Upper Iowa River / Bluffton
Drift Into the Bluffton State of Mind
Glide through winding water, towering bluffs, and scenic stretches of the Upper Iowa River. Reserve your kayaks, canoes, or tubes in minutes and enjoy a day on the water done right.
Clear pricingSimple planningGreat river days
Location
Decorah, Iowa
Open Bluffton on the map
Phone(563) 735-5738
Call with group questions
SeasonApr 21 - Oct 1, 2026
Booking opens each spring
River VibeRelaxed drifts, scenic bluffs, and group-friendly shuttle days
Guest river moments
How it works
A simple four-step reservation flow from trip planning to confirmation.
1. Choose a trip
Pick the float that fits your timing, pace, and group size.
2. Build your reservation
Choose your date, shuttle time, drop-off, and equipment.
3. Complete the waiver
Reservation name, contact info, and waiver details are captured before payment.
4. Pay deposit
Bluffton holds the reservation with one secure online deposit.
Rental options
Choose the setup that fits your day on the river.
Single Kayak$30
Easy solo rental with one secure $10 deposit. Paddles and life vests are included.
Tandem Kayak$50
One boat for two guests with one secure $10 deposit. Paddles and life vests are included.
Canoe$40
Stable classic option with one secure $10 deposit. Paddles and life vests are included.
Tube + Cooler Tube$10 / $5
Relaxed float option with no online deposit needed.
Trip options
Drop-offs and shuttle rates.
Chimney Rock
3.8 river miles
1-2 hours by boat • 2-3 hours by tube
Shuttle: $25 per van
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Dahly's7.8 river miles
3-4 hours
Shuttle: $30 per van
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Plymouth / Gaul's11.3 river miles
4-5 hours
Shuttle: $35 per van
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Kendallville15.5 river miles
6-7 hours
Shuttle: $40 per van
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Trip timing can vary with water level, group pace, and river traffic.
Experience
What guests like about Bluffton River Rentals.
“Booking was quick and check-in was smooth.”
Anna R.
“The Upper Iowa River views were unreal. The bluffs, calm stretches, and scenery made the whole float worth it.”
Mike T.
“The trip options were clear and easy to choose.”
Jordan L.
FAQs
Common questions from guests before booking.
What is the cancellation policy?
If you need to change or cancel a reservation, please call Bluffton directly. 72+ hours before: full refund minus 15% cancellation fee. 24-72 hours before: 50% of deposit refunded. Less than 24 hours before: deposit non-refundable. Reservations may be held up to 30 minutes past the scheduled shuttle time. If we do not hear from you, the reservation may be considered a no-show.
When can we start booking our river trip?
For this season, guests can begin booking reservations on April 8, 2026. River operations begin the third Tuesday of April each season. Current season: Apr 21 - Oct 1, 2026.
How is shuttle pricing charged?
Shuttle pricing is charged per van, and Bluffton still collects the remaining balance as one in-person payment per reservation when you arrive.
Can we bring our own boats?
Yes. Personal kayaks and canoes can be included when space is available and the selected trip uses shuttle service.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes. Bluffton is dog friendly, and dogs are allowed on river shuttle days.
Are fishing poles, coolers, and river gear allowed?
Yes. Guests can bring fishing poles, coolers, and other river essentials.
Where can we check river level?
Visit Upper Iowa River Height before your trip.
Do tubes need an online deposit?
No. Tube and cooler tube reservations are marked no online deposit needed.
Can we reserve boats without reserving a shuttle?
Yes. If your group does not need Bluffton shuttle service, choose No Shuttle and reserve the boats only.
What happens with rain or bad conditions?
Severe weather and unsafe river levels are reviewed by Bluffton. Light rain does not automatically cancel operations.
River Gallery
Browse a few river moments, then share one of your own for approval.
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Ready to float?
You made it through the river details. If you're feeling convinced, let's get your float day booked.