There's perhaps nothing that says "summer in the Midwest" quite like a tubing trip. I grew up in Ohio and the Little Miami River has a special place in my heart; I spent many summer afternoons canoeing its gentle waters with my parents and two brothers. Today, kayaking is my favorite way to get out on the water; I find it the most relaxing and refreshing form of outdoor recreation. (Admittedly, I have trouble relaxing, so paddling five miles downriver is R&R for me!) If you're into a more leisurely way to enjoy the water, nothing compares to river tubing -- and here in Ohio we have lots of great options. One of the best spots for river tubing in Ohio, Mohican Adventures offers floats of all sorts down the Mohican River.

The Mohican River is a gem in north-central Ohio. This 40-mile long body of water is a principal tributary of the Walhonding River that's known for its scenic beauty; in fact, two sections of the river are designated "scenic" by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.

This immensely beautiful river is also a beloved place for water recreation of all kinds, its gentle waters providing the perfect place for canoeing, kayaking, paddling, and floating.

Those looking to experience a day on this beauteous body of water need only head to Mohican Adventures, an outfitter known for organizing some of the best floating trips in Ohio. (Mohican Adventures also has an amazing campground and entire family fun center, making it an ideal, "all-inclusive" summer destination in the Buckeye State.)

Offering kayak, canoe, raft, and tube trips spanning three or seven miles long, Ohioans can truly "choose their own adventure" with this outfitter. Transportation to launch sites, implements, and lifejackets are all provided with a reservation.

Please note that, due to safety regulations, personal kayaks/watercraft cannot be launched from, or hauled onto, the property.

Depending on your trip mileage and vessel, expect to spend anywhere from 2-6 hours on the water; the Black Fork River, Clear Fork River, and Lake Fork River are the three Mohican River tributaries featured in the different routes.

River tubing takes longer than more active paddling adventures, so be sure to budget plenty of time to enjoy the views! Because they are breathtaking.

A few things to keep in mind: as long as water levels are "normal," children of all ages are allowed on the river with their parents. As water levels rise, so do restrictions for the ages and watercrafts allowed on the river. Children and non-swimmers must wear their life jackets at all times on the river, too.

River trips are very popular on weekends and holidays, so if you are planning to tube during this time, expect a crowd! If you prefer a less busy experience, opt for a tubing trip mid-week.

Doesn't river tubing with this Ohio outfitter sound like the perfect summer day? For more information and to book a canoeing, kayaking, rafting, or tubing trip, visit the Mohican Adventures website. And don't forget to bring along the cooler to stay hydrated during your float!