River Valley Turns 30: Celebrating 3 Decades of Family, Fun, and Full-Throttle Adventure!

2026 marks a major milestone for River Valley Power & Sport Marine; 30 incredible years of fueling adventure across Minnesota. What John and Carrie Wooden started as a small, family-run lawn business in 1996 has grown into one of the Midwest’s most trusted names in boating and powersports, and a Top 20 Dealer in North America!

From the beginning, our focus has been about the moments. Every transaction has carried the hope that families and friends will come back with stories they can’t wait to share. Now spanning three decades, those stories have helped River Valley grow to eleven physical locations and one of the largest selections of boats and powersports vehicles in the region, all built on trust, relationships, and shared adventures.

At the heart of ourr mission is a love for adventure. From the Land of 10,000 Lakes to the scenic backroads and trails, River Valley helps customers experience it all. Our inventory includes top marine brands like Bennington, Yamaha, Cobalt Boats, Chris-Craft, Sea-Doo, Alumacraft and Everglades, as well as top powersport brands like Polaris, Can-Am, Yamaha, Honda, Suzuki, Ski-Doo, and Lynx. We also offer a vast selection of pre-owned boats and powersports vehicles.

But what really sets us apart are the people behind the showroom floor. A passionate team of marine and powersports enthusiasts that treat each customer’s purchase as the beginning of a relationship, not the end of a sale. Trusted service, expert financing, and fully stocked parts and service departments are all here to keep adventures going strong, season after season. River Valley is dedicated to making it easy to say “yes” to more time outside, more memories, and more fun.

When a family chooses River Valley, they are not just buying a boat or a machine; they are joining a community. From the first-time buyer nervous but excited to launch, to the seasoned boater and rider returning year after year, River Valley is here, to listen, to guide, and to cheer on each new chapter. The story of River Valley is written in these connections: neighbors helping neighbors discover the beauty and freedom of Minnesota’s great outdoors.

“To everyone who has walked through our doors, thank you,” says owner John Wooden. “Your trust, loyalty, and enthusiasm has turned our small family dream into a 30-year journey filled with unforgettable memories. At this moment, we aren’t just reflecting on the past; we’re gearing up for the future, with a clear vision to remain Minnesota’s most trusted and welcoming destination for boating and powersports enthusiasts. We’re focused on innovation, connection, and keeping the spirit of fun alive!”

So, here’s to the next chapter: to more glassy mornings, golden-hour cruises, wide open roads, and scenic trail rides that stretch into another 30 years of stories together!

So, here’s to the next chapter: to more glassy mornings, golden-hour cruises, wide open roads, and scenic trail rides that stretch into another 30 years of stories together!