Dryland Aquatics 41115 Sparks Rd, Sparks, NE 69220 US
Tubing Prices
4 Hour Floats
Berry Bridge to Brewer Bridge
Shuttle Times:
M-F 8:30 & 10:30 Sat. 8:30, 9:30, 10:30 & 11:30 Sun. 8:30 & 10:30
Single Tube (4 Hour Float)
$55
70" tube for one
Double Tube (4 Hour Float)
$110
80" tube for two
$110 for any one day trip. Holds two adults or one adult/kids 10 + and up to two kids under 10.
backrest Tube (4 Hour Float)
$65
78" x 73" tube for two
$65 per person (2 person minimum $130) for any one day trip. Holds two adults or one adult and up to two kids under 10.
Cooler Tubes
Cooler Tube
$25
48" x 36" tube size and 28" x 17" inside dimensions.
Fits 36 quarts to 50 quarts
6 Hour Floats
Berry Bridge to Stan's Landing
Shuttle Times
8:30 & 10:30 (M-F) 8:30 - 10:30 Sat. 8:30 & 10:30 Sun.
SINGLE TUBE (6 HOUR FLOAT)
$65
70" tube for one
DOUBLE TUBE (6 HOUR FLOAT)
$130
80" tube for two
$130 for any one day trip. Holds two adults or one adult/kids 10 + and up to two kids under 10.
BACKREST TUBE (6 HOUR FLOAT)
$70
78" x 73" tube for two
$70 per person (2 person minimum $140) Holds two adults, two Adults and one kid under 10 or one adult and up to two kids under 10.
Cooler Tubes
Cooler Tube
$25
48" x 36" tube size and 28" x 17" inside dimensions.
Fits 36 quarts to 50 quarts
Other Trips
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 Tubes. This includes a shuttle from Sparks and your life jacket. Kids 10 and under ride free with a paying adult. 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. OTHER FEES MAY APPLY. *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 cost $10 )
Tube SizE & Style
Cancellation policy
Liability Disclaimer
Shuttle Times
Shuttle times for Tubes
Weekday Trips (Monday-Friday):
8:30 and 10:30 for trips ending at Brewer Bridge (4 hours)
8:30 and 10:30 for trips ending at Stan's Landing (6 hours)
Saturday Trips:
8:30, 9:30, 10:30, 11:30 for trips Ending at Brewer Bridge (4 hours)
8:30, 9:30, 10:30 for trips ending at Stan's Landing (6 hours)
Sunday Trips:
8:30 and 10:30 for Both Brewer Bridge and Stan's Landing
Any other shuttle times will have to be scheduled over the phone. May not be available depending on the day and our schedule.
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: For drying off after swimming.
- 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 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, eagles, and various waterfowl.
WaterFalls
Enjoy all the waterfalls 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 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. The sense of accomplishment and relaxation from the journey is accompanied by the serene beauty of the river, leaving you refreshed and inspired. Please help clean up trash, unhook your tubes, gather your supplies and make your way to your vehicle or to your shuttle. Help keep the Niobrara Beautiful and leave only footprints.