Camping and White Water Rafting

Rafting Trip – White Water Rafting Shenandoah River

Description – 7 Mile excursion, 2 to 3 hours on the river. Spring and fall include white water rapids, while the summer provides more gentle rapids with lots of swimming opportunities. White water rafting on the Shenandoah river is near Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, and is located where Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia come together. White water rafting on the Shenandoah river is close to both Washington, DC and Baltimore – only an hour away.

River Rating – Spring and Fall – Class I-III

Number of Rapids – “The Dam”, “The Needles Rapid”, “Wake Up Call” and the all time favorite “White Horse”.

Minimum Age – During spring and fall -ages 6-8 years (50 lbs)

Departure Dates – Daily March through November

Boat Type – white water rafts

What to Bring – An extra set of dry clothes, swimming suit. The outfitters pretty much provide everything else, however it is a good idea to check with the outfitter you plan to use.

Reviews – None that we saw

Outfitters – yes, several

Tonto Creek is one set of rapids that is only for experts and only at certain times of the year. This creek is really only navigable just after a major rain storm in the surrounding mountains and even then there are many natural obstacles as well as man made obstacles to watch out for.

With a class IV / V set of rapids with massive boulders to navigate around and a narrow water way, this is really only for experts.

Additionally there can be barb wire strung across the creek by ranchers to stop their cattle from roaming too far. You need to watch out for this and other items that can ruin your trip in a big way.

Rafting Trip - There are no rafters offering trips on this creek and you must bring in everything that you need.

Access can be gained at SH 260 crossing just east of Payson; Rye Creek confluence just east of the SH 188/SH 87 intersection; Any USFS park on the banks of Roosevelt Lake .

Description – Hazards may include, barbed wire fences strung across the creek, dead-fall strainers in the channel, live tree strainers overhanging the creek along its banks, boulder garden rapids dropping into keeper holes, ample opportunities for pinning and wrapping, narrow slot drops of 8-10 feet, or more, rattlesnakes and copperheads hiding in the rocks alongside the creek, and very difficult access for emergency personnel in the event of an accident.

Christopher Creek (USFS) and Ponderosa (USFS) Campgrounds, both primitive forest campsites, are located between Tonto Creek and SH 260 just east of Payson. There are no other campgrounds located along or near Tonto Creek.

The best time to run Tonto Creek is right after a heavy rainfall in its drainage basin. There is a short window of opportunity unless in the midst of a prolonged period of rainfall.

River Rating – Class IV / V

Number of Rapids – Varies based on amount of rain and the time you go. Water flow does not last very long, depending on the amount of rain that has fallen in surrounding mountains.

Minimum Age – Experts only

Departure Dates – No scheduled trips, you are on your own.

Boat Type – Kayaks are apparently the best for this, with experts who can exert perfect control

What to Bring – Everything you are going to need. Note if you catch the runoff late, you could end up walking out. The water flow falls as fast as it rises.

Reviews – None that we found

Outfitters – None offered

Sarah Palin White Water Rafting on the Matanuska River

An exciting glacial fed, class III & IV whitewater trip next to the 27 mile long Matanuska Glacier. The main rapids are several miles long and the result of a squeeze play between the glaciers lateral moraine and “Lion Head”, a massive basalt rock wall from an ancient volcanic plug. A perfect trip for first-timers or experienced river runners! Oar rafts with paddle assist or full paddle rafting available.

On the Sarah Palin show about Alaska were Sarah and her family went white water rafting, there was her brother and sister, her father and a number of of the kids along with an expert guide. They appeared to have a wonderful time, getting totally soaked and thrills galore as they traversed the class III rapids. The water was ice cold since this river comes from the glacial melt that is just above the freezing point.

All though I am sure that the entire event was somewhat staged, this was a great show and demonstrated what it is like for people to go white water rafting in a setting such as Alaska. Surrounded by mountains, glaciers and a raging river, it provides some of the best scenes for a show such as this.

Other Rivers in Alaska Suitable for White Water Rafting

Perhaps the wildest and most visually spectacular rivers in North America, the Alsek and Tatsheshini give you mountains, glaciers and more! Flowing from the inlands of the Yukon Territory to the coastal regions of the Gulf of Alaska, these rivers offer a full range of outdoor experience.

The Tatshenshini River flows through the heart of the largest bio-preserve in the world. Wildlife abounds as you travel through tall mountains, vast glaciers and ice burg dotted lakes.

The Alsek is extraordinarily different from the Tatshenshini which is only “one valley over”. Glaciers, icebergs, wildlife, canyons and a helicopter portage around Turnback Canyon add to the adventure. The Alsek valley is perhaps the most “Himalayan-like” topography on the continent!

Additional rivers that can be candidates for white water rafting are COPPER RIVER – CHITINA RIVER – – NIZINA RIVER – KENNICOTT RIVER – GULF OF ALASKA.

There are many rafting trips available in California , some suitable for children from 4 years, seniors and those with special needs. There is also some of the wildest whitewater in the nation, so there are really thrills and challenges available for everyone.

If this is a first time rafting trip, or if you have a larger group, err on the side of caution to ensure everyone has fun. Choosing the most suitable California Rafting trip or American River Rafting trip for your group can be a challenge, however if you focus on everyone having a good time and some excitement, everyone will be more than satisfied. While more serious rafters may be disappointed, they should focus on the comradeship of a larger group and the enjoyment from watching the excitement of new rafters

Classes of Rapids

Class one and two trips are for beginners, children and seniors. Class one set of whitewater rapids are relatively easy to navigate, although you still need to be wearing a life jacket and you need to follow the instructions of the guides.

These can be very nice relaxing whitewater trips, were you can enjoy the scenery and the wildlife that may exist along the river. If you are planning to take on higher class rapids, make sure you read the requirements and the safety issues before you sign up just to make sure you receive what you expect in terms of whitewater thrills.

Class 3, class 4 and class 5 rapids are progressively more difficult and thrilling. You may need to pass a number of tests before going on some of these whitewater trips just to make sure that you can handle any of the potential upsets that could occur. Particularly in class 5 whitewater rapids trips, participants could be thrown out of the raft or the raft could even tip over. If this happens you need to be able to swim out of the rapids and get to shore were someone can pick you up.

If you are not up to the task of swimming out of the whitewater rapids, then this level of rafting trip may not be for you. You can still great thrills if you go on lower class rafting trips down whitewater rapids. Remember too that rapids classification are also dependent on the amount of water that is cascading down the river. Spring runoff will usually bring higher cascades than summer or late fall unless there are heavy rains in the headlands of these whitewater rapids.

California White Water Rapids classifications

Whitewater rafting in California is classified from one to five to help customers understand the type of whitewater rafting experience they can expect.

Class one is usually the easiest and is acceptable for children, seniors and people with special needs. Class 2 is also easy and aimed at the beginner, first time whitewater rafters, groups , bachelor parties and is ok for non swimmers. Class 3 is intermediate or adventurous and is generally aimed at people with previous experience, adventure Scout groups and usually requires good swimming ability. Class 4 requires class 3 requirements along with strong swimming ability. Class 5 is the most advanced and difficult of the whitewater rafting trips, may require swim tests and you must have very strong swimming ability.

Nearly everyone can participate in a rafting trip at some level, but anyone with any medical condition, very overweight or in poor physical shape should always consult with their physician. Those with a heart condition or back problems should be particularly cautious. Each participant must fit into a life jacket with all buckles fastened. It is also important to let the guides know in advance about any conditions that may affect anyone from being fully able to participate to ensure your safety.

There are risks involved in any outdoor activity and accidents can happen. All participants will be required to sign an Assumption of Risk or Liability Release form prior to the trip.

Major White Water Rivers in California

There are five rivers that are must do California Rafting whitewater trips. We have listed them as follows:

1. The South Fork of the American: This is the most popular whitewater rafting trip in California because it has lots of Class III+ rapids, a long rafting season, and is relatively safe. Spring, Summer and Fall.

2. The North Fork of the American: Steep Class IV rapids in a tight gorge with crystal clear water. This is the premier class IV trip on the American River. This makes a great whitewater rafting trip in California for those of you that want a technical challenge. Spring and early Summer.

3. The Tuolumne: This river is the cream of the crop with famous Class IV rapids and “Wild and Scenic” scenery. Located near Yosemite National Park, most of the river takes advantage of the great hikes and spectacular scenery by spending a night or two in the canyon. Spring and Summer.

4. The Cal Salmon: This California whitewater rafting trip is for those of you that are hooked. Near the California-Oregon border, this river is well worth the drive for the numerous Class IV rapids and three famous Class V rapids. You’ll set up a base camp as you explore different sections of this river. Spring only.

5. Forks of the Kern: This three day trip has over 40 Class IV rapids and 3 big Class V’s. Granite boulders, breathtaking vistas, and huge waterfalls make this a spectacular rafting trip. You’ll have to hike two miles into the put-in and warm-up on some other class IV rivers first, though. Spring only.

There are over 3,000 rivers, 100,000 glaciers and 39 of the world’s most significant mountain ranges that dominate Alaska’s landscape. You probably have watched documentaries about Alaskan residents and how they feel about their state. In a word they are proud of the beauty that abounds every where and that is also why tourists go their year round.

There are many creative tourist trips from fishing and hunting to cruise lines that go up the coast to  Alaska rafting whitewater itineraries that combine drama with decadence and top-shelf customer service. With the recent publicity that Sarah Palin has generated and various National Geographic movies about Alaska, more and more people are going their every year. And Alaskan companies are responding to meet the demand.

Adding White Water Rafting Trips in Alaska

Every year many more rafting trips are added by many Alaska Rafting whitewater companies. Alaska offers Heli-skiing, snowboarding, rafting, fishing, snowcat treks, and premier lodging .

Alaska rafting in whitewater conditions or along glaciers are available for the outdoor enthusiast. Many people do not have the gear for these sorts of trips, so  Alaska rafting whitewater companies will provide everything that you need. Just make sure you bring warm clothes and a change of clothes in case you get wet. Check in with your tour company and confirm everything that you will need to bring with you and also if you are rated for a particular trip.  Some rivers have ratings for people who must be able to swim out of a set of rapids in case of capsizing.

Canoe Beside Ice Bergs

Imagine canoeing beside icebergs and getting up close so that you can actually touch them. Depending on the time of year and the trip you book, your Alaska rafting trip can include one of these excursions.

Some Alaska rafting whitewater trips are actually quite physical, requiring the ability to portage and also to paddle with your other raft mates to control the canoes and rafts. If you are concerned about your abilities, discuss this issue with the tour organizers before you book your trip.

Example of a Rafting Trip

An example of an Alaska rafting whitewater trip starts on a train which can be boarded in Anchorage, Girdwood, or at the Portage Station. For those who depart by rail from Anchorage the train may travel south along Turnagain Arm for 50 miles. Guests get off the train in the ultra-scenic Placer valley at Spencer Lake. After a brief motor transport to Spencer Lake you may  have a deli-style lunch are launched in the raft.

Spencer Lake is full of icebergs that crumble in to the Lake throughout the season. The ice is so close you can touch it (however for safety reason it may not always be advisable to do so). After navigating through the ice-choked Lake the rafts make their way down the Placer River through spirited Class I (maybe II) rapids that are fun but mild, you shouldn’t get wet except for an occasional small splash. After this amazingly scenic float, you’ll get back on the train and return to your point of origin. This trip is really a lot of fun for the whole family!

This is only one example of a rafting trip. Others may require you to fly into a remote destination, or go by 4 – wheel drive up and down old logging roads to get to the headwaters, which can be a fun trip in itself.

Check the details with your tour guide before booking so you know exactly what you need to bring and what to expect on your trip.

Rafting Trip – Perkinsville to Beasley Flat – 55 miles

Description – White water rafters can put in their rafts at Perkinsville Rd and the last take out is at Beasley Flats. There is  about 55 miles of gorgeous river flowing through a beautiful and scenic river valley, between Perkinsville and Beasley Flat, characterized by desert riverbanks, willow and cottonwood trees, ocotillo, Saguaro cactus and a verdant ground cover of desert scrub. The river flows as a Class I to II stream with usually gentle currents and a moderate gradient.

Paddle trips can be taken year-round if there has been sufficient recent rainfall around Sullivan Lake to keep the river flowing, or not at all during drought years. Check ahead to confirm sufficient water flow. This reach of the river flows past the confluence of Sycamore Creek on river left, the towns of Clarkdale, Cottonwood and Camp Verde, Dead Horse Ranch State Park and Camp Verde State Historical Park, ending in the “scenic” portion of the river that has been designated as “Wild and Scenic”. Adjoining land along this reach is private property, and care should be exercised to avoid trespassing without advance permission.

The river is very remote, though access at the small towns is good where paddlers can find places to stay (other than the usual riverside camping, if so inclined), food and supplies, restaurants and other services and amenities. Dead Horse Ranch State Park offers an excellent place to stop and explore the surrounding area. Permits are not required for private, non-commercial groups, but upon entering the “Wild” section of the “Wild and Scenic” area group size is limited to a maximum of 15 persons and no more than 15 horses, cattle or other livestock per group.

The area is popular for many outdoors recreational activities including horseback riding, camping, hiking, mountain biking, bird and animal viewing, nature photography, hunting, fishing and other activities. Be sure to pack the camera, because there is much to see and photograph along this river that is a green oasis in the midst of a large desert state.

River Rating – I to II

Number of Rapids – Gentle rapids throughout

Minimum Age – all ages

Departure Dates – January through April and August through December

Boat Type – Canoes, Kayaks or rafts since this is only a class I or II rated river.

What to Bring – Standard rafting can camping gear if you plan to camp along the river.

Reviews – None yet

Outfitters – Permits are not required, there are no none outfitters along this river

Rafting Trip - 21 miles of class III,III+ and IV rapids. Recommended for athletic users only. Other rafting trips involve shorter trips as well. There are half day trips, full day trips and 2 days trips available.

Description - The American River flows down the western slope of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and offers a blend of relaxing calms and thrilling Class III rapids. This is the absolute best rafting run for beginning rafters!

The American Rafting River Whitewater experience consists of the South Fork American River, the Middle Fork American River, the North Fork American River. There are rafting trips on each of these rivers and customers can experience rafting whitewater river trips on all of them.

The South Fork American River flows down the western slope of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and offers a blend of relaxing calms and thrilling Class III rapids. This is the absolute best rafting run for beginning rafters!

Moving first among big foothills and later through a steep granite canyon, the South Fork struts out quickly, surging powerfully, then yawns coyly before suddenly rushing headlong through the fabled American River Gorge.

The North Fork of the American River flows down the western slope of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and carves a deep, sheer gorge, which plunges in a deep crevasse down the western slope of the Sierra.

The Middle Fork of the American River flows down the western slope of the Sierra Nevada Mountains just east of Sacramento. A great run for hardy, adventurous first timers and experienced rafters alike.

River Rating – The 3-mile, Class II “Coloma to Lotus” stretch is an ideal introduction to whitewater. Intermediate boaters enjoy the increased challenge of the Class III “Chili Bar” and “Gorge” runs, and the expert kayakers spend hours perfecting their rodeo moves in the world-famous Chili Bar Hole and other play spots.

Number of Rapids – Numerous class III, III+ and class IV white water rapids. The flow rates on the river can vary widely between spring , summer and fall. Also storms and rainy weather can change the flows quickly. Check with your outfitter for current conditions.

Minimum Age – 8 years is the minimum age for going on south fork rafting trips.

Departure Dates - California rafting starts early in mid-March and usually runs through the end of September and occasionally into October. Other times, after a major storm, whitewater rafting is available due to increased flows of the rivers in the late fall and winter months. Rafting schedules are at its peak during the summer months in California.

Boat Type - Rafts as well as Kayaks. Canoes are not recommended

What to Bring -In colder weather or spring time, we advise wetsuit gear to keep you warm on the river. Check for local conditions and time of year with your outfitter.

If you are on an overnight camping trip with us, review the lists for what to bring on a rafting trip from your outfitter. Each one will have slightly different requirements.

In the summer, basics are needed. Swim wear, shorts, tennis shoes and lots of sunblock!

Outfitters - There are multiple outfitters for all 3 sections of the American River. Search for the section you are interested in or go to the American North Fork review or the American Middle Fork review. These reviews will be posted within two weeks of this post about the American South Fork River.

Rafting Trip -Full Day 10am – 4/5pm; 3,4,5 Day Trips (52 mile Wilderness Bridge to Bridge Trip); Overnight trips ; Two Day 10am – 4/5pm the next day; Half Day 10am – 1/2pm; and Custom and Charter Trips

Description -This Salt River watershed contains approximately 32,100 very rugged acres and was established in 1984. The Salt River and its spectacular canyon bisect the wilderness for its entire length. Elevations range from 2,200 feet at the canyon’s lower end to 4,200 feet on White Ledge Mountain. This area can be visited practically any time; however, there are no maintained trails within the entire wilderness. Travel is basically done by raft or kayak during the short and dangerous river-running season.

Mandatory Visitor Permits for river-running are required between March 1 and May 15.

River Rating - The Upper Salt River of Arizona rapids are rated class III.

Number of Rapids - number of rapids vary with the trip taken depending on half day, full day and multi day trips.

Minimum Age - Depending on the flow rate some outfitters will allow children as young as 7 years of age.

Departure Dates – Mandatory Visitor Permits for river-running are required between March 1 and May 15.

Boat Type – White water rafts suitable for one to 12 people.

What to Bring - Temperatures vary quite a bit in the spring time in Arizona, requiring different gear for different days, even hours.Check with your outfitter to confirm what you need to bring. Bring a swimsuit to wear under a wetsuit. Cotton t-shirts, sweatshirts and denim keep you cold once wet and does not belong on the river. Tops and bottoms made of synthetics such as poly-pro, capilene, fleece, silk or wool are designed to keep you warm when wet.Bring or rent wet suit booties, Extra clothing, Sunscreen, Water, Restraining Strap for Glasses, and Waterproof Cameras as needed!

Gear required for day trips is much different from what is required on camping trips. Some have car access while others do not. Your outfitter will provide details based on specific trips that you sign up for.

Outfitters - There are numerous outfitters providing white water rafting trips on the Upper Salt River.

Rafting Trip – Gila River rafting in New Mexico – 40 miles

Description -

The Gila River begins near Silver City, New Mexico, in the Gila Wilderness area, and travels west into Arizona, ending near the southeast town of Clifton.

Put in at Grapevine Campground and take out at Mogollon Creek. Rafters can also put in at USFS Road 809 and take out at Redrock to cover 18 miles. A third location calls for put in at Redrock with a take out at Highway 92 bridge for a trip of 19 miles. Anyone floating down the river are cautioned to watch for trees that may have  fallen into the river. Boats and rafts can get caught in the trees, and there is a chance you could capsize.

The trip down the river starts at about 7000’ in elevation, where you’ll be surrounded by majestic Evergreen, Juniper, and Ponderosa trees. Be sure to have your camera ready! As you descend to about 5500’ by the end of the run, you’ll be enjoying totally different flora, namely Alder, Cottonwood, and Sycamore trees.

While running the Gila River, there are many wonderful places you can explore along its banks and in side canyons. Kayakers may even be treated to views of ancient petroglyphs, most likely carved by Native American tribes that were indigenous to this part of the American southwest thousands of years ago, including the Comanche and Apache Nations.

Kayaking on Gila River waters also means a look at some of the area’s most incredible scenery. Birdwatching couldn’t be better, with an amazing number of species inhabiting the canyons. You’ll also find a vast array of wildlife here, including rattlesnakes, so be cautious as to where you wander and be sure to abide by the rules of your experienced guide if you’re traveling on a guided kayaking or rafting tour. If you’re on your own, take time to read about the river and necessary safety precautions before you embark on your trip

River Rating - Class III

Number of Rapids – 39 miles of class III rapids

Minimum Age – Check with outfitters for details and restritions

Departure Dates – Unlike other rivers that are located further north, kayaking on the Gila River waters is best accomplished in the early spring months, usually from late February or early March until the end of April, when snow melt is at its peak.

Boat Type - Kayaks and Rafts

What to Bring - Weather can be quite extreme in the early spring, with chilly temperatures one day and scalding heat the next. Dress in layers as your trip down the Gila River will require an overnight stay, meaning you’ll need clothing of various weights during your trip.

Outfitters – Check locally for outfitters for Gila river rafting

Reviews - None available at this time, please feel free to leave a comment and or review about this river.

Alaska is home to some beautiful country, wild animals, some really big mountains, white water rafting and of course Sarah Palin. With her latest reality show that show cases both the Palin family and the state of Alaska, she has done a great job of allowing Americans and Canadians to get to know her state and her family. She is doing a great job about showing off Alaska and the many out door things you can do in Alaska. Of course all of these activities will not appeal to everyone. You just need to watch the show were Kate + Eight, visited Sarah and her family and they went on a camping trip. Not a good experience for Kate, although the kids really liked it. All of the liberal hacks and city slickers really put her down for her out doors attitudes, however I thing she is a “Real American”.

Whether she is going to take a run for President of the United States is an unknown, although she is taking huge steps to show the American people who  she is and what she stands for. In the mean time, Alaska should see a huge influx of tourism as a result of the show.

This site is all about white water rafting and not presidential candidates or reality shows so we are going to take a look at the white water rivers in Alaska. Here is a list of them along with information we could find about them.

• Copper River
• Chitina River
• Nizina River
• Kennicott River
• Alsek River
• Tatshenshini River

Copper River

Rafting in Alaska on the Copper river, through one of the world’s most dramatic canyons, will render a lifetime of memories. Offering an abundance of wildlife, cascading waterfalls, glaciers that often calve right into the river, and mild white water, this river trip floats 100 miles towards the sea, allowing for a classic passage from the heart of Alaska’s majestic mountains to the sparkling Prince William Sound. Simply put, there is no better way to experience the Alaskan wilderness than on this Alaska river rafting trip.

Chitina River

Nizina Canyon, expansive views, eagles, salmon and possible bear sightings. Open riverside camps, view of the Wrangell Mountains

This river features spectacular scenery and remote wilderness. The journey begins near the headwaters of the Kennicott River, only half a mile below the terminus of the Kennicott Glacier. Float the splashy rapids of the Kennicott and merge into the Nizina, which narrows to a steep-walled canyon, a highlight of the trip. On a multiday trip, the second day, the Nizina joins the Chitina and the valley spreads wide as we turn west, skirting the Chugach Mountains. Stop at clear streams and sloughs to search for spawning salmon and keep our eyes peeled for the grizzlies and eagles that feed on them. The last day we will end our river journey at the confluence of the Copper River, near the tiny town of Chitina.

Nizina River

Highlights: bush plane flights into the park, glacial lake exploration, mile-high cliffs, waterfalls, hiking in the vast Chitistone Valley, Nizina Canyon rapids

Less than a dozen people float this stretch of river each season. This is a unique and remote wilderness adventure, as you must be dropped off and picked up by a bush plane that lands on the river bar. The flight in takes us to the lake at the toe of the Nizina Glacier, surrounded by ice-capped peaks and rocky crags. The lake itself is full of icebergs, some as large as a house. Spend the first day hiking and rowing around the lake and exploring the wonders of ice and rock. On the second day you run the splashy rapids of the Nizina River. At night camp beneath the towering Mile-High Cliffs and the following day hike up the broad Chitistone Valley.

Day four is spent floating through a maze of channels as the river bends west around Sourdough Mountain. After floating the spectacular Nizina Canyon, pull out, pack up, and a bush plane carries you back to McCarthy.

This trip can be combined with the Chitina River Journey or the Glacier to the Ocean trip for a remote adventure up to two weeks or more in length!

Kennicott River

Few one-day rafting adventures can match the level of rushing whitewater and powerful vistas found on the remote Kennicott River, through Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. The fun begins near the hamlet of McCarthy at the base of the Root and Kennicott glacial moraine, where the Kennicott River begins its steep descent away from these towering ice fields. You head off downriver for 45 minutes of delightful and challenging Class II and III rapids. A stop below the whitewater lets you marvel at a panorama that includes views of the Wrangell and Chugach mountain ranges jutting skyward.

Alsek River

Perhaps the wildest and most visually spectacular rivers in North America, the Alsek and Tatsheshini give you mountains, glaciers and more! Flowing from the inlands of the Yukon Territory to the coastal regions of the Gulf of Alaska, these rivers offer a full range of outdoor experience. The Alsek is extraordinarily different from the Tatshenshini which is only “one valley over”. Glaciers, icebergs, wildlife, canyons and a helicopter portage around Turnback Canyon add to the adventure. The Alsek valley is perhaps the most “Himalayan-like” topography on the continent!

Tatshenshini River

The Tatshenshini River flows through the heart of the largest bio-preserve in the world. Wildlife abounds as you travel through tall mountains, vast glaciers and ice burg dotted lakes.