When are we going tubing?
This year's trip will be on Saturday, July 14, 2001.  I currently have no rain date.

Where are we going tubing?
Same place we always go - Spring Creek, near Marianna.

What the heck is tubing anyway?
Well! I can tell that somebody slept through Redneck 101.  Tubing is more fun than you can shake a soggy stick at! (note the preposition at the end of that sentence)  The picture at the top of this page is really a rather complete explanation.  Of course, the best way to learn is through experience, so...

Where do we meet?
We will meet at the McDonald's at the intersection of West Highway 90 and Capital Circle NW at 8:00am.  Those of you that know me realize what a concession this is!  Please try to be on time.  Any delay makes launching much more difficult as the put-in area can become congested early.

When will I get home?
The trip generally takes most of the day. The actual duration of the trip depends on the level and speed of the river.  We're usually headed home by late afternoon, but I wouldn't make plans until evening.  On one trip we lost two oil pumps!

What should I bring?
An inner tube, sunscreen, and aquatic footwear are essential. One thing that I can recommend is an inexpensive water-proof PVC bag to hold all your doo-dads. See my friends at Trail&Ski and pick one up. They are also available at the Canoe Shop or several other Sporting Goods stores.  Having said that, we have had people canoe with us or ride pool floats and other such devices.  If you are not a strong swimmer, please wear a Coast Guard approved vest and let me and everyone else know before we start the trip so that we can keep our eye on you.  Other things that you may want to bring include:

    Toys (water pistols, squirt things, etc)
    Water-proof cameras
    Bug repellent (if you're the sweet & sensitive type)
    Sun Glasses (cheap - leave the thermonuclear protection at home)
    A hat for sun protection

Where can I get an inner tube?
I always get mine from Dave Howell Tires.  Located just west of Capital Circle on West Pensacola Street, they usually sell used inner tubes for about $5.00 each.  I once got a group discount of $1.00 per tube.  Which brings me to the next point - I have about 14 tubes.  (everyone said that they would pay me back, but...)  I'll happily loan them out on a first come, first serve basis.  Please contact me early to pick up and test your tube.  And don't count on my having a tube for you on the Friday before the trip!  Simon Capstick found someplace last year that gave him several at no charge.  You might check with him before you buy.  One more thing - The R22 is about right for adults.  Small children may need car tubes which can be harder to come by.

What can I expect on the trip?
First of all, a great deal of fun!  But everyone should understand that this is a rather primitive outing.  You'll be in the water for about 4 hours solid.  There are no rest rooms.  We'll be eating lunch in the woods and returning home dirty, tired and happy.  If the thought of a bug crawling on you is bothersome, you may wish to think twice!

Did you say lunch?
Sure did.  There's a cool little place on the river where we usually stop, get our legs back and have a bite of lunch.  It's best to keep it simple - bagel and some fruit or something similar. We usually take a group photo during lunch.

What about beer?  I hear you mention beer?
We'll yes.  And no.  If you want beer, by all means bring it.  I personally don't care to bring it for several reasons.  First, it makes for far too many unscheduled trips into the woods.  Secondly, I've seen many a tuber snagged in a dead fall or beached in an oxbow because they were unable to maneuver their R22 and their 34 quart Igloo when lashed together.  And finally, I have plenty of fun without it.  If you do decide to bring some, please be diligent about collecting the empties.

Anything else?
Well now that you mention it...  The fewer vehicles we have, the easier things are.  Please try to car-pool if possible.  We can also work out something either at the meeting place or in Marianna.  Now, just to make that more difficult, let me add that you should have your tubes inflated when you arrive.  There is a gas station in Marianna where we can inflate them if necessary.  Please make sure that it will hold air before coming.

I read you're whole big, fat, stupid FAQ and I still have a question...
Well you'll just have to send me some e-mail, leave a note on my desk, call me on the phone, or hunt me down like the dog that I am...

Return to Annual NRB Tubing Trip
Last updated: 27 JUN 2001
Send any comments to: pbarber@mailer.fsu.edu