Tubing/Paddle Boarding/Kayaking
DECKERS OVERVIEW
Tubing & Paddle Boarding Deckers
As Deckers has been know for many years as a World Class Fly-fishing destination and outdoor Mecca, the area has increasingly become popular for tubing, paddle boarding, and Kayaking. As the South Platte River flows below Cheesman Reservoir, passing through the small town of Deckers & Trumbull, the river takes on a mild, yet sometimes unpredictable character, particularly during a high run-off season. Float fishing and walk-and-wade fishing are very popular through this area. Please respect private property when floating. Although the law allows the passage through most private property, by floating through these sections only, you are required to obey any and all private property boundaries and any posted private property signs.
Safety Tips!
1. Always wear a life vest. It’s hard to judge how swiftly moving water is flowing, which is why authorities always recommend you – and specially your children – always wear a live vest.
2. Avoid high-level streams. Do not go into streams when they are running high or near bankfull. Those streams can be very dangerous.
3. Be weather-alert. Stay up-to-date with current weather conditions as well as stream conditions for the area where you’ll be tubing.
4. Know how to swim. You really should know how to swim in case you flip over. A life vest should not be your only option of stay afloat.
5. Wear a helmet. Our rivers are rocky and head injuries are common while tubing. Even a bike helmet will work.
6. Do not wear flip-flops. Don’t go into the river with loose-fitting shoes. Wear something with traction like aqua shoes or sneakers.
7. Leave valuables at home. If you have a medical condition, however, wear a medical
Access to Access
Deckers to Bridge Crossing Picnic Ground (Platte River Campground): 4 miles
Bridge Crossing Picnic Ground (Platte River Campground) to Scraggy View Picnic Ground: 4.2 miles
Scraggy View Picnic Ground to Willow Bend Picnic Ground: 1.8 miles
Willow Bend Picnic Ground to Confluence with North Fork: 6 miles
Total Mileage: 16 miles
Day Use Area Information
Along the S.Platte River there are many areas to park and launch your craft! However, there are a few things you should be aware of, as the volume of people visiting the area has grown tremendously over the last few seasons. As an employee of ExplorUS myself, I would to explain a few things about the fee based day-use areas and the public parking areas. If you are planning to access one of the fee based areas, which are Bridge Crossing, Platte River Campground/Day use, Ouzel Campground/Day use, Scraggy View, Willow Bend, or Osprey Campground/Day use areas, be prepared to pay the $11 fee. Remember to bring cash or a check. ExplorUS does not accept credit or debit cards at this time. Each vehicle entering the parking lot will be expected to pay the $10 fee, as space in this parking lot is limited. This includes using the restrooms, stopping to inflate your floatation device, use of picnic tables and grilling areas, or simply accessing the river through the parking areas. If you are planning to bring multiple vehicles to any of these fee-based parking areas and get out of the vehicle for any period of time, you will be expected to pay the $11 fee. Allowing multiple vehicles to stop and occupy parking space without paying the $11 fee, is preventing those that are willing to pay the fee, the opportunity to do so. Refusal to pay the parking fee can result in a fine in excess of $100. The only pass accepted for free entry into the day-use areas is the seasonal pass that is sold by ExplorUS. The other pass that gets you 1/2 off the daily $11 fee, is the America the Beautiful Lifetime Senior, Veteran, or Disabled Pass. Explorus does not honor the ANNUAL America the Beautiful Pass. Also, please keep in mind that the day-use areas and campgrounds along the river are Federal properties. This means that the State Parks Pass that you may have purchased through your car registration process does not apply. Please read the sign boards carefully, as they explain the passes that are accepted and those that are not. Along the South Platte River, from Deckers Corner to Nighthawk(Pine Creek Rd) there are 16 free public parking areas and 2 public restrooms.
Kayaking Deckers to Confluence, South Platte River (Class II–III)
Located below Cheesman Reservoir, this scenic stretch traverses the South Platte’s rolling granite terrain from the town of Deckers to the confluence with the North Fork. Easy access and several fun rapids at moderate water levels make this a great beginner to intermediate run.
Put-in: Deckers
Take-out: The confluence of the North and South forks (near South Platte)
Don’t Forget to Check the Flows! In our opinion, you can best float the river between 130cfs-600cfs, with the optimal range being between 175cfs-500cfs. Check the graph below to get the “Real Time” flow, for Deckers.
‘Cabin Rentals
Brand new Log Cabin on Gold Medal Waters, Deckers
Brand new log cabin on the South Platte River, Deckers. Welcome to River’s Edge. This beautiful, 2-story log home features 3 bedrooms and a 3-bed loft, 2 full baths, with room for 10 guests. With Wifi, central air, full kitchen, bbq grill, patio seating for 10, and large indoor dining table, this home is the perfect family vacation rental. With your own private access trail to the river, you can walk out the door and be fishing or tubing the river in seconds. Got a float boat, no problem!
This brand new, 2-story log cabin features direct river access to the world renown South Platte River. Deckers is home to one of the top 5 tailwater fishery’s in the State of Colorado. and draws people each year from around the world. With 3 large bedrooms and a loft, it’s the perfect family vacation rental or Anglers delight. Comfortably sleeping up to 10 people, you’ll be sure to have the vacation of your dreams. Just over an hour from both Colorado Springs and Denver makes this beautiful home accessible year-round. With a private trail that leads to the river, you’ll be fishing or floating the river in seconds. Private Chef services available on a limited basis.
Welcome! 4 bedroom (6 bed) 3 bath River House
Situated on the world renowned South Platte River. Choose from flyfishing it’s gold medal waters, tubing the river, hiking cheeseman canyon and the Colorado Trail to spending your day at the river house playing bocce ball, horseshoes and corn hole. Cook s’mores in the firepit as you enjoy the starry night. Enjoy 2 decks, vaulted ceilings and open floorplan large enough to sleep 10 people. 75″ tv, speed internet with dish and streaming. Home comes stocked with everything you need.
Our Top Picks!
The Old Town Loon 120 Kayak is a sit-in kayak that’s perfect for recreational use on rivers and lakes. Featuring a redesigned cockpit, you’ll enjoy greater comfort with the ACS2 seat, while the thigh pads add extra comfort and cushion. Made from three-layered polyethylene, this kayak is lightweight yet durable for several seasons of use. Additional features like the bow and stern deck bungees, carrying handles, and quick seal hatch elevate the function of the Old Town Loon 120 Kayak.
The Caddis Inspire LC II Float Tube is designed for improved maneuverability so you can get to your most productive fishing spots. This Inspire LC float tube is built with durable ripstop material and has double-stitched seams in high-stress areas. The V-tube design allows you to glide smoothly through the water, while the full rotation oars make it easy to move the tube. All new upgraded inflatable seat & backrest sits you above the water for less drag and warmer days of fishing. The Inspire LC II float tube also has plenty of room for storing your gear, plus a lap apron with built-in measurement marks so you can size up your catch. With a comfortable foam seat, the Caddis Inspire LC II Float Tube is a great option for longer days of fishing.
