How does it all work?
You come to the Danbury General Store, park, sign-up, we provide
necessary information and collect fees, we put your equipment on the
shuttle, you board the shuttle, we transport you to the river input, you
float down the river, and get out at Danbury General Store approximately 2 - 2.5
hours later.
How deep is the river?
The river is anywhere from ankle deep to 10 feet deep.
Is the river calm?
The section used for tubing is described as lazy and slow-moving.
Is the river safe?
Rivers are inherently dangerous. Anything could happen and you
should always be prepared to react to any situation. The Danbury
General Store and its affiliates assume no liability for personal injury or
loss of personal property. Everyone is required to sign a
liability waiver (PDF). If you have a medical condition that concerns you, you should
check with a physician before your trip.
Is the river okay for children?
Children of all ages have been on this trip. Parents should be fit,
constantly aware of your surroundings, and secure in your abilities to tube
safely with the added responsibility of a child. There are no guides
and no life guards. You are responsible for your children.
Are tubes attached to each other?
No, tubes are single / one-person tubes. You can bring your own
rope or cords, or purchase rope to tie to children's tubes and / or cooler
tubes to your tube. We recommend that only 2-3 tie together so that it
is easier to maneuver around obstacles.
What do I do with my keys?
We will keep keys upon request.
Do people ever get hurt?
Occasionally, someone may fall out of a tube and get scraped or bruised,
or slip on a rock and get scraped.
Can I get a discount?
Yes, we offer season passes; a "tubing deal" to tube five times and get
the next one free; group discounts; rent the Dan River Cottage and get a
free tubing trip for two. Please see our
Specials for details.
What happens if I fall out of my tube?
If you fall out of your tube you should try to get back on; most of the
time you will be able to stand up and get back on. If not, you can
hang on to your tube and paddle to shore where it may be easier to get back
on. We do provide life vests; if you cannot swim or are not
comfortable in the water, we recommend that you wear a life vest.
What happens if my tube pops?
In the unfortunate and unlikely event that your tube should pop, please
bring the tube back with you. You will not be held responsible for the
damaged tube unless it was intentional, such as a knife slit.
How long do the trips take?
The short trip typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours; however, trip times vary
based on water levels.
How do I know when to exit the river?
We will provide you with information when you check-in, but easily
recognizable landmarks are present in the form of a bridge and a local park.
Can I bring my own cooler and refreshments?
Yes, you can bring your own cooler and refreshments. You can rent a
tube from us to float your cooler. We also sell sandwich items, an
assortment of drinks, and ice to pack in your cooler.
Do I need to wear shoes?
We recommend shoes; water sandals, old tennis shoes, etc. The
walk to the river is rough and rocky, and if you choose to get out in the
river, you could cut yourself on a sharp rock.
Do you sell ice at the Danbury General Store?
Yes, we do sell ice, as well as a variety of other items such as sandwich
fixings, chips, a large selection of drinks, small coolers, sunglasses,
sunscreen, dry bags, etc.
What kinds of animals are in or near the river?
The river is a natural river and home to many animals. It is not
uncommon to see fish, turtles, frogs, snakes, deer, wild turkey, and blue
heron. We have never had a bad interaction with an animal on our float
trips. Wild animals are very wary and try to avoid human interaction
if possible. Please use caution and avoid contact.
What happens if there is a storm?
Afternoon thunderstorms are common during the summer. No one has
been struck by lightning while tubing with us, but be cautious as it is
possible. Get out of the water and onto shore. Stay away from
tall trees and look for a clearing if possible. When the storm passes,
continue your tubing trip.
Why should I tube with General Dan and the Danbury General Store?
You will have the time of your life!!! Our people are friendly and
provide lots of good information. We have a good, secure place to
park, a place to change and shower; and a General Store that carries a good
selection of all the things you'll need for your trip. You'll enjoy a
relaxing, leisurely ride down a very scenic stretch of the Dan River.
It's a great family or group activity enjoyed by old and young alike.
We also have a Grill where you can satisfy your hunger after an afternoon on the
river.
What type of payment do you accept?
We accept and prefer cash, but we also accept VISA, MASTERCARD, &
DISCOVER.