The General Dan Tubing Co
105 Dan River Road, Danbury, NC 27016
(336) 593-8780
Hours: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Tube Rentals: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
Tubing The Dan – FAQ
How does it all work?
You come to the The General Dan Tubing Co, 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 The General Dan Tubing Co 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 General Dan Tubing Co 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; 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 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.
Is parking available?
Yes, parking is available. Parking is at your own risk.
Why should I tube with General Dan and The General Dan Tubing Co?
You will have the time of your life!!! Our people are friendly and provide lots of good information. We have 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.