Coal Tubin — Local services in Ferndale

I have gone to Coal Tubin numerous times. I have gone on the whitewater rafting trips and the float down the river on tubes. Every time I have gone I have had a blast. When you arrive, the staff seems genuinely excited to see you. They want you to have a good time. Whether you are tubing or whitewater rafting, they take you to a drop off point up river, so you can float back down to their facility. During that time, they explain a little about what to expect. I must say they are also quite entertaining. At times they have had me laughing so hard I thought about asking to ride around with them for the rest of the day. It was through Coal Tubin that I had my first experience whitewater rafting. I really didn’t know what to expect, and I can understand completely how someone could be slightly nervous about this activity. However, the guides are so knowledgeable about the river. They taught us the skills we needed to navigate the river in the very beginning, and I felt completely confident. Due to their knowledge and experience on the river, I believe anyone can participate in this activity. I strongly urge you to go to them if it is your first time, because I learned a lot, had a great time, and felt very comfortable and safe. In addition to their expertise regarding the river, they know a lot about the history, vegetation and wildlife you see as you are doing your float. It was very interesting to hear about those things. The times I went whitewater rafting we were in the boat with some other people we didn’t know. Coal Tubin brought the group together so easily it was almost as if we were all friends. The float on the tubes down the river has always been a great time also. It is relaxing, and l love the fact that they supply you with cord to tie everyone’s tubes together. This allows your group to remain a group and enjoy the day with each other. I strongly suggest anyone who has the opportunity to give Coal Tubin a try. You won’t be disappointed, and I guarantee you...

Ok. This is a good review and I’ll be the first to acknowledge that they are in a temp facility.

Read the website for parking! Lincoln Parking garage. ALL THE WAY UP. Look for “JRA” and the parking is covered with your trip. -Level 6. -It is open air (uncovered) -One stair well. Take it to Level 5. Cross over to the other one and the elevator and other stairwell are there. Down to the ground. A left and a left and you’ll be at the front door.

Don’t bring anything you’re not prepared to carry and keep dry. A possible alternative is to bring your own lock for the changing rooms, but if you don’t “have” to, I’d leave it in a safer place.

They will take car keys as collateral for your tube. No problem. Website says some other items work as well, but car keys are the easiest.

Catch the water at the right time. Hard if you book in advance for the discount/good rates and to make sure you make it in, but we went when it was just over the minimum (~2.8ish). Bit slow. Manageable, fun, but a bit slow and a more than a few spots you’ll have to get out/extricate yourself from a quarry. Recommend going at a 3-3.5 if you can mange it.

If you have small kids - it is a LONG time at that speed (again 2.8ish). Sunscreen, water, and probably a snack or three. Sunshirts are highly recommended. I worn one and heavy SPF. Feel fine and no burns, but still got plenty of sun.

It is dirty at the “Get Out” spot. Tread carefully or know you’ll be cleaning shoes. *-Recommendation to the business would be some mats to lay down there from the water to the first set of stairs. Manageable from there.

Overall a great experience and...

Tubapalooza in Johnstown, Pennsylvania was one of the most memorable end-of-summer experiences I’ve ever had. Hosted by Coal Tubin’ on the Stonycreek River, the event blended outdoor adventure, live music, and community spirit in a way that felt both refreshing and meaningful. Floating from one stage to the next while reggae and local bands played created a laid-back, festival vibe that was unlike anything I’ve seen before 1.

The setup was brilliant. You literally drift down the river in a tube, stopping at different music stages along the way. It’s not just a float—it’s a moving concert. The energy was high, the crowd was friendly, and the whole experience felt like a celebration of summer, nature, and good music. Even with a rain delay that pushed the start time back, the organizers handled everything smoothly and kept safety a priority 2.

What really stood out was the charitable aspect. This year’s Tubapalooza supported Operation Be You Tiful, which provides high-quality hairpieces to individuals undergoing chemotherapy 1. In past years, they’ve also supported causes like the Cambria County Backpack Project, helping feed children in need 2. It’s clear that the event isn’t just about fun—it’s about giving back.

From the complimentary hot dogs to the DJ spinning tunes in an eddy near Ferndale, every detail was thoughtfully planned. Whether you’re into tubing, music, or just want to connect with others in a relaxed setting, Tubapalooza is absolutely worth the trip. I’ll be looking forward to...