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Creek Tubing: Budget-Friendly Family Fun

Tubing usually runs from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day; however depending on the weather, it can start early of continue on into September. Check with tube rental companies for specifics.

Tube rental companies are located on West Deep Creek Road, near the National Park entrance. The original black truck tubes are a thing of the past. All the vendors have light-weight inflatables with seats – which can be rented for the day.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park requires all children 13 years of age and younger to wear a life jacket while tubing. You may bring your own vest, or pick one up when you are renting your tube.

From the parking lot at the Deep Creek trailhead, you carry your inner tube upstream less than a mile into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on the Deep Creek trail. The put-in is where Indian Creek flows into Deep Creek.

It’s advisable to wear a bathing suit or shorts, tee shirt and secure shoes. Watches and loose jewelry should be left behind, and eyeglasses should be secured with a head strap. Finally, because our mountain streams and rivers are cool, you should bring towels and a change of dry clothes.

Parking Fees

Parking tags are required in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Three tag durations will be available for purchase for all vehicle sizes and types: Daily, $5; Weekly, $15; or Annual, $40. Tags may be purchased online, or on-site. Parking tags will NOT be required for motorists who pass through the area or who park for less than 15 minutes, or while parked at their designated campsite. Parking Program Info

Whitewater Tubing

The upper whitewater section flows from Indian Creek through the narrow Deep Creek gorge. This is a wild, bouncy ride that often separates the rider from the tube, especially when the water is swift after a rain.

Swimming Hole

At the end of the rapids section, there’s a wide, deep swimming hole that provides a relaxing break before getting back on the tube.