Frequently asked questions
* When is the best time of the year to go on a Stanislaus River rafting tour?
The Stanislaus River has rafting nearly year round but our trips run from April through October. Early season has the best water flows.
* Do I have to know how to swim well?
We require that all participants must be able to swim. We do provide high quality lifejackets. We ask that they are worn at all times. If you cannot swim we recommend our guided trips.
* Will I need a wetsuit?
No, spring, summer and fall rafting on class II rivers does not require a wetsuit.
* What should I bring?
You need to bring shorts, swim suit, t-shirt, foot protection (old tennis shoes, booties or sport sandals), and a dry set of clothes for your ride home. Everything that you wear will get wet so plan accordingly. Please do not bring valuable items (i.e. expensive clothes or shoes, jewelry, non-waterproof cameras or other items) on the raft.
For camping trips bring all the camping equipment you need (even the kitchen sink if required) since our Stanislaus River campground has drive-in camping. We have lists of equipment recommended for all trips on our "what to bring" page for each trip. Do not bring pets to any of our trips.
* Is lunch provided?
Lunch is not provided on this trip
* How often do trips on the Stanislaus River run?
We run trips seven days a week from April through September on The Stanislaus River.
* How many people go with each trip?
During midweek we have smaller sized groups and the rivers are generally less crowded making the solitude of the trip much better than on weekends. On Saturdays weekends we generally book out so make your reservations as soon as possible. Sundays are usually less crowded than Saturdays. Early and late season are less busy than prime season. We can fit up to 8 people in each rafts although we do have a few 10 man rafts available.
* What if the weather is bad?
We will run in any condition of weather or may give everyone the option to take a rain-check credit if the weather is extremely unpleasant at the check-in point. After April, the weather is usually perfect for rafting.
* Can we request a guide?
If we have at least 1 week notice we will make every effort possible to schedule a guide for an extra charge.
* Is there a limit on what we can take?
The rafts can hold one medium sized cooler. Oversized and wheeled coolers will not be allowed.
* Can we still raft if we have young children (under 5 years)?
All of our trips are for ages 5 and older.