There’s nothing quite like floating down the Androscoggin River with the sun on your face, mountains in the distance, and the occasional bald eagle overhead. Whether you’re tubing, kayaking, or canoeing, a day on the water with Bethel Outdoor Adventure is the perfect mix of fun, relaxation, and Maine’s natural beauty. And while good times are always on the agenda, safety comes first—because the best adventures are the ones you can laugh about around the campfire later.
If you’re planning your first trip (or your tenth), this guide will walk you through what to expect, what to bring, and how to have a safe, unforgettable experience on the river.
The Androscoggin River: A Serene Slice of Maine
Our trips take place on a calm, scenic stretch of the Androscoggin River, known for its peaceful flow and 360-degree mountain views. While most of the river is slow-moving and easy to navigate, there’s one short section where things pick up just a bit—what we call “rips” or “heavy ripples.” Don’t worry, it only lasts about 30 seconds, and it’s part of the fun.
You’ll likely see fish, birds (keep an eye out for eagles!), and if you’re lucky—otters or beavers. The river is a peaceful place, but always alive with nature.
Safety First, Fun Second (We Promise You’ll Still Have a Blast)
At Bethel Outdoor Adventure, we take safety seriously so you can focus on having a great time. Every river trip includes:
A mandatory safety briefing before your trip, where we’ll go over river navigation, how to spot the take-out point, and how to stay safe.
Life jackets for all participants.
A shuttle ride to the drop-off point—just hop in, float down, and end back at your car.
We’ve got an excellent safety record, but river sports come with some risks—so here’s what you need to know before you go:
Shoes are required at all times (yes, even on the river). That’s because we sometimes find glass, broken pottery, or old metal in the riverbed. Water shoes, Crocs, sandals, or even flip-flops work—just something to protect your feet.
Pregnant people and children under 5 are not permitted on river trips.
Minors must be accompanied by an adult.
If you have a health condition that limits your normal activity, river trips may not be the right fit—we want everyone to be safe.
Drugs and alcohol are not allowed before or during your trip. We want everyone to enjoy themselves, but heavy intoxication is a safety risk and can lead to trip cancellation with no refund.
Why the $200 River Rescue Fee (Per Person)
We pride ourselves on creating a safe, enjoyable river experience for everyone. But if a river rescue becomes necessary, it quickly becomes our top priority—and requires a significant effort from our team.
Here’s what happens during a rescue:
All front office operations are paused to coordinate the response.
Staff may be rerouted to the drop-in point to paddle downriver to assist.
Additional team members are stationed on the river to support the rescue.
All other business stops so we can focus solely on the safety of the person needing help.
Because of the time, coordination, and staff resources involved, there is a $200 fee per person for any river rescue.
To avoid this, please pay close attention during the safety briefing, follow all guidelines, and speak up if you feel unsure about anything before heading out. We’re here to help you have a smooth and stress-free float!
What to Expect: Check-In to Float Out
Your river trip starts at the campground:
📍 Bethel Outdoor Adventure
121 Mayville Rd
Bethel, ME 04217
Here’s what your day will look like:
Arrive 30 minutes early. Give yourself time to park, check in, and get ready.
Check in at the front desk. Everyone over 18 will need to sign a waiver.
Get geared up. You’ll be given your rental gear (tube, kayak, or canoe), life jacket, and paddle if needed.
Safety briefing. This is required for all guests and sets you up for a smooth trip.
Hop in the shuttle. We’ll drive you upriver to your launch spot.
Float back to the campground. Your trip ends right where you parked—easy, breezy, and fun!
What to Bring for Maximum Fun (and Comfort)
Packing the right gear can make all the difference. Here’s your river trip checklist:
✔️ Clothes that can get wet (swimsuit, quick-dry clothes)
✔️ Shoes that stay on your feet—no barefoot tubing!
✔️ Plenty of water (hydration is key, especially in the sun)
✔️ Snacks for the float
✔️ Hat and/or sunglasses for sun protection
✔️ Bug repellent
✔️ Rain coat/dry clothes just in case
✔️ Medications or personal items
✔️ Waterproof camera or disposable
✔️ Dry bag or waterproof case for valuables
🍹 You’re welcome to bring beverages—just no glass containers. We’ll do a quick cooler check before you hit the river to help keep everyone safe.
Our River Rules (So Everyone Has a Good Time)
We’re all about having fun, but it’s important to play by the rules to make sure everyone has a good time:
Be respectful to your fellow adventurers.
No underage drinking or public intoxication—local law enforcement may pay a visit if needed.
No glass is allowed on the river.
Shoes are required at all times.
If your party shows up intoxicated, we reserve the right to cancel your trip without a refund.
Cancellations & Waivers
Life happens, and we get it. Here’s our cancellation policy:
Cancel at least 48 hours in advance for a full refund or credit.
If we cancel due to weather or other circumstances, you’ll receive a full refund or credit.
No-shows will be charged the full price.
Everyone over 18 must sign a waiver stating they understand the risks and are not under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Need to cancel or have questions? Call us at 1-207-824-4224 or email [email protected].
Ready to Float?
A day on the river is a day well spent—especially when it ends back at your cozy campsite with marshmallows by the fire. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway, a family adventure, or just a chance to relax and soak in Maine’s beauty, we’re here to make sure your trip is safe, smooth, and unforgettable.
Grab your sunscreen, gather your crew, and get ready to make some river memories with Bethel Outdoor Adventure.
We’ll see you on the water!