon. The terrain banks alternate from shaded forest patches, where sunlight dapples off the moving water and birds call out, to stretches of open sky revealing wide grassy banks. The river's voice shifts with the season—sometimes a lazy lull, other times a push that moves your tube briskly downstream.
Campbell's is more than just a rental spot; it’s a practical launch point with reliable equipment and knowledgeable staff who prepare you with safety tips and route advice. Key to a smooth day is timing – mornings offer cooler air and smoother waters, while afternoons can bring more crowd and spirited currents. Hydration is crucial: bring plenty of water, slap on waterproof sunscreen, and lace up water shoes or sandals with grip to keep you steady on rocky launches and riverbanks.
Most tubing trips last roughly 2 to 3 hours, giving you plenty of moments to pause, soak in the scenery, or explore small offshoot trails alongside the water. Wildlife is often visible—watch for herons skimming the surface or deer drinking at bends. For those who want a step beyond tubing, Campbell’s also rents canoes and kayaks, opening doors for more active paddling and exploration of narrower creek channels nearby.
Pragmatically, pack a dry bag for essentials, a quick-dry towel, and a change of clothes. The river demands respect; currents can pull in unexpected ways, and weather can turn quickly. Prepare for sudden winds or showers, and always heed river guides’ advice.
Campbell's Canoes, Kayaks & Tubing isn’t just a place to rent gear; it’s an entry into a lively conversation with nature—one where the river pulls, guides, and rewards those willing to go with its flow. For anyone visiting Roscommon, this local favorite shapes a refreshing, accessible river adventure that invites participation without pressure, inviting you to reconnect with the outdoors on your terms.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a typical tubing trip from Campbell’s last?
Most tubing routes from Campbell’s cover approximately 4 to 6 miles and take about 2 to 3 hours, depending on water flow and how often you stop to rest or explore.
Are there any safety concerns to keep in mind on the Au Sable River?
While generally safe, the river has sections with moderate currents and some small rapids that require attention. Wearing water shoes and a life vest is recommended, and always listen to guidance from Campbell’s staff.
What wildlife might I see along the river?
Frequent sightings include great blue herons, kingfishers, white-tailed deer along the banks, and occasionally river otters. Early mornings increase the chances of spotting more active wildlife.
Can I bring my own tube or kayak?
Yes, Campbell’s welcomes locally owned equipment but advises ensuring your gear meets safety standards and is appropriate for river conditions.
Is tubing available year-round?
Tubing is primarily a spring to early fall activity. Rentals are closed in winter due to cold temperatures and unsafe river conditions.
Are there any hidden spots or viewpoints near Campbell’s rentals?
Just upstream, a small forested trail offers a quiet overlook where the river curves and widens, providing a peaceful spot for reflection and photography.
Recommended Gear
Water Shoes
Protects feet on rocky launches and slippery riverbanks, essential for safe navigation in and out of the river.
Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps valuables and clothes dry, ensuring peace of mind during the float.
Sunscreen
Water-resistant sunscreen guards skin from prolonged sun exposure and reflective water surfaces.
Hydration Pack or Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is key during river outings; a hydration pack allows hands-free sipping.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- "The quiet forest trail upstream offers a shaded viewpoint of the river’s bends, often missed by tubes."
- "A nearby small waterfall, a short hike from the river, provides a refreshing break from the float."
Wildlife
- "Great blue herons"
- "River otters"
- "Kingfishers"
- "White-tailed deer"
History
"The Au Sable River corridor was historically vital to the region’s logging industry and served as a transportation route before recreational use took precedence in the mid-20th century."