Plan Your Michigan River Adventure
To reserve a seasonal site at Walnut Hills Family Campground, call or email the campground. Seasonal access runs May 1 through October 20 (short-term season also begins May 1). Seasonal rates typically range from about $3,000 to $5,000 depending on site and amenities. Below is what you need to plan a tube-floating day on the Shiawassee River, book your stay, follow basic safety guidance, and learn about family-friendly amenities at Walnut Hills.
Where to Tube Float on the Shiawassee River
Tube floating and river access are available at Walnut Hills Family Campground. Cheff’s Canoe Rental operates on-site for canoe, kayak, and float rentals, keeping logistics simple for families who want an easy day on the water.
What Makes Walnut Hills Great for Tube Floating?
Walnut Hills is designed for relaxed river days. Cheff’s offers canoe and kayak rentals plus two float lengths with pick-up and drop-off service, so you can float without shuttling cars.
How Cheff’s Canoe Rental Improves Your Float
Cheff’s simplifies timing and transport: two float lengths to match how much time you want on the water and pick-up/drop-off service so families can focus on enjoying the river.
How to Book Tube Floating and Campground Reservations
Book tube floating and seasonal or short-term sites by phone, email, or the campground’s online reservation tool. Enter dates during the season (May 1–October 20) to view available sites, photos, and pricing.
Steps to Reserve Your River Day and Campsite
To reserve, contact the campground by phone or email or use the interactive online map: enter dates, click a highlighted site for photos and pricing, then follow the prompts to confirm.
Can You Combine Floating with Family Camping Packages?
Yes — ask about package options when you book to bundle river time with your campsite for a simpler, more economical visit.
Safety & Float Trip Options Families Should Know
Cheff’s runs April through October and offers a shorter and a longer float to suit different groups. For a safe trip, follow basic water-safety practices and use proper flotation devices.
Float Durations and Routes
Two float options are available; exact routes and durations are provided by Cheff’s when you book, so check with them for details before you go.
Safety Guidelines for a Fun Float
- Wear a properly fitted life jacket while on the water.
- Check water levels and weather before you go and change plans if conditions shift.
- Brief everyone on river safety and agree on a simple plan to stay together.
Family-Friendly Amenities That Complement Your Float
Walnut Hills pairs river time with a lineup of family amenities and activities, including scheduled events, active games, canoe and kayak rentals, evening entertainment, and themed weekends.
- Regular scheduled events — kids’ crafts, tie-dye, and family trivia.
- Active games and contests like tug‑of‑war, bike decorating, and scavenger hunts.
- On-site canoe and kayak rentals through Cheff’s Canoe Rental for easy river access.
- Evening entertainment such as family movie nights and DJ dance parties.
- Themed weekends and friendly competitions throughout the season.
Wibit Water Park and Beach
The Wibit inflatable water park and beach provide inflatable obstacles, swimming, and a sandy beach—great for play after a float.
Weekend Events and Facilities
Walnut Hills runs a busy weekend calendar. Highlights include:
- Food trucks: rotating vendors on weekends for easy meals.
- Kids’ crafts: tie-dye and seasonal projects.
- Family games: tug‑of‑war, kickball, scavenger hunts, and more.
- Evening events: DJ dance parties and family movie nights.
- Themed weekends: events such as “Christmas in July” and Halloween weekends.
- Canoe rentals: Cheff’s supports river activities with rentals and logistics.
This table highlights features that make Walnut Hills a go-to spot for family outdoor recreation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What safety measures should we follow while floating on the Shiawassee River?
Always wear a properly fitted life jacket, check water levels and weather, brief your group on hazards, and stay together on the river.
Are pets allowed at Walnut Hills Family Campground?
Yes — pets are generally welcome with rules: keep pets leashed, clean up after them, and check with the campground for any restrictions or designated areas.
What types of events are held at Walnut Hills during the season?
Walnut Hills offers kids’ crafts, themed weekends, family games, evening entertainment, and special events designed for families.
Can I rent equipment other than canoes and tubes at Walnut Hills?
Cheff’s focuses on canoes, kayaks, and tubes; the campground may offer other gear (bikes, fishing equipment) depending on availability—ask for a current list.
What are the check-in and check-out times at Walnut Hills Campground?
Times can vary; typically check-in is around 3 PM and check-out is by 11 AM. Confirm your reservation details when you book.
Is there a minimum stay requirement at Walnut Hills during peak season?
Peak-season minimum stays (often two to three nights on weekends) may apply. Check booking policies when you reserve.
What should I bring for a tube floating trip on the Shiawassee River?
Pack sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, water shoes or sandals, a cooler with drinks and snacks, and a waterproof bag for valuables. A basic first-aid kit is recommended.
Are there age restrictions for tube floating at Walnut Hills?
There are no strict age cutoffs, but children should be accompanied by an adult. Life jackets are required for everyone. Confirm any specific age or equipment rules with Cheff’s before you go.
What are the best times to visit for tube floating?
Late spring through early fall is ideal. Peak season is June–August for the warmest weather; May and September offer fewer crowds. Always check weather and river conditions before you go.
Can I bring my own tube for floating?
Yes — personal tubes are allowed, but confirm rules with Cheff’s Canoe Rental. Renting on-site is convenient and ensures appropriate equipment.
What amenities are available for families at Walnut Hills Campground?
Walnut Hills provides scheduled kids’ activities, family games, themed weekends, the Wibit water park, a camp store for essentials, and weekend food trucks to keep families comfortable and entertained.
Is there a cancellation policy for reservations at Walnut Hills?
Cancellation terms vary; the campground typically asks for advance notice to qualify for a full or partial refund. Confirm policy details and any fees when you book.
Conclusion
Walnut Hills pairs easy river access with campground comforts and plenty of family activities. With on-site canoe rentals, scheduled events, and the Wibit water park, it’s a great spot for memorable family river days. Call, email, or use the online booking tool to reserve your dates.
Conclusion
Plan your visit to enjoy effortless river access, family-friendly programming, and water-play amenities. Contact Walnut Hills to secure your reservation and make the most of your river day.
