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A small child sitting on a raft on the banks of the Boise River eating a sandwich.
Stephanie McNulty worked in partnership with Visit Idaho to create this Travel Tip.

The Boise River offers an incredible opportunity for families to enjoy a day of both adventure and relaxation together in Boise. Floating the Boise River with kids is the perfect way to create lasting memories as a family and beat the summer heat. It’s important to remember that this is a wild river with natural and structural hazards that are changing constantly. Taking the time to properly prepare can ensure a successful and enjoyable floating experience with your little ones.

Here is everything you need to know to make this adventure happen! 

Small child waits by raft.
Kids of all ages enjoy the leisurely Boise River float. Photo Credit: Stephanie McNulty.

Planning Your Trip

The ideal time for floating the Boise River with kids is during the summer months when the weather is warm, and the water levels are safe. Check the Float the Boise webpage or consult local authorities for updates on water levels, as they can vary depending on rainfall and dam releases. Safe river flows are between 500-1,500 cubic feet, anything faster is not safe for kids.

Barber Park (the put-in) and Ann Morrison Park (the take-out) are open from sunrise to sunset. Shuttle services from Ann Morrison to Barber Park ($3 per person and cash is encouraged) operate noon to 9pm. Making a plan for parking is important. Many streets near the put-in at Barber Park are designated as residential parking districts, so please look for ‘No Parking’ signs. Parking in an unauthorized area could result in towing or ticketing. A lot with limited parking is available at Barber Park for $7 between 9am and 7:30pm. Free parking is available at the take-out location at Ann Morrison Park.

Shuttle bus waiting to pick up passengers.
Waiting to take the shuttle from Ann Morrison to Barber Park. Photo Credit: Stephanie McNulty.

Equipment is available for rent at Barber Park from Boise River Raft & Tube. The rental facilities are open 11-6pm Monday through Friday and 10am-6pm on weekends. Check their website for current pricing. Note: You must have a valid ID and credit card to rent equipment. Depending on the age and preference of your children, you can opt for individual tubes or inflatable rafts. Tubes are generally more suitable for older children who can comfortably sit and float on their own, while rafts provide a larger, more stable option for families with younger kids. You can also bring your own tube or raft. Remember to bring your own inflation device as none are available. If planning to use the shuttle, your vessel will need to be deflated prior to loading onto the bus. 

Gather Essential Supplies

These may include sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, water shoes, life jackets (required by law for children under 14), snacks, water, towels, and a waterproof bag to protect valuables.

People prepare to launch raft into river.
Grab your raft or tube and head to Barber Park to float the river. Photo Credit: Stephanie McNulty.

The Boise River Float

The Boise River float starts at Barber Park and ends 6.5 miles down river at Ann Morrison Park. It takes about three hours to complete. This section offers scenic views and is suitable for all ages. There are plenty of areas to stop for lunch as well as a few fun rope swings and jumping spots along the way.

There are three Class II rapids during the first half of the float. The first rapid is called Bubb Dam and is about 20 minutes into the float with a 2-3 foot drop. The second rapid is called Rock Garden and occurs a mile later. The third is Mesa Rapids with 1-2 foot drop a half mile later. 

There are three restrooms along the route a short distance from the river. The first is on the right side of the river next to Warm Springs Golf Course, just before Baybrook Bridge. The second is on the right side of the river just after Baybrook Bridge. The last one is at Julia Davis Park on the right side of the river. Restrooms are available at the put-in and take out locations as well.

Kids stare over the front of a raft while floating.
The kids will love floating and watching the fish in the water below. Photo Credit: Stephanie McNulty.

Safety Considerations

Safety is a top priority and is the responsibility of every floater. Here are a few important considerations:

  • Life jackets should be worn by everyone but are required for children under 14. Ensure that life jackets are properly fitted and provide the appropriate level of flotation for each child’s weight and size. A lifejacket loaner station is located at the put-in in Barber Park; be sure to return the lifejacket to the kiosk in Ann Morrison Park when you finish your float.
  • Never float the river alone. Use a buddy system and keep your group intact. Remember that drinking alcohol on the river is illegal.
  • Avoid low-hanging branches and banks with snags and be sure to pay attention to what is coming downstream. Be an active paddler to avoid hazards and float in the middle of the river as much as possible.
  • If you accidentally end up in the water, get your feet and head to the surface with feet pointing downstream (whitewater swimming position). Swim aggressively away from obstacles as needed.
  • Don’t tie tubes or rafts together. It creates potential hazards around bridges and restricts movement, which can be life threatening.
  •  Educate your children about the importance of river safety. Teach them to stay in their tubes or rafts, avoid standing up in shallow areas, and steer clear of any obstacles or branches in the water.
  • Apply sunscreen generously before the float and reapply as needed.
  • Pack plenty of water and snacks to keep you and your little ones hydrated and energized throughout the trip. Encourage regular water breaks to prevent dehydration.
Kids play on river bank.
The river is a great way to cool off in the summer heat. Photo Credit: Stephanie McNulty.

Travel with Care

Take the opportunity to teach your children about the natural environment surrounding the Boise River. Encourage them to observe and appreciate the flora and fauna, pointing out interesting plants, birds, and wildlife along the way. Observe wildlife from a respectful distance and avoid disturbing or feeding animals. Teach children about the importance of preserving the natural habitat for the creatures that call it home. Emphasize the importance of leaving the river and its surroundings as you found them. Dispose of any trash in designated bins and avoid littering. Pack out what you pack in and be mindful of other floaters on the river at all times.

Lady kayaks down Boise River.
The water might be chilly but when it’s hot outside you don’t mind! Photo Credit: Stephanie McNulty.

Floating the Boise River with kids offers an incredible opportunity for families to bond, enjoy nature, and create cherished memories together. By planning ahead, prioritizing safety, and embracing the sense of adventure, you can ensure a successful and unforgettable experience for everyone involved. So, gather your tubes or rafts, pack your essentials, and embark on a fantastic floating adventure along the Boise River—a journey that will leave your children with a deep appreciation for Idaho’s natural wonders.

Stephanie McNulty is a travel writer, photographer, and content creator based in Boise, Idaho. She fell in love with mountains as a young mom and has been chasing them ever since. Stephanie can usually be found in the wild places of Idaho, the Pacific Northwest, and beyond… all with four feral children in tow. Follow her adventures on IG @thebackpackingmom. 


Published on July 25, 2023