If you’re planning a trip to one of the best family campgrounds in New Hampshire, river tubing should be at the top of your must-do list. Nestled in the heart of the White Mountains, Jellystone Park™ Glen Ellis offers a tubing experience that perfectly blends relaxation, adventure, and family-friendly fun—making it one of the best places to camp in New Hampshire.

Whether you’re staying in an RV, tent site, or enjoying cabin rentals near North Conway, here’s everything you need to know before you hit the water.

Two Rivers, Two Unique Experiences

One of the things that sets this riverfront campground in New Hampshire apart is access to two different rivers:

Ellis River: Calm, smooth, and perfect for a relaxing float. Think lazy-river vibes—great for families with younger kids or anyone looking to unwind.
Saco River: A bit more adventurous, with moderate rapids and a rockier bottom. Ideal if you want a little excitement during your float.

This variety is a big reason why our New Hampshire camping resort is considered one of the top campgrounds on the Saco River and a standout for Saco River camping.

Tube Rentals & What’s Included

Getting out on the water is simple and convenient. Tube rentals are available at the Ranger Station for $15 per person per day, and guests can rent for multiple days if they want to float more than once during their stay. Each tube includes a built-in cup holder, making it easy to relax and enjoy the ride. Guests are also welcome to bring their own tubes if they prefer, which adds flexibility for families returning year after year.

What to Wear for Tubing

Dressing appropriately can make a big difference in your overall experience. Bathing suits are recommended for comfort, and water or river shoes are especially helpful when navigating areas like the Saco River where the riverbed can be rocky. If you don’t have water shoes, they are available for purchase at the Ranger Station, making it easy to grab what you need without leaving the park.

Safety on the River

Tubing is meant to be fun and relaxing, but safety is always important. Guests must be at least 18 years old to rent a tube, and anyone younger than that must be accompanied by an adult. Anyone planning to tube should feel comfortable swimming, and younger children should always be closely supervised. With a little preparation and awareness, guests can enjoy a smooth and stress-free float on either river.

Fun for the Whole Family

While tubing is a major draw, it’s only part of what makes this one of the best family campgrounds in New Hampshire. Jellystone Park™ Glen Ellis is packed with attractions designed for all ages, creating a true campground with water park experience that goes far beyond the river. Families can spend their days cooling off in the pools, racing down water slides, or letting younger campers splash and play in interactive water features.

Beyond the water attractions, there’s even more to explore throughout our Saco River campground. Kids can enjoy playgrounds and themed activities, while families can take part in games, events, and outdoor recreation that keep the fun going all day long. Whether you’re relaxing at your site, making memories together outdoors, or jumping into all the on-site excitement, it’s easy to see why this is a favorite for family campgrounds in New Hampshire!

If you’re ready to float, relax, and make the most of summer, now’s the perfect time to book your river tubing trip at Jellystone Park™ Glen Ellis.