LURAY WATER ACTIVITIES FIELD GUIDE
Float the Shenandoah: Luray’s 3‑Mile Tubing Float Trip
A guided tubing outing with Shenandoah River Outfitters—3–5 hours on a scenic 3‑mile float—this guide explains what to expect, how to prepare, and the logistics at check‑in.
Float the Shenandoah: Luray’s 3‑Mile Tubing Float Trip.
Arrive at the outfitters in Luray, unload your cooler and move your car to the larger lot past the campground, check in at the office or tube pavilion, then collect an armband, a life jacket, watch a short safety video and board the bus for a 3–5‑hour, 3‑mile float down the Shenandoah.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A 3‑mile float through Shenandoah scenery
The core of the trip is a gentle 3‑mile float — a few hours on the river that lets you relax in a tube and take in the surrounding landscape.
Simple, organized check‑in and staging
On arrival you unload coolers, relocate your vehicle to a larger lot, check in at the office or tube pavilion, receive an armband to ride the bus, and complete any needed waivers before gearing up.
Life jackets, a safety video and staff oversight
Staff issue life jackets, show a safety video and brief participants before boarding the bus and launching — basic measures to keep the float controlled and straightforward.
What the day feels like
What the trip feels like
The outing unfolds as a short, organized sequence: arrival and check‑in, a quick safety orientation and fitting of life jackets, a shuttle by bus to the launch point, and then a relaxed float downhill for roughly three miles — a half‑day river excursion framed by woods and water.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this float suits — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Plan for a 3–5 hour outing that centers on a 3‑mile float; allow extra time for check‑in and the shuttle to the launch.
Sunscreen, swimsuit, hat and sunglasses, change of clothes, river shoes (no flip‑flops), a small cooler with water and snacks (no glass or styrofoam), a waterproof container and a camera.
Don’t bring items you can’t afford to lose; staff can hold car keys at the office as a safety deposit.
Meet at the Shenandoah River Outfitters location in Luray; check in at the office or tube pavilion on arrival.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the tubing trip?
The outing runs approximately 3–5 hours and covers a 3‑mile float.
Where do I check in and what is the address?
Check in at the Shenandoah River Outfitters office or tube pavilion at 6502 S Page Valley Rd, Luray, VA 22835.
What should I bring on the trip?
Bring sunscreen, a swimsuit, hat and sunglasses, river shoes (no flip‑flops), a change of clothes, a small cooler with water and snacks (no glass or styrofoam), a waterproof container and a camera.
Can I bring alcohol or a pet on the tubing float?
No—alcohol is not permitted during river activities; pets are allowed only in canoes and kayaks, not on tubing trips.
Is there a weight limit for tubes?
Yes—tubes have a maximum weight limit of 250 lbs.
What happens at check‑in?
At check‑in you receive an armband for bus access, complete any waivers, are given a life jacket, watch a safety video, and receive trip information from staff.