​Tanking & Tubing

 What is river tanking? We simply take plastic water or feeding tanks used for livestock, add some seating, then float you down the river! The Calamus River is great for tanking and tubing as it has a relatively slow current and is shallow enough that all ages can enjoy the experience. Surrounded by the beautiful scenery of the Nebraska Sandhills, you are sure to have a relaxing time.

Calamus Outfitters offers two or four-hour trips. We provide life jackets, push pole and drop-off or pick-up transportation. When tanking, someone in your party may need to get out of the tank and guide the tank to the left side of the river to the landing and help get your party safely out of the river.​

Pricing
Tank (capacity is 4-5 adults):
  • Saturday: $65 + tax for two-hour trip & $80 + tax for four-hour trip
  • Sunday-Friday: $65 + tax for either the two or four-hour trip (four-hour trip is not offered on Sundays)
Tube (1 person): $20 + tax for either the two or four-hour trip
Cooler tube: $10 + tax

Start times
Monday-Saturday
  • Two-hour trip: 9, 10, 11 a.m., 12, 1 & 2 p.m.*
  • Four-hour trip: 9, 10 & 11 a.m.*
Sunday
  • Two-hour trip only: 10, 11 a.m., 12 & 1 p.m.*
*NOTE: Start times are on the hour and are when we would like to get you on the river. Please arrive at our office to check in at least 15 minutes prior to your scheduled start time. The length of all river trips are APPROXIMATE.  Due to weather conditions, river flow, your party and other factors, your trip may be shorter or longer than the time listed. Everyone must be off the river by 5:00 p.m.

Dates
Memorial Day weekend - Labor Day weekend
NOTE: We will conduct float trips on a limited basis after Labor Day. Please give us a call at 308-346-4697 to check on availability.

Map from Burwell to Calamus Outfitters

Kayaking & Canoeing

Along with tanking and tubing, the Calamus River is ideal for a relaxing float in a kayak or canoe. Calamus Outfitters offers one, three or four-hour trips. We provide life jackets, paddles and drop-off or pick-up transportation.

Pricing
Kayak: $25 + tax
Canoe: $35 + tax

Start times
Monday-Saturday
  • One & Three-hour trip: 9, 10, 11 a.m., 12, 1 & 2 p.m.
  • Four-hour trip: 9, 10, 11 a.m., 12 & 1 p.m.
Sunday
  • One, Three & Four-hour trip: 10, 11 a.m., 12 & 1 p.m.

Personal Tubes, Kayaks, canoes

Shuttle fee per item: $20 + tax
Acknowledgement of Risk & Rules
All guests of Calamus Outfitters, LLC, engaging in any river float trips acknowledge the following:
  • All river float trips carry the risk of serious injury and the consumption of alcohol increases this risk. Calamus Outfitters, LLC, and Switzer Ranch are not responsible for injuries or accidents.
  • DO NOT TRESPASS. All float trips run through private property, so please stay within the confines of the river banks. If you get out of the river on to the high banks you will be ticketed for trespassing. The Loup County Sheriff will be called and you will be fined $50.00 + court costs. No exceptions.
  • Please take your trash with you. If you do not have a container to place your trash in, we can provide you with a trash bag.
  • ​No glass containers. If lost or discarded on the river, glass can be extremely hazardous to people and wildlife.
  • Please do not litter. Not only is it illegal, it is unsightly and can pose hazards to people and wildlife.
  • Be courteous to others on the river and be mindful of your language as there are a lot of families that participate in this activity.