I brought down big floats -- one 5 person float and a larger one for about 8 people. I've left mine with the staff at NBCC who have kept it for me over the years. I'm bringing another one down in February as the other 2 are now thrashed.

We've tied it to the swim area rope and kept it out all day and the only issue with that is that at some point during the day, there will be children who want to jump and play on it. Of course this leads to the possibility of your float being damaged.