Dryland Aquatics 41115 Sparks Rd, Sparks, NE 69220 US
Canoe & Kayak Prices
3 Hour Floats
Cornell Bridge (Fort Niobrara Wildlife Refuge) to Smith Falls State Park
Shuttle Times
Monday - Friday 8:30 Sunday 8:30
Canoe
$55
(per person)
Kayak
$55
(per person)
Tandem Kayak
$55
(per person)
4 Hour Floats
Cornell Bridge (Fort Niobrara Wildlife Refuge) to Brewer Bridge
shuttle Times
Monday - Friday 8:30 Sunday 8:30
Canoe
$55
(per person)
Kayak
$55
(per person)
Tandem Kayak
$55
(per person)
4 Hour Floats
Berry Bridge to Sunny Brook
Shuttle Times
Monday -Friday 8:30 Sunday 8:30
Canoe
$65
(per person)
Kayak
$65
(per person)
Tandem Kayak
$65
(per person)
5 Hour Floats
Cornell Bridge (Fort Niobrara Wildlife Refuge) to Stan's Landing
Shuttle Times
Monday - Friday 8:30 Sunday 8:30
Canoe
$65
(per person)
Kayak
$65
(per person)
Tandem Kayak
$65
(per person)
6 Hour Floats
Cornell Bridge (Fort Niobrara Wildlife Refuge) to Sunny Brook
Shuttle Times
Monday - Friday 8:30 Sunday 8:30
Canoe
$65
(per person)
Kayak
$65
(per person)
Tandem Kayak
$65
(per person)
Other Floats
CALL US FOR TRIPS NOT LISTED
If you want a shorter trip or to get out at a different landing. We will try and accommodate you depending on the day and our schedule.
All trip times are estimations. May very depending on multiple factors. Rates are per person for Kayaks, and Canoes. This includes a shuttle from Sparks, life jackets and paddles (canoes and kayaks only). Kids 10 and under can ride third in a canoe for free with paying adults. When booking online for a child aged 10 or under, simply book the paying adult's gear. * TAX, LAUNCH AND LANDING FEES ARE INCLUDED IN THE PRICE. *TRIPS STARTING FROM CORNELL BRIDGE (Fort Niobrara Wildlife Refuge launch site) TO BERRY BRIDGE ALCOHOL IS NOT ALLOWED. FROM BERRY BRIDGE ON ALCOHOL IS PERMITTED. PLEASE KEEP THIS IN MIND WHEN YOU BOOK YOUR TRIP. * IF YOU PARK AT SMITH FALLS STATE PARK YOU WILL NEED A PARK STICKER. THEY ARE AVAILABLE AT THE PARK OFFICE. (Stan's Landing trips available from 5/24/2025 - 8/9/2025 parking at Stan's Landing will cost $10)
Shuttle For Canoes and Kayaks
Shuttle Times
All canoe and kayak trip starting at Cornell Bridge (Fort Niobrara Wildlife Refuge) will be at 8:30 only. (Monday - Friday only)
Trips Starting at Berry Bridge will be available at 8:30 and 10:30. (Monday - Friday only)
Any other shuttle times will have to be scheduled over the phone and may not be available depending on the day.
Call for canoe or kayak trips on Saturdays or Sunday.
Cancellation policy
Liability Disclaimer
Being Perpered
what We Provided
- Life Jackets: Essential for safety on the water.
- Paddles: For steering and navigating your watercraft.
- Shuttle Services: Convenient transport to and from launch and take-out points.
- Kayaks: Available for rent to explore the river.
- Canoes: Classic option to rent for a river adventure.
- Tubes: Perfect to rent for a leisurely float down the river.
What to bring
.
- Sunscreen: To protect your skin from UV rays.
- Dry Bags: To keep your belongings dry.
- Waterproof Case: To protect your phone.
- Hat and Sunglasses: For additional sun protection.
- Water Shoes: For wading and walking on rocky areas.
- Swimwear: For a refreshing dip.
- Towel: Dry off after your float.
- Food and Snacks: To keep your energy up.
- Drinking Water: Stay hydrated throughout the trip.
- Extra Clothes: In case you get wet.
- Trash Bags: Leave no trace and keep the river clean.
what to leave
- Valuables: Leave keys, jewelry, expensive electronics, and any irreplaceable items at home or in your car to avoid loss or damage.
- Glass Containers: These can break easily and pose a hazard. Stick to plastic or aluminum.
- Heavy Backpacks: Pack light to keep your watercraft balanced and maneuverable.
- Non-Waterproof Electronics: If you must bring electronics, ensure they are in waterproof cases or dry bags.
- Large Coolers: Opt for smaller, portable coolers that won’t tip over or weigh down your vessel.
- Styrofoam Coolers: Styrofoam breaks easily and leaves waste that does not decompose.
- Pets: The river can be unpredictable, and it's best to leave pets at home unless they're experienced with water trips.
- Expensive Clothing: Wear attire suitable for water activities avoid bringing fancy or delicate clothing.
- Firearms or Weapons: These are unnecessary and can be dangerous in a recreational setting.
- Excessive Trash: Bring trash bags to pack out what you pack in and leave no trace.
- Anything Irreplaceable: If it would devastate you to lose it, it's best to leave it behind.
Experiencing the Niobrara River
Getting Started
Your journey begins as you launch your canoe, kayak, or tube into the Niobrara’s gentle current. The river's calm start is perfect for easing into the experience for any skill level from a novice to a pro. Rocks, Bridge pilons and some tree branches are some obstacles to avoid. There are a few rapids along the way, but they are easy to navigate. Larger class rapids are further down river from our landing spots.
Scenic Views
As you drift along, the scenery is nothing short of spectacular. Towering cliffs, lush forests, and open meadows frame the river, providing a picturesque backdrop. Keep an eye out for wildlife you might see deer, raccoons, turtles, eagles, and many other animals.
Water Falls
Enjoy all the water falls the Niobrara River has to offer. A major highlight of the trip is passing by Smith Falls State Park, home to Nebraska’s tallest waterfall. Take a break to stretch your legs and enjoy the sight and sound of the cascading water.
Sandbars and Picnic Spots
Along the way, you’ll encounter numerous sandbars—ideal spots to pull over for a swim, picnic, or just to soak up the sun. These natural rest stops are perfect for breaking up the trip and enjoying the tranquil environment. Along with Smith Falls State Park and Brewer Bridge they are perfect places to stop for a picnic and to use the restrooms.
Diverse Ecosystems
The Niobrara River is known for its unique convergence of ecosystems. You’ll float through regions where eastern deciduous forests meet western coniferous forests, northern boreal forest, tallgrass prairie, mixed grass prairie and Sandhills prairie grass creating a blend of plant and animal life that’s rare to see in one place.
Mild Rapids
While largely calm, the Niobrara does feature some mild rapids and choppie waters. These provide just enough excitement to keep things interesting without being too challenging for beginners. There are some higher class rapids located further down the river, but most of the river is suitable for beginners.
Ending your Trip
Your float concludes as you approach one of the designated take-out points. Please pull up your equipment and flip it over, gather your supplies and make your way to your vehicle or to your shuttle. Help keep the Niobrara Beautiful and leave only footprints.