Whitewater Rafting in California

This site is intended as a resource for whitewater recreation in California. The information is designed to benefit rafting enthusiasts and private rafters. Our site has information about California outfitters and also resources for rafting businesses. Our goal is to provide river information, stories, discussion, gear, flows, and other resources specifically for California whitewater rafting.

The Five Must-Do Rivers in California

1. The South Fork of the American: This is the most popular 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 trip 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 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.

California Rafting News

Summer 2010 Rafting Newsletter World-Class River Trips Oregon, Northern California, and beyond… the Rogue River- Mule Creek Canyon in the summer.. Hello Everyone! We are h... (Jul 26)

Brandie Carlile at the Britt Fest If you ever get a chance to see Brandi Carlile at the Britt Festival (or anywhere for that matter!) - do it! It was one of the best shows we have ever... (Jun 29)

NorCal Music News from the Indie Crowd Here's a music blog for ya!The start of summer has finally arrived with sun shining into your bedroom window. While sitting with a nice, cold Hefeiw... (Jun 19)

We still have space on a rare late June California Salmon trip - Join us! The weather: Mid 80’s and sunny! The water: at 5+ feet on the gage - perfect class V! The River: The California salmon - one of the most beautif... (Jun 18)

Email Sucks I hate email. (Come on everyone... ya know you hate it too.) Email sucks and everyday it gets worse and worse. And, I am not just talking about spam. ... (May 20)

This will be one of our best seasons on the California Salmon Ever! A big winter and the cool wet spring means we have one of the biggest snow packs we have seen on the California Salmon! This year we will be rafting i... (May 18)

Two Woman, Too Much Luggage! My favorite summer ever was in Europe. Since I was a child, a dream for me was to travel abroad. I decided with a good friend of mine that we would ... (May 17)

Nature's Calling: Despite economy, adventure company expands into canoe rentals (May 17)

ZOAR OUTDOOR HOSTS 7TH ANNUAL DEMOFEST (May 17)

Kokatat Throws Down for World Kayak's 2010 Hometown Throwdown Series (May 17)

and da Winner izz.... WET River Trips ! Over the past three seasons, WET River Trips has enjoyed a variety of accomplishments as a whitewater race team. The latest string of victories sta... (May 12)

More amazing flight deals with Allegiant Air! Allegiant Air is one of five airlines that service our local Medford Airport.  They offer incredible deals from Los Angeles, Phoenix and Las Vegas int... (May 7)

Spring Rafting in California Spring Whitewater Rafting in California is like the proverbial box of chocolates...you don't know what's inside; however, it IS chocolate and it's G... (Apr 26)

Glenwood Canyon Resort Begins Work On New Zipline Across Colorado River (Apr 26)

Kokatat is Named Arcata's Green Business of The Year (Apr 26)

Disclaimer: River descriptions and classifications may change due to natural events that may create new hazards or flows. C-W-R advises that any paddler that uses this site be additionally informed by seeking out local news and updates for changes on this river.