Map from Burwell to Calamus Outfitters

​​Tanking & Tubing

 What is river tanking? We simply take plastic water 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 over two can enjoy the experience. Surrounded by the beautiful scenery of the Nebraska Sandhills, you are sure to have a relaxing time.

Calamus Outfitters offers a two hour trip.  We provide life jackets, push pole and drop-off transportation. NOTE:  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):
  • Monday-Sat:  $90.00+ tax for the two-hour trip 
Tube (1 person): $30. + tax for the two-hour trip
Personal item/tube (1 person): $30 + tax for the two- hour trip
Personal item/tube (2 person): $60 + tax for the two-hour trip
Cooler tube (tube for your personal cooler): $10 + tax

Start times
Monday-Saturday
  • Two-hour trip: 9, 10, 11 a.m., 12p.m.
​​
*** Everyone must be off the river by 4:00 p.m or you will be subject to another trip charge. ***
​Dates:
Memorial Day weekend - Labor Day weekend
*NOTE:  No River trips on Sundays except for Rodeo Sunday, July 26, 2026.  We will offer river trips on Sunday July 26, 2026.

*NOTE: No River trips on July 4th.

* NOTE:  After August 8th only Saturdays are available until September 5th
 
​
*NOTE: Start times are on the hour and are when we would like to get you on the river. Please arrive at the river to check in at least 15 minutes prior to your scheduled start time.
​ 
The listed length of time for 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 4:00 pm or you will be subject to another trip charge. ***

Personal Tubes

Shuttle fee per item: $30.00 + tax and $60.00 + tax for 2 person tubes
​​ *** Everyone must be off the river by 4:00 p.m or you will be subject to another trip charge. ***


​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.
  • NO CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF TWO YEARS OLD. Any child 12 years or younger must wear a life jacket.
  •        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 Calamus Outfitters reserves the right to fine your group a minimum of $50.00 per person.
  •        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.
  • Please take your trash with you when you leave.   If you do not have a container to place your trash in,
    we can provide you with a trash bag.​
  • 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.
  • Dogs are allowed on tanking trips, but are NOT allowed on tubing trips. If you rent both for one trip the dog is still not allowed due to the fact your group still has tubes.
​NOTE:  When tanking, someone in your party will need to be able to get out of the tank to help guide tank to the landing to help your party get out safely.​
​​
*** Everyone must be off the river by 4:00 p.m or you will be subject to another trip charge. ***


**Directions to the Calamus River parking lot and launch site.**
​
From Burwell:  Take HWY 96 north west from Burwell to the HWY 183 junction (19 miles), turn right on to HWY 183, go 1/4 mile, cross Calamus River Bridge and turn left into Calamus Outfitters parking lot. 

From Taylor:  Take HWY 183 north 12 miles to the Calamus River bridge.  Cross bridge and turn left into parking lot.      
​
​Map from Burwell to Calamus Outfitters