Inside the Rise of River Surfing: The Midwest’s Next Big Thing

River surfing is gaining popularity in the Midwest, drawing outdoor enthusiasts and spurring economic development in small communities. Hannah Ray J, a lifelong river enthusiast from Manchester, Iowa, discovered river surfing in Cedar Falls, Iowa, and has since made it her passion.

A Growing Trend

River surfing is emerging as a major outdoor activity across the Midwest. New facilities, such as an urban whitewater park set to open in Norfolk, Nebraska, and a planned surfing area in Cedar Falls, Iowa, are part of wider river recreational projects. Additionally, West Carrollton, Ohio, is building a large development around a new whitewater river park on the Great Miami River, and Tulsa, Oklahoma, is undertaking a similar project. These facilities are expected to attract thousands of river recreation enthusiasts, aiding the economic development of small, land-locked communities.

Boosting Local Economies

The surge in river surfing has spurred economic growth in various communities. For instance, Badfish SUP, a Colorado-based paddle and surfboard company, has seen sales of its river surfboards skyrocket since the pandemic. Mike Harvey, co-owner of Badfish SUP, notes that they have had their best year ever, driven by the excitement surrounding river surfing.

From Fringe to Mainstream

River surfing began as a niche sport in the 1970s on the Eisbach River in Munich, Germany. Unlike ocean surfing, where waves come in sets, river waves are constant, allowing surfers to continuously practice and refine their skills. These waves form when fast-moving water flows over a submerged obstacle, creating a fixed surfable wave. Over the decades, advancements in wave generation and surfboard design have transformed river surfing into a growing mainstream sport.

New Facilities and Community Support

Laura Hunter, involved in the WOKA whitewater park in northeastern Oklahoma, has seen incredible public response since its opening. The park, which features eight drops over a 1,200-foot stretch of river, attracts kayakers, tubers, and spectators. Businesses supporting whitewater activities, like Eddyline Kayaks and Ozark Mountain Trading Company, are moving into the area, demonstrating strong community buy-in.

Challenges and Adaptations

Despite its benefits, river surfing faces challenges such as trash, storm runoff, and low water levels due to drought conditions. However, new technology to make surfing waves adjustable to changing water heights is being developed. The broader goal of whitewater parks is to attract more than just surfers, catering to a wide range of water activities.

Trying River Surfing

For those interested in trying river surfing, the Midwest offers exciting alternatives to ocean surfing. Constant waves mean that once you fall off your board, you can quickly get back on. Essential gear includes a surfboard, helmet, and personal flotation device. Popular spots for river or lake surfing include Montrose Beach in Chicago, St. Anthony Falls in Minneapolis, Missoula, Montana, and Sheboygan, Wisconsin.

Whether you're a seasoned surfer or a beginner, river surfing in the Midwest provides a unique and thrilling experience. The sport’s rising popularity is not only bringing excitement to participants but also driving economic growth in small communities across the region.